Theology After You've Been Left Behind with Jeffrey Pugh
Dec 17, 2016
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In this discussion, Dr. Jeffrey Pugh, a theologian and author, delves into eschatology, focusing on themes from his recent work in the Homebrewed Christianity Guide Series. He humorously critiques popular beliefs surrounding dispensationalism and the ever-looming apocalypse. Topics include the cultural phenomena of the 'Left Behind' series, the influence of modern political contexts, and how these narratives shape Christian faith today. Pugh's insights encourage a more nuanced understanding of scripture, blending rigorous theology with engaging storytelling.
Dispensationalism, originating in the 19th century, has shaped American Christianity's view of the end times and biblical interpretation.
Hal Lindsey's bestseller, 'The Late Great Planet Earth,' popularized a timeline for Jesus' imminent return and influenced the 'Left Behind' series.
Shifting from a fear-based eschatology to one rooted in hope encourages believers to engage positively with social justice and community well-being.
Deep dives
Understanding Dispensationalism
Dispensationalism, a system of interpreting biblical scripture, has significantly shaped American Christianity, particularly with ideas about the end times. Its origins trace back to the 19th century when John Nelson Darby introduced a framework that divided biblical history into distinct periods, known as dispensations. This interpretive lens influenced many Christians to adopt a literal reading of apocalyptic scriptures, fueling beliefs in concepts like the rapture and the tribulation. The rise of this theology has led to millions of adherents who expect specific prophecies to unfold in contemporary events, often interpreting world affairs through this framework.
The Impact of Hal Lindsey's Work
Hal Lindsey's book, 'The Late Great Planet Earth,' published in the 1970s, played a pivotal role in popularizing apocalyptic beliefs among American Christians. It was a bestseller that introduced the idea that Jesus would imminently return, asserting a timeline for the end of the world that captivated readers. Lindsey's interpretations laid the groundwork for the 'Left Behind' series, which further entrenched these end-times beliefs in the mainstream Christian narrative. The consequences of his work are profound, as it has shaped the apocalyptic imaginations of millions, leading to a widespread expectation of the rapture and a catastrophic future.
Personal Narratives and Conversion Experiences
Personal narratives significantly affect an individual's theological beliefs, particularly regarding eschatology, the study of end times. The speaker reflected on his early encounters with apocalyptic literature, which sparked intense interest and led to a personal narrative deeply rooted in the belief of imminent judgment and resurrection. Such experiences can lead to radical life choices, including turning away from education and committing to faith-based communities that promote a rapture-centric worldview. By tracing these narratives, individuals can better understand their beliefs and the societal influences that shape them.
Cultural and Political Effects of Apocalyptic Beliefs
The implications of dispensationalism extend beyond theology into cultural and political realms, where they foster a particular worldview that affects public opinion and policy. The belief that the end times are near has influenced perspectives on various issues, including Middle Eastern politics, environmental crises, and social justice, often aligning them with biblical prophecy. For many adherents, uncritical acceptance of this theology leads to a rejection of different interpretations that promote a more inclusive and compassionate engagement with the world. This interpretation can catalyze significant harm, perpetuating conflict and misunderstanding within diverse communities.
Shifting Toward a Hopeful Eschatology
Moving beyond a fear-based understanding of eschatology entails embracing a hopeful vision that reflects a more profound appreciation of God's promises and love. Contemporary theologians emphasize the need to view apocalyptic literature not merely as predictions of doom but as sources of comfort and hope for believers. This shift encourages engagement with scripture that promotes social justice, environmental stewardship, and collective well-being. By reframing discussions around the end times, communities can cultivate a faith that focuses on living out God's love in the present rather than merely preparing for a catastrophic future.
Today is your lucky day! After this podcast episode you will be prepared for the world after you've been left behind. Dr. Jeffrey Pugh is back on the podcast and spitting some theological game about his book in the Homebrewed Christianity Guide Serieson THE END. That's right we are going to talk dispensationalism, millennialism, rapture, charts, zionism, Trump, Revelation, the Apocalypse, and other eschatological goodies. When you get done you are gonna want to get his book.
People still believe that Jesus is returning to earth . . . and soon! Like Jesus' the first followers, millions of Christians hold fast to the idea that we are living in the last days, yet here we are, two thousand years later, still waiting. In The Homebrewed Christianity Guide to the End Times Jeffrey C. Pugh recounts his own brief sojourn in an apocalyptic cult. Looking back now, as a respected professor of theology, he tackles how Christianity in general, and the evangelical world in particular, have been captivated by the theological innovation known as Dispensationalism that emerged in the nineteenth century. The embrace of this idea has influenced millions, leading to such cultural phenomena as the Left Behind books and movies, and Christian Zionism. But Pugh argues that the belief in the imminent return of Christ has in fact been harmful to Christian engagement with the world, and he builds this argument on a thorough and occasionally sassy reading of biblical texts and church history.
Book Endorsements...
"Of course, we live in a dangerous world, but Jeffrey C. Pugh helps us see how correct Christian eschatological convictions help us avoid getting the world wrong. Pugh writes with a clarity that makes the book available to theologian and non-theologian alike." --Stanley Hauerwas, Duke University
"It was better than Cats; I'd read it again." --Third Horseman of the Apocalypse
"Jeffrey C. Pugh journeys with us through the historical significance of the End Times instead of feeding our fears. He offers a hopeful discovery of a new narrative—one in which we can laugh at ourselves, question, co-create, and redeem the world with God, and do it with love." --Amy Piatt, Senior Pastor, First Christian Church, Portland
