Millennial Series: Part 10: The Historical Context of Premillennialism

Bible.org ^ | 1951 | John F. Walvoord

[wmfights]

Justin Martyr (100-168) is quite outspoken. He wrote: “But I and whatsoever Christians are orthodox in all things do know that there will be a resurrection of the flesh, and a thousand years in the city of Jerusalem, built, adorned, and enlarged, according as Ezekiel, Isaiah, and other prophets have promised. For Isaiah saith of this thousand years (ch. 65:17 ), ‘Behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind; but be ye glad and rejoice in those which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem to triumph, and my people to rejoice,’ etc. Moreover, a certain man among us, whose name is John, being one of the twelve apostles of Christ, in that revelation which was shown to him prophesied, that those who believe in our Christ shall fulfil a thousand years at Jerusalem; and after that the general, and in a word, the everlasting resurrection, and last judgment of all together. Whereof also our Lord spake when He said, that therein they shall neither marry, nor be given in marriage, but shall be equal with the angels, being made the sons of the resurrection of God.”9

While even modern premillenarians might not accept the details of Justin’s interpretation, the notable fact is that he clearly states the essentials of premillennialism—the second advent, followed by a thousand-year reign and the separating of the resurrections before and after the millennium. Further, Justin declares that this view which he advocates is generally accepted as the orthodox view of the church. Peters accordingly cites the conclusion of Semisch in Herzog’s cyclopaedia, “Chiliasm constituted in the sec. century so decidedly an article of faith that Justin held it up as a criterion of perfect orthodoxy.”10

Opposition to premillennialism had its rise in the attackers of true Scriptural doctrine, and it was not until the time of Augustine (354-430) that one reputable adherent of amillennialism can be cited.

[wmfights]

Dispensational Ping

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[wmfights]

The book of Revelation is, of course, the classic passage on premillennialism. Revelation, while subject to all types of scholarly abuse and divergent interpretation, if taken in its plain intent yields a simple outline of premillennial truth—first a time of great tribulation, then the second advent, the binding of Satan, the deliverance and blessing of the saints, a righteous government on earth for 1000 years, followed by the final judgments and the new heaven and new earth. The only method of interpretation of Revelation which has ever yielded a consistent answer to the question of its meaning is that which interprets the book, however symbolic, as having its general revelation plain, one to be fulfilled literally, and therefore subject to future fulfillment.

I think it's this basic understanding of Scripture that alludes so many of the Amillennialists and is why so many of you get bogged down in trying to explain Scripture to them. My "hat's off to you" for your patience.

[cuban leaf]

One of the first rules I developed for myself personally in my study of scripture is to not believe or disbelieve a thing because of what others believe. It matters not how educated or “spiritual” the other person is. I am not a respecter of persons as much as I can help myself.

I believe it because it is the most plain interpretation of scripture, most fits the personality of my God and the belief was developed prayerfully.

[demshateGod]

“It was rather the subversion of the plain meaning of Scripture not only as applied to the millennial question but all other areas of doctrine.”

This is also why the Old-earth creationists and evolutionist “Christians” should be ignored or contended with. It wasn’t until atheists started planting seeds of doubt that “Christians” question Genesis.

[aMorePerfectUnion]

Thanks for posting the series!

[wmfights]

I believe it because it is the most plain interpretation of scripture, most fits the personality of my God and the belief was developed prayerfully.

I agree, well said.

[wmfights]

This is also why the Old-earth creationists and evolutionist “Christians” should be ignored or contended with. It wasn’t until atheists started planting seeds of doubt that “Christians” question Genesis.

I have to admit I go back and forth on this issue. I think Shroeder has made some good points about time and perspective.

[wmfights]

You’re welcome. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. Walvoord has done a good job of destroying some of the myths about Premillenialism and Amillennialism.

[imardmd1]

The title of the book gives it away. It is “The Unveiling.” It is the book which is completely straight-forward in making all clear. It is not a mystery wrapped up in conundrums and doused with metaphors, completely inscrutable, as the non-millenarians would have it. No, it is the exact description of what is to be taking place “when He cometh.”

[CynicalBear]

Another great article, thanks for the ping.

[CynicalBear]

A gap between Gen 1:1 and Gen 1:2 makes the most sense and does not disagree with scripture

[StoneWall Brigade]

Indeed

[Iscool]

A gap between Gen 1:1 and Gen 1:2 makes the most sense and does not disagree with scripture

Not only makes sense, there is evidence of it in the scriptures...

[Iscool]

It would make absolutely no sense that God would have some people write a book that we couldn’t believe...To write a book that is mostly allegory with out anyone being able to figure out what those things allude to...And that is the position Catholic leaders take and give to their followers...And they fall for it...

What one has to ask is what is/was their motive...The scriptures themselves show us what their motive is...

[CynicalBear]

>>Not only makes sense, there is evidence of it in the scriptures...<<

Yep!

[CynicalBear]

A fascinating realization isn’t it.

[wmfights]

It would make absolutely no sense that God would have some people write a book that we couldn’t believe...To write a book that is mostly allegory with out anyone being able to figure out what those things allude to...And that is the position Catholic leaders take and give to their followers...And they fall for it...

You're absolutly right. The first three centuries of Christianity were predominantly Premillennial and Christians interpreted Scripture literally. They believed God at His Word. Even Justin Martyr, the father of supersessionism, believed in Premillennialism.

All admit that premillennialism after the third century waned and lost its hold on the majority of the church. It was the time of the rising strength of the Roman Church. Both the theological and political atmosphere was against it.

I think the key to the rise of Amillennialism and the Dark Ages was the rise of the institutional church. Once the theological and political were united anything that could diminish that institutions power was disregarded.

[redleghunter]

Thanks. Reading it. Still responding to posts in part 9:)

[wmfights]

Just sent you a post over there. ;-)