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(0)The issue of the Millennium has to deal with the nature of the Millennium. In other words, the goal of Eschatology is to figure out the characteristics of the Millennium:
- Is the Millennium centered around the nation of Israel?
- Is the Millennium "physical" in characteristic?
- Is the nature of the Millennium "spiritual" but nonetheless real?
- Will the Millennium be characterized by peace and "Christian-ized" living?
- Will things grow worse and worse as the Millennium progresses?
These, and other, questions need to be answered, hence the study of Eschatology is vital. Each view of the Millennium (listed below) is simply based upon presuppositions one holds about Scripture, Christ's Kingdom, and the Promises and People of God. Yet, the discussion of Eschatology is not so simple.
The discussion of Eschatology isn't so much about Eschatology as it is hermeneutics. Hermeneutics is essentially how you read Scripture. For example, the person who is a Premillennialist uses different presuppositions about Scripture than, say, the Amillennialist. The views are mutually exclusive.
Due to the mutually exclusive nature of these views, if one view is true, the others cannot be true. Further if, for example, the Premillenial view is true, then the way the Premillennialist reads Scripture is the correct method of interpretation. This is, in my opinion, why Eschatology can be such a volatile subject. To discredit a particular Eschatology view essentially discredits the method or way someone reads Scripture.
Literally speaking, A-millennialism means, "no millennium". "A-" meaning no and "millennium" meaning 1000 years. Together mean "no millennium". As those holding to the Amil position say, apart from this straw man argument against A-millennialism, it is a false charge. In reality the use of its "true meaning" is really the trick of "poisoning the well" in disguise of a "reason against" A-millennialism.
PostMillennialism
PostMillennialism is also PostTribulational. They view Christ's Second Coming as coming after the Tribulation and After the Millennium. At first glance, you may think, "but that's what the Amil position holds". True enough, however, the characteristic of the Millennium is what the disagreement is about between Amil and PostMil. Amil sees the Millennium in a negative light and PostMil sees it in a positive light. In other words, Amil sees it as "growing worse and worse" and PostMil sees it as becoming essentially "Christianized".
Both A-millennialists and PostMils view the millennium as beginning at Christ's first coming and will consummate at Christ's second coming. The 1000 years (Revelation 20) is viewed as symbolic of the complete church age. Notice it is not viewed figuratively but symbolically. Due to the nature of the book of Revelation as being apocalyptic, These two views see much of the descriptions in the book of Revelation as symbols for very real realities, whereas, figurative language is a metaphor or descriptive of something non-literal or simply a figure of speech - e.g. Figurative: Luke 13:32 "...Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course." vs. Symbolic: Psalm 50:10 "For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills."
Of course, Jesus is using a figure of speech to describe a person because the person is not literally a fox. Jesus is conveying the meaning that a person is cunning and/or crafty.
And God owns more than just those cattle on a thousand hills. The meaning of "1000 hills", and "1000" more specifically, is "total" or "every" or "completely". In other words, God owns every cattle on every hill. He owns everything. He owns all of them without exception. The 1000 signifies a greater reality. The 1000 is symbolic of a greater meaning. (see 1 Chronicles 16:15)
But with all of this said, the discussion of Revelation 20, the passage which starts the discussion, ironically, should be the last part of the greater discussion of Eschatology. So we will get to Revelation 20 at the tail end of the discussion. For now, there's a LOT to get your head around with what's already been presented. We'll continue another time.
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" title="Justin Childers has a helpful article on understanding the book of Revelation called 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation. I hope he doesn't mind my reposting the whole thing:...">Eschatology 101 - 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation - More First Thoughts
1. Revelation focuses on Jesus Christ.
The point of this book is to make known the power, might, glory, and victory of the Lamb.
2. Revelation is given to reveal (make known).
The purpose of this book is not to confuse, but to reveal. Revelation is not trying to hide something. Its intent is to show something clearly.
3. Revelation must be interpreted in light of the rest of Scripture (particularly the OT).
MacArthur says 278 of its 404 verses allude to the OT Scriptures.
4. Revelation must be interpreted with humility.
Godly scholars vary in their interpretations on this book. Being dogmatic about something that is not clear is unwise. Humility demands that we use words like, “most likely,” “possibly,” “sometimes,” “could,” “may,” and “probably.”
5. Revelation has an original audience (like every other Biblical book).
Revelation is a letter written to real churches. Real original readers were supposed to hear the content of this book and be encouraged. Thus, interpretations that neglect the original readers should be suspect.
6. Revelation was written to suffering Christians.
The purpose of this letter is to encourage persecuted Christians to hold fast to the gospel. It is written so that Christians could know with certainty that the Lamb will triumph.
“God gave us Revelation not to tickle our fancy, but to strengthen our hearts.” –Poythress
7. Revelation is about Jesus Christ.
Since this is Revelation, I had to have a list of "7." So, I just restated the first one to make the most important point again.
Good thoughts to think about before proceeding with this series.
" >Eschatology 101 - First Thoughts
My chart (below) is more extensive than what I'll be addressing- at least as far as which Eschatological views I will handle. I will do an overview and comparison between the following: Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and Postmillennialism. Of course, if you want to go more indepth, you can check this site for an extensive look at the subject as a whole.
The chart below is very much a broad-stroking description of each view. I opted to use it because it was simple and easy. My goal over all is to be as even handed (as possible) allowing each view to speak for itself, as well as, allowing each to exert effort in refuting the others. I also do not want to present caricatures of any of the views.
With all this in mind, let's begin...
" title="I am currently working through two series for To Tell You The Truth. The first series will be discussing the relationship between Israel and the Church of which has already been started (see here). The second series will be discussing...">Eschatology 101 - Overview
Dispensational Premillennial (DP) -- This views that Jesus will come invisibly close to earth to take all those who are Christians away to heaven (called the rapture). This will start a seven year tribulation period, which will result in immense persecution of those who become Christians during this period. Jesus will come visibly at the end of the seven and reign 1000 years. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Historic Premillennial (HP) -- This is the older form of premillennialism that many of the old church fathers held, such as Irenaeus. In this view there is no rapture that precedes the start of the tribulation. Jesus makes a visible return that closes the tribulation and starts the millennium. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Amillennialism (A) -- This views that the periods of time discussed in Revelation for the tribulation and millennium use symbolic numbers, such as other symbolic expressions, to refer to the time from Jesus' first advent on earth until his second coming. At Jesus' second coming, both the tribulation and millennial reign of Christ and the church end and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Postmillenialism (P) -- This views that the tribulation started sometime after Christ's first advent, when Jesus ascended into heaven. After the tribulation, the millennial era began (possibly longer than 1000 years) where the gospel advances and vanquishes evil. Then Christ returns and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Full Preterist -- This views that Christ fully returned around 70 AD with the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple. Death has been spiritually conquered and the spiritual resurrection began at 70 AD. All the prophecies in Revelation were fulfilled at around 70 AD.
Partial Preterism -- Christ made a spiritual return in judgment at 70 AD at the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple, which brought an end to the period of the old testament temple. However, Jesus' second coming did not happen at that time. Some partial preterists then follow a postmillenial view or an amillennial view.
Historicist -- This views that Revelation's visions speak primarily about things that have happened during the church age after Christ's ascension. Unlike the amillennial view, which sees the visions speaking of general things that happen throughout history with a brief interval of intense tribulation just prior to Christ's return, the historicist sees that each thing described in Revelation refers to one historical event in the past. Often the historicist sees the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church as the antichrist.
(The above was taken from Meta-Schema. I have added abreviations to the views I will be addressing.)
-
schatology revolves around the Day on which Jesus Christ returns to earth to gather up His people, and each view within the study of Last Days centers upon what is called the Millennium and when Christ's Second Return, also known as the Day of the Lord, will happen in relation to the Millennium.The Millennium is solely mentioned in Revelation 20 six (6) times as "a thousand years". A single reading of the passage seems to provide one meaning, but the issue is not so simple.
The issue of the Millennium has to deal with the nature of the Millennium. In other words, the goal of Eschatology is to figure out the characteristics of the Millennium:
- Is the Millennium centered around the nation of Israel?
- Is the Millennium "physical" in characteristic?
- Is the nature of the Millennium "spiritual" but nonetheless real?
- Will the Millennium be characterized by peace and "Christian-ized" living?
- Will things grow worse and worse as the Millennium progresses?
These, and other, questions need to be answered, hence the study of Eschatology is vital. Each view of the Millennium (listed below) is simply based upon presuppositions one holds about Scripture, Christ's Kingdom, and the Promises and People of God. Yet, the discussion of Eschatology is not so simple.
