The phrase "On that day" is a significant biblical expression that appears throughout Scripture, often marking pivotal moments in God's redemptive history and His dealings with humanity. This phrase is used to denote specific days of divine intervention, judgment, or fulfillment of prophecy. It is a term that carries eschatological weight, pointing to both historical events and future occurrences as foretold by the prophets.

Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, "on that day" frequently introduces events of divine judgment or deliverance. For instance, in the context of the Exodus, God declares through Moses, "On that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people are living, so that no swarms of flies will be there, so that you may know that I, the LORD, am in the land" (Exodus 8:22). Here, the phrase underscores God's protective power over Israel amidst the plagues on Egypt.

The prophets often use "on that day" to refer to the Day of the Lord, a time of both judgment and restoration. In Isaiah 11:10, it is written, "On that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples. The nations will seek Him, and His place of rest will be glorious" . This prophecy points to the coming of the Messiah and the gathering of the nations to Him.

New Testament Usage

In the New Testament, "on that day" is frequently associated with the return of Christ and the final judgment. Jesus Himself uses the phrase in His teachings about the end times. In Matthew 7:22, He warns, "Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’" . This passage highlights the reality of judgment and the importance of genuine faith and obedience.

The Apostle Paul also employs the phrase in his letters, often in reference to the believer's hope and the assurance of salvation. In 2 Timothy 1:12, Paul expresses his confidence, saying, "For this reason, even though I suffer as I do, I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day" . Here, "that day" refers to the day of Christ's return and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Eschatological Significance

The eschatological significance of "on that day" is profound, as it encapsulates the culmination of God's plan for creation. It is a day anticipated with both reverence and hope, as it will bring about the final establishment of God's kingdom, the vindication of His people, and the ultimate defeat of evil. The prophetic literature, particularly in books like Zechariah and Joel, often uses this phrase to describe the cosmic and transformative events that will occur at the end of the age.

In Zechariah 14:9, the prophet declares, "On that day the LORD will become King over all the earth—the LORD alone, and His name alone" . This vision of universal recognition of God's sovereignty is a central theme in the biblical narrative, pointing to the restoration of all things under His righteous rule.

Conclusion

The phrase "on that day" serves as a powerful reminder of God's active presence in history and His ultimate control over future events. It calls believers to live in anticipation of God's promises, to remain faithful amidst trials, and to look forward to the glorious fulfillment of His redemptive work.