Postmillennialism

Definition

Postmillennialism is a Christian eschatological view that interprets the Book of Revelation and biblical prophecies as indicating that Christ will return after a golden age of Christian dominance and moral prosperity on Earth. This perspective emphasizes the transformative influence of Christianity in society, leading to a period of peace and righteousness before the final judgment, distinguishing it from other views that place Christ's return at the beginning or during the tribulation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Postmillennialism gained popularity in the 19th century, especially during the rise of optimism about human progress and social reform.
2. Advocates believe that the spread of the gospel will lead to widespread societal transformation and the establishment of God's kingdom on Earth.
3. This view contrasts with premillennialism, which sees the world becoming increasingly chaotic before Christ's return.
4. Postmillennialists often interpret biblical prophecies metaphorically rather than literally, focusing on spiritual rather than physical realities.
5. The postmillennial perspective can lead to an emphasis on social justice and moral improvement as part of fulfilling God's plan for humanity.

Review Questions

• How does postmillennialism interpret the role of the church in shaping society prior to Christ's return?
  • Postmillennialism holds that the church plays a crucial role in transforming society through the spread of the gospel. This view posits that as more individuals and communities embrace Christian teachings, society will experience moral improvement and a decrease in injustice and strife. Consequently, believers are encouraged to actively engage in social reform and cultural development, believing these efforts will help usher in a period of peace and righteousness before Christ's second coming.
• Compare and contrast postmillennialism with premillennialism regarding their views on societal conditions leading up to Christ's return.
  • Postmillennialism asserts that society will improve significantly through Christian influence, leading to a golden age where righteousness prevails before Christ returns. In contrast, premillennialism predicts a decline into chaos and tribulation as signs of the end times unfold, emphasizing Christ's return as necessary to restore order. While postmillennialists focus on optimism and transformation through the church, premillennialists highlight impending judgment and crisis as precursors to Christ’s second coming.
• Evaluate how postmillennialism's optimistic outlook might influence Christian engagement in contemporary social issues.
  • Postmillennialism's emphasis on societal transformation through Christian action encourages believers to actively address contemporary social issues like poverty, injustice, and environmental concerns. This perspective fosters hope that positive change is possible, motivating Christians to participate in social justice initiatives and community service as part of their faith. Such engagement reflects a belief that improving society aligns with God's kingdom coming on Earth and reinforces their conviction in the power of the gospel to enact real-world change before Christ's eventual return.

Related terms

Premillennialism: A view that believes Christ will return before a literal thousand-year reign, often focusing on apocalyptic events leading up to this period.

Amillennialism: The belief that there is no literal thousand-year reign of Christ on Earth, interpreting the millennium symbolically as the current church age.

Eschatology: The study of last things, including death, judgment, and the final destiny of souls and humankind, often involving various interpretations of biblical prophecy.