The discussion of Eschatology isn't so much about Eschatology as it is hermeneutics. Hermeneutics is essentially how you read Scripture. For example, the person who is a Premillennialist uses different presuppositions about Scripture than, say, the Amillennialist. The views are mutually exclusive.
Due to the mutually exclusive nature of these views, if one view is true, the others cannot be true. Further if, for example, the Premillenial view is true, then the way the Premillennialist reads Scripture is the correct method of interpretation. This is, in my opinion, why Eschatology can be such a volatile subject. To discredit a particular Eschatology view essentially discredits the method or way someone reads Scripture.
Four major views exist regarding Eschatology, each within the general realm of orthodoxy. They are Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and PostMillennialism.DispensationalismDispensationalism isn't so much an Eschatological viewpoint as it is a way to read Scripture. The Old Testament (OT) takes priority over the New Testament (NT) for the sole reason that the OT can stand on its own two feet relating to meaning of words. Words have a specific meaning and we ought not to reinterpret them. Further, we ought not to take a fuller revelation (NT) and read it into the OT.Secondly, Dispensationalism sees a hard distinction between Israel and the Church - neither shall the twain meet.Traditionally speaking, Dispensationalism is the only Pe-Tibulation, Pre-Millennial view - Meaning they believe Christ will return before the Great Tribulation and before the Millennium. Within their view, the Rapture (where Christians are taken out of the world) happens before the Tribulation and before the Millennium, hence everything is still future. You could also say Dispensationalists are Futurists.Historic PremillennialismSomewhat akin to Dispenationalism's view is Historic Premillennialism. Historic Premil also sees Christ's return as coming before the Millennium, but after the Tribulation (Post Trib). They see Scripture as more of a single story about a single people but still draw a soft line between Israel and the Church. Historic Premils can also be classified as Futurists.As far as Premillennial views go, Historic Premil is the traditional viewpoint. The vast majority of folks who hold the Premil view, also held the Post Trib view. Hence, Historic Premil is the historic, traditional Premil view.AmillennialismAmillennialists claim A-millennialism suffers from an unfortunate name. Contrary to popular belief, A-millennialists do, indeed, believe in a millennium. The difference between A-millennialism and Pre-Millennialism is the millennium has been inaugurated during Christ's first advent and is happening at this very moment, and will be consummated at Christ's second coming, whereas, Pre-Millennialism believes the millennium is yet solely in the future." >Eschatology - The SeriesLiterally speaking, A-millennialism means, "no millennium". "A-" meaning no and "millennium" meaning 1000 years. Together mean "no millennium". As those holding to the Amil position say, apart from this straw man argument against A-millennialism, it is a false charge. In reality the use of its "true meaning" is really the trick of "poisoning the well" in disguise of a "reason against" A-millennialism.
PostMillennialism
PostMillennialism is also PostTribulational. They view Christ's Second Coming as coming after the Tribulation and After the Millennium. At first glance, you may think, "but that's what the Amil position holds". True enough, however, the characteristic of the Millennium is what the disagreement is about between Amil and PostMil. Amil sees the Millennium in a negative light and PostMil sees it in a positive light. In other words, Amil sees it as "growing worse and worse" and PostMil sees it as becoming essentially "Christianized".
Both A-millennialists and PostMils view the millennium as beginning at Christ's first coming and will consummate at Christ's second coming. The 1000 years (Revelation 20) is viewed as symbolic of the complete church age. Notice it is not viewed figuratively but symbolically. Due to the nature of the book of Revelation as being apocalyptic, These two views see much of the descriptions in the book of Revelation as symbols for very real realities, whereas, figurative language is a metaphor or descriptive of something non-literal or simply a figure of speech - e.g. Figurative: Luke 13:32 "...Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course." vs. Symbolic: Psalm 50:10 "For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills."
Of course, Jesus is using a figure of speech to describe a person because the person is not literally a fox. Jesus is conveying the meaning that a person is cunning and/or crafty.
And God owns more than just those cattle on a thousand hills. The meaning of "1000 hills", and "1000" more specifically, is "total" or "every" or "completely". In other words, God owns every cattle on every hill. He owns everything. He owns all of them without exception. The 1000 signifies a greater reality. The 1000 is symbolic of a greater meaning. (see 1 Chronicles 16:15)
But with all of this said, the discussion of Revelation 20, the passage which starts the discussion, ironically, should be the last part of the greater discussion of Eschatology. So we will get to Revelation 20 at the tail end of the discussion. For now, there's a LOT to get your head around with what's already been presented. We'll continue another time.
-
Why I am a dispensationalist with a small "d" by Darrell L. BockHistoric Premillennialism Extract from a post on the Free Republic Religion ForumThe Biblical basis of Postmillennialism based on the book Postmillennialism: An Eschatology of Hope by Keith A. MathisonWhy I am an Amillennialist: Additional Reflections by Robert Lowery
" title="Justin Childers has a helpful article on understanding the book of Revelation called 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation. I hope he doesn't mind my reposting the whole thing:...">Eschatology 101 - 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation - More First Thoughts
1. Revelation focuses on Jesus Christ.
The point of this book is to make known the power, might, glory, and victory of the Lamb.
2. Revelation is given to reveal (make known).
The purpose of this book is not to confuse, but to reveal. Revelation is not trying to hide something. Its intent is to show something clearly.
3. Revelation must be interpreted in light of the rest of Scripture (particularly the OT).
MacArthur says 278 of its 404 verses allude to the OT Scriptures.
4. Revelation must be interpreted with humility.
Godly scholars vary in their interpretations on this book. Being dogmatic about something that is not clear is unwise. Humility demands that we use words like, “most likely,” “possibly,” “sometimes,” “could,” “may,” and “probably.”
5. Revelation has an original audience (like every other Biblical book).
Revelation is a letter written to real churches. Real original readers were supposed to hear the content of this book and be encouraged. Thus, interpretations that neglect the original readers should be suspect.
6. Revelation was written to suffering Christians.
The purpose of this letter is to encourage persecuted Christians to hold fast to the gospel. It is written so that Christians could know with certainty that the Lamb will triumph.
“God gave us Revelation not to tickle our fancy, but to strengthen our hearts.” –Poythress
7. Revelation is about Jesus Christ.
Since this is Revelation, I had to have a list of "7." So, I just restated the first one to make the most important point again.
Good thoughts to think about before proceeding with this series.
" >Eschatology 101 - First Thoughts
My chart (below) is more extensive than what I'll be addressing- at least as far as which Eschatological views I will handle. I will do an overview and comparison between the following: Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and Postmillennialism. Of course, if you want to go more indepth, you can check this site for an extensive look at the subject as a whole.
The chart below is very much a broad-stroking description of each view. I opted to use it because it was simple and easy. My goal over all is to be as even handed (as possible) allowing each view to speak for itself, as well as, allowing each to exert effort in refuting the others. I also do not want to present caricatures of any of the views.
With all this in mind, let's begin...
" title="I am currently working through two series for To Tell You The Truth. The first series will be discussing the relationship between Israel and the Church of which has already been started (see here). The second series will be discussing...">Eschatology 101 - Overview
Dispensational Premillennial (DP) -- This views that Jesus will come invisibly close to earth to take all those who are Christians away to heaven (called the rapture). This will start a seven year tribulation period, which will result in immense persecution of those who become Christians during this period. Jesus will come visibly at the end of the seven and reign 1000 years. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Historic Premillennial (HP) -- This is the older form of premillennialism that many of the old church fathers held, such as Irenaeus. In this view there is no rapture that precedes the start of the tribulation. Jesus makes a visible return that closes the tribulation and starts the millennium. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Amillennialism (A) -- This views that the periods of time discussed in Revelation for the tribulation and millennium use symbolic numbers, such as other symbolic expressions, to refer to the time from Jesus' first advent on earth until his second coming. At Jesus' second coming, both the tribulation and millennial reign of Christ and the church end and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Postmillenialism (P) -- This views that the tribulation started sometime after Christ's first advent, when Jesus ascended into heaven. After the tribulation, the millennial era began (possibly longer than 1000 years) where the gospel advances and vanquishes evil. Then Christ returns and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Full Preterist -- This views that Christ fully returned around 70 AD with the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple. Death has been spiritually conquered and the spiritual resurrection began at 70 AD. All the prophecies in Revelation were fulfilled at around 70 AD.
