Nicaea - Renewing the Faithಮಾದರಿ

He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and His kingdom will have no end.

This doctrinal statement from the Nicene Creed holds profound theological significance, shaping Christian faith and practice in several fundamental ways.

First, the Creed highlights the centrality of Christ’s Second Coming, affirming the Christian hope in the Parousia (the return of Christ). It states that Christ “will come again in glory,” a belief deeply rooted in Scripture. One key passage that reflects this expectation is Matthew 24:30, which states, “Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” (ESV) Paul further reinforces this truth in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, declaring, "For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” (ESV)

The certainty of Christ’s return is a cornerstone of Christian eschatology, assuring believers that history is moving toward a divinely orchestrated culmination. This truth affirms the Christian belief that Christ’s ascension did not mark the end of His involvement in the world; rather, His mission will reach its fulfillment in His glorious return. This expectation is reflected in 1 Corinthians 16:22, where the apostle Paul declares, “If anyone does not love the Lord, he is to be accursed. Maranatha!" (NASB) The word “Maranatha” is an Aramaic expression meaning “Our Lord, come!” Early Christians frequently used it as a prayer, expressing both their faith in Christ’s return and their eager readiness for His coming.

Second, the Creed affirms Christ as the supreme judge, who will “judge the living and the dead.” This phrase underscores Christ’s role as the ultimate judge of humanity, as seen in passages like 2 Corinthians 5:10: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” (ESV) This judgment will include both the living (those alive at Christ’s return) and the dead (those who have already passed away), emphasizing its universality. Unlike earthly judges, Christ’s judgment will be perfect, just, and final. This doctrine serves as a reminder that human history is accountable to Him and that justice will ultimately prevail. It encourages believers to live holy lives, with the assurance that their struggles will not be in vain, for Christ will bring ultimate justice.

Finally, the Creed proclaims that 'His kingdom will have no end,' rejecting the temporary and earthly power structures of the world while affirming Christ’s eternal reign. This belief is grounded in biblical prophecy, such as Daniel 7:14: 'His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.' (ESV) This highlights that Christ’s kingdom is not confined to earthly realms but extends into eternity, affirming His sovereignty over all creation.

Practical Implications for Christians Today

This doctrinal statement is not merely an abstract theological concept but carries significant practical implications for Christian living today:

• It provides hope and encouragement to believers amid suffering, persecution, and injustice, assuring us that faithfulness will be rewarded, and that evil will ultimately be defeated.
• It fosters moral accountability. Knowing that Christ will judge all people, we are inspired to live with integrity, recognizing that our actions have eternal consequences.
• It compels us toward missions and evangelism. The certainty of Christ’s return urges us to fulfill the Great Commission, spreading the Gospel so that others may share in God’s eternal kingdom.
• It inspires worship and adoration. As we reflect on Christ’s eternal kingship, we are motivated to a life devoted to glorifying Him.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, we acknowledge you as the righteous Judge of the living and the dead, whose kingdom has no end. As we await your glorious return, strengthen our faith so that we may be found faithful when you come. We rejoice in your eternal reign and eagerly anticipate your return. Come, Lord Jesus, and establish Your perfect justice and everlasting peace.

Greg Kame, PH.D., serves as Assistant Professor of Christian Theology at the Regent University School of Divinity.