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The Latter Days in the Old Testament

Eschatology precedes soteriology. Find out why in this essay.

Two Ages: Evaluating a Biblical concept

If the cosmos has changed over time, as redemptive history has moved from through “five worlds” from creation (Genesis 1–2) to the new creation (Revelation 21–22), then there have also been covenantal changes, too. In the beginning, God made a covenant with Adam (Gen. 2:15–17; cf. Hos. 6:7), which is often called the “covenant of works.” Then, after the flood, God re-established a covenant with Noah and all creation. As Genesis 9:8–17 reports, God hung his bow in the sky as

Getting Into Macro-Eschatology: Seeing The Five Worlds God Has Made

Last Sunday I introduced something I called “macro-eschatology.” Macro-eschatology is an approach to redemptive history that sees the end of things (eschatology) as fulfilling, restoring, and superseding the beginning of things (protology). At the center of this approach to reading the Bible is the person and the work of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who stands at the center of God’s plan to unite all things in creation. As Ephesians 1:9–10 tell us, Christ is the one who will

The ABCs of Eschatology (Pt 2): 14 More Key words

Last time, I introduced fourteen key words for understanding some basic concepts in the study of last things (eschatology). Today, I will complete my basic glossary with fourteen more terms, in hopes that these definitions will help improve present and future discussions about eschatology. You can also listen to the Sunday School that explains many of these terms. And if you would like a handout of the glossary, scroll to the bottom. (15) The Intermediate and Final States. W

The ABC’s of Eschatology (Pt. 1): Key Words to understanding end times

Eschatology is a word that means the study (-ology) of last things (eschatos). And in that study there are lots of words that are familiar (*resurrection), unfamiliar (*preterist), and debated (*rapture). Likewise, terms like millennium and tribulation are ones that have multiple definitions, and figures like the *antichrist, whose common description may or may not match John’s use of the word. Knowing that sound doctrine and fruitful discussions require clear definitions,

Twelve Books to Read Before the End of the World

When I teach Systematic Theology to seminarians, I make students read two books on eschatology and I recommend about twenty. Since I recently began a Sunday School series on the subject of eschatology, I wanted to share that list with you. You can also listen to the classes here. The Two Most Important Books on Eschatology Benjamin Gladd and Matthew Harmon, Making All Things New: Inaugurated Eschatology for the Life of the Church (2016). This is my go-to book for eschatolog

The Bible Says It, That Settles It

Maybe you have heard the phrase, “The Bible says it, I believe it, that settles it.” Until a few months ago, I had not observed the great error contained in that phrase. However, thanks to one of the senior saints at our church, I was informed of its self-centeredness. On the occasion that someone wryly … Continue reading The Bible Says It, That Settles It

Moving Beyond a ‘Plain’ Reading of Scripture

In theological debate, a plain and straightforward reading of Scripture is often adduced as a compelling “biblical” argument. However, a straightforward reading of Scripture is often in danger of reading the Bible out of context, by truncating or removing texts from their original contexts. In this way, many “biblical” arguments turn out to be exercises … Continue reading Moving Beyond a ‘Plain’ Reading of Scripture

Robert Letham on Union with Christ

Robert Letham’s Union with Christ is a good overview of a subject that is vital for understanding how we receive all the benefits Christ procured through earthly life and death. One of the things I appreciate about his approach is the way he defines “union in Christ” in covenantal categories. Even if appeals to the classical “covenant … Continue reading Robert Letham on Union with Christ

For Your Edification (7.14.12)

For Your Edification is a weekly set of resources on the subjects of Bible, Theology, Ministry, and Family Life. Let me know what you think or if you have other resources that growing Christians should be aware. BIBLE & THEOLOGY The Danger of Pragmatism. Jared Wilson, “Gospel-centered” blogger, pastor, and author, provides a helpful look at … Continue reading For Your Edification (7.14.12)

To What End Is The History of Israel?

John Bright, a noted Old Testament scholar who influenced the likes of Graeme Goldsworthy, concludes his massive book, The History of Israel, with these insights about the history of Israel: The history of Israel would continue in the history of the Jewish people, a people claimed by the God of Israel to live under his law to … Continue reading To What End Is The History of Israel?

God’s Love: Particular in Its Design, Infinite in Its Offer

When considering the love of God towards fallen humanity, one of the greatest challenges is rightly discerning how his particular love for his children (1 John 3:1-2) is distinguished from his universal love towards all people (Matthew 5:45). On that subject Charles Hodge has provided a couple helpful illustrations in his Systematic Theology. Listen to what … Continue reading God’s Love: Particular in Its Design, Infinite in Its Offer

For Your Edification (7.6.12)

For Your Edification is a (bi)weekly set of resources on the subjects of Bible, Theology, Ministry, and Family Life. Let me know what you think or if you have other resources that growing Christians should be aware. Bible & Theology The Temple In Jesus’ Day. Take 8 minutes to take a panoramic view of the Temple … Continue reading For Your Edification (7.6.12)

Acts: On Mission with the Triune God

[This is the most recent “Feeding on the Word” article for our church newsletter]. In most Bibles, Luke’s second book is entitled, “The Acts of the Apostles.” However, as many commentators have noted, a more accurate title would be “The Acts of the Holy Spirit” because it is the Spirit who is responsible for convicting, … Continue reading Acts: On Mission with the Triune God

A Prayer For America

A Prayer for America Leviticus 18:20-19:2 Holy God. You are right to demand holiness. Your will for all those made in your image is holiness. We confess that this is right and good. And with that in mind, we confess we are not. In our city streets and in the corridors of our mind, we … Continue reading A Prayer For America

Service That Pleases the Lord

Repeatedly in Scripture, God calls his people to fear, worship, and serve Him. In Exodus, Moses records that Israel is redeemed in order to serve the Lord. So does Titus 2:14, which says that Christ redeemed a people who are zealous for good works. Likewise, Paul says that those who were once slaves of sin … Continue reading Service That Pleases the Lord

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