Partial Preterism -- Christ made a spiritual return in judgment at 70 AD at the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple, which brought an end to the period of the old testament temple. However, Jesus' second coming did not happen at that time. Some partial preterists then follow a postmillenial view or an amillennial view.
Historicist -- This views that Revelation's visions speak primarily about things that have happened during the church age after Christ's ascension. Unlike the amillennial view, which sees the visions speaking of general things that happen throughout history with a brief interval of intense tribulation just prior to Christ's return, the historicist sees that each thing described in Revelation refers to one historical event in the past. Often the historicist sees the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church as the antichrist.
(The above was taken from Meta-Schema. I have added abreviations to the views I will be addressing.)
-
schatology revolves around the Day on which Jesus Christ returns to earth to gather up His people, and each view within the study of Last Days centers upon what is called the Millennium and when Christ's Second Return, also known as the Day of the Lord, will happen in relation to the Millennium.The Millennium is solely mentioned in Revelation 20 six (6) times as "a thousand years". A single reading of the passage seems to provide one meaning, but the issue is not so simple.
The issue of the Millennium has to deal with the nature of the Millennium. In other words, the goal of Eschatology is to figure out the characteristics of the Millennium:
- Is the Millennium centered around the nation of Israel?
- Is the Millennium "physical" in characteristic?
- Is the nature of the Millennium "spiritual" but nonetheless real?
- Will the Millennium be characterized by peace and "Christian-ized" living?
- Will things grow worse and worse as the Millennium progresses?
These, and other, questions need to be answered, hence the study of Eschatology is vital. Each view of the Millennium (listed below) is simply based upon presuppositions one holds about Scripture, Christ's Kingdom, and the Promises and People of God. Yet, the discussion of Eschatology is not so simple.
The discussion of Eschatology isn't so much about Eschatology as it is hermeneutics. Hermeneutics is essentially how you read Scripture. For example, the person who is a Premillennialist uses different presuppositions about Scripture than, say, the Amillennialist. The views are mutually exclusive.
Due to the mutually exclusive nature of these views, if one view is true, the others cannot be true. Further if, for example, the Premillenial view is true, then the way the Premillennialist reads Scripture is the correct method of interpretation. This is, in my opinion, why Eschatology can be such a volatile subject. To discredit a particular Eschatology view essentially discredits the method or way someone reads Scripture.
Four major views exist regarding Eschatology, each within the general realm of orthodoxy. They are Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and PostMillennialism.DispensationalismDispensationalism isn't so much an Eschatological viewpoint as it is a way to read Scripture. The Old Testament (OT) takes priority over the New Testament (NT) for the sole reason that the OT can stand on its own two feet relating to meaning of words. Words have a specific meaning and we ought not to reinterpret them. Further, we ought not to take a fuller revelation (NT) and read it into the OT.Secondly, Dispensationalism sees a hard distinction between Israel and the Church - neither shall the twain meet.Traditionally speaking, Dispensationalism is the only Pe-Tibulation, Pre-Millennial view - Meaning they believe Christ will return before the Great Tribulation and before the Millennium. Within their view, the Rapture (where Christians are taken out of the world) happens before the Tribulation and before the Millennium, hence everything is still future. You could also say Dispensationalists are Futurists.Historic PremillennialismSomewhat akin to Dispenationalism's view is Historic Premillennialism. Historic Premil also sees Christ's return as coming before the Millennium, but after the Tribulation (Post Trib). They see Scripture as more of a single story about a single people but still draw a soft line between Israel and the Church. Historic Premils can also be classified as Futurists.As far as Premillennial views go, Historic Premil is the traditional viewpoint. The vast majority of folks who hold the Premil view, also held the Post Trib view. Hence, Historic Premil is the historic, traditional Premil view.AmillennialismAmillennialists claim A-millennialism suffers from an unfortunate name. Contrary to popular belief, A-millennialists do, indeed, believe in a millennium. The difference between A-millennialism and Pre-Millennialism is the millennium has been inaugurated during Christ's first advent and is happening at this very moment, and will be consummated at Christ's second coming, whereas, Pre-Millennialism believes the millennium is yet solely in the future." >Eschatology - The SeriesLiterally speaking, A-millennialism means, "no millennium". "A-" meaning no and "millennium" meaning 1000 years. Together mean "no millennium". As those holding to the Amil position say, apart from this straw man argument against A-millennialism, it is a false charge. In reality the use of its "true meaning" is really the trick of "poisoning the well" in disguise of a "reason against" A-millennialism.
PostMillennialism
PostMillennialism is also PostTribulational. They view Christ's Second Coming as coming after the Tribulation and After the Millennium. At first glance, you may think, "but that's what the Amil position holds". True enough, however, the characteristic of the Millennium is what the disagreement is about between Amil and PostMil. Amil sees the Millennium in a negative light and PostMil sees it in a positive light. In other words, Amil sees it as "growing worse and worse" and PostMil sees it as becoming essentially "Christianized".
Both A-millennialists and PostMils view the millennium as beginning at Christ's first coming and will consummate at Christ's second coming. The 1000 years (Revelation 20) is viewed as symbolic of the complete church age. Notice it is not viewed figuratively but symbolically. Due to the nature of the book of Revelation as being apocalyptic, These two views see much of the descriptions in the book of Revelation as symbols for very real realities, whereas, figurative language is a metaphor or descriptive of something non-literal or simply a figure of speech - e.g. Figurative: Luke 13:32 "...Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course." vs. Symbolic: Psalm 50:10 "For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills."
Of course, Jesus is using a figure of speech to describe a person because the person is not literally a fox. Jesus is conveying the meaning that a person is cunning and/or crafty.
And God owns more than just those cattle on a thousand hills. The meaning of "1000 hills", and "1000" more specifically, is "total" or "every" or "completely". In other words, God owns every cattle on every hill. He owns everything. He owns all of them without exception. The 1000 signifies a greater reality. The 1000 is symbolic of a greater meaning. (see 1 Chronicles 16:15)
But with all of this said, the discussion of Revelation 20, the passage which starts the discussion, ironically, should be the last part of the greater discussion of Eschatology. So we will get to Revelation 20 at the tail end of the discussion. For now, there's a LOT to get your head around with what's already been presented. We'll continue another time.
-
Why I am a dispensationalist with a small "d" by Darrell L. BockHistoric Premillennialism Extract from a post on the Free Republic Religion ForumThe Biblical basis of Postmillennialism based on the book Postmillennialism: An Eschatology of Hope by Keith A. MathisonWhy I am an Amillennialist: Additional Reflections by Robert Lowery
" title="Justin Childers has a helpful article on understanding the book of Revelation called 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation. I hope he doesn't mind my reposting the whole thing:...">Eschatology 101 - 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation - More First Thoughts
1. Revelation focuses on Jesus Christ.
The point of this book is to make known the power, might, glory, and victory of the Lamb.
2. Revelation is given to reveal (make known).
The purpose of this book is not to confuse, but to reveal. Revelation is not trying to hide something. Its intent is to show something clearly.
3. Revelation must be interpreted in light of the rest of Scripture (particularly the OT).
MacArthur says 278 of its 404 verses allude to the OT Scriptures.
4. Revelation must be interpreted with humility.
Godly scholars vary in their interpretations on this book. Being dogmatic about something that is not clear is unwise. Humility demands that we use words like, “most likely,” “possibly,” “sometimes,” “could,” “may,” and “probably.”
5. Revelation has an original audience (like every other Biblical book).
Revelation is a letter written to real churches. Real original readers were supposed to hear the content of this book and be encouraged. Thus, interpretations that neglect the original readers should be suspect.
6. Revelation was written to suffering Christians.
The purpose of this letter is to encourage persecuted Christians to hold fast to the gospel. It is written so that Christians could know with certainty that the Lamb will triumph.
“God gave us Revelation not to tickle our fancy, but to strengthen our hearts.” –Poythress
7. Revelation is about Jesus Christ.
Since this is Revelation, I had to have a list of "7." So, I just restated the first one to make the most important point again.
Good thoughts to think about before proceeding with this series.
" >Eschatology 101 - First Thoughts
My chart (below) is more extensive than what I'll be addressing- at least as far as which Eschatological views I will handle. I will do an overview and comparison between the following: Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and Postmillennialism. Of course, if you want to go more indepth, you can check this site for an extensive look at the subject as a whole.
The chart below is very much a broad-stroking description of each view. I opted to use it because it was simple and easy. My goal over all is to be as even handed (as possible) allowing each view to speak for itself, as well as, allowing each to exert effort in refuting the others. I also do not want to present caricatures of any of the views.
With all this in mind, let's begin...
