Explore Orthodox Christian theology's perspective on Christ's Second Coming and the spiritual infusion in daily life. Humorous discussion on earth's potential destruction, Christ's ascension, omnipresence, and 'parousia' in the New Testament. Delve into accents, cultural perceptions, and two appearances in scriptures. Contemplate presence in spirit versus bodily presence, Christ's glorious appearing, resurrection, and transfiguration. Reflect on transformation, redemption, and the significance of the transfiguration event.
Christ's second coming is bodily, distinct from spiritual presence.
Ancient Jewish beliefs anticipate multiple Messiahs, not singular theoretical view.
Scriptural references provide insights on the twofold coming of the Messiah.
Christ's enthronement symbolizes victory over enemies and transformation of human nature.
Deep dives
The Event of Christ's Second Coming
Christ's second coming entails his bodily return, distinct from being present in spirit. This contrasts with the spiritual presence of figures like St. John the Baptist as Elijah, where their actions reflect the spirits they embody.
The Unfolding of Eschatological Events
Ancient Jewish beliefs varied, anticipating multiple Messiahs, not a singular theoretical view. Scriptures like Psalm 110 were pivotal, indicating the Messiah's two-fold coming. Psalm 110 emphasizes the Lord commanding the Messiah to sit at His right hand until enemies are vanquished.
Understanding the Second Coming through Scripture
Scriptural references like Psalm 110 in the Old Testament and their interpretations in the New Testament provide insights into the anticipated events surrounding Christ's return, elucidating the notion of a twofold coming of the Messiah.
Interpretation of Old Testament Prophecies
The correlation between Old Testament prophecies and their reinterpretation in the New Testament sheds light on the concept of multiple comings of the Messiah, emphasizing the continuity of divine promises over time.
Christ's Enthronement and Reign Amidst Enemies
Christ is described as being enthroned at the right hand of God to rule amidst His enemies, with a period of time between His enthronement and the final judgment. His role as the Messiah, distinct from David, is highlighted through passages like Psalm 2, emphasizing His ultimate reign over the nations and victory over enemies.
The Importance of Christ's Resurrection and Enthronement
Christ's resurrection and enthronement at the right hand of God signify a deeper transformation beyond mere resuscitation, reflecting a significant change in his human body's nature. This event is pivotal in understanding the future resurrection of humanity and the cosmic transformation that awaits, symbolizing the beginning of the kingdom of God.
Continued Activity and Transformation by the Holy Spirit
The period between Christ's ascension and glorious appearing is not a passive interim but a time of active involvement by Christ, ruling in the midst of enemies. The Holy Spirit's presence now initiates a transformative process, allowing glimpses of the resurrection and the kingdom of God in our daily lives, urging a positive engagement with the world through love, joy, and peace.
Christians commonly speaking of the "Second Coming of Christ." Is that the right terminology? What does it mean that there are two advents of the Messiah? Join Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick and Fr. Stephen De Young as they continue their series on Orthodox eschatology.
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