Saved rule on earth in God's Kingdom; New Jerusalem comes to earth; earthly immortality
Armstrongism teaches that the ultimate destiny of the saved is not to escape earth for heaven but to rule on earth as members of God's Family. The New Jerusalem, described in Revelation, will come down to earth where the resurrected saints will dwell and rule forever. Heaven is God's current residence, but the ultimate hope is immortality and glory on a renewed, restored earth.
This earthly eschatology reflects Armstrongism's understanding of God's plan: the universe and earth are God's domain, and believers are called to become part of the God Family to rule over them. Rather than a disembodied spiritual existence in a distant heaven, Armstrongism promises bodily resurrection, immortality, and authority on earth under God's government. This vision grounds spiritual hope in material, earthly reality.
Key Distinctions
- Heaven nature:
- the saved rule on earth with Christ in the Kingdom of God; the New Jerusalem comes to earth
- Access timing:
- at Christ's return; first resurrection for the Church
- Bodily resurrection:
- resurrection to spirit body; transformed to divine nature at resurrection
Scripture References
Sources
- Herbert W. Armstrong, Mystery of the Ages
- United Church of God doctrinal papers