Required reading
Systematic Theology by Charles Hodge (Vol 3) (Available from Amazon or free here) - Commence Chapter 4 (The concomitants of the second advent) by reading up to the heading '3. The end of the world'.
My summary
Now Hodge begins to look at the events that are to attend the second coming of Christ.
Firstly he discusses the general resurrection of all mankind. Although the timing is debated, there is plainly a resurrection:
(i) of Christ;
(ii) of his people;
(iii) of the rest of mankind.
Secondly Hodge examines the final judgement by asserting:
(i) that it is a definite future event;
(ii) that Christ is to be the judge;
(iii) that this judgement is to take place at the second coming of Christ and at the general resurrection;
(iv) that the persons to be judged are men and angels;
(v) that the ground of judgement is deeds;
(vi) that men are to be judged according to the light which they have enjoyed;
(vii) that the judgement is final.
What grabbed me
I continue to appreciate Hodge's restraint in making final statements about matters that are not clear: 'All this is said with diffidence and submission. The interpretation of unfulfilled prophecy experience teaches is exceedingly precarious. There is every reason to believe that the predictions concerning the second advent of Christ, and the events which are to attend and follow it, will disappoint the expectations of commentators, as the expectations of the Jews were disappointed in the manner in which the prophecies concerning the first advent were accomplished.'
A lot of time could be saved if people demonstrated similar reticence.
Next week's reading
Continue Chapter 4 (The concomitants of the second advent) by reading up to the heading '6. Future punishment'.
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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