The Strength of the position - Pre Tribulation Premillenial

Premillennialists fall into two primary categories: historic premillennialism and dispensational premillennialism. In general, Premillennialism is committed to the concept of an