‘Come, Lord Jesus’: The Biblical Meaning and Hope Behind the Prayer
The phrase “Come, Lord Jesus” is a direct prayer found in Revelation 22:20, the final chapter of the Bible. It is the cry of the Church, expressing a deep longing and eager anticipation for the promised second coming of Jesus Christ to judge the world, defeat evil, and make all things new.
In the vast expanse of Christian faith, few phrases resonate with such profound longing and unwavering hope as “Come, Lord Jesus.” It is not merely a set of words, but a deep, spiritual cry that has echoed through the ages, uniting believers in a shared anticipation. From the earnest whisper in a quiet moment to the corporate roar in a worship gathering, the desire for our Savior’s return is woven into the very fabric of our being. This eager expectation for Jesus Christ, our crucified and risen Lord, is a blessed hope that anchors our souls and illuminates our path.
But what does it truly mean to utter “Come, Lord Jesus,” or to sing “come Jesus come” with all our hearts? More than a simple request, this prayer encapsulates the believer’s yearning for God’s ultimate plan of redemption to be fully realized. It is a declaration of faith in His divine sovereignty, a recognition of His past triumph on the cross and through His resurrection, and an unshakeable conviction in His promised future. As Scripture reminds us, “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20). This isn’t just an archaic phrase; it’s a living, powerful plea for justice, restoration, and the glorious, permanent presence of our King.
In this article, we will delve into the profound depths of this timeless prayer. We will explore its biblical origins, understand its rich meaning as a cry of longing and faith, and discover why the repeated invocation, “come Lord Jesus come,” remains a central pillar of Christian hope and worship. Join us as we uncover what truly defines the believer’s eager expectation and why our hearts continuously cry out for the return of our beloved Savior, Jesus Christ.
What is the Believer’s Eager Expectation?
Understanding the cry of the Church
The believer’s journey is marked by a profound, spiritual yearning. This deep desire culminates in the earnest prayer, “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20). It is not merely a casual utterance. Instead, it is the very cry of the Church, echoing through the ages.
Indeed, this cry represents a collective groan for ultimate redemption. The Apostle Paul spoke of creation itself groaning for deliverance (Romans 8:22). How much more, then, do God’s children long for their Savior’s return?
This desire is rooted in our present reality. We live in a fallen world. We witness suffering, injustice, and spiritual darkness. Our hearts ache for things to be made right. Therefore, we cry out, “Come, Lord Jesus!” We pray for the restoration of all things (Acts 3:21).
The prayer “come Jesus come” is a powerful expression of hope. It acknowledges that true peace and perfect righteousness will only fully arrive with Christ’s glorious return. It is a declaration of faith in His victory over sin and death.
The promise of His return
Our eager expectation is not based on wishful thinking. Rather, it stands firmly on the infallible promises of God’s Word. Jesus Himself declared He would return. He assured His disciples, “I will come again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also” (John 14:3).
Furthermore, after His ascension, angels confirmed this truth. They told the disciples, “This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11). This is a foundational doctrine of Christian faith.
The promise of His return is not vague. It is specific and glorious. Scripture details a visible, triumphant second coming. The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout (1 Thessalonians 4:16). He will come with the trumpet call of God. This event will gather His people to Him forever.
Therefore, when we pray “come Lord Jesus come,” we are affirming this divine certainty. We are holding fast to the hope of His appearing. This hope provides strength for today and unwavering confidence for tomorrow (Titus 2:13). It assures us that our faith is not in vain, for our Redeemer lives and will reign eternally.
What does come Lord Jesus mean?
A Prayer of Hope and Longing
The phrase “Come, Lord Jesus” is much more than a simple request. It embodies a profound spiritual yearning. It is the heart’s deepest cry for the fulfillment of God’s promises. Believers utter these words with eager expectation. We long for Jesus Christ’s glorious return. This prayer expresses an unwavering hope in His second coming. It acknowledges that our ultimate peace and redemption rest solely in Him. The apostle John concluded the book of Revelation with this very plea (Revelation 22:20). He anticipated a time when all sorrow and suffering will cease. This hope provides strength in our daily lives. It anchors our souls in God’s faithfulness (Hebrews 6:19). Truly, it is a longing for eternal life with our Savior.
An Acknowledgment of His Sovereignty
When we say “Come, Lord Jesus,” we affirm His supreme authority. We declare that Jesus Christ is Lord of all. He holds ultimate power over creation, time, and destiny. This prayer acknowledges His divine right to rule. It is a surrender to His perfect will. The Father has given Him all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). We recognize His position as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16). Furthermore, this acknowledgment is an act of worship. It submits our lives to His loving dominion. We trust His leadership implicitly. We know He will return in majesty and power. This truth offers great comfort and assurance.
