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What is the meaning of "last day" from the perspective of the dispensational premillennialist?

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**TLDR** Dispensational Premillennialism teaches that the resurrection of believers occurs at the Rapture, which seemingly conflicts with Jesus's promise to raise Christians on the "last day." John 6:40 For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. **Analysis** I really enjoyed learning about Dispensational Premillennialism from teachers like John MacArthur and RC Sproul. The literal approach to attempting prophesy really resonates with me. Most common objections to the framework have reasonable answers on sites like GotQuestions, but I can't really find any compelling answers that directly address Jesus' clear words that the resurrection of believers takes place on the last day. The Lord mentioned this promise several times. Even Martha reflects on Jesus' teaching: John 11:24 Martha replied, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day." Now, my understanding of the dispensational timeline is: (1) Church Age <= (we are here) (2) Resurrection of believers, both living and dead, at a time that no one can predict; aka Rapture (3) Tribulation lasting seven years (4) Second coming of Christ and Sheep/Goat Judgement (5) Literal 1,000 year reign of Christ on earth (6) Brief rebellion, led by Satan who is "loosed for a while"; Rebellion is summarily squashed. (7) Unbelievers resurrected into new bodies suitable for eternal punishment; They're thrown into their final destination, the Lake of Fire. (8) New heaven and new earth. Time ends, eternity begins. So it would seem then that the timeline indicates the resurrection of believers occurs at Step #2. Whereas, if we take Jesus at His word, and the resurrection of believers takes place on the last day (of time), it would take place just prior to Step #8. If we were talking about unbelievers, then the timeline holds true since they are indeed resurrected on the last day prior to being cast into the lake of fire. But clearly Jesus is talking about *believers* being raised on the last day. **So how might a Dispensational Premillennialist interpret the phrase "last day" in a way that is consistent with their timeline?** Thanks!
Asked by Festus Martingale (233 rep)
May 11, 2021, 09:19 PM
Last activity: Apr 22, 2024, 03:30 PM