Should Christians pray for the Lord's return and the end of the world? Isn't that wrong, since it means we're praying for the world to fall under judgment?
The Bible makes clear we are to anticipate and look forward to the coming Kingdom and all that comes with it. First, consider Jesus’ model of prayer given to the church:
Matt. 6:9 “Pray, then, in this way:
Our Father who is in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Matt. 6:10 Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Jesus told us to pray specifically for the Lord's Kingdom to come to earth. Also, the apostle John declared his own desires to see Christ return quickly when he prayed:
Rev. 22:20 He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming quickly.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.
In fact, all the epistle writers urged the church to anticipate the Lord’s return and to be ready for it with eager hearts. Peter says:
2Pet. 3:11 Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,
2Pet. 3:12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat!
Notice, Peter says we are to look for and “hasten” the return of Christ, so to speak, even though that day also brings judgment. We have no reason to hesitate in praying for the Lord’s return, for judgment will come for the world whenever that day arrives. There is nothing to be gained (by us or the world) by delaying the inevitable.
Remember, the judgment that comes upon the world is a part of God’s sovereign plan, and no soul will be denied Heaven apart from God’s will and purpose.
