Exploring Eschatology: Unveiling God’s Plans from a Premillennialist Perspective

By - Interim Pastor Freddy Cortez, National Capital Bible Church

Eschatology, the study of the end times and God's plan, takes on a unique perspective within the framework of premillennialism or dispensationalism. Dispensationalist eschatology views history as divided into distinct dispensations or periods, each with its own purpose and unique revelation from God. This article explores key themes and perspectives within eschatology from a dispensationalist standpoint.

Understanding Dispensational Eschatology

Dispensationalist eschatology is characterized by a belief in a literal, future fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and a clear distinction between Israel and the Church. Some of the key elements within this perspective are as follows:

1. The Pre-Tribulation Rapture:

Dispensationalists commonly anticipate a pre-tribulation rapture, where Jesus Christ returns in the air to gather His Church, both living and deceased believers, before a period of intense tribulation unfolds on earth. This event is seen as a distinct and imminent event that ushers believers into the presence of God.

2. The Seventieth Week of Daniel:

Dispensationalists often interpret Daniel's prophecy of the seventy weeks (Daniel 9:24-27) as a future seven-year period known as the tribulation or the seventieth week of Daniel. This time frame is believed to primarily relate to God's dealings with the nation of Israel, culminating in their national restoration and ultimate acceptance of Jesus Christ as their Messiah.

3. The Millennial Kingdom:

Dispensationalists expect a literal, future millennial kingdom where Jesus Christ reigns on earth for a thousand years. This period is characterized by the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel, including the restoration of the Davidic kingdom, the rebuilding of the temple, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies related to Israel's blessings and prominence.

4. The Final Judgment for the Unbeliever:

Dispensationalist eschatology affirms the final judgment for unbelievers results in eternal separation from God only to be cast in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:15).

5. The Final Judgment for the Believer:

The believers will also be judged. This judgment is not for heaven or hell but rather for rewards. This judgment is called the Bema Seat judgment.

The Bema Seat judgment is understood as a future event that takes place after the rapture, where believers are gathered with Christ in heaven. The term "bema" refers to a judgment seat or platform where rewards and crowns are given. (Matthew 25:21).

6. Rewards and Crowns:

According to dispensationalist belief, faithful believers will receive rewards and crowns based on their faithfulness and the quality of their works. These rewards are considered expressions of God's grace and generosity for believers' faithful service.

• "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing My recompense with Me, to repay each one for what he has done." (Revelation 22:12)

• "Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved His appearing." (2 Timothy 4:8)

Believers may also experience loss or have their works evaluated as worthless due to improper motivations or unfaithfulness in their service to God. This loss is considered a missed opportunity for rewards rather than a loss of salvation. "If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire." (1 Corinthians 3:15)

The Bema Seat judgment is seen as a moment of accountability where believers receive recognition and rewards for their faithfulness and service to God. It is an opportunity for believers to lay their rewards at the feet of Jesus as an act of worship and gratitude. "And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory." (1 Peter 5:4)

Conclusion

Dispensationalist eschatology offers a distinctive framework through which believers can understand the future of God. By emphasizing a literal interpretation of biblical prophecies and a clear distinction between Israel and the Church, dispensationalists anticipate a pre-tribulation rapture, a distinct seventieth week of Daniel, a future millennial kingdom, and a final judgment leading to eternal blessings or consequences. This is our position at National Capital Bible Church.

While specific interpretations and timelines can vary within dispensationalist eschatology, the emphasis remains on the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the establishment of His kingdom on earth. Appreciating and studying dispensational eschatology provides believers with a profound perspective on God's continuing faithfulness, trustworthiness, and ultimate sovereignty over human history.

This post was written by Interim Pastor Freddy Cortez of National Capital Bible Church. If you have questions about this post or Christianity in general, please contact us today!