The King Is Coming: It's Time to Prepare for the Return of Christ

by John Bevere

Bestselling author John Bevere challenges Christians to take a fresh and honest look at one of the most often misunderstood and avoided truths of the Christian faith—the second coming of Jesus. Through personal testimony, biblical accuracy, and practical guidance, readers will be inspired to live a life of spiritual vigilance as they prepare for the glorious return of our King.

If Jesus were to return tomorrow, would you be ready?

In The King Is Coming, John Bevere discusses why the Second Coming is both relevant and critical for the Christian faith. Other than salvation, it's the second most discussed topic both in the New Testament and by early church fathers in the first three centuries. More than a book about prophecy, this life-changing guide will help believers live fully prepared for Christ's return while transforming the way we love, serve, and glorify God.

Bevere recounts his personal shift from avoiding eschatology to fully recognizing its significance. Witnessing the misuse and division caused by End Time teachings initially led him away from the topic, but through the Holy Spirit's guidance and a deeper study of Scripture, Bevere's heart and life were transformed. Through extensive references to prophetic Scriptures, the book explores many of the over three-hundred New Testament mentions of Jesus’ return, providing a foundation that will help

Live in awe of the Creator of the universe who holds time in His hands.Grow in holiness, compassion, purpose, and gain a closer relationship with God.Live with an eternal outlook, inspiring a sense of hope, urgency, and mission.Avoid division by focusing on the transformative power of our reigning King.Discover an eschatology that replaces fear and alarmism with true hope.

Through personal testimonies and a close examination of Scripture, John offers readers spiritual truths, insight, encouragement, and practical steps to develop a readiness shaped by faith and obedience. And as with The Awe of God, each chapter will close with his 5 P' Passage, Point, Ponder, Prayer, and Profession.

The King Is Coming is both a wake-up call, faith builder, and a source of hope for Christian men and women seeking to deepen their relationship with Christ and prepare for His glorious return.

Genres: Christian, Christian Non Fiction, Nonfiction

336 pages, Hardcover

Published March 3, 2026

About the author

Marked by boldness and passion, John Bevere delivers uncompromising truth through his award-winning curriculums and bestselling books, now in more than 60 languages, including "The Bait of Satan," "Drawing Near" and "Driven by Eternity." He is an international speaker and co-host of "The Messenger" TV program broadcast worldwide.

John enjoys living in Colorado Springs with his wife, Lisa, also a best-selling author and speaker, and their four sons.

Reviews

[MrsLColley · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ The King Is Coming – John Bevere ✨

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I finished this book and… wow. John Bevere really challenges you to stop skimming over the Second Coming and actually face it head-on. It’s not doom-and-gloom prophecy. He shows how preparing for Christ’s return can actually deepen your faith, your love for others, and the way you live every single day.

Bevere mixes personal stories, Scripture, and practical steps in a way that felt really relatable. I especially loved chapter 28, which hit me hard and made me stop and think about my own readiness and my walk with God. Like…”Ok LORD… You got my attention!!”

I loved how he blends personal stories, Scripture, and practical steps in a way that doesn’t feel like a lecture. And the 5 P’s at the end of each chapter? Genius. It’s like a mini devotion tucked right into the teaching. I actually found myself reflecting on my own life and thinking, “Yep… time to get serious about this.”

📚 This book is for anyone who wants to take their faith seriously, live intentionally, and prepare their heart for Jesus’ return without fear… just hope, awe, and purpose… without fear-mongering.

Honestly, this book left me reflecting and inspired. I’ve already caught myself thinking about it days later, and I know it’ll stay with me for a long time.

Recommended read!! ✝️

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book. Not only did it get me excited about the rapture, it explained the series of events that surround the second coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He broke it all down, using scripture and explaining the tribulation as well. I loved (although it was definitely humbling) the time he took to talk about Jesus' letters to the seven churches in the beginning of Relevation. I think a lot of people don't pay much attention to that part but it's so relevant and important for the Christ follower to examine their own lives. The description and explanation of the Jewish wedding was also so informative. I closed the book peaceful and excited, but also realizing my job isn't to sit in my house with stockpiles of food. My job is to share God's truth with as many people as possible during this season.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from netgalley but was under no obligation to review it. All opinions are strictly my own.

