First Thoughts on Final Things

I find it interesting that there seem to be two extremes in the way different churches think about the end times. On one hand, there are those Christians who obsess over eschatology. They try to systematize the various prophetic passages of the bible into a very complex and rigid framework for the end times. Some also feel the need to lend a hand in making these projections come to pass through political means, while others become downright neglectful of the work that needs to be done in our time. This end times mania can be almost gnostic in its disregard of the present.

On the other hand, there are those Christians who react to the former position by ignoring eschatology completely. Some dismiss eschatological discussions as mere speculation and trivial distractions from the work at hand. At different times, I have found myself in both of these camps. But I think that there must be balance between them. While its true that we need to be bringing God's kingdom to the earth in the present, I think Christians are aided in this task by actively hoping for good things to come.

In reading the Bible, one cannot avoid the conclusion that hope for the future was constantly on the minds of its authors. Remember how Paul talks of the hope of Christ's return and our resurrection in almost all his letters. And think of Jesus' frequent teachings and parables about the future, both concerning his return and the coming day of judgment. And obviously more specific attention is given to the last things in both the book of Revelation and in those obscure minor prophets hiding in the middle of the bible.

So what benefits can be draw from all this “enduring hope" and being “well prepared?" Here's a few thoughts. First, perhaps this forward thinking keeps us from getting tied down here on earth, keeps us “strangers and pilgrims” who are “looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland." Hopefully this kind of thinking will lead us to “store [our] treasures in heaven.” This does not mean that we should withdraw from the world and leave it to destruction, but it means that we shouldn't let our roots go too deep here.

Secondly, having hope for the future gives us plenty of work to get involved in. After all, the master could return at any moment, and we must be ready to show him how we have stewarded the resources he has given us. I think this knowledge of coming accountability can motivate us to take care of the world, be smart with our money, and share our truth with others.

Thirdly, Christ's return offers the only solution to humanity's problem with evil. Up until now, all creation has been groaning under the curse, and we too should join in ardently praying from relief from our deliverer. Amen, come Lord Jesus.