In these chapters of Lewis Chafer’s great theological work we find the following subjects: The second advent of Christ incarnate, The Messianic kingdom of Christ incarnate, and The eternal kingdom of Christ incarnate. The reading of these chapters proves to be some of the most enjoyable theological material that one can read. It brings great joy knowing what lies ahead for the believer.
Concerning the subject of the second advent of Christ, Chafer points out the thought that many people differ on the exact details of His second advent; all agree that Christ will return to the earth at some point in time. There are numerous scriptures on this subject. For the sake of this brief summary it suffices to simply give a clear warning concerning the interpretation of such texts that there must be distinction given between Christ return in the air and those texts that mention His coming to this earth to reign on David’s throne. It must also be noted that the second advent of Christ refers to the time in which Christ sets up His kingdom rule on the earth. The scriptures that Chafer deals with on this subject are as follows: Jude 1:14-15, Deuteronomy 30:1-8, Psalm 2:6-9, Isaiah 63:1-6, 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10, Daniel 2:34-35, Zechariah 14:1-4, 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, among several others. It would be profitable for the Bible student to examine these scriptures in detail.
Chafer also writes concerning the Messianic Kingdom of Christ. On this subject Chafer shows how this kingdom is assured by the covenants, namely, those with Abraham and David. This Messianic Kingdom is known as the Millennial Kingdom. The name is derived from the fact that this kingdom will last for a thousand years. It is in this kingdom age that Christ will once again deal directly with His chosen people Israel. This is also the time in which the church, the ‘called out ones’ will rule and reign with Christ. It is beautifully noted by Chafer how wonderful this reign of Christ will be especially for those of us who are believers at this present time.
There is also material recorded by Chafer involving the eternal kingdom of Christ. Within this subject it is masterfully pointed out that there are seven age-transforming events between the Mosaic Law and the present age of grace. There are also seven events between the age of grace and the kingdom age. Yet again, there are seven events between the kingdom age and eternity. These events are noted by Chafer as: The release of Satan, The revolt on earth, the passing of heaven and earth, The Great White Throne judgment, the creation of a new heaven and earth, the descent of the bridal city, and the surrender of the mediatorial aspect. These life-transforming events are profoundly explained by Chafer. The amazing thing of it all is that we as believers will be a witness to these great events and will be ushered into the eternal kingdom of Christ where everything will be a renewed sense of perfect order and peace. That is a day that the believer can fix his eyes upon, knowing that the trials of this life will soon pass as we enter into a glorious future with our God and King!