Topical Encyclopedia The term "Last Days" refers to a period in biblical prophecy that encompasses the events leading up to the end of the current age and the establishment of God's kingdom. This concept is rooted in both the Old and New Testaments, where it is associated with significant eschatological events, including the return of Jesus Christ, the final judgment, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.Old Testament Context The phrase "Last Days" is first introduced in the Old Testament, where it often signifies a future time when God will intervene decisively in human history. In Isaiah 2:2 , it is written, "In the last days the mountain of the house of the LORD will be established as the chief of the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all nations will stream to it." This passage envisions a time of peace and divine rule, with Jerusalem as the spiritual center of the world. Similarly, in the book of Daniel, the "Last Days" are associated with visions of kingdoms and the ultimate triumph of God's eternal kingdom. Daniel 12:1-2 speaks of a time of unprecedented distress followed by the resurrection of the dead, indicating a culmination of history and the ushering in of God's final plan. New Testament Understanding In the New Testament, the "Last Days" are more explicitly connected to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The apostle Peter, in his sermon on the day of Pentecost, cites the prophet Joel, declaring, "In the last days, God says, I will pour out My Spirit on all people" (Acts 2:17). This marks the beginning of the "Last Days" as the era inaugurated by Christ's first coming and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The epistles further elaborate on this theme. In 2 Timothy 3:1 , Paul warns, "But understand this: In the last days terrible times will come." This passage describes moral and spiritual decline, indicating that the "Last Days" will be characterized by both the spread of the gospel and increasing opposition to God's truth. Eschatological Events The "Last Days" culminate in a series of eschatological events, including the return of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the final judgment. Jesus Himself speaks of these events in the Olivet Discourse, as recorded in Matthew 24-25. He describes signs of the end times, such as wars, famines, and earthquakes, and emphasizes the need for vigilance and readiness. The book of Revelation provides a vivid apocalyptic vision of the "Last Days," detailing the ultimate defeat of evil and the establishment of a new heaven and a new earth. Revelation 21:1-4 offers a glimpse of this future hope: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more... He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." Theological Implications The concept of the "Last Days" carries significant theological implications for believers. It underscores the urgency of the gospel message and the call to live in anticipation of Christ's return. The "Last Days" are a time of both hope and warning, as they promise the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan while also cautioning against complacency and spiritual apathy. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in faith, as expressed in Hebrews 10:25 : "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This exhortation highlights the importance of community and mutual encouragement as the "Last Days" unfold. In summary, the "Last Days" represent a pivotal period in biblical prophecy, marked by both challenge and hope. They call believers to a life of faithfulness, anticipation, and readiness for the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. Topical Bible Verses Matthew 24:14And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness to all nations; and then shall the end come. Topicalbible.org 2 Peter 3:3-4 1 Corinthians 4:5 Matthew 24:30 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Last DaysLAST DAYS See ESCHATOLOGY OF THE OLD TESTAMENT. Library The Last Days in Jerusalem. The Last Days of Zinzendorf, 1755-1760. The Last Days of Augusta, 1560-1572. Carey's Last Days The Lord's Last Days with his Disciples. Last Days and After. The Last Days of the Old Eastern World The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Fathers and Children' Sermon at the Fourth Annual Convention of the Brotherhood of St. ... Resources Did Jesus have a last name? | GotQuestions.orgMaking marriage last - what is the key? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that there will be scoffers in the last days? | GotQuestions.org Last: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |