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Revelation 20: Gog and Magog, Two Ages, and Eschatological Insights
In a recent teaching session, we delved into Revelation 20, focusing on the Battle of Gog and Magog and its connection to Ezekiel’s prophecy. This battle, as described in verses 8-9, signifies a pivotal moment where Satan, once unbound, deceives nations, leading them to a final confrontation. The subsequent verses (10-15) depict the ultimate judgment, where the devil, the beast, and the false prophet are cast into the lake of fire, marking the end of an era.
Our discussion emphasized the concept of two ages in scripture: the present age and the age to come. This distinction is crucial for understanding eschatology. The present age, often associated with the Old Covenant, is seen as an era of darkness and evil, ruled by Satan. In contrast, the age to come, inaugurated by the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, represents the New Covenant age, characterized by light and righteousness.
We explored various New Testament passages that highlight the transition between these ages, noting that the early Christians lived in the last days of the Old Covenant. This period was marked by imminent change, as prophesied by Jesus and the apostles. The destruction of the temple in 70 AD symbolized the end of the Jewish age and the dawn of the Christian age.
Understanding these ages helps clarify the New Testament’s eschatological teachings. The age to come, often misunderstood as a future event, is the current New Covenant age. This perspective challenges traditional futurist views and invites a reevaluation of biblical prophecy in light of historical events. As we move forward in our study of Revelation, we will continue to explore these themes, particularly in the context of the New Jerusalem described in Revelation 21.