Eschatology

Eschatology (from Greek eschaton, last + logos, word) is the branch of theology concerned with the last things — death, resurrection, judgment, and the final state of persons and the universe. Biblical eschatology encompasses both individual eschatology (what happens to each person at death and at the last day) and cosmic eschatology (the consummation of history and creation). The OT develops eschatological hope progressively: from the Day of the LORD as divine judgment and restoration (Amos 5:18–20; Isa. 2:12–22; Joel 2:28–32) to explicit resurrection hope (Dan. 12:2; Isa. 26:19) to the vision of a new heavens and new earth (Isa. 65:17–25). NT eschatology is shaped by the decisive event of Christ's resurrection as the "firstfruits" (1 Cor. 15:20) and the gift of the Spirit as the "deposit" of the coming inheritance (Eph. 1:14). The NT presents an eschatology of inauguration: the kingdom of God has already arrived in Christ's ministry (Luke 11:20) but awaits its full revelation at his return (Rev. 22:20). Major disputed topics include the millennium (Rev. 20:1–6), the timing of the rapture, the relationship of Israel and the church in prophecy, and the nature of hell and eternal punishment.