[Blake Larson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alright...today is the release day for this book, and I've been waiting and excited to share this. I received an advance copy to read, and I am so grateful! I’m just saying, if this book makes you think a little differently, I’ve been thinking a little differently for a few weeks already.

Let me start here: this is not a “grab your bunker supplies and decode the news cycle” kind of end-times book. This is also not a book about doomsday prepping for the end times, and there are no conspiracy corkboards involved. John Bevere doesn’t spend chapters trying to match prophecy with this week’s headlines, which I'm grateful for...Jesus said we would not be able to predict His second coming! Instead, he does something far more uncomfortable…he brings it to what we can do TODAY.

The big question running underneath the whole book is simple and actually kind of intrusive: If Jesus is actually coming back…what does that change about how you’re living right now? He's not just our Savior...He is our King. That question should influence how we live every single day.

This book also doesn’t preach fear. It preaches the lordship of Jesus. The return of Christ in this book isn’t portrayed like a horror movie jump scare...one day people will be missing, and those "left behind" will be terrified...which is great because once again: we don't know how it will all happen! Instead, this book portrayed it like a coronation. The King is coming. That’s good news...glorious news! Why would I be afraid of that?

There were multiple moments where I caught myself thinking that certain moments hit a little too close to home...and I mean that in the best way. John Bevere talks about readiness as a form of devotion. Nothing about it is meant to make you anxious...just to help you decide you'll live in a way that makes sense if eternity is real and Jesus is who He says He is.

I think what really surprised me the most about a book on end-times was that it stirred hope more than I thought. I expected urgency, but I didn’t expect joy. There’s this thread running through the book that points to a reunion with the Lord, and that is so comforting.

As a pastor, I’ve read plenty of books on the return of Christ. Some are heavy on charts or warnings. This one feels like a comforting hand on your shoulder, saying, “Don’t drift. Don’t get sleepy. Remember who you belong to.”

So, that being said, it challenged my priorities. It checked my motives. It also reminded me that I can preach about eternity and still accidentally live like "today" is all that matters.

Five stars. Not because it’s controversial, but because it’s clear, backed biblically, and uncomfortably honest in the best way. If you believe Jesus is coming back, this book will make that belief feel less like a doctrine and more like a daily reality. And if you’ve gotten a little numb to it…buckle up. In a good way.

[Christine Giancola · Rating 5 out of 5]

“But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers” 1 Peter 4:7 nkjv

This is not a typical book about the return of Christ. You will be disappointed if you just want the tea on when Jesus is coming back, who the antichrist is, and what the tribulation will look like. The King is Coming reads more like a love story. My heart was burning reading this book, as I thought about the Lord Jesus, what He did to make a way back for us, and how He suffered…and how He overcame! Why? So that we could be his holy bride. I couldn’t put it down. This story - the story we are part of - is so much better than we could ever imagine. But it’s also more severe than we might be anticipating.

“...we are responsible for the preparation.”

The Bridegroom. First love. Humility. Fear of the Lord. Righteous and holy living. This book is completely filled with all of these elements, and the North American church is in desperate need of teachings on these topics. This book is a helpful aid to the Believer to prepare. This is a call to be burning for Jesus, not just aware of Jesus. To be in love with Jesus, not just know He loves you. To be dressed, ready to go, shown by the way we live. To be picky with our words and actions. To forsake the world (all others) and have our eyes fixed on the Lord Jesus.

The King is Coming will either make your heart burn because you are on track, and encourage you to keep going, or it will cause conviction because you have taken on other lovers, so to speak, and you are off track. And the Lord Jesus - King Jesus - is coming back for a pure bride. He’s worthy of that.

On the rapture, or “catching away of the bride” - I found John’s perspective on this matter very encouraging, thoughtful, and he approached the topic with humility. He makes a sound argument using the Scriptures and early church fathers. The call to “know the times and seasons” and to be eagerly waiting for His return was also so good. I loved learning about the Jewish wedding tradition, the fact that the first coming of Christ was calculable based on the Scriptures, thus providing the rationale that it is also possible to know the timing (season - not exact date) of the second coming of Christ based on the Scriptures too.

