Final answer:
St. Paul teaches that when Christ comes again, he will put down all opposing rule, authority, and power, signifying the end of sin and the establishment of God's kingdom. This concept is rooted in Christian eschatology and represents the final judgment and victory of good over evil.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the teachings of St. Paul, a major figure in Early Christianity, when Christ returns, he will 'put down' all rule, authority, and power that opposes God. This event is associated with the day of judgment and the ultimate victory over sin and death, as documented in various passages of the New Testament, particularly in Paul's epistles. St. Paul's view is that the return of Christ is a culmination of God's divine plan which was signaled by Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection—a central theme in Christian faith that implies the defeat of sin and the establishment of God's kingdom.
The idea of Christ laying down 'the yoke he had borne for the sins of men' refers to the belief that Jesus took on the sins of humanity through his sacrifice, and his return will signify the end of that period of divine patience and the beginning of final judgment.
In St. Paul's writings, the 'putting down' is an act of divine authority that includes the defeat of all opposing forces, often symbolized by the 'Serpent' as mentioned in the book of Revelation. This is a reference to the ultimate battle between good and evil, leading to a new era where peace and righteousness prevail.