Comparative Analysis with Christian Eschatological Views on the Return of Jesus

The return of Jesus (Isa in Islam) is a significant event in both Islamic and Christian eschatologies, where he is expected to play a central role in establishing divine justice and peace on earth. In Christianity, the second coming of Jesus is prophesied as a time of judgment, redemption, and the ultimate defeat of evil. Similarly, Islamic eschatology holds that Prophet Isa will descend in the end times to fulfill specific missions, including defeating the Dajjal (Antichrist) and establishing peace. This section explores the similarities and differences between Islamic and Christian expectations of Jesus' return and examines how the “Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light” (ARPL) diverges from the traditional Islamic understanding of Isa's role in the end times.

The Role of Jesus in Christian Eschatology

Jesus as the Messiah and Judge in Christian Belief

In Christian theology, Jesus' second coming is a key component of end-time prophecy, associated with judgment, resurrection, and the restoration of God's kingdom on earth. Christians believe that Jesus will return as a divine judge, calling the faithful to salvation and casting the unrighteous into punishment. The New Testament describes his return as a time of ultimate victory over evil:

Here, Jesus is expected to execute divine judgment and bring justice. His return marks the culmination of God's plan for humanity, as he separates the righteous from the wicked and establishes peace. The expectation of Jesus as a judge reflects the Christian belief in him as a divine figure with authority to govern the final days.

Unity and Justice through the Second Coming

Jesus' return in Christian belief also heralds a period of universal peace, harmony, and justice. Known as the “Prince of Peace,” Jesus is prophesied to bring an era of spiritual renewal and unity, eradicating evil and guiding humanity to the truth. The Book of Isaiah speaks of Jesus' peaceful rule:

The Islamic Perspective on Prophet Isa's Return and the Mahdi's Role

Prophet Isa's Role as a Restorer, Not a Judge

In Islam, Prophet Isa's return is anticipated as a time when he will rectify misunderstandings surrounding his life and mission, specifically in relation to his role as a prophet rather than a deity. His mission is primarily to defeat the Dajjal and to reaffirm the teachings of Islam, thereby restoring monotheism and clearing theological distortions. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) described Isa's return as follows:

The Mahdi and Isa's Shared Mission of Unity and Restoration

In Islamic eschatology, the Mahdi is expected to lead the Muslim Ummah through a time of trials, but it is Isa's arrival that brings about the final victory against the Dajjal. Together, they will work to restore faith and justice, ushering in a period of unity. The Hadith emphasize their collaborative efforts, with the Mahdi preparing the Muslim community for Isa's arrival:

This cooperative dynamic emphasizes Isa's support for the Mahdi's mission, reinforcing the traditional Islamic understanding of a united mission. Isa's descent complements the Mahdi's leadership, establishing peace and reaffirming the oneness of God.