Eschatology: From John’s Apocalypse to Millennialism, Exploring the History of the End of Days

Eschatology is the study of the final events in history. Throughout history we have pondered our ultimate salvation and the “end times,” from St. Paul’s eschatological epistles to modern best sellers like the Left Behind series. “Thy kingdom come.” Christians frequently recite these words. But what is God’s kingdom? This question has fascinated the faithful for more than two millennia.

The History and Practice of Eschatology

Now, this brilliant course introduces you to that history and practice of eschatology. With award-winning Catholic professor David Zachariah Flanagin as your guide, you will discover renewed hope as you learn about salvation. You will begin by exploring Jewish beliefs and apocalyptic literature about God’s redemption of the world. Next you will turn to the life and ministry of Jesus and the early church, which adapted those eschatological ideas to herald Jesus as the Messiah sent to inaugurate God’s kingdom on earth. You will then address the legacy of biblical hope in Christian history.

Interpreting Apocalyptic Images

How should you interpret the apocalyptic images of the Bible: as literal descriptions or symbols? This question has led to contemporary end-times speculation, which has deep cultural implications in Western culture. Eschatology is thus as important as it is fascinating. To study this topic is to learn what it means to be a Christian—a believer filled with hope in the life of the world to come.

Academic Expertise and Guidance

David Zachariah Flanagin, Ph.D., is Professor of Theology and Religious Studies at Saint Mary’s College of California, where he teaches courses in the development of Christian thought and in biblical studies. His teaching has earned him recognition by the student body as Faculty Member of the Year. Prof. Flanagin received his doctorate in the History of Christianity from the Divinity School at the University of Chicago. He is the author of a number of articles on late-medieval ecclesiology and biblical interpretation.

Key Course Insights

  • Course Scope: Exploring Jewish beliefs, the ministry of Jesus, and the legacy of biblical hope.
  • Study Materials: This course is part of the Learn25 collection and includes a PDF study guide.
  • Historical Context: Exploring the history of the end of days, previously published as Understanding Eschatology.