When was the first "coming" of Christ fulfilled? The day of his conception in the womb by the Holy Spirit? The day he came forth from the womb? Or, does his "coming" denote his entire time on earth? If we think of "coming" as initial arrival, then it would most likely refer to his birth from the womb. However, if we think of "coming" as not only "arrival" but as "presence," then his coming the first time would indeed encompass not one instant in the life of Christ but his entire time on earth. There were stages or parts to his "coming," we might say.
When precisely is the second "coming" of Christ? The day when "every eye shall see him?" Or, when the several events connected with his coming are occurring? Is it when he comes in the sky or clouds? Or, is it when he sets his feet upon the earth, upon the Mount of Olives? Or, when he comes in the battle of Armageddon? Again, if we think of "coming" as initial arrival, then it would describe that first part of coming, but if we think of "coming" as not only arrival or advent but as "presence," then his second coming, like his first coming, would indeed encompass not one instant, or one event, but is what takes place over a period of time.
Jesus' first coming encompassed thirty three plus years. I doubt his second will encompass that much time; However, it will not be a single instant, a single twenty four hour period, but longer. If the day of wrath and great tribulation is his coming, his presence, then it would indeed be several years. In other words, Christ will be "present" in the judgments that will precede his setting foot on the Mount of Olives.
Historically, the coming (parousia) of a king involved many events and stages.
What think ye?
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