What does "Parousia" refer to in Christian belief?

The term "Parousia" specifically refers to the Second Coming of Jesus in Christian belief. This concept encompasses the expectation that Jesus will return to earth at the end of time to fulfill God's promises and establish a final judgment. The term is derived from the Greek word "parousía," which means "presence" or "arrival," emphasizing the anticipation of Christ's return and the transformative events that will accompany it.

In theological discussions, the Parousia is pivotal as it reflects the ultimate hope of the Christian faith, underscoring themes of redemption, restoration, and divine justice. It encompasses various Scriptural references that elaborate on this event, particularly in the New Testament, where it is often linked with eschatological teachings about the end times and the establishment of God's kingdom.

The other concepts, such as the First Coming of Christ, focus on the historical event of Jesus' birth and ministry, rather than his anticipated return. Similarly, while the end of the world is related to eschatological themes, it is broader in scope and does not exclusively define the Parousia. Prophetic visions can refer to various revelations but do not specifically encapsulate the meaning of Parousia within the context of Jesus' return.