Eschatology is the study of the end times, or the final events of history. There are many different views on what these events will be, and when they will occur. But what is it that Jesus and the early writers of the Word tell us about the day and the hour?
The Four Methods are:
Idealist. This view holds that the end times are not a literal event, but rather a metaphor for the spiritual journey of the individual. Idealists believe that the book of Revelation is not a prophecy about the future, but rather a guide for living a Christian life.
Idealist views hold that the end times are not a literal event, but rather a metaphor for the spiritual journey of the individual. Idealists believe that the book of Revelation is not a prophecy about the future, but rather a guide for living a Christian life. They also believe that the book of Revelation is a call to repentance and faith, and that it offers hope for the future.
Preterest. This view holds that the end times were fulfilled in the first century AD, during the time of the Roman Empire. Preterists believe that many of the events described in the book of Revelation, such as the destruction of Jerusalem, were literal events that took place at that time.
The Preterist holds that the end times were fulfilled in the first century AD, during the time of the Roman Empire. Preterists believe that many of the events described in the book of Revelation, such as the destruction of Jerusalem, were literal events that took place at that time. They also believe that the book of Revelation is a prophecy that was fulfilled in the first century, and that it does not have any further application to the future.
Historical. This view holds that the end times are a process that is already underway, and that it will culminate in the return of Jesus Christ. Historicists believe that many of the events described in the book of Revelation are symbolic of events that have been taking place throughout history.
Historical views hold that the end times are a process that is already underway, and that it will culminate in the return of Jesus Christ. Historicists believe that many of the events described in the book of Revelation are symbolic of events that have been taking place throughout history. They also believe that the book of Revelation is a guide for living a Christian life, and that it provides insights into the nature of evil and the ultimate victory of good over evil.
Future. This view holds that the end times are still to come, and that they will be a time of great tribulation, followed by the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of his kingdom on earth.
Future views hold that the end times are still to come, and that they will be a time of great tribulation, followed by the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of his kingdom on earth. This view is based on the belief that Jesus himself taught that the end times would come within the lifetime of his original disciples (Matthew 24:34). Future views also point to passages in the book of Revelation that describe a time of great suffering and persecution, followed by the return of Jesus Christ to defeat his enemies and estatlish his kingdom on earth (Revelation 6-19).
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free