Biblical knowledge of end times

Biblical knowledge of end times

Our view of the future is key to how we live our lives. If we have hope in a sure eternity, we anchor our souls to a solid belief which helps protect our minds now and when we one day face the prospect of dying. 

Just as importantly as facing death, even young people benefit from firm hope as they confront potential disappointments in life with family, work, marriage and health. This includes not only personal tragedies but also failing to meet expectations you once possessed for your life. 

Teleios recently conducted a survey regarding biblical knowledge of end times. There were 678 responses. The majority of responders were: female (67%), <35 years old (73%), from the United States (60%) and evangelical (74%). See full results here - End times: What young evangelicals believe? - Teleios, Inc. (teleiosresearch.com).

A plurality of respondents (38%) believed that prophetic literature in the Bible should be interpreted in a normal literal way; otherwise, how the original author intended it, whether a letter, poetry or symbols related to an actual event.

Regarding specific questions about the end times, when a response was provided, participants mostly answered in a biblically consistent way. For example, for the Rapture, the majority identified that it will occur at a time only known by God (78%), when believers will be taken to meet Christ (58%). For the Tribulation, 51% noted that it was a 7-year time period and 42% knew it will happen just before Christ's return to the earth. Respondents indicated clearly 'eternity' is a believer's lasting presence with God (71%).

For the Kingdom of Christ, 36% thought it is a time of peace and prosperity on the earth. However, 57% believed Christ’s Kingdom is heaven, which may not be the case as these locations are described differently in scripture (Daniel 7:27).

Nonetheless, the total percent of correct biblical answers were relatively low (30-55%) even though the percent of wrong answers were generally even lower (<30%). Those marking unsure' typically were between 10-20%.

Wellbeing scores were generally good (4.5; scale of 0-6 with 6 being best) and consistent with our past research. However, those who demonstrated a greater knowledge of eternity as represented in the book of Revelation reported on average better wellbeing (P=0.03).  Interestingly, this finding is consistent with Revelation 1:3 itself in that it promises those who read it persistently will be blessed (happy).

These findings indicate that when young evangelicals answer questions about biblical end times they typically are correct. However, the overall percent of those answering correctly was low. This shows a need for better education about Christ’s second coming from pastors and lay leaders to help fortify young evangelicals and their hope in salvation.

Unfortunately, teaching about end times is often avoided because of controversy surrounding several different types of end times interpretations including Calvinist versus pre-millennial theologies. However, this problem may be resolved by simply teaching scripture in a literal, normal fashion.

Importantly these data also demonstrated better wellbeing for those aware of end times scripture. 

Thank you for reading my blog. Return again soon as we continue discuss the amazing facts of the Bible and analyze the encouraging findings from Teleios’ research.

William C. Stewart, MD

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Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.