The Ancient Witnesses

Chapter 8: The Fulfillment of Time

Mentor announced our final regular session, though he hinted at a “consummation” session to follow. I wondered what the witnesses could teach us about the Second Coming, since Jesus had warned his disciples that no one—not even he—knew the hour of his return. The Fulfillment of Time , Mentor explained, would give the witnesses time to explain their views on several passages related to the Second Coming of Christ. As a bonus, we students were invited to submit our own questions about the afterlife, with the understanding that not all them could be answered. Joseph suggested we write down our questions for clarity’s sake and to avoid repetition. I offered sheets of blank paper from my journal and soon we were all scribbling furiously. Deciding what to ask the witnesses turned out to be an interesting exercise. We tossed out many questions like, “Will I see my loved ones in heaven?” and “What will our resurrection bodies look like?” For who can answer such questions, even among the witnesses? Each of us finally decided on a single question to ask.

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