Second Coming

Introduction

Members of Mormon Church have always looked forward to the Second Coming of Jesus. As the true name, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, suggest, Mormonism proclaims that these are the last days. No Mormon prophet, not even Joseph Smith, has claimed to know when this momentous event will occur. Mormon leaders encourage members to know the signs of His coming and watch for them, but also to live their lives, prepare for the future with education and savings, as though it is still a long way off.

Jesus Christ taught his disciples to look for the signs of his coming. The Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price all record various prophesies about the Second Coming. The following is a brief, incomplete summary of what Mormons believe will be the major events prior to Jesus' return and His ushering in the Millennium, a thousand years of peace and righteousness where Jesus Christ will reign on the earth. As the tenth Article of Faith declares:

We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.

Mormon Church leaders also consistently teach that each person on earth should live their lives as though preparing for the Second Coming right now, and not "wait for the Millenium." (Brigham Young)

Scriptural Passages about the Second Coming

Prophecies about the Second Coming of Jesus can be found in many scriptures. For Mormons, some of the major places where prophecies are recorded in the scriptures are:

Old Testament:

• Isaiah 2
• Isaiah 11
• Joel 2
• Daniel
• Malachi 4

New Testament:

• Matthew 24
• 2 Timothy 3
• 2 Thess. 2

Book of Mormon

• 1 Nephi 14
• Mormon 8

Doctrine and Covenants

• Section 45
• Section 88
• Section 133

Pearl of Great Price

• Moses 6
• Joseph Smith-Matthew

Major Events Preceding the Second Coming

It would be difficult to write something that encapsulates all Mormon beliefs about the Second Coming. This list merely shows some of the major beliefs and significant events, some of which have come to pass and some have not yet, which Mormonism teaches will precede Jesus' return.

1. There will be wickedness, wars and turmoil.

“Ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars. … For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom” (Matthew 24:6–7). This is happening now, and will continue until Christ comes and brings with him peace.

2. The Gospel is restored.

“Light shall break forth among them that sit in darkness, and it shall be the fulness of my gospel” (D