I appreciate how the author takes difficult and complex topics, studies them in-depth and with integrity, and then breaks it down for anyone to understand with ease. There is a humility, as mentioned before, to accept challenges on these secondary topics, and to be corrected if enough evidence was provided. There’s also the call to study and read for ourselves, which is so empowering.

That being said, this book could have been more in-depth - it felt a bit surface-level on some of the major themes, and left me with a number of questions. I suppose that is to be expected though, when the book speaks to such a contested and complicated topic.

Hence, the main takeaway from this book is this: to be ready, and eagerly wait for the King’s return. Come, Lord Jesus, come!

[Melissa Cushing · Rating 5 out of 5]

The King Is Coming by John Bevere is a powerful and timely reminder for believers to live with eternity in mind. In a world filled with uncertainty, distraction, and spiritual confusion, this book brings readers back to an essential truth of the Christian faith: Jesus is returning, and how we live today matters.

Rather than getting caught up in speculation about timelines or debates about prophecy, Bevere focuses on a much more important question—how should we live in light of Christ’s return? Through Scripture, personal insights, and practical teaching, he encourages readers to live with holy awe, deeper devotion, and an eternal perspective.

One of the things I appreciated most about this book is how it shifts the conversation around the end times from fear to hope. Instead of creating anxiety, the message is one of preparation, faithfulness, and spiritual growth. Bevere challenges readers to examine their priorities and reminds us that the anticipation of Christ’s return should inspire us to live boldly for Him each day.

Each chapter encourages reflection and practical application, making this not just a book about prophecy but a guide for spiritual readiness and deeper relationship with Jesus.

Overall, The King Is Coming is a meaningful and thought-provoking read for anyone who wants to strengthen their faith and live with purpose while waiting for Christ’s return. Whether you’ve studied biblical prophecy for years or are just beginning to explore it, this book offers encouragement, clarity, and a powerful call to live ready.

A great read for Christians seeking hope, perspective, and renewed commitment in their walk with Christ.

[A.C. Cuddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of this book really does say it all! Yes, He is coming!

I truly did enjoy this book. The author methodically walks the reader through the Biblical evidence of our soon coming King as the author takes the reader through what the Bible actually says, about Jesus’ return and how that knowledge should change the way we live.

He does not introduce fear, or speculation. Just hope and preparation for our eternity.

From the book description: “Through personal testimonies and a close examination of Scripture, John offers readers spiritual truths, insight, encouragement, and practical steps to develop a readiness shaped by faith and obedience. And as with The Awe of God, each chapter will close with his 5 P's: Passage, Point, Ponder, Prayer, and Profession.

The King Is Coming is both a wake-up call, faith builder, and a source of hope for Christian men and women seeking to deepen their relationship with Christ and prepare for His glorious return.”

I highly recommend this book.

#TheKingIsComing #NetGalley

Disclosure: I received this book free via NetGalley. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm actually still reading this new release. And REALLY appreciating how it is helping me grow closer to and prepare for Christ's return. I was born into a healthy church, so I've been building my knowledge of the Bible and my relationshjp with Abba for all my 60 year's on earth. I had read all of the Bible but the book of Revelation, which confussed me and I did not feel prepared to understand it. Two year's ago paster in my current church taught a class on the Revelation of John, which opened my eye's to the symbolic meaning and excitting message of Jesus return. And now I have this book. I will add more to my review after I complete this book, but incase the producers of this book read the reviews here, I wanted to let them know that the newspaper used to print this book does not hold up to highlighting and note writting. The highlighter which I use in my Bibles bleeds right through this paper. I am a nature girl and good steward, I understand the benifits of newspaper breaking down faster but there are times when the details of quality paper make a difference in when learning.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fascinating read that moved me deeply. It makes a strong case for Jesus' return within the next hundred years, which should give us urgency in our personal faith and evangelism. John Bevere paints gruesomely vivid pictures of Jesus' suffering and death, in order to show how powerful God's love is, and how it must be foundational for us to face what's ahead. John writes from a pre-millennial perspective, and I think he does a good job supporting that view while remaining humble. Probably the most riveting portion of the book is what he learned from Brazilian pastors - how eschatology can be an enormously motivating force in the church, and how untapped this is in the American church. This book will most certainly make the top picks of my 2026 reads list. I plan to recommend it not only to my pastors, but also to every person I know who needs to have their eyes opened before it's too late.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Awesome read! John Bevere calls believers to look beyond the temporary and keep eternity in our view. He does a fantastic job of unpacking the reality of Christ returning, not as a concept, but as a truth that should shape how we live and obey here and now.