A Plea for Justice and Restoration
Beyond personal hope, “Come, Lord Jesus” is a fervent prayer for global justice. It is a plea for the complete restoration of all things. Our world is marked by sin, suffering, and injustice. Believers long for a new heaven and a new earth. In this coming age, righteousness will dwell (2 Peter 3:13). The prayer expresses a desire for God’s perfect order. It yearns for an end to all evil. Jesus will right every wrong upon His return. He will wipe away every tear from our eyes (Revelation 21:4). This is a plea for His kingdom to come in its fullness. It is a powerful affirmation of God’s redemptive plan. We trust that His justice will prevail. We anticipate the day when everything sad comes untrue.
Where in the Bible does it say come Lord Jesus?
The Climactic Prayer of Revelation 22:20
The most direct and powerful instance of the prayer “Come, Lord Jesus” appears at the very end of the Bible. In Revelation 22:20, Jesus Himself declares, “Yes, I am coming soon.” John, the Apostle, responds immediately with a heartfelt plea: “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” This is not merely a statement. It is a fervent cry from the heart of a believer. It expresses deep longing for the promised return of our Savior.
This climactic prayer underscores the entire New Testament message. It affirms the absolute certainty of Jesus’ second coming. John’s response reflects the enduring hope of all true believers. We eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. It is a prayer of trust. It is also a prayer of profound expectation for His glorious appearing.
Understanding the Aramaic ‘Maranatha’ (1 Corinthians 16:22)
Another significant biblical phrase echoing “Come, Lord Jesus” is found in 1 Corinthians 16:22. Here, Paul writes, “If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be accursed. Maranatha!” The term “Maranatha” is an Aramaic phrase. Aramaic was a common language during Jesus’ time [1]. Early Christians used this phrase often.
“Maranatha” carries a dual meaning. It can be translated as “Our Lord has come.” It also means “Our Lord, come!” This powerful expression encapsulates the early Church’s profound hope. They lived with a constant awareness of Jesus’ past triumph and His future return. The inclusion of this Aramaic cry in a Greek letter highlights its deep importance. It shows its widespread use among the first believers. This phrase served as both a declaration of faith and an earnest prayer. It connected believers across diverse linguistic backgrounds. It solidified their shared anticipation for Christ’s return.
Other Scriptures Pointing to His Return
While Revelation 22:20 and 1 Corinthians 16:22 contain the most explicit calls, many other scriptures point to Jesus’ return. These passages fuel the prayer, “Come, Lord Jesus.” They build our eager expectation.
Consider these powerful affirmations:
- Jesus’ Own Promise: “I will come back and take you to be with me” (John 14:3). Jesus assures us of His intention. He prepares a place for us.
- Angelic Proclamation: After Jesus’ ascension, angels declared, “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11). This promise confirms the physical, visible return of Christ.
- Paul’s Teaching: “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). This vividly describes the event known as the Rapture.
- Revelation of His Glory: “Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him” (Revelation 1:7). This scripture emphasizes the universal and undeniable nature of His return.
These verses, among many others, establish a clear biblical foundation. They validate the prayer “Come, Lord Jesus.” They affirm the certainty of Jesus Christ’s second coming. This event will culminate in the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom. Our Lord Jesus, who died and rose again, will indeed return in power and glory.
What is the come Lord Jesus prayer?
How to Incorporate This Prayer Into Your Life
The “Come, Lord Jesus” prayer is more than just a phrase. It is a profound declaration of faith. It reflects a heart eagerly anticipating our Savior’s return. You can seamlessly weave this powerful prayer into your daily life. Start by making it a conscious part of your morning devotion. As you begin your day, offer a simple “Come, Lord Jesus, come.” This sets a tone of eternal hope.
Furthermore, use it as a “breath prayer” throughout the day. When facing stress, doubt, or temptation, quietly pray, “Come, Lord Jesus.” This invites His presence and peace into your immediate circumstances. It is a constant reminder of His sovereignty. Regular reflection on passages about His return also strengthens this prayer (e.g., 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). This helps to cultivate a spirit of readiness. Indeed, He promises, “Behold, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:20). Our prayer is a loving response to His assurance.
Praying with an Eternal Perspective
Praying “Come, Lord Jesus” naturally shifts our focus. It moves our gaze beyond the temporal. We begin to view our lives through an eternal lens. This prayer reminds us that this world is not our final home. Instead, our true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). It helps us prioritize spiritual matters. Earthly treasures and fleeting desires lose their grip. We remember the lasting reality of His kingdom.
