The Kingdom of God, Student Workbook, SW02

/ 1 2 9

T H E K I N G D O M O F G O D

5. Explain the differences in the various views on the great tribulation ( pretribulation , posttribulation , and midtribulation views). Which view seems to best reflect what Scripture teaches on the tribulation? 6. Discuss together some of the critical elements associated with the resurrection. What are the main contrasts between the resurrection of the righteous and the unjust? 7. What are some of the more critical characteristics spoken of in Scripture regarding the final judgment? What role does Jesus play in that judgment, and what will be the end of all those within that judgment? 8. What will characterize the restored universe and new heaven and earth at the Kingdom’s consummation? How will creation change? What of the role of the saints in the new heaven and earth? 9. In the end itself, what will Jesus do with the Kingdom when all enemies have been put down under his feet? What will God’s role be in the ages of ages to come? This lesson focuses upon the consummation of the Kingdom of God in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, who is soon to be revealed and will establish his rule on earth. Parousia is the term associated with Jesus’ return, which shall be personal, bodily, visible, glorious, and is imminent. The Kingdom’s consummation is integrally tied into what the Bible teaches about death, the resurrection, and the final judgment. When all enemies have been placed under Jesus’ feet, he will deliver the Kingdom over to God his Father in order that God may become All-in-all. Eschatology is the theological term associated with the study of last things, and parousia is the term associated with the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. We should be diligent and careful to study the doctrine of last things (the consummation of the Kingdom) because of its ability not only to affect our urgency, soberness, and holiness after God, but also our ability to minister and comfort those who are grieving because of lost loved ones. Individual eschatology deals with those experiences awaiting the future of individuals, while cosmic eschatology deals with those awaiting the entire human race and all creation.

Summary of Key Concepts

4