Premillennial; literal 1,000-year reign of Christ on earth before eternity
The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel holds to premillennial eschatology: Jesus Christ will literally reign on earth for a thousand years following his second coming. This is a distinguishing feature of Foursquare theology and is central to the doctrine of Jesus as 'Coming King.' During the millennium, Christ will reign visibly on earth, righteousness will be established, and Satan will be bound.
After the thousand years, Satan will be released, a final rebellion will occur, and Christ will judge all people and establish the eternal new heavens and new earth. The premillennial framework shapes Foursquare understanding of history as moving toward Christ's triumph and the establishment of his visible kingdom. The millennium represents the fulfillment of God's promises and the vindication of Christ's redemptive work.
Key Distinctions
- Millennium view:
- premillennial — literal 1,000-year reign of Christ on earth
- Rapture view:
- pretribulation rapture typical; Church removed before tribulation begins
- Israel role:
- Israel restored; significant eschatological role in the millennium
Scripture References
Sources
- International Church of the Foursquare Gospel Declaration of Faith
- Foursquare Church teaching on premillennial eschatology