I really like how he doesnt use fear as a motive but instead grounds his message firmly in scripture reminding us of God's mercy , justice, and faithfulness. This book has stirred me to renew my awe for God and pursue holiness and joy. This book is good for anyone looking for a spiritual awakening. deeper accountability. or a reminder to passion a life living fully surrendered to Christ. I will revisit this read and plan to recommend to friends and family.

I received an advance review copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Mandy Hebert]

John Bevere has done an excellent job with this message. The King is Coming has changed my perspective on Jesus’s second coming. I used to be afraid but now I am eagerly awaiting and excited about Jesus coming back for his bride. It was an easy read. The chapters are short and thought provoking. He doesn’t force his beliefs on you but provides scripture to back his thoughts and what the Holy Spirit has revealed to him leaving room for discussion. It leaves you with lots to think about and discuss. Most importantly he points out with scripture reference that we are witnesses to the last days. He gives practical advice on how to prepare and be ready for Jesus to return. I want to be like one of the wise virgins while waiting for my bridegroom to return. What an exciting time to be alive!

[Julie Hinton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was NOT an advanced copy read. I was awaiting this book because of the author, after reading Awe of God and many others- this book has the accurate heartbeat of God and the Church- we need to stop being distracted because our recompense is eternal. While it makes excellent scriptural arguments for certain points about eschatology, and I especially love the ancient Jewish wedding metaphor, the aim is encouragement and sharpening so that the Church is prepared and neither caught unaware nor full of regret at how poorly we stewarded this life - which may in fact end quite abruptly for quite a few of us. Maranatha!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a beautiful and thorough, scripturally sound teaching on the second coming of Jesus! John bases everything off of scripture and uses a faith-based teaching rather than fear-based, like many are used to. If he states his opinion on how he interprets eschatology, he makes sure to say so, which I appreciated. We are to be expectantly waiting for our Bridegroom and preparing ourselves for Him while we wait! I loved the book and it absolutely brought me closer to the Lord. Highly recommend!

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books that, no matter how you feel about the writing or the presentation or the book’s physical composition, you must read it, for there is nothing of greater importance to humanity than the return of Christ, God’s wrath to come upon all the earth, and his great love and deliverance for his bride, the church.

NOW is the time to examine ourselves and see, as Paul says in 2 Corinthians 13:5, if we are in the faith, for if we are not, we WILL endure the wrath, and folks, according to history and biblical prophecy John Bevere discusses in The King Is Coming, this may be the very generation where it all culminates.

Don’t be fooled into thinking, as so many have for years, that nothing has happened and so his return is a farce or is still a long way off. Scripture reminds us that’s what people thought when the flood came, and what pregnant women think even when they know their child is due. Like labor pains, Christ’s return will come without warning, so GET READY!

Read this book to help you and don’t stop there. Keep pressing in to Christ, casting aside all other restraints. Go all in. No one will ever be able to take that from you even if Jesus should tarry a bit longer than you do on earth. Eternity with Christ is worth every bit of surrender and devotion to the one who gave his all for us.

[Rowena Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to read format.

The first chapter itself shatters the intentions and reasons of what we shouldn’t be studying the second coming for, and gives us the right and Godly intention of knowing the scriptures regarding the return of the King.

So many of his books and teachings have been a way through which God has enlightened, changed and transformed many.

There will be controversy since this is such a contentious topic. But remember the Holy Spirit is your guide and the Word of God is the Truth. Follow His leading as you read this book and delve into scriptures.

[Sydnie Snipes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most encouraging and joy filled book about living ready for our reunion with Christ—whether that’s here on earth or in Heaven. It doesn’t focus on timelines or predictions, but more about living ready. Taught me to live with an eternal perspective and to EAGERLY wait for the Lord.

This book was great if you are looking to find joy or a desire in your daily reading and time with the Lord. It puts such a great purpose and vision behind what our call here on earth is.

