[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

If you would like to be added to this ping list please mail me.

[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!

[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...

[redleghunter]

The answer to the amillennial objection to premillennial interpretation of the Old Testament is found in the New Testament in two principal forms. First, the expectation of the Jews for literal fulfillment of the kingdom promises is confirmed. Second, this confirmation proves that the Old Testament promises are unconditional as to ultimate literal fulfillment.

Important point above as we continue this series.

[roamer_1]

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

Back to the subject at hand: Thanks for posting this series. It's been a great run, with lots of really good debate.

One of the pointers that I look at (wrt agreement with the above) is the very numerous prophecies relating to the theme of the restoration of all things... It is a major prophetic component, dealing not only with Israel, but also with the whole of creation. It is this view that keeps me profoundly in the pre-millenialist camp. How can it all be restored if it is all to be destroyed at Har Meggido?