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Advent

theological_term theological_term standard

Advent means “coming” and, in Christian theology, refers to the coming of Christ—especially His first coming in the incarnation and His future return in glory.

At a Glance

A term for Christ’s coming, whether His first coming in humility, His future coming in glory, or, in church usage, the season before Christmas.

Key Points

Description

Advent means “coming” or “arrival.” In Christian theology, it refers to the coming of Jesus Christ and may be used in more than one sense. Scripture clearly teaches Christ’s coming in the flesh in fulfillment of God’s saving purpose and His promised future return in power and glory. In church practice, “Advent” also names the season of preparation before Christmas, which remembers Christ’s first coming and anticipates His return. Because the term can point either to a doctrinal theme or to a liturgical season, the safest definition is to define it broadly and let context determine whether the first coming, the second coming, or the church calendar is in view.

Biblical Context

The New Testament presents Christ as the One who came in humility to save sinners and who will come again personally, visibly, and gloriously. Advent language fits both the incarnation and the blessed hope of His return.

Historical Context

The word comes into Christian usage through the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” Over time it also became the name of the pre-Christmas season in parts of the historic church, but the theological idea is broader than the liturgical season.

Jewish and Ancient Context

Old Testament hope for the Messiah and for the LORD’s coming in judgment and salvation provides the background for Christian Advent language. Second Temple Jewish expectation of deliverance helps explain why Christ’s coming is framed as fulfillment and hope.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

Advent comes through Latin adventus, “coming” or “arrival.” In the New Testament, the related idea is often expressed with Greek language for Christ’s coming, especially παρουσία (parousia).

Theological Significance

Advent gathers together the Christian confession that the eternal Son truly came in the flesh and will truly come again. It links incarnation, redemption, hope, and final consummation.

Philosophical Explanation

The term is relational and temporal: it speaks of a person’s arrival, not an abstract idea. In Christian theology, that arrival is decisive because the One who comes is the incarnate Son of God, whose coming changes history and establishes final accountability.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not reduce Advent to the liturgical season only, and do not force every use of the term to mean only the second coming. Context must determine whether the first coming, the future coming, or the church calendar is intended.

Major Views

Evangelical Christians broadly agree that Christ’s first coming and future return are central. Differences arise mainly in liturgical practice, millennial framework, and the degree to which Advent should be treated as a church-season term versus a doctrinal term.

Doctrinal Boundaries

Advent affirms the incarnation, the personal return of Christ, and the hope of His final appearing. It should not be treated as a separate doctrine detached from the person and work of Christ.

Practical Significance

Advent calls believers to worship, repentance, watchfulness, and hope. It reminds the church to remember Christ’s saving coming and to live in readiness for His return.

Related Entries

See Also

Data

Machine-readable JSON for Advent

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