Thankful that John felt the call to write this book as it has deeply impacted my walk already this year!

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Insightful, moving, and thought-provoking. I enjoyed how Minister John Bevere used scripture and analogies to emphasize how important preparing for Jesus' coming truly is. There were so many moments I found myself in self-reflection or taking notes; this book has ministered to my life and is very important for the times the church is currently living in/the end times.

A huge thank you to NetGalley and W Publishing/Thomas Nelson Publishing for my ARC.

[Jesse Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

The one-chapter-per-day format Bevere has executed in both 'The Awe of God' and 'The King is Coming' is the best way to intensely focus on a topic and pull it into your heart.

'The King is Coming' is not about speculation- it is about what a believer needs to do to be prepared for the day when Christ returns for His bride.

I've heard the wedding analogy used so many times, but Bevere explains how it exactly parallels with what is to come.

[Jimin Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped me realize why the Church, as Christ’s bride, should expect His return and how Christians should stay consecrated from the world. Above all, it highlights Jesus' sacrifice and His love in paying the price for our sins. Since this book covers essential preparations for believers, I believe it will help those who love the Lord to joyfully prepare for His coming with a sense of holy awe.

[Kien Ly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so amazed and I felt so blessed for being able to receive the unexplainable joy while reading this book. This book has been igniting the fire in me and the more I dive into it, the more excited I become about Jesus’s second coming, the unfathomable love of God and the beauty of his salvation plan!!!

[Vanessa Carrillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has stirred up an even deeper hunger for God in me. Not only has it done that but it has taken my focus off all the craziness in the world and helped me to remember who He is and how important reverence is. I love HIM! I feel like I’m learning Him all over again. I have half of the book to go, and can’t wait to finish it!

[Rosann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was something I kept my head in the sand about. This book has brought facts and insight to me that I am eternally grateful for. Easy to read and straight to the point. Highly recommended for someone who wants a deeper relationship with Jesus and will be at peace with the second coming of Christ.

[Grady Arant · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good read. Made me think about what I had believed before reading this, and also to see how important the Second Coming is (more than just an ending). Appreciated the biblical aspects more than the hypothesizing though.

[Ginny Yurich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting book about the end times!

[Beth Novak Paquette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book. Learned some things I did not know and I discovered a new author in the process.

[Sarah McDonnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Beautifully written and in a way that gets you yearning and excited for the coming King! Cried so many times, especially during chapter 6!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

5 ⭐️ narrator. Would be interested in more of his teachings!

[Patti Clouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been following John Bevere for years - all of his books and teachings are extremely informative and helpful. His current book, "The King is Coming" does not disappoint. He points everyone to where we need to be in today's world.

I just found out today that there is also a bible study guide called "The King Is Coming Bible Study Guide Plus Streaming Video: It's Time to Prepare for the Return of Christ" that will be released on March 26th.

I highly recommend getting this book as I feel that it will be helpful in preparing you for Our coming King Jesus.

I am including below a short excerpt from his book.

“Titus 2:12-13 – We are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live I this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.

Notice the words while we look forward with hope regarding Jesus’ second coming. Recall that Simeon was “eagerly waiting” for the Messiah. When we live with eager anticipation of His return to set up the kingdom, it creates a restraining force that protects us from godless living and sinful pleasures.

The apostle John confirms this truth. He writes that our eager expectation (hope) of Jesus’ return crates a healthy restraining force:

1 John 3:2-3 We know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as he is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.
There is a purifying force connected to the eager expectation of Jesus’ return. It’s a restrainer that protects us from the onslaughts and pollutions of this world!

If we look at Jesus’ return through the perspective of a single event rather than through the eyes of God’s glorious master plan, we’ll lack the eager expectation that enables us to stay diligent in our obedience to the end. We are vulnerable – easy prey for distraction, discouragement, or deception.”

[David Brenner · Rating 5 out of 5]

For decades, John Bevere has been a trusted voice and brought timely messages to us our about not being offended (Bait of Satan), examining our hearts for idols (Killing Kryptonite), and importance of fearing separation from the Lord rather than the opinion of man (Awe of God). The King is Coming is another critical reminder to the body of Christ that how we spend this brief moment of our lives will echo for eternity. It is a call for us to wake up and prepare our hearts for the King.