Appearing, The

This expression exclusively refers to the public return of Christ to this earth—commonly called “the Second Coming.” It is, however, often erroneously applied to the secret rapture of the Church (1 Thess. 4) that precedes it. The word occurs in 2 Thess. 2:8; 1 Tim. 6:14; 2 Tim. 1:10; 4:1, 8; Titus 2:13; and is generally used in connection with responsibility in walk and service. (See RAPTURE.)