When we pray “Come, Lord Jesus,” we affirm our belief. We trust in His ultimate victory over sin and death. This perspective brings immense comfort. It offers courage in a world full of turmoil. We are not praying for an escape from life’s challenges. Rather, we are praying for the culmination of God’s perfect plan. It is a prayer rooted in the certain hope of resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:51-54). This hope fuels our perseverance.
A Prayer for Strength in Times of Trial
Life inevitably brings trials and tribulations. In these difficult moments, the “Come, Lord Jesus” prayer offers profound strength. It is a heartfelt plea for His intervention. It acknowledges our weakness and His omnipotence. When sorrow weighs heavy, saying “Come, Lord Jesus” expresses our longing. We desire His comfort and ultimate restoration. We find strength in His promise to wipe away every tear (Revelation 21:4).
This prayer is an anchor in the storm. It reminds us that our suffering is temporary. Our Lord’s triumph, however, is eternal. It helps us endure hardship with unwavering faith. Even when circumstances seem bleak, we cling to His return. His coming will bring perfect justice and an end to all pain. “The Lord is near,” scripture tells us (Philippians 4:5). This nearness, both spiritual and future, is our strength. Therefore, we pray, “Come, Lord Jesus,” trusting in His steadfast love and coming glory.
Why is ‘Come, Jesus, Come’ a Popular Worship Song?
The Power of Worship in Expressing Heartfelt Longing
Worship music holds immense power. It translates the deepest yearnings of our spirit into melody and lyric. “Come, Jesus, Come” is not just a phrase; it’s a profound declaration. It captures the very essence of a believer’s hope. This powerful cry expresses a heartfelt longing for our Savior’s glorious return.
Indeed, our souls ache for the day when Christ will make all things new (Revelation 21:5). This anticipation is a core part of the Christian faith. Worship songs allow us to voice this spiritual hunger collectively. They help us articulate the comfort, joy, and justice we know will come with His kingdom. As we sing, our faith is strengthened, and our focus is redirected to our eternal hope. The Holy Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words, reflecting this divine yearning (Romans 8:26-27).
Echoing the Cry of the Saints Through Music
The call, “Come, Jesus, Come,” is not new. It echoes through centuries of Christian belief. It is the very last prayer recorded in the Bible, found in Revelation 22:20: “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” This powerful invocation summarizes the Church’s ultimate hope.
Furthermore, early believers expressed this longing with the Aramaic phrase “Maranatha” (1 Corinthians 16:22). This term means either “Our Lord has come” or, more commonly interpreted, “Our Lord, come!” Music offers a unique vehicle. It allows believers across time and cultures to join this ancient, sacred chorus. It transcends language barriers. It unites hearts in a shared expectation of Christ’s second coming. This musical expression solidifies our identity as those who eagerly await our King.
Connecting Believers in a Shared Hope
A significant reason for the popularity of songs like “Come, Jesus, Come” is their ability to foster deep connection. When believers sing these words together, they are not alone. They are part of a global family of faith. This shared hope transcends individual circumstances. It unites us in a common purpose and an unwavering belief.
In a world often filled with uncertainty and division, worship music provides powerful unity. It reminds us of the true Lordship of Jesus Christ. It reinforces His promise to return. As we lift our voices, we encourage one another. We strengthen our collective resolve (Hebrews 10:24-25). This shared proclamation of “Come, Lord Jesus” builds community. It nurtures a collective sense of peace and eager anticipation. It points us to the glorious future God has prepared for His children.
How Should We Live as We Wait for His Coming?
The earnest prayer, “Come, Lord Jesus,” is more than a hopeful cry. It is a powerful call to action for believers. As we anticipate the return of our Savior, our lives should reflect this profound expectation. Our daily walk becomes a testimony to the reality of His coming kingdom.
Living in this hope transforms how we approach the world. It shapes our priorities. It defines our purpose. We are not called to idly wait. Instead, we are called to live purposeful lives. These lives demonstrate the profound impact of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We prepare our hearts and actively engage in His mission.
Living in Holiness and Readiness (2 Peter 3:11-14)
Our anticipation of Christ’s return calls us to a life of holiness. The Apostle Peter clearly articulates this truth. He speaks of a future where the heavens will be set on fire. The elements will melt away with fervent heat. This vivid imagery is not meant to instill fear. Rather, it emphasizes the temporary nature of this world.
Peter asks a crucial question: “Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness?” (2 Peter 3:11 ESV). This question demands a response from every believer. Our hope in Jesus’ coming should purify us. It should motivate us to shed anything that displeases God. This means actively pursuing a life that reflects His character. We strive for righteousness in all things.
