What does the future hold for us? Where is our world heading? And how should this shape the way we live today?
For many Christians, such questions conjure images of chaos, destruction, and doom--and talk of the "end times" evokes anxiety and fear, not hope. In contrast to these sensationalist depictions of the end times, The Story of the Future by Michael J. Svigel offers a refreshing alternative rooted in Scripture and the beliefs of the early church. By directing attention back to the Bible's vision of the future--a vision centered on Jesus Christ's return, creation's renewal, and the fulfillment of God's purposes for humanity--Svigel calls readers to rediscover the hope of God's coming kingdom anticipated throughout Scripture from the opening chapters of Genesis to the closing pages of the book of Revelation.
Svigel begins by locating the foundational elements of this hope in the three "Rs" of biblical eschatology: the return of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the restoration of creation. Turning next to the writings of the early church fathers, he highlights a consistent emphasis on Christ's return as judge and king to banish sin, suffering, death, and the devil, ushering in a glorious kingdom of peace, righteousness, and justice.
While presenting a clear, compelling case for "premillennialism" from the Bible and early Christian tradition, Svigel's primary aim in returning to these ancient texts is to set forth the powerful, awe-inspiring, hopeful narrative of God's future. More than a handbook of information about a distant era, The Story of the Future invites us now into God's story, a call to live today in light of God's coming kingdom.
Written for anyone interested in the Bible's story of the future, regardless of whether they have formal theological training, readers will find many helpful features in this accessible book:
- "Simply Put" introductory paragraphs summarize the main idea of the chapter
- "In Brief" asides define complex scholarly terms in plain language
- "A Closer Look" notes dig deeper into technical exegetical, theological, and historical matters
- Numerous charts and tables illustrate key topics
The Story of the Future helps us live now in light of then.
