Preterism

Definition

Preterism is a theological perspective that interprets prophecies of the Bible, particularly those in the New Testament, as events that have already occurred in the past. This view suggests that many of the apocalyptic and eschatological texts, especially those relating to the end times and the Kingdom of God, are primarily fulfilled in the first century, often focusing on events surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Preterism challenges futurist interpretations that view these prophecies as events yet to come.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Preterism sees significant fulfillment of biblical prophecy in historical events, particularly focusing on the Jewish-Roman War and the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD.
2. Preterists argue that many texts in Revelation are symbolic representations of first-century events rather than predictions of future occurrences.
3. This perspective emphasizes that the Kingdom of God was established through Christ's life, death, and resurrection, rather than being an exclusively future event.
4. Preterism stands in contrast to futurist interpretations that dominate many evangelical circles, which see a future return of Christ and a literal interpretation of prophetic texts.
5. The preterist view is often associated with amillennialism, which interprets the thousand-year reign mentioned in Revelation as a symbolic period occurring currently rather than a future literal event.

Review Questions

• How does preterism reinterpret biblical prophecies related to eschatology compared to other perspectives?
  • Preterism reinterprets biblical prophecies by asserting that many predictions about the end times and the Kingdom of God have already been fulfilled, particularly in the first century with events like the destruction of Jerusalem. This contrasts with other perspectives, such as futurism, which views these prophecies as yet to come. By focusing on historical contexts and events rather than future occurrences, preterists challenge traditional interpretations and emphasize a present understanding of God's kingdom.
• Discuss how preterism impacts our understanding of the Kingdom of God in Christian theology.
  • Preterism significantly impacts our understanding of the Kingdom of God by asserting that it is not solely a future reality but was inaugurated through Christ's life and ministry. Preterists argue that the establishment of God's kingdom began with Jesus' resurrection and has been progressively realized throughout history. This perspective encourages believers to see themselves as participants in God's kingdom today, rather than waiting for a future event for its full manifestation.
• Evaluate how preterism could influence modern Christian practices and beliefs regarding eschatology and community engagement.
  • Evaluating preterism reveals its potential to influence modern Christian practices by shifting focus from anticipation of future events to active participation in present realities. This view encourages believers to engage with their communities actively and foster social justice, knowing they are part of God's ongoing kingdom work. Furthermore, it can lead to a more hopeful outlook on life by emphasizing fulfillment and responsibility in current times instead of an obsessive focus on apocalyptic fears or end-time scenarios.

Related terms

Eschatology: The study of last things or end times, including themes like death, judgment, and the ultimate destiny of humanity.

Futurism: A theological perspective that views biblical prophecies as still to be fulfilled in the future, often emphasizing a literal interpretation of apocalyptic texts.

Partial Preterism: A subset of preterism that holds that some prophecies were fulfilled in the past, while others remain to be fulfilled in the future.