" title="I am currently working through two series for To Tell You The Truth. The first series will be discussing the relationship between Israel and the Church of which has already been started (see here). The second series will be discussing...">Eschatology 101 - Overview
Dispensational Premillennial (DP) -- This views that Jesus will come invisibly close to earth to take all those who are Christians away to heaven (called the rapture). This will start a seven year tribulation period, which will result in immense persecution of those who become Christians during this period. Jesus will come visibly at the end of the seven and reign 1000 years. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Historic Premillennial (HP) -- This is the older form of premillennialism that many of the old church fathers held, such as Irenaeus. In this view there is no rapture that precedes the start of the tribulation. Jesus makes a visible return that closes the tribulation and starts the millennium. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Amillennialism (A) -- This views that the periods of time discussed in Revelation for the tribulation and millennium use symbolic numbers, such as other symbolic expressions, to refer to the time from Jesus' first advent on earth until his second coming. At Jesus' second coming, both the tribulation and millennial reign of Christ and the church end and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Postmillenialism (P) -- This views that the tribulation started sometime after Christ's first advent, when Jesus ascended into heaven. After the tribulation, the millennial era began (possibly longer than 1000 years) where the gospel advances and vanquishes evil. Then Christ returns and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Full Preterist -- This views that Christ fully returned around 70 AD with the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple. Death has been spiritually conquered and the spiritual resurrection began at 70 AD. All the prophecies in Revelation were fulfilled at around 70 AD.
Partial Preterism -- Christ made a spiritual return in judgment at 70 AD at the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple, which brought an end to the period of the old testament temple. However, Jesus' second coming did not happen at that time. Some partial preterists then follow a postmillenial view or an amillennial view.
Historicist -- This views that Revelation's visions speak primarily about things that have happened during the church age after Christ's ascension. Unlike the amillennial view, which sees the visions speaking of general things that happen throughout history with a brief interval of intense tribulation just prior to Christ's return, the historicist sees that each thing described in Revelation refers to one historical event in the past. Often the historicist sees the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church as the antichrist.
(The above was taken from Meta-Schema. I have added abreviations to the views I will be addressing.)
-
schatology revolves around the Day on which Jesus Christ returns to earth to gather up His people, and each view within the study of Last Days centers upon what is called the Millennium and when Christ's Second Return, also known as the Day of the Lord, will happen in relation to the Millennium.The Millennium is solely mentioned in Revelation 20 six (6) times as "a thousand years". A single reading of the passage seems to provide one meaning, but the issue is not so simple.
The issue of the Millennium has to deal with the nature of the Millennium. In other words, the goal of Eschatology is to figure out the characteristics of the Millennium:
- Is the Millennium centered around the nation of Israel?
- Is the Millennium "physical" in characteristic?
- Is the nature of the Millennium "spiritual" but nonetheless real?
- Will the Millennium be characterized by peace and "Christian-ized" living?
- Will things grow worse and worse as the Millennium progresses?
These, and other, questions need to be answered, hence the study of Eschatology is vital. Each view of the Millennium (listed below) is simply based upon presuppositions one holds about Scripture, Christ's Kingdom, and the Promises and People of God. Yet, the discussion of Eschatology is not so simple.
The discussion of Eschatology isn't so much about Eschatology as it is hermeneutics. Hermeneutics is essentially how you read Scripture. For example, the person who is a Premillennialist uses different presuppositions about Scripture than, say, the Amillennialist. The views are mutually exclusive.
Due to the mutually exclusive nature of these views, if one view is true, the others cannot be true. Further if, for example, the Premillenial view is true, then the way the Premillennialist reads Scripture is the correct method of interpretation. This is, in my opinion, why Eschatology can be such a volatile subject. To discredit a particular Eschatology view essentially discredits the method or way someone reads Scripture.
Four major views exist regarding Eschatology, each within the general realm of orthodoxy. They are Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and PostMillennialism.DispensationalismDispensationalism isn't so much an Eschatological viewpoint as it is a way to read Scripture. The Old Testament (OT) takes priority over the New Testament (NT) for the sole reason that the OT can stand on its own two feet relating to meaning of words. Words have a specific meaning and we ought not to reinterpret them. Further, we ought not to take a fuller revelation (NT) and read it into the OT.Secondly, Dispensationalism sees a hard distinction between Israel and the Church - neither shall the twain meet.Traditionally speaking, Dispensationalism is the only Pe-Tibulation, Pre-Millennial view - Meaning they believe Christ will return before the Great Tribulation and before the Millennium. Within their view, the Rapture (where Christians are taken out of the world) happens before the Tribulation and before the Millennium, hence everything is still future. You could also say Dispensationalists are Futurists.Historic PremillennialismSomewhat akin to Dispenationalism's view is Historic Premillennialism. Historic Premil also sees Christ's return as coming before the Millennium, but after the Tribulation (Post Trib). They see Scripture as more of a single story about a single people but still draw a soft line between Israel and the Church. Historic Premils can also be classified as Futurists.As far as Premillennial views go, Historic Premil is the traditional viewpoint. The vast majority of folks who hold the Premil view, also held the Post Trib view. Hence, Historic Premil is the historic, traditional Premil view.AmillennialismAmillennialists claim A-millennialism suffers from an unfortunate name. Contrary to popular belief, A-millennialists do, indeed, believe in a millennium. The difference between A-millennialism and Pre-Millennialism is the millennium has been inaugurated during Christ's first advent and is happening at this very moment, and will be consummated at Christ's second coming, whereas, Pre-Millennialism believes the millennium is yet solely in the future." >Eschatology - The SeriesLiterally speaking, A-millennialism means, "no millennium". "A-" meaning no and "millennium" meaning 1000 years. Together mean "no millennium". As those holding to the Amil position say, apart from this straw man argument against A-millennialism, it is a false charge. In reality the use of its "true meaning" is really the trick of "poisoning the well" in disguise of a "reason against" A-millennialism.
PostMillennialism
PostMillennialism is also PostTribulational. They view Christ's Second Coming as coming after the Tribulation and After the Millennium. At first glance, you may think, "but that's what the Amil position holds". True enough, however, the characteristic of the Millennium is what the disagreement is about between Amil and PostMil. Amil sees the Millennium in a negative light and PostMil sees it in a positive light. In other words, Amil sees it as "growing worse and worse" and PostMil sees it as becoming essentially "Christianized".
Both A-millennialists and PostMils view the millennium as beginning at Christ's first coming and will consummate at Christ's second coming. The 1000 years (Revelation 20) is viewed as symbolic of the complete church age. Notice it is not viewed figuratively but symbolically. Due to the nature of the book of Revelation as being apocalyptic, These two views see much of the descriptions in the book of Revelation as symbols for very real realities, whereas, figurative language is a metaphor or descriptive of something non-literal or simply a figure of speech - e.g. Figurative: Luke 13:32 "...Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course." vs. Symbolic: Psalm 50:10 "For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills."
Of course, Jesus is using a figure of speech to describe a person because the person is not literally a fox. Jesus is conveying the meaning that a person is cunning and/or crafty.
And God owns more than just those cattle on a thousand hills. The meaning of "1000 hills", and "1000" more specifically, is "total" or "every" or "completely". In other words, God owns every cattle on every hill. He owns everything. He owns all of them without exception. The 1000 signifies a greater reality. The 1000 is symbolic of a greater meaning. (see 1 Chronicles 16:15)
But with all of this said, the discussion of Revelation 20, the passage which starts the discussion, ironically, should be the last part of the greater discussion of Eschatology. So we will get to Revelation 20 at the tail end of the discussion. For now, there's a LOT to get your head around with what's already been presented. We'll continue another time.
-
Why I am a dispensationalist with a small "d" by Darrell L. BockHistoric Premillennialism Extract from a post on the Free Republic Religion ForumThe Biblical basis of Postmillennialism based on the book Postmillennialism: An Eschatology of Hope by Keith A. MathisonWhy I am an Amillennialist: Additional Reflections by Robert Lowery
" title="Justin Childers has a helpful article on understanding the book of Revelation called 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation. I hope he doesn't mind my reposting the whole thing:...">Eschatology 101 - 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation - More First Thoughts
1. Revelation focuses on Jesus Christ.
The point of this book is to make known the power, might, glory, and victory of the Lamb.
2. Revelation is given to reveal (make known).
The purpose of this book is not to confuse, but to reveal. Revelation is not trying to hide something. Its intent is to show something clearly.
3. Revelation must be interpreted in light of the rest of Scripture (particularly the OT).
MacArthur says 278 of its 404 verses allude to the OT Scriptures.
