Is this Eschatology or Messchatology?

It’s officially called “Eschatology” — the study of last things. But to most people, it feels more like “Messchatology.” And no wonder. With color-coded flip charts and criss-crossed timelines, literal predictions and symbolic prophecies, Spielberg-like scenarios and Lucas-like creatures, too many preachers turn our primary attention towards debatable timing instead of doctrinal truth.

This is not to say the timing aspects of these last days are unimportant. But they aren’t all-important, or even most important. When they do become too important, I have found that this is when the sheep worship less and worry more. But what’s the goal of all our teaching and preaching (yes, Revelation, too!)? Worship! (Rev. 19:10) That God the Father and God the Son would be clearly seen and passionately praised in the power of God the Spirit. Remember—John wrote about the revelation of Christ, not the revelation of a clock. And like it or not, an emphasis on timing and not truth twists the neck in such a way that our eschatology can unfortunately be muddied into some sort of messchatology and Jesus becomes increasingly harder to spot and savor.

This is precisely why I continually say, regarding the Lord’s return, that I’m “pro-coming.” Do I have an opinion about the timing of it? Sure! But I first have an obligation to the truth of it, regardless of it’s timing. So though I might offer up several options regarding various timing positions (pre, mid, or post), and though I assuredly have some questions about all of the millennial points of view (a-, post-, or pre-,) I will always come back to the truth proposition of “pro-coming” doctrine—He is returning! (Rev. 22:7) That’s what I long to see and pray will happen quickly.

“Come, Lord Jesus!” (Rev. 22:20)