Decoder Terminal
LORD AT HAND
IMMINENT ARRIVAL — STANDBY FOR CONTACT
CONDITIONSpecs
dual meaning
spatial nearness (presence) and temporal nearness (return)
greek phrase
ho kyrios engys
aramaic parallel
Maranatha — 'Our Lord, come!'
ethical implication
shapes behavior toward others
Intelligence Brief
Bible Dictionary: 'The Lord is at hand' (ho kyrios engys) carries dual meaning: the Lord is near in presence (always accessible) and near in time (his return is imminent). The early church lived in constant expectation of Christ's return — not as escapism but as ethical urgency. Historical Context: The Aramaic prayer 'Maranatha' ('Our Lord, come!') was a watchword of the early church (1 Cor 16:22). This expectation shaped everything: why hoard wealth if the Lord returns tomorrow? Why nurse grudges? Why fear persecution? The horizon was short. Scarlet Thread: Christ promised to return (John 14:3, Acts 1:11). Every generation of believers has lived under this promise. The 'delay' is mercy (2 Peter 3:9), but the posture remains: watchfulness, readiness, gentleness toward others because judgment belongs to the One who is coming.
Scripture References