The Doctrine of the Millennium
Jesus’s triumph in this passage brings blessing and hope to all Christians.1 The word “millennium” is derived from the Latin words mille (thousand) and annum (year). Revelation 19–22 seems to describe the millennium as a thousand-year physical reign of the Lord Jesus Christ as King over the entire earth at the very end of human history. This reign precedes final judgment, the creation of a new heaven and earth, and believers’ entrance into the eternal state.
Sincere believers hold varying views about the millennium.
● Premillennialism, meaning “before the millennium,” says Jesus Christ will return and establish His earthly rule for one thousand years (or a long time) during the time Satan is bound. After Satan’s release and a final battle, Jesus will judge the dead and inaugurate the new heaven and earth. Furthermore, many premillennialists believe many prophecies regarding the Jewish people will be fulfilled during the millennial age.2 Bible Study Fellowship supports this view.
● Amillennialism, meaning “no millennium,” interprets the one thousand years not as a physical reign but as a symbolic description of the present age, in which Christ rules in the hearts of His people until He returns. He then ushers in the new heaven and new earth.
● Postmillennialism means “after the millennium” and sees the one thousand years as a golden age on earth resulting from the worldwide spread of the gospel, after which Jesus returns. The challenging interpretation of this passage should not be fodder for argument or dissension. All Scripture is equally true but not equally clear. We must study diligently and seek to understand all of God’s Word. Ultimately, we trust God with details that are challenging to reconcile. God’s unconquerable power and sovereign control remain constant.
Believers find unity around comforting, solid truth. The powerful gospel redeems and transforms those who believe in Christ. Satan’s reign of terror is temporary; he will be utterly defeated. To fail to recognize the certainty of Christ’s return and ultimate victory means interpreting life and facing eternity without true hope. All who follow Jesus eagerly anticipate His triumphant return to earth.
1. Blessing in God’s Word: Revelation 1:3
2. Prophecies regarding Israel: Isaiah 2:1-4; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Romans 11:25-27
