Perception of Eschatology

Over the years it has become more and more evident that many people prophesy or make reference to the future according to their eschatology. When I speak of eschatology, I am speaking of a theological term that designates the study of what will happen at the end of history, in this case, ours.

This is particularly true concerning the event of the "final coming" of Christ. As I have watched international events unfold across our nation, I have listened to and read many responses. Some of those responses have come through strong prophetic utterances or words of wisdom and understanding.

There are those who look to prophets hoping to get some spiritual insight on present day events as they continue to unfold. This is largely due to the fact that many people in the kingdoms of this world lack the ability to hear God for themselves.

Therefore, their only recourse for hearing from heaven is via prophet, prophetess, or anyone else that has the ability to see beyond the current events of the day. Because we live in a time when the body of Christ is still lacking so much, we are truly thankful for those that have tuned into the heart and mind of God, thus hearing His voice above the clamor of our own humanness.

In contrast to the lack of perception in the kingdom of the church, I do believe we are accelerating at a tremendous rate, more than any other time in our history,  hearing God’s voice.  No doubt, there are those who would strongly debate the quality of that growth.

 Right now there are various public figures within the corporate body of Christ that feel the pressure to give an accurate account or explanation for all that is happening in our nation right now. And rightfully so, After all, the wisdom and counsel of the spirit of God in times likes these is not an unfair request from those who are looking to Christian leaders to exhort, edify or comfort them in times of great conflict.

However, I do think in all fairness, that the eschatology of those who speak about future events should be taken into strong consideration. For those of you who are placing a large amount of trust in those you believe to be the most in tune with the voice of God, you can not do so without discerning the eschatology that is behind their words.

For example, if someone believes that we are on a road to ultimate chaos and destruction; and that our only salvation in the end is to be "raptured out," then there is a very strong chance that the accuracy of their word will be greatly influenced by their perception or understanding of the end times.

There are many anointed leaders who believe that gross darkness is unavoidable, and the best that we can hope for is, "hold down the fort until Jesus comes." If that is your view, then most of what you hear God say will be interpreted through the lenses of a final battle called, “Armageddon.” I know there are more accurate theological terminology’s that best describe the end times, but for the sake of those that might not be as astute, in these matters, such as myself, I would rather keep it within a layman's format.

Another example is those who perceive the end times as being increasingly filled with immeasurable glory, rather than declination. They see everything within the context of the body of Christ becoming stronger and not weaker. They see the kingdoms of this world becoming the kingdoms of God. They are not looking to escape this world, but to inhabit it with the heart and mind of God. They believe, in the end, those who remain in Christ will be the prevailing force in the earth.

These are just two examples of a much larger view that it is presently out there today. So, before you embrace the prophetic words that are coming forth in this hour, via the Holy Spirit, it would serve you well to know from whence eschatology they come. No matter who the prophetic man or woman might be; how anointed or how gifted, let there be no doubt that their perspective of God's intentions in the earth, will bear a great influence upon their ability to interpret what they are hearing.

It would also serve us all to remember that the office of the prophet was not a part of God's original plan for His people. God's orginal desire was to speak to then face to face. Is the prophetic function important? Certainly, without question, as well as, every other function in the body is important. Yet, as important as all may be, there must come a time when the corporate body of Christ becomes mature enough to hear God for themselves.