4. Revelation must be interpreted with humility.
Godly scholars vary in their interpretations on this book. Being dogmatic about something that is not clear is unwise. Humility demands that we use words like, “most likely,” “possibly,” “sometimes,” “could,” “may,” and “probably.”
5. Revelation has an original audience (like every other Biblical book).
Revelation is a letter written to real churches. Real original readers were supposed to hear the content of this book and be encouraged. Thus, interpretations that neglect the original readers should be suspect.
6. Revelation was written to suffering Christians.
The purpose of this letter is to encourage persecuted Christians to hold fast to the gospel. It is written so that Christians could know with certainty that the Lamb will triumph.
“God gave us Revelation not to tickle our fancy, but to strengthen our hearts.” –Poythress
7. Revelation is about Jesus Christ.
Since this is Revelation, I had to have a list of "7." So, I just restated the first one to make the most important point again.
Good thoughts to think about before proceeding with this series.
" >Eschatology 101 - First Thoughts
My chart (below) is more extensive than what I'll be addressing- at least as far as which Eschatological views I will handle. I will do an overview and comparison between the following: Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and Postmillennialism. Of course, if you want to go more indepth, you can check this site for an extensive look at the subject as a whole.
The chart below is very much a broad-stroking description of each view. I opted to use it because it was simple and easy. My goal over all is to be as even handed (as possible) allowing each view to speak for itself, as well as, allowing each to exert effort in refuting the others. I also do not want to present caricatures of any of the views.
With all this in mind, let's begin...
" title="I am currently working through two series for To Tell You The Truth. The first series will be discussing the relationship between Israel and the Church of which has already been started (see here). The second series will be discussing...">Eschatology 101 - Overview
Dispensational Premillennial (DP) -- This views that Jesus will come invisibly close to earth to take all those who are Christians away to heaven (called the rapture). This will start a seven year tribulation period, which will result in immense persecution of those who become Christians during this period. Jesus will come visibly at the end of the seven and reign 1000 years. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Historic Premillennial (HP) -- This is the older form of premillennialism that many of the old church fathers held, such as Irenaeus. In this view there is no rapture that precedes the start of the tribulation. Jesus makes a visible return that closes the tribulation and starts the millennium. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Amillennialism (A) -- This views that the periods of time discussed in Revelation for the tribulation and millennium use symbolic numbers, such as other symbolic expressions, to refer to the time from Jesus' first advent on earth until his second coming. At Jesus' second coming, both the tribulation and millennial reign of Christ and the church end and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Postmillenialism (P) -- This views that the tribulation started sometime after Christ's first advent, when Jesus ascended into heaven. After the tribulation, the millennial era began (possibly longer than 1000 years) where the gospel advances and vanquishes evil. Then Christ returns and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Full Preterist -- This views that Christ fully returned around 70 AD with the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple. Death has been spiritually conquered and the spiritual resurrection began at 70 AD. All the prophecies in Revelation were fulfilled at around 70 AD.
Partial Preterism -- Christ made a spiritual return in judgment at 70 AD at the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple, which brought an end to the period of the old testament temple. However, Jesus' second coming did not happen at that time. Some partial preterists then follow a postmillenial view or an amillennial view.
Historicist -- This views that Revelation's visions speak primarily about things that have happened during the church age after Christ's ascension. Unlike the amillennial view, which sees the visions speaking of general things that happen throughout history with a brief interval of intense tribulation just prior to Christ's return, the historicist sees that each thing described in Revelation refers to one historical event in the past. Often the historicist sees the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church as the antichrist.
(The above was taken from Meta-Schema. I have added abreviations to the views I will be addressing.)
-
schatology revolves around the Day on which Jesus Christ returns to earth to gather up His people, and each view within the study of Last Days centers upon what is called the Millennium and when Christ's Second Return, also known as the Day of the Lord, will happen in relation to the Millennium.The Millennium is solely mentioned in Revelation 20 six (6) times as "a thousand years". A single reading of the passage seems to provide one meaning, but the issue is not so simple.
The issue of the Millennium has to deal with the nature of the Millennium. In other words, the goal of Eschatology is to figure out the characteristics of the Millennium:
- Is the Millennium centered around the nation of Israel?
- Is the Millennium "physical" in characteristic?
- Is the nature of the Millennium "spiritual" but nonetheless real?
- Will the Millennium be characterized by peace and "Christian-ized" living?
- Will things grow worse and worse as the Millennium progresses?
These, and other, questions need to be answered, hence the study of Eschatology is vital. Each view of the Millennium (listed below) is simply based upon presuppositions one holds about Scripture, Christ's Kingdom, and the Promises and People of God. Yet, the discussion of Eschatology is not so simple.
The discussion of Eschatology isn't so much about Eschatology as it is hermeneutics. Hermeneutics is essentially how you read Scripture. For example, the person who is a Premillennialist uses different presuppositions about Scripture than, say, the Amillennialist. The views are mutually exclusive.
Due to the mutually exclusive nature of these views, if one view is true, the others cannot be true. Further if, for example, the Premillenial view is true, then the way the Premillennialist reads Scripture is the correct method of interpretation. This is, in my opinion, why Eschatology can be such a volatile subject. To discredit a particular Eschatology view essentially discredits the method or way someone reads Scripture.
Four major views exist regarding Eschatology, each within the general realm of orthodoxy. They are Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and PostMillennialism.DispensationalismDispensationalism isn't so much an Eschatological viewpoint as it is a way to read Scripture. The Old Testament (OT) takes priority over the New Testament (NT) for the sole reason that the OT can stand on its own two feet relating to meaning of words. Words have a specific meaning and we ought not to reinterpret them. Further, we ought not to take a fuller revelation (NT) and read it into the OT.Secondly, Dispensationalism sees a hard distinction between Israel and the Church - neither shall the twain meet.Traditionally speaking, Dispensationalism is the only Pe-Tibulation, Pre-Millennial view - Meaning they believe Christ will return before the Great Tribulation and before the Millennium. Within their view, the Rapture (where Christians are taken out of the world) happens before the Tribulation and before the Millennium, hence everything is still future. You could also say Dispensationalists are Futurists.Historic PremillennialismSomewhat akin to Dispenationalism's view is Historic Premillennialism. Historic Premil also sees Christ's return as coming before the Millennium, but after the Tribulation (Post Trib). They see Scripture as more of a single story about a single people but still draw a soft line between Israel and the Church. Historic Premils can also be classified as Futurists.As far as Premillennial views go, Historic Premil is the traditional viewpoint. The vast majority of folks who hold the Premil view, also held the Post Trib view. Hence, Historic Premil is the historic, traditional Premil view.AmillennialismAmillennialists claim A-millennialism suffers from an unfortunate name. Contrary to popular belief, A-millennialists do, indeed, believe in a millennium. The difference between A-millennialism and Pre-Millennialism is the millennium has been inaugurated during Christ's first advent and is happening at this very moment, and will be consummated at Christ's second coming, whereas, Pre-Millennialism believes the millennium is yet solely in the future." >Eschatology - The SeriesLiterally speaking, A-millennialism means, "no millennium". "A-" meaning no and "millennium" meaning 1000 years. Together mean "no millennium". As those holding to the Amil position say, apart from this straw man argument against A-millennialism, it is a false charge. In reality the use of its "true meaning" is really the trick of "poisoning the well" in disguise of a "reason against" A-millennialism.
PostMillennialism
PostMillennialism is also PostTribulational. They view Christ's Second Coming as coming after the Tribulation and After the Millennium. At first glance, you may think, "but that's what the Amil position holds". True enough, however, the characteristic of the Millennium is what the disagreement is about between Amil and PostMil. Amil sees the Millennium in a negative light and PostMil sees it in a positive light. In other words, Amil sees it as "growing worse and worse" and PostMil sees it as becoming essentially "Christianized".
Both A-millennialists and PostMils view the millennium as beginning at Christ's first coming and will consummate at Christ's second coming. The 1000 years (Revelation 20) is viewed as symbolic of the complete church age. Notice it is not viewed figuratively but symbolically. Due to the nature of the book of Revelation as being apocalyptic, These two views see much of the descriptions in the book of Revelation as symbols for very real realities, whereas, figurative language is a metaphor or descriptive of something non-literal or simply a figure of speech - e.g. Figurative: Luke 13:32 "...Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course." vs. Symbolic: Psalm 50:10 "For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills."
Of course, Jesus is using a figure of speech to describe a person because the person is not literally a fox. Jesus is conveying the meaning that a person is cunning and/or crafty.
