After the Fact: The Beatific Vision with Samuel Parkison
Nov 8, 2024
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In this engaging discussion, Samuel Parkison, an associate professor and author, delves into the fascinating concept of the beatific vision—the ultimate joy of seeing God in heaven. He explains why this vision matters to our faith and daily lives. With biblical insights, he explores the transformative nature of beholding God, emphasizing the fullness of joy and knowledge found in divine communion. Parkison also discusses the theological implications of seeing God, referencing historical thinkers like Augustine, making deep theological concepts accessible and relatable.
The beatific vision represents the ultimate communion with God in heaven, emphasizing the joy of directly experiencing His glory.
Exploring the concept of the beatific vision encourages deeper theological engagement, enriching faith and preparing Christians for profound spiritual understanding.
Deep dives
Understanding the Beatific Vision
The beatific vision, described as the blessed hope of seeing God in heaven, is a central concept in Christian theology that encapsulates ultimate communion with God. It conveys the idea that what makes heaven truly heavenly is not just the presence of glorified bodies or reunion with loved ones, but the direct experience of God's glory. Throughout scripture, figures like Moses and David express this desire to behold God's beauty, emphasizing how this vision is deeply rooted in biblical tradition. Furthermore, it signifies the joy of experiencing God's presence in a perfect and sinless way, reflecting the idea that this vision is the key to eternal happiness.
The Nature of Beholding God
In discussing the nature of the beatific vision, the podcast explores what it means to truly behold God, particularly in a future state in the new heavens and earth. The inquiry reveals that beholding God is not limited to physical sight; instead, it can involve both intellectual and experiential dimensions. Saints like Augustine speculate that, in glorified bodies, a more profound union of intellectual and ocular vision may occur, allowing for an immediate knowledge of God's omnipresence. This future experience will include directly seeing Christ, who serves as the focal point of this divine vision, enhancing the connection between belief and experience.
The Invitation to Explore Theology
The discussion highlights the importance of engaging with theological concepts like the beatific vision through resources such as Dr. Samuel Parkinson's book, which aims to clarify and elucidate these often abstract ideas. The podcast underscores the necessity for Christians to prepare themselves for such profound theological understandings that can enrich their faith. Furthermore, it encourages listeners to delve deeper into theological education, exemplified by the partnership with Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, reinforcing the goal of equipping church members for a more informed faith journey. This invitation not only fosters personal growth but also aligns with the mission of nurturing a well-rounded theological movement.
Kyle Worley is joined by Samuel Parkison to answer the questions, what is the beatific vision and why does it matter?
Questions Covered in This Episode:
What is the beatific vision and why does it matter?
What makes heaven, heaven?
What does it mean to behold God? What are we beholding?
Helpful Definitions:
Beatific Vision: The blessed hope of seeing God in heaven.
Guest Bio:
Samuel G. Parkison is associate professor of theological studies and director of the Abu Dhabi Extension Site at Gulf Theological Seminary in the United Arab Emirates. Dr. Parkison earned his M.Div., Th.M., and Ph.D. at Midwestern Seminary, is a regular contributor to For the Church, and is an editor of Credo Magazine. He also serves as a pastor of teaching and liturgy at Emmaus Church. He is the author of Revelation and Response: The Why, How of Leading Corporate Worship Through Song and Thinking Christianly: Bringing Sundry Thoughts Captive to Christ, and To Gaze upon God: The Beatific Vision in Doctrine, Tradition, and Practice.
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