Why is it essential to expect Christ's return?

The expectation of Christ’s return is an essential aspect of Christian faith, weaving through both theological understanding and personal motivation. In Hebrews 11:1, faith is defined as 'the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.' Such an expectation fosters hope, urging believers to live in anticipation of His return. As stated in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, the hope of Christ's return is a source of comfort, particularly in the face of loss, as believers find solace in the promise of eternal life. Furthermore, Christ’s return inspires a life of holiness and readiness; as Matthew 24:42 urges, 'Watch therefore, for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.' Thus, this expectation affects how we live today, directing our hearts toward righteousness and our minds toward heavenly things.