And God owns more than just those cattle on a thousand hills. The meaning of "1000 hills", and "1000" more specifically, is "total" or "every" or "completely". In other words, God owns every cattle on every hill. He owns everything. He owns all of them without exception. The 1000 signifies a greater reality. The 1000 is symbolic of a greater meaning. (see 1 Chronicles 16:15)
But with all of this said, the discussion of Revelation 20, the passage which starts the discussion, ironically, should be the last part of the greater discussion of Eschatology. So we will get to Revelation 20 at the tail end of the discussion. For now, there's a LOT to get your head around with what's already been presented. We'll continue another time.
-
Why I am a dispensationalist with a small "d" by Darrell L. BockHistoric Premillennialism Extract from a post on the Free Republic Religion ForumThe Biblical basis of Postmillennialism based on the book Postmillennialism: An Eschatology of Hope by Keith A. MathisonWhy I am an Amillennialist: Additional Reflections by Robert Lowery
" title="Justin Childers has a helpful article on understanding the book of Revelation called 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation. I hope he doesn't mind my reposting the whole thing:...">Eschatology 101 - 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation - More First Thoughts
1. Revelation focuses on Jesus Christ.
The point of this book is to make known the power, might, glory, and victory of the Lamb.
2. Revelation is given to reveal (make known).
The purpose of this book is not to confuse, but to reveal. Revelation is not trying to hide something. Its intent is to show something clearly.
3. Revelation must be interpreted in light of the rest of Scripture (particularly the OT).
MacArthur says 278 of its 404 verses allude to the OT Scriptures.
4. Revelation must be interpreted with humility.
Godly scholars vary in their interpretations on this book. Being dogmatic about something that is not clear is unwise. Humility demands that we use words like, “most likely,” “possibly,” “sometimes,” “could,” “may,” and “probably.”
5. Revelation has an original audience (like every other Biblical book).
Revelation is a letter written to real churches. Real original readers were supposed to hear the content of this book and be encouraged. Thus, interpretations that neglect the original readers should be suspect.
6. Revelation was written to suffering Christians.
The purpose of this letter is to encourage persecuted Christians to hold fast to the gospel. It is written so that Christians could know with certainty that the Lamb will triumph.
“God gave us Revelation not to tickle our fancy, but to strengthen our hearts.” –Poythress
7. Revelation is about Jesus Christ.
Since this is Revelation, I had to have a list of "7." So, I just restated the first one to make the most important point again.
Good thoughts to think about before proceeding with this series.
" >Eschatology 101 - First Thoughts
My chart (below) is more extensive than what I'll be addressing- at least as far as which Eschatological views I will handle. I will do an overview and comparison between the following: Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and Postmillennialism. Of course, if you want to go more indepth, you can check this site for an extensive look at the subject as a whole.
The chart below is very much a broad-stroking description of each view. I opted to use it because it was simple and easy. My goal over all is to be as even handed (as possible) allowing each view to speak for itself, as well as, allowing each to exert effort in refuting the others. I also do not want to present caricatures of any of the views.
With all this in mind, let's begin...
" title="I am currently working through two series for To Tell You The Truth. The first series will be discussing the relationship between Israel and the Church of which has already been started (see here). The second series will be discussing...">Eschatology 101 - Overview
Dispensational Premillennial (DP) -- This views that Jesus will come invisibly close to earth to take all those who are Christians away to heaven (called the rapture). This will start a seven year tribulation period, which will result in immense persecution of those who become Christians during this period. Jesus will come visibly at the end of the seven and reign 1000 years. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Historic Premillennial (HP) -- This is the older form of premillennialism that many of the old church fathers held, such as Irenaeus. In this view there is no rapture that precedes the start of the tribulation. Jesus makes a visible return that closes the tribulation and starts the millennium. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Amillennialism (A) -- This views that the periods of time discussed in Revelation for the tribulation and millennium use symbolic numbers, such as other symbolic expressions, to refer to the time from Jesus' first advent on earth until his second coming. At Jesus' second coming, both the tribulation and millennial reign of Christ and the church end and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Postmillenialism (P) -- This views that the tribulation started sometime after Christ's first advent, when Jesus ascended into heaven. After the tribulation, the millennial era began (possibly longer than 1000 years) where the gospel advances and vanquishes evil. Then Christ returns and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Full Preterist -- This views that Christ fully returned around 70 AD with the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple. Death has been spiritually conquered and the spiritual resurrection began at 70 AD. All the prophecies in Revelation were fulfilled at around 70 AD.
Partial Preterism -- Christ made a spiritual return in judgment at 70 AD at the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple, which brought an end to the period of the old testament temple. However, Jesus' second coming did not happen at that time. Some partial preterists then follow a postmillenial view or an amillennial view.
Historicist -- This views that Revelation's visions speak primarily about things that have happened during the church age after Christ's ascension. Unlike the amillennial view, which sees the visions speaking of general things that happen throughout history with a brief interval of intense tribulation just prior to Christ's return, the historicist sees that each thing described in Revelation refers to one historical event in the past. Often the historicist sees the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church as the antichrist.
(The above was taken from Meta-Schema. I have added abreviations to the views I will be addressing.)
-
schatology revolves around the Day on which Jesus Christ returns to earth to gather up His people, and each view within the study of Last Days centers upon what is called the Millennium and when Christ's Second Return, also known as the Day of the Lord, will happen in relation to the Millennium.The Millennium is solely mentioned in Revelation 20 six (6) times as "a thousand years". A single reading of the passage seems to provide one meaning, but the issue is not so simple.
The issue of the Millennium has to deal with the nature of the Millennium. In other words, the goal of Eschatology is to figure out the characteristics of the Millennium:
- Is the Millennium centered around the nation of Israel?
- Is the Millennium "physical" in characteristic?
- Is the nature of the Millennium "spiritual" but nonetheless real?
- Will the Millennium be characterized by peace and "Christian-ized" living?
- Will things grow worse and worse as the Millennium progresses?
These, and other, questions need to be answered, hence the study of Eschatology is vital. Each view of the Millennium (listed below) is simply based upon presuppositions one holds about Scripture, Christ's Kingdom, and the Promises and People of God. Yet, the discussion of Eschatology is not so simple.
The discussion of Eschatology isn't so much about Eschatology as it is hermeneutics. Hermeneutics is essentially how you read Scripture. For example, the person who is a Premillennialist uses different presuppositions about Scripture than, say, the Amillennialist. The views are mutually exclusive.
Due to the mutually exclusive nature of these views, if one view is true, the others cannot be true. Further if, for example, the Premillenial view is true, then the way the Premillennialist reads Scripture is the correct method of interpretation. This is, in my opinion, why Eschatology can be such a volatile subject. To discredit a particular Eschatology view essentially discredits the method or way someone reads Scripture.
Four major views exist regarding Eschatology, each within the general realm of orthodoxy. They are Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and PostMillennialism.DispensationalismDispensationalism isn't so much an Eschatological viewpoint as it is a way to read Scripture. The Old Testament (OT) takes priority over the New Testament (NT) for the sole reason that the OT can stand on its own two feet relating to meaning of words. Words have a specific meaning and we ought not to reinterpret them. Further, we ought not to take a fuller revelation (NT) and read it into the OT.Secondly, Dispensationalism sees a hard distinction between Israel and the Church - neither shall the twain meet.Traditionally speaking, Dispensationalism is the only Pe-Tibulation, Pre-Millennial view - Meaning they believe Christ will return before the Great Tribulation and before the Millennium. Within their view, the Rapture (where Christians are taken out of the world) happens before the Tribulation and before the Millennium, hence everything is still future. You could also say Dispensationalists are Futurists.Historic PremillennialismSomewhat akin to Dispenationalism's view is Historic Premillennialism. Historic Premil also sees Christ's return as coming before the Millennium, but after the Tribulation (Post Trib). They see Scripture as more of a single story about a single people but still draw a soft line between Israel and the Church. Historic Premils can also be classified as Futurists.As far as Premillennial views go, Historic Premil is the traditional viewpoint. The vast majority of folks who hold the Premil view, also held the Post Trib view. Hence, Historic Premil is the historic, traditional Premil view.AmillennialismAmillennialists claim A-millennialism suffers from an unfortunate name. Contrary to popular belief, A-millennialists do, indeed, believe in a millennium. The difference between A-millennialism and Pre-Millennialism is the millennium has been inaugurated during Christ's first advent and is happening at this very moment, and will be consummated at Christ's second coming, whereas, Pre-Millennialism believes the millennium is yet solely in the future." >Eschatology - The SeriesLiterally speaking, A-millennialism means, "no millennium". "A-" meaning no and "millennium" meaning 1000 years. Together mean "no millennium". As those holding to the Amil position say, apart from this straw man argument against A-millennialism, it is a false charge. In reality the use of its "true meaning" is really the trick of "poisoning the well" in disguise of a "reason against" A-millennialism.
