101. Millennium, The

101. Millennium, The

101 THE MILLENNIUM Revelation 20:1-10

INTRODUCTION "Millennium ," from Latin "mille," a thousand ; "annus," year; one thousand years. The theory connected with second coming of Christ. lt is not so connected in the Bible.

I. THE THEORY 1. Christ will come to earth in person, set up a kingdom, sit on David’s throne in Jerusalem, gather all Jews to Palestine, and reign one thousand years.

2. "Millenarian," believer in theory of "millennium."

3. Two classes:

(a) Pre-millenarians, second coming marks beginning of millennium.

(b) Post-milleniarians, second coming marks close of the millennium.

4. If there be a "millennium ," Chri st must come BEFORE, DURING, or AFTER it.

5. Christians are neither.

II. LAWS OF INTERPRETATION 1. All scripture must be literal, figurative, or a combination of both.

2. In interpretation of literal scripture we are restricted to what is expressly revealed or declared.

3. In interpretation of "figurative" scripture literal language is used.

4. When two or more possible interpretations present themselves, if one is accepted, valid reasons should be given for the one and the rejection of the others.

III.Revelation 20:1-10 1. "Millennium" theory based on this.

2. If true , only scripture that teaches it-book of symbols midst of figures.

3. All other fundamental doctrines of New Testament taught frequently-this only once.

4. Eighteen figures and symbols used here-"one thousand years" one of them.

5. Why take one as literal, others figurative.

6. Even taken literally , it does not teach the theory.

IV. OBJECTIONS TO THE THEORY 1. Makes Christ and his saints reign over just the wicked .

2. Makes prominent a theory without New Testament authority.

CONCLUSION Only speculative teaching can be given for the "Millennium ."