Biblical explanation
Jesus said: "But of that day and hour knoweth no man." Matthew 24:36, KJV He therefore warned His followers not to attempt to calculate the exact date. At the same time, Jesus gave signs that would precede His coming, including deception, wars, famines, pestilences, persecution, false prophets, and the worldwide proclamation of the gospel (Matthew 24:4-14). His return will not be secret or invisible. Jesus said: "For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." Matthew 24:27, KJV Revelation describes Him coming with the clouds, and says: "every eye shall see him." Revelation 1:7, KJV Paul says the Lord will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God (1 Thessalonians 4:16). Scripture gives signs and describes the manner of Christ's return, but it does not give us permission to set a date. The appropriate response is therefore not date-setting but watchfulness and readiness.
Key takeaway
The great controversy reveals God's character as Christ ministers as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. The dead await the resurrection, Christ's return will be visible and personal, and prophecy calls believers to faithful mission rather than date-setting or fear.