PostMillennialism
PostMillennialism is also PostTribulational. They view Christ's Second Coming as coming after the Tribulation and After the Millennium. At first glance, you may think, "but that's what the Amil position holds". True enough, however, the characteristic of the Millennium is what the disagreement is about between Amil and PostMil. Amil sees the Millennium in a negative light and PostMil sees it in a positive light. In other words, Amil sees it as "growing worse and worse" and PostMil sees it as becoming essentially "Christianized".
Both A-millennialists and PostMils view the millennium as beginning at Christ's first coming and will consummate at Christ's second coming. The 1000 years (Revelation 20) is viewed as symbolic of the complete church age. Notice it is not viewed figuratively but symbolically. Due to the nature of the book of Revelation as being apocalyptic, These two views see much of the descriptions in the book of Revelation as symbols for very real realities, whereas, figurative language is a metaphor or descriptive of something non-literal or simply a figure of speech - e.g. Figurative: Luke 13:32 "...Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course." vs. Symbolic: Psalm 50:10 "For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills."
Of course, Jesus is using a figure of speech to describe a person because the person is not literally a fox. Jesus is conveying the meaning that a person is cunning and/or crafty.
And God owns more than just those cattle on a thousand hills. The meaning of "1000 hills", and "1000" more specifically, is "total" or "every" or "completely". In other words, God owns every cattle on every hill. He owns everything. He owns all of them without exception. The 1000 signifies a greater reality. The 1000 is symbolic of a greater meaning. (see 1 Chronicles 16:15)
But with all of this said, the discussion of Revelation 20, the passage which starts the discussion, ironically, should be the last part of the greater discussion of Eschatology. So we will get to Revelation 20 at the tail end of the discussion. For now, there's a LOT to get your head around with what's already been presented. We'll continue another time.
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Why I am a dispensationalist with a small "d" by Darrell L. BockHistoric Premillennialism Extract from a post on the Free Republic Religion ForumThe Biblical basis of Postmillennialism based on the book Postmillennialism: An Eschatology of Hope by Keith A. MathisonWhy I am an Amillennialist: Additional Reflections by Robert Lowery
" title="Justin Childers has a helpful article on understanding the book of Revelation called 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation. I hope he doesn't mind my reposting the whole thing:...">Eschatology 101 - 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation - More First Thoughts
1. Revelation focuses on Jesus Christ.
The point of this book is to make known the power, might, glory, and victory of the Lamb.
2. Revelation is given to reveal (make known).
The purpose of this book is not to confuse, but to reveal. Revelation is not trying to hide something. Its intent is to show something clearly.
3. Revelation must be interpreted in light of the rest of Scripture (particularly the OT).
MacArthur says 278 of its 404 verses allude to the OT Scriptures.
4. Revelation must be interpreted with humility.
Godly scholars vary in their interpretations on this book. Being dogmatic about something that is not clear is unwise. Humility demands that we use words like, “most likely,” “possibly,” “sometimes,” “could,” “may,” and “probably.”
5. Revelation has an original audience (like every other Biblical book).
Revelation is a letter written to real churches. Real original readers were supposed to hear the content of this book and be encouraged. Thus, interpretations that neglect the original readers should be suspect.
6. Revelation was written to suffering Christians.
The purpose of this letter is to encourage persecuted Christians to hold fast to the gospel. It is written so that Christians could know with certainty that the Lamb will triumph.
“God gave us Revelation not to tickle our fancy, but to strengthen our hearts.” –Poythress
7. Revelation is about Jesus Christ.
Since this is Revelation, I had to have a list of "7." So, I just restated the first one to make the most important point again.
Good thoughts to think about before proceeding with this series.
" >Eschatology 101 - First Thoughts
My chart (below) is more extensive than what I'll be addressing- at least as far as which Eschatological views I will handle. I will do an overview and comparison between the following: Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and Postmillennialism. Of course, if you want to go more indepth, you can check this site for an extensive look at the subject as a whole.
The chart below is very much a broad-stroking description of each view. I opted to use it because it was simple and easy. My goal over all is to be as even handed (as possible) allowing each view to speak for itself, as well as, allowing each to exert effort in refuting the others. I also do not want to present caricatures of any of the views.
With all this in mind, let's begin...
" title="I am currently working through two series for To Tell You The Truth. The first series will be discussing the relationship between Israel and the Church of which has already been started (see here). The second series will be discussing...">Eschatology 101 - Overview
Dispensational Premillennial (DP) -- This views that Jesus will come invisibly close to earth to take all those who are Christians away to heaven (called the rapture). This will start a seven year tribulation period, which will result in immense persecution of those who become Christians during this period. Jesus will come visibly at the end of the seven and reign 1000 years. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Historic Premillennial (HP) -- This is the older form of premillennialism that many of the old church fathers held, such as Irenaeus. In this view there is no rapture that precedes the start of the tribulation. Jesus makes a visible return that closes the tribulation and starts the millennium. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Amillennialism (A) -- This views that the periods of time discussed in Revelation for the tribulation and millennium use symbolic numbers, such as other symbolic expressions, to refer to the time from Jesus' first advent on earth until his second coming. At Jesus' second coming, both the tribulation and millennial reign of Christ and the church end and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Postmillenialism (P) -- This views that the tribulation started sometime after Christ's first advent, when Jesus ascended into heaven. After the tribulation, the millennial era began (possibly longer than 1000 years) where the gospel advances and vanquishes evil. Then Christ returns and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Full Preterist -- This views that Christ fully returned around 70 AD with the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple. Death has been spiritually conquered and the spiritual resurrection began at 70 AD. All the prophecies in Revelation were fulfilled at around 70 AD.
Partial Preterism -- Christ made a spiritual return in judgment at 70 AD at the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple, which brought an end to the period of the old testament temple. However, Jesus' second coming did not happen at that time. Some partial preterists then follow a postmillenial view or an amillennial view.
Historicist -- This views that Revelation's visions speak primarily about things that have happened during the church age after Christ's ascension. Unlike the amillennial view, which sees the visions speaking of general things that happen throughout history with a brief interval of intense tribulation just prior to Christ's return, the historicist sees that each thing described in Revelation refers to one historical event in the past. Often the historicist sees the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church as the antichrist.
(The above was taken from Meta-Schema. I have added abreviations to the views I will be addressing.)
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schatology revolves around the Day on which Jesus Christ returns to earth to gather up His people, and each view within the study of Last Days centers upon what is called the Millennium and when Christ's Second Return, also known as the Day of the Lord, will happen in relation to the Millennium.The Millennium is solely mentioned in Revelation 20 six (6) times as "a thousand years". A single reading of the passage seems to provide one meaning, but the issue is not so simple.
The issue of the Millennium has to deal with the nature of the Millennium. In other words, the goal of Eschatology is to figure out the characteristics of the Millennium:
- Is the Millennium centered around the nation of Israel?
- Is the Millennium "physical" in characteristic?
- Is the nature of the Millennium "spiritual" but nonetheless real?
- Will the Millennium be characterized by peace and "Christian-ized" living?
- Will things grow worse and worse as the Millennium progresses?
These, and other, questions need to be answered, hence the study of Eschatology is vital. Each view of the Millennium (listed below) is simply based upon presuppositions one holds about Scripture, Christ's Kingdom, and the Promises and People of God. Yet, the discussion of Eschatology is not so simple.
The discussion of Eschatology isn't so much about Eschatology as it is hermeneutics. Hermeneutics is essentially how you read Scripture. For example, the person who is a Premillennialist uses different presuppositions about Scripture than, say, the Amillennialist. The views are mutually exclusive.
Due to the mutually exclusive nature of these views, if one view is true, the others cannot be true. Further if, for example, the Premillenial view is true, then the way the Premillennialist reads Scripture is the correct method of interpretation. This is, in my opinion, why Eschatology can be such a volatile subject. To discredit a particular Eschatology view essentially discredits the method or way someone reads Scripture.