Living in readiness means cultivating a constant state of spiritual alertness. It involves confessing sin regularly. It includes drawing near to God daily through prayer and His Word. We are called to be “found by him in peace, without spot or blemish” (2 Peter 3:14 ESV). This pursuit of purity is not about earning salvation. Jesus already secured that through His death and resurrection. It is about honoring Him. It is about living a life worthy of His sacrifice. It is about eagerly desiring to stand before Him unashamed.
Fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20)
The command “Come, Lord Jesus” also propels us into active service. Our waiting is not passive. It is filled with purpose. Jesus gave His disciples a clear mission before His ascension. This mission is known as the Great Commission. He said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20 ESV).
This command is for every follower of Christ. It means sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. It means telling others about His saving grace. We are called to introduce people to the one true Son of God. He died for our sins. He rose again triumphantly. This message offers hope to a lost world. Many people still need to hear about Jesus. As of 2024, there are over 7,400 unreached people groups worldwide [2].
Fulfilling the Great Commission takes many forms. It can be sharing your testimony with a friend. It can be supporting missionaries financially. It can be actively participating in local outreach. Our longing for Jesus to come should ignite a passion within us. We want others to know Him before He returns. His mission is our mission. He promised to be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). This promise empowers us to carry out His work with confidence and joy.
Encouraging One Another in Faith
Waiting for the Lord’s return is a journey we undertake together. The Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation. We are part of the body of Christ. This means we are called to encourage one another. We strengthen each other’s faith. We build each other up.
The writer of Hebrews urges us to “consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV). This mutual encouragement is vital. It helps us remain steadfast. It reminds us of our shared hope.
In a world that often challenges our faith, community is a lifeline. We pray for one another. We offer practical support. We share wisdom from God’s Word. We hold each other accountable. When we face doubts or trials, fellow believers can remind us of Jesus’ faithfulness. They can point us back to the promise of His return. This strengthens our conviction that Jesus Christ is Lord. He is coming again. Our collective cry, “Come, Lord Jesus,” becomes a powerful anthem of shared belief and unwavering hope.
Frequently Asked Questions about ‘Come, Lord Jesus’
Where in the Bible does it say come Lord Jesus come?
The poignant cry, “Come, Lord Jesus,” is found at the very end of the Bible. Specifically, it appears in Revelation 22:20. Here, the Apostle John records Jesus’ promise, “Surely I am coming soon.” In response, John utters the fervent prayer, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” This prayer encapsulates the longing of all believers. It expresses an eager expectation for His glorious return.
Furthermore, a similar sentiment is found earlier in 1 Corinthians 16:22. This verse uses the Aramaic phrase “Maranatha.” Maranatha can be understood as “Our Lord, come!” or “Our Lord has come.” Both interpretations point to the same profound truth. It highlights the early church’s deep anticipation of Jesus’ second coming. Consequently, this phrase became a powerful declaration of faith.
What does ‘come Lord Jesus come’ mean?
“Come, Lord Jesus” is far more than just a phrase. Indeed, it is a profound declaration of faith and a heartfelt prayer. First, it signifies a deep spiritual longing for Jesus’ literal return to earth. Believers eagerly await the establishment of His perfect kingdom (Matthew 6:10). We understand that His return will bring ultimate justice and restoration to a broken world.
Moreover, this prayer is an acknowledgment of His supreme sovereignty. We declare that Jesus Christ is Lord over all creation. We trust in His divine plan for humanity. It is also a plea for the fulfillment of all His promises. We eagerly anticipate the day when every tear will be wiped away (Revelation 21:4). Our hearts yearn for the final triumph over evil and suffering. This prayer strengthens our hope and commitment to Him. We know He will come again, just as He promised (John 14:3; Acts 1:11).
Is ‘Come Lord Jesus Come’ a Catholic hymn?
While “Come, Lord Jesus” is certainly a beloved phrase within Catholic worship and hymnody, it is not exclusively Catholic. The expression itself originates directly from the Bible, specifically Revelation 22:20. Therefore, its meaning and hope are universal to all true Christian faiths. Many denominations and traditions throughout history have adopted this scriptural cry.
In fact, the longing for Jesus’ second coming is a core tenet of orthodox Christian belief. This hope transcends denominational boundaries. Believers across the globe share this deep yearning for His return. Various Christian worship songs and hymns, regardless of their specific origin, often incorporate this powerful plea. These songs echo the ancient prayer of the early church. They affirm the shared expectation of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior for all who believe (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).