The scripture referred to in this question is Mark 13:32 (NASV) which states “But of that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the son, but the Father alone.” At the time these words were uttered during Jesus’ first advent, Jesus did not know when he would be coming again, and we are not told why this was the case.
We know he needed to die on the cross first and ascend to heaven. Then the scroll was given into his hands to be opened: Revelation 5:12, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory and blessing.” Revelation 6 goes on to talk about the scroll being opened. As Jesus opens the scroll, more and more of his Father’s divine plan was revealed to him, until he was fully informed as to the plan and the timing. To suggest that Jesus would never know the time that he was coming again or meeting up with his “bride,” (his faithful followers) would be absurd. God would certainly give Jesus the information at the appropriate time.
The scripture that tells us that Jesus doesn’t know the time or hour that God will send him is another good argument against the idea that God, Jesus and the holy spirit are one being in three different parts.
Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1194: “Could Jesus Return Without You Knowing?”
Revealing the three scripturally progressive phases of Jesus’ return
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1259: “Do I Suffer From Rapture Anxiety?” (Part I)
Questioning the rapture in the light of careful scriptural analysis
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