Four major views exist regarding Eschatology, each within the general realm of orthodoxy. They are Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and PostMillennialism.DispensationalismDispensationalism isn't so much an Eschatological viewpoint as it is a way to read Scripture. The Old Testament (OT) takes priority over the New Testament (NT) for the sole reason that the OT can stand on its own two feet relating to meaning of words. Words have a specific meaning and we ought not to reinterpret them. Further, we ought not to take a fuller revelation (NT) and read it into the OT.Secondly, Dispensationalism sees a hard distinction between Israel and the Church - neither shall the twain meet.Traditionally speaking, Dispensationalism is the only Pe-Tibulation, Pre-Millennial view - Meaning they believe Christ will return before the Great Tribulation and before the Millennium. Within their view, the Rapture (where Christians are taken out of the world) happens before the Tribulation and before the Millennium, hence everything is still future. You could also say Dispensationalists are Futurists.Historic PremillennialismSomewhat akin to Dispenationalism's view is Historic Premillennialism. Historic Premil also sees Christ's return as coming before the Millennium, but after the Tribulation (Post Trib). They see Scripture as more of a single story about a single people but still draw a soft line between Israel and the Church. Historic Premils can also be classified as Futurists.As far as Premillennial views go, Historic Premil is the traditional viewpoint. The vast majority of folks who hold the Premil view, also held the Post Trib view. Hence, Historic Premil is the historic, traditional Premil view.AmillennialismAmillennialists claim A-millennialism suffers from an unfortunate name. Contrary to popular belief, A-millennialists do, indeed, believe in a millennium. The difference between A-millennialism and Pre-Millennialism is the millennium has been inaugurated during Christ's first advent and is happening at this very moment, and will be consummated at Christ's second coming, whereas, Pre-Millennialism believes the millennium is yet solely in the future." >Eschatology - The SeriesLiterally speaking, A-millennialism means, "no millennium". "A-" meaning no and "millennium" meaning 1000 years. Together mean "no millennium". As those holding to the Amil position say, apart from this straw man argument against A-millennialism, it is a false charge. In reality the use of its "true meaning" is really the trick of "poisoning the well" in disguise of a "reason against" A-millennialism.
PostMillennialism
PostMillennialism is also PostTribulational. They view Christ's Second Coming as coming after the Tribulation and After the Millennium. At first glance, you may think, "but that's what the Amil position holds". True enough, however, the characteristic of the Millennium is what the disagreement is about between Amil and PostMil. Amil sees the Millennium in a negative light and PostMil sees it in a positive light. In other words, Amil sees it as "growing worse and worse" and PostMil sees it as becoming essentially "Christianized".
Both A-millennialists and PostMils view the millennium as beginning at Christ's first coming and will consummate at Christ's second coming. The 1000 years (Revelation 20) is viewed as symbolic of the complete church age. Notice it is not viewed figuratively but symbolically. Due to the nature of the book of Revelation as being apocalyptic, These two views see much of the descriptions in the book of Revelation as symbols for very real realities, whereas, figurative language is a metaphor or descriptive of something non-literal or simply a figure of speech - e.g. Figurative: Luke 13:32 "...Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course." vs. Symbolic: Psalm 50:10 "For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills."
Of course, Jesus is using a figure of speech to describe a person because the person is not literally a fox. Jesus is conveying the meaning that a person is cunning and/or crafty.
And God owns more than just those cattle on a thousand hills. The meaning of "1000 hills", and "1000" more specifically, is "total" or "every" or "completely". In other words, God owns every cattle on every hill. He owns everything. He owns all of them without exception. The 1000 signifies a greater reality. The 1000 is symbolic of a greater meaning. (see 1 Chronicles 16:15)
But with all of this said, the discussion of Revelation 20, the passage which starts the discussion, ironically, should be the last part of the greater discussion of Eschatology. So we will get to Revelation 20 at the tail end of the discussion. For now, there's a LOT to get your head around with what's already been presented. We'll continue another time.
-
Why I am a dispensationalist with a small "d" by Darrell L. BockHistoric Premillennialism Extract from a post on the Free Republic Religion ForumThe Biblical basis of Postmillennialism based on the book Postmillennialism: An Eschatology of Hope by Keith A. MathisonWhy I am an Amillennialist: Additional Reflections by Robert Lowery
" title="Justin Childers has a helpful article on understanding the book of Revelation called 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation. I hope he doesn't mind my reposting the whole thing:...">Eschatology 101 - 7 Interpretive Helps to Revelation - More First Thoughts
1. Revelation focuses on Jesus Christ.
The point of this book is to make known the power, might, glory, and victory of the Lamb.
2. Revelation is given to reveal (make known).
The purpose of this book is not to confuse, but to reveal. Revelation is not trying to hide something. Its intent is to show something clearly.
3. Revelation must be interpreted in light of the rest of Scripture (particularly the OT).
MacArthur says 278 of its 404 verses allude to the OT Scriptures.
4. Revelation must be interpreted with humility.
Godly scholars vary in their interpretations on this book. Being dogmatic about something that is not clear is unwise. Humility demands that we use words like, “most likely,” “possibly,” “sometimes,” “could,” “may,” and “probably.”
5. Revelation has an original audience (like every other Biblical book).
Revelation is a letter written to real churches. Real original readers were supposed to hear the content of this book and be encouraged. Thus, interpretations that neglect the original readers should be suspect.
6. Revelation was written to suffering Christians.
The purpose of this letter is to encourage persecuted Christians to hold fast to the gospel. It is written so that Christians could know with certainty that the Lamb will triumph.
“God gave us Revelation not to tickle our fancy, but to strengthen our hearts.” –Poythress
7. Revelation is about Jesus Christ.
Since this is Revelation, I had to have a list of "7." So, I just restated the first one to make the most important point again.
Good thoughts to think about before proceeding with this series.
" >Eschatology 101 - First Thoughts
My chart (below) is more extensive than what I'll be addressing- at least as far as which Eschatological views I will handle. I will do an overview and comparison between the following: Dispensational Premillennialism, Historic Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and Postmillennialism. Of course, if you want to go more indepth, you can check this site for an extensive look at the subject as a whole.
The chart below is very much a broad-stroking description of each view. I opted to use it because it was simple and easy. My goal over all is to be as even handed (as possible) allowing each view to speak for itself, as well as, allowing each to exert effort in refuting the others. I also do not want to present caricatures of any of the views.
With all this in mind, let's begin...
" title="I am currently working through two series for To Tell You The Truth. The first series will be discussing the relationship between Israel and the Church of which has already been started (see here). The second series will be discussing...">Eschatology 101 - Overview
Dispensational Premillennial (DP) -- This views that Jesus will come invisibly close to earth to take all those who are Christians away to heaven (called the rapture). This will start a seven year tribulation period, which will result in immense persecution of those who become Christians during this period. Jesus will come visibly at the end of the seven and reign 1000 years. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Historic Premillennial (HP) -- This is the older form of premillennialism that many of the old church fathers held, such as Irenaeus. In this view there is no rapture that precedes the start of the tribulation. Jesus makes a visible return that closes the tribulation and starts the millennium. At the end of the 1000 years, Satan will lead a rebellion which Jesus and his followers will put down. This will result in the eternal kingdom.
Amillennialism (A) -- This views that the periods of time discussed in Revelation for the tribulation and millennium use symbolic numbers, such as other symbolic expressions, to refer to the time from Jesus' first advent on earth until his second coming. At Jesus' second coming, both the tribulation and millennial reign of Christ and the church end and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Postmillenialism (P) -- This views that the tribulation started sometime after Christ's first advent, when Jesus ascended into heaven. After the tribulation, the millennial era began (possibly longer than 1000 years) where the gospel advances and vanquishes evil. Then Christ returns and the new heaven and earth are created. All who believe in Christ will live in both the new heaven and new earth.
Full Preterist -- This views that Christ fully returned around 70 AD with the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple. Death has been spiritually conquered and the spiritual resurrection began at 70 AD. All the prophecies in Revelation were fulfilled at around 70 AD.
Partial Preterism -- Christ made a spiritual return in judgment at 70 AD at the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple, which brought an end to the period of the old testament temple. However, Jesus' second coming did not happen at that time. Some partial preterists then follow a postmillenial view or an amillennial view.
Historicist -- This views that Revelation's visions speak primarily about things that have happened during the church age after Christ's ascension. Unlike the amillennial view, which sees the visions speaking of general things that happen throughout history with a brief interval of intense tribulation just prior to Christ's return, the historicist sees that each thing described in Revelation refers to one historical event in the past. Often the historicist sees the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church as the antichrist.
(The above was taken from Meta-Schema. I have added abreviations to the views I will be addressing.)
