What practical impact does eschatology have on believers?

Eschatology, the study of the end times or last things, has long fascinated and intrigued both theologians and lay believers alike. This branch of theology deals with the ultimate destiny of humanity and the world, including events such as the Second Coming of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, the final judgment, and the establishment of God's kingdom. While these subjects can seem abstract or distant, eschatology holds profound practical implications for the life of every believer. Understanding these implications can enrich one's faith and daily walk with Christ.

The Impact of Eschatology on Hope and Perspective

First and foremost, eschatology provides believers with a hope that transcends the temporal concerns of this world. In Romans 8:18, Paul writes, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." This perspective is deeply rooted in eschatological promise—the belief that, ultimately, all creation will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God (Romans 8:21). Such a promise instills a hope that empowers believers to endure hardship, persecution, and personal trials.

This hope is not a passive waiting but an active, living hope that energizes believers to engage with the world around them. It encourages a life of godliness and holiness in anticipation of the world to come. As 2 Peter 3:11-12 posits, knowing that everything will be dissolved, it behooves us to live lives of holiness and godliness, hastening the coming day of God. Thus, eschatology shapes not only believers' future expectations but also their present realities.

Ethical and Moral Living

Eschatology also has a significant impact on the ethical and moral decisions of believers. The knowledge that Christ will return and there will be a final judgment where everyone will have to give account of their earthly lives (Matthew 25:31-46, 2 Corinthians 5:10) serves as a powerful motivator for living a life that is pleasing to God. It compels believers to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with their God (Micah 6:8).

Moreover, the eschatological vision includes a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells (Revelation 21:1-4). This future reality inspires believers to strive for justice, peace, and righteousness here and now. It fosters a sense of responsibility to reflect the kingdom values in the present world, advocating for the oppressed, caring for the poor, and stewarding creation responsibly.

Evangelism and Mission

Eschatology also deeply influences the Christian commitment to evangelism and mission. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is undergirded by the eschatological vision that all nations must hear the gospel before the end will come (Matthew 24:14). This urgency fuels the missionary endeavors of the church, motivating believers to spread the good news of Jesus Christ far and wide.

The apostle Paul’s missionary journeys can be seen in this light. He was driven by a desire to bring the gospel to as many as possible before the "day of the Lord" (Romans 13:11-12). This eschatological motivation continues to inspire missionaries today, pushing the boundaries of the church's reach to every corner of the earth, fulfilling the vision prophesied in Revelation 7:9-10 of a multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne of God.

Community and Unity

Eschatology also emphasizes the importance of community and unity within the body of Christ. The anticipated future gathering of believers from every tribe and tongue (Revelation 7:9) is a powerful image that promotes unity and love among Christians today. It reminds believers that they are part of a larger, global family of faith that transcends cultural, racial, and national boundaries.

This eschatological vision encourages believers to work towards reconciliation and unity within the church, reflecting the future kingdom where there will be no division. It challenges believers to live out Jesus’ prayer that all believers may be one, just as the Father and the Son are one (John 17:21), making the church a foretaste of the eschatological gathering of God's people.

Personal Sanctification

Finally, eschatology plays a crucial role in the personal sanctification of believers. The hope of Christ's return and the accompanying resurrection and transformation of our bodies (1 Corinthians 15:52) motivate believers to purify themselves just as Christ is pure (1 John 3:2-3). This transformative hope has a purifying effect, encouraging believers to forsake sin and grow in holiness.

The Apostle John encapsulates this when he links the hope of Christ's appearing to personal moral and spiritual purification. This anticipation of meeting Christ face to face, and being made like Him, provides a powerful incentive for personal holiness and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, while eschatology may often seem concerned with future events, its practical impact on the life of believers is immense and multifaceted. It informs their hope, ethical living, evangelistic zeal, sense of community, and personal sanctification. By anchoring their lives in the ultimate reality of God's future kingdom, believers can navigate the challenges of the present with courage and conviction, striving to embody the values of the kingdom here and now.