The millennium has fascinated theologians, scholars, and believers for centuries and produced at least three different brands of millennialism. Buckle up because we’re about to embark on an enlightening journey filled with profound insights, informative tidbits, and maybe just a dash of humor.
Now, before diving in, let’s ensure we’re all on the same page. In the context of Christian eschatology, the millennium refers to a thousand-year period mentioned in the book of Revelation. It’s believed to occur after the second coming of Jesus, during which he and his saints will reign on earth.
The concept of the millennium has sparked countless debates and interpretations thoughout history. Some view it as a literal thousand-year reign, while others see it as a symbolic representation of an extended period. Regardless of the interpretation, the return of Jesus and the millennium hold immense significance for believers worldwide.
When?
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – when will this glorious event occur? No one, not even Jesus, knows. As mere mortals, we can only speculate and ponder, but that would waste our time. Various theories and predictions have emerged over the years, each with its own set of arguments and evidence. From mathematical calculations to deciphering biblical prophecies, the quest to unravel the mystery continues.
While we can’t predict the exact timing, what we can do is explore the teachings surrounding the millennium and its implications. In this context, the millennium refers to a 1,000-year reign of Jesus and the Christian martyrs on earth, which some believe will occur after the great tribulation. [4] … They (the martyrs) came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years. [5] (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.) This is the first resurrection. … Revelation 20:4-5 | NIV
Others think it will occur before. And, finally, there are a few who doubt there will be an earthly millennial reign at all.
Since John reported it in the Book of Revelation, my money is on an actual 1000-year reign and a two-stage resurrection of the dead–one before and one after the millennium. The tribulation follows the millennium and occurs before the final resurrection.
But does it matter? It’s the what, not the when, that matters.
[2] He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. [3] He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were ended. After that, he (Satan) must be set free for a short time. Revelation 20:2-3 | NIV
Three Views
- For postmillennialists, the millennium is a future, indeterminate period of worldwide Christianization followed by the tribulation and Christ’s return. They believe that rather than being introduced supernaturally, the peace and prosperity of the millennium will occur over time through preaching and teaching. Not all evil will be eliminated, but much will. Christ will return at the end, followed by the resurrection of the dead and final judgment.
- Amillennialists believe we have been in the tribulation since Jesus’s resurrection, and it will conclude when he returns. They believe the kingdom of God is already here in the Church, and not much will change until Jesus returns. They don’t think there will be 1000 years of Jesus’s rule on earth, but he will reign in the new heaven. Both postmillennialists and amillennialists believe the tribulation will occur after the millennium.
- Premillennialists anticipate a Rapture followed by a tribulation of seven years, concluding with the return of Jesus. Furthermore, they expect a literal post-tribulation 1000-year period in which Jesus reigns on earth and evil is supernaturally suppressed. During that time, many Jews will convert to Christianity.
As with everything, there are variations on the theme, but this brief overview will suffice for our purposes. I agree, it seems way too complicated. I side with my friend Pastor Mark Toone, of Chapel Hill Church, Gig Harbor, WA who calls himself a “panmillennialist,” and says, “It will all pan out in the end.”
The millennium and the return of Jesus continue to captivate hearts and minds. While we may not have all the answers, exploring these concepts can deepen our faith and inspire us to live with hope and anticipation. So, let’s embrace the journey, my friends, and remain steadfast in our pursuit of lives that honor God.