The Framework of Eschagology (End Times Study)

The Biblical Framework of Eschatology

Introduction

Eschatology, derived from the Greek words eschatos (last) and logos (word or discourse), refers to the study of "last things" or the end times. In the Bible, eschatology is not a fringe topic reserved for speculative theology—it is a central thread woven throughout Scripture, offering hope, judgment, renewal, and the fulfillment of God's promises.

This article outlines the biblical framework of eschatology, highlighting key themes, pivotal texts, interpretive approaches, and real-life examples of how eschatological truths shape Christian living. It concludes with a practical study plan for those who wish to explore this theological area more deeply.

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1. The Grand Narrative: Creation, Fall, Redemption, Consummation

Biblical eschatology cannot be properly understood without recognizing its place within the narrative of Scripture.

• Creation (Genesis 1–2): God created a good world with order, purpose, and fellowship between Himself and mankind.

• Fall (Genesis 3): Sin entered the world, corrupting God's creation and breaking that fellowship.

• Redemption (Genesis 12 through the Gospels): God initiates His plan of redemption, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

• Consummation (Revelation 21–22): The story ends not with destruction but with restoration—a new heaven and new earth, where God dwells with His people.

Eschatology belongs to this final movement. It is not about escapism, but fulfillment. It brings the redemptive story to completion.

NOTE: It is important to understand that these end time events “have not taken place yet” . They are still to come so we are essentially living through the written words of the Bible everyday.

Argument: People will make the case that these things have already occurred in a way to justify their position or a way to try to discredit Christ as being a false prophet all of which are incorrect. (We will explore this more as we go)

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2. Major Themes in Biblical Eschatology

a. The Day of the Lord

This phrase recurs throughout the Old and New Testaments, signaling a decisive moment when God intervenes in history to judge evil and deliver His people (see Joel 2:1–11, Amos 5:18–20, 1 Thessalonians 5:2). It points to both near and ultimate events—such as historical judgments on nations and the final return of Christ.

b. Resurrection and Judgment

In Daniel 12:2, we read: “Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.” This anticipates the New Testament’s clearer teaching that all will be raised, and all will be judged (see John 5:28–29; Revelation 20:11–15). The bodily resurrection is central to biblical hope, not merely a disembodied existence.

c. The Kingdom of God

Jesus’ proclamation that “the kingdom of God is at hand” (Mark 1:15) reveals that eschatology begins with His first coming. Yet, the kingdom is also not yet fully manifest. This "already/not yet" tension defines Christian life in the present age—we live between Christ’s resurrection and His return.

Important: Christ was already resurrected (This prophecy happened already) .. so we are now looking for the signs of his Return (this has not happened yet).

d. The Return of Christ

The Second Coming is perhaps the most recognized eschatological event. In passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 and Revelation 19, we see a triumphant, visible, and personal return of Christ to defeat evil, raise the dead, and establish justice.

e. New Heaven and New Earth

Eschatology ends not with annihilation but restoration. Revelation 21–22 paints a vivid picture: “Behold, I am making all things new.” The final hope of believers is not evacuation from the earth but the renewal of all creation, echoing Isaiah’s vision (Isaiah 65:17).

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