Parousia
παρουσία (parousia)
The arrival or coming — especially the second coming of Christ.
Parousia means 'presence' or 'coming' and is the primary New Testament term for Christ's promised return, carrying connotations of royal arrival and divine visitation.
"For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." — Matthew 24:27 (KJV)
Key Verses
Matthew 24:27
“For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.”Read in context
1 Thessalonians 4:15
“For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.”Read in context
James 5:8
“Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's G3952 — Parousia (παρουσία (parousia))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where παρουσία (parousia) appears.
Open Strong's G3952Etymology and Origin
Parousia combines para (alongside) and ousia (being/presence). In secular Greek, it described the ceremonial arrival of a king or dignitary to a city. When the New Testament writers adopted this term for Christ's return, they infused it with royal and eschatological significance.
Theological Significance
The parousia is the climax of redemptive history — the moment when the risen Christ returns visibly and bodily. It is associated with the resurrection of the dead, final judgment, and the consummation of God's kingdom. Every New Testament author references or alludes to it, making it a unifying hope of the early church.
Practical Application
Anticipating the parousia shapes Christian ethics and priorities. James urges patience, Paul encourages comfort, and Peter calls for holy living. The parousia is not meant to produce anxiety but to anchor believers in hope and purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does parousia mean in the Bible?
Parousia means 'coming' or 'arrival' and is the principal Greek term for the second coming of Jesus Christ, used over 20 times in the New Testament.
How is parousia different from other words for 'coming'?
While other Greek words like erchomai simply mean 'to come,' parousia carries the specific connotation of a royal, official arrival — like a king entering his city.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Parousia"?
Matthew 24:27 — "For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (KJV). It also appears in 1 Thessalonians 4:15, James 5:8.
Why does the Greek word behind "Parousia" matter?
Parousia combines para (alongside) and ousia (being/presence). English uses one word, "Parousia", where the Greek παρουσία (parousia) carries the fuller sense: the arrival or coming — especially the second coming of christ.
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Parousia (παρουσία (parousia))
The arrival or coming — especially the second coming of Christ.
Strong's G3952 — Parousia
παρουσία (parousia) • The arrival or coming — especially the second coming of Christ.
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