End Times Part 2: Amillennialism

This is part 2 of this series, surveying end time views. Click here for part 1.

Amillennialism, by definition, means that there will not be a millennial kingdom. That definition, however, does not exactly represent the view fairly. Though Amillennialism is named for its denial of a millennium (the prefix A meaning no) it actually sees the millennium as a representation of a more discernable Christian reality.

How do they see Revelation 20? Amillennialists see Revelation as mostly accomplished in the 1st century. The "millennial reign" described in Revelation 20 is seen as the entire church age. They do not believe that Christ will literally reign on the earth but, rather, he reigns in the hearts of the believers. This is supported by Scripture (primarily from the gospels) that speak of a kingdom that has already come (see Matt. 6:9-10, 28:28, Mark 1:15, etc) Some would say that the binding of Satan is fairly literal but most would say that it is referencing a great reduction in his work and influence in the nations (Luke 10:18).

What about the rapture? Amillennialists do not see the rapture as something emphasized in Scripture. Most of them would probably align their view on the rapture with the post-tribulational premillennial view, namely that there will be a resurrection, believers will be caught up in the air and given glorified bodies, they will all then return with Christ to the earth. The difference between this and post-trib is that they do not believe this will be at the end of a period of tribulation.

Proponents of this view. The view was made popular by Augustine of Hippo. John Calvin and B.B. Warfield were also Amillennial. Contemporary Amillennialists include C.J Mahaney, Tim Keller, and James White.

Remember that all of these views have different variations within them. Amillennialism presents some compelling arguments from Scripture and I have benefited greatly from the work of many of them in different areas of theology. I hope that this post can help you in understanding this category of theology, study it closer to see what you think.

Grace and Peace,
Stephen