Hebrews 9:28

Apostolic (Oneness) PentecostalHebrews is picturing the Day of Atonement. The high priest went into the holy of holies, and the people waited for him to come back out (compare Luke 1:21). His return meant the offering had been accepted (Lev. 16). Christ 'was once offered to bear the sins of many.' He did not offer another's blood, but 'his own blood' (9:12). Now He will appear a second time, but notice to whom: 'unto them that look for him.' This is not His appearing to the whole world. It is His coming for those who are watching and waiting, 'without sin unto salvation': not to deal with sin again, but to finish the salvation of His own (1 Thess. 4:16-17; Phil. 3:20). That is why the New Testament keeps saying watch, wait and look (Matt. 25:13; Titus 2:13). The offering, the priest and the coming Lord are one Person, and the ones He comes for are the ones looking for Him.

JewishThe imagery is the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) of Leviticus 16. Judaism does not accept a once-for-all human sacrifice.

CatholicChrist's one sacrifice, made present in the Eucharist, and His return in glory.

ProtestantChrist's offering was once for all and complete. His second coming brings full salvation, not a new sacrifice.

OrthodoxThe High Priest who returns from the heavenly sanctuary.

DispensationalOne of the few New Testament verses to say 'the second time.' Some apply it to the rapture, others to the return.

AcademicThe only New Testament verse to speak explicitly of a 'second' appearing. It is built on the Day of Atonement pattern that runs through Hebrews 9.