Go to Heaven, or Bring Heaven to Earth; which is the Biblical emphasis?
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In a recent interview (January 17, 2025), an oxford scholar and theologian, N.T. Wright, having written 90 books, concluded that the emphasis both in the O.T. and N.T. was NOT on getting people to Heaven, but rather, ***bringing Heaven to earth***!
He alleged that there was too much emphasis in hymnals, as well as preaching, on leaving earth for their heavenly home. He did not deny the existence of Heaven nor deny it as our final destination. But noted that God wanted believers to ***seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness*** here in this life-time on earth.
>He (Jesus) said to them, "When you pray, say, 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name;
***Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven***' " (Luke 11:2; Matthew 6:9-10) He recognized that the presentation of the Gospel transforms not only a person, but societies, and even nations. And that this is what is primary in the intention of God. There is no advocacy of extreme Post-millennialism here; just a need for the awareness of God's purpose for leaving the Church on earth, among the nations. Is this a proper interpretation of the New Testament Gospel message, according to Protestant (and/or Catholic) creeds? And is this a proper interpretation of the phrase in the Lord's Prayer, *on earth as it is in heaven*?
***Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven***' " (Luke 11:2; Matthew 6:9-10) He recognized that the presentation of the Gospel transforms not only a person, but societies, and even nations. And that this is what is primary in the intention of God. There is no advocacy of extreme Post-millennialism here; just a need for the awareness of God's purpose for leaving the Church on earth, among the nations. Is this a proper interpretation of the New Testament Gospel message, according to Protestant (and/or Catholic) creeds? And is this a proper interpretation of the phrase in the Lord's Prayer, *on earth as it is in heaven*?
Asked by ray grant
(4700 rep)
Jan 17, 2025, 12:09 AM
Last activity: Jan 19, 2025, 06:15 PM
Last activity: Jan 19, 2025, 06:15 PM