We have covered the present aspects. Now, we'll look at the future aspects.
Old Testament passages talking about the Coming Kingdom:
Isaiah 2:2-4 Isaiah 11:6-9 Isaiah 65:17-25
Question: So what will the future Kingdom LOOK like???
There are THREE primary views of the future Kingdom.
All are based on some text - Rev. 20:1-6
PRE-millennial - literal
POST-millennial - semi-literal
A-millennial - symbolic
ALL views are with good reasons, with multiple scriptures, are endorsed by Godly, conservative, evangelical scholars, AND all with weaknesses and holes in theories.
SO...... which is correct???? ANSWER: No one knows!!!!
But, there are points of agreement within these views.
ALL AGREE:
#1. Christ will return. Bodily, visibly, in power, glory, and victory.
Matt. 24:26-27 Mark 13:24-26 Rev. 19:11-16
NOBODY knows exactly WHEN. Mark 13:32 Acts 1:6 & 7
NOBODY knows exactly HOW. (ie: what it will look like)
#2. There will be a Resurrection of the believer. 1 Thess. 4:13-18
#3. There will be judgment. Rev. 20:11-15
#4. Christ then will usher in eternity. Rev. 21:1-4
#5. He will establish His rule over all things. 1 Cor. 15:24-26 Phil. 2:9-11
Questions: When? How? etc? DON'T KNOW!!! But, it will be done!! Rev. 21:5
So, what's the application? What are we to do? What's a Christian response NOW to the Future Kingdom? What should I do today in light of tomorrow?
1. Be informed. This doesn't mean know all the views and the differences, etc. But do know that He's coming and with Him comes an irrevocable judgment!!
People need to know there WILL be judgment.
2. Be ready. (prepared) Mark 13:33-37
Not only for His coming but for your passing!! And this doesn't mean that you are "at peace with God". It's not about your peace with God. Is God at peace with you?
3. Be encouraged. All will be set right!!
4. Be comforted. 1 Thess. 4:18 With the return comes: rest, reunion, rejoicing, reward, restoration....
5. Be faithful. - stay focused, busy, hooked up. 1 Cor. 15:58
Closing scripture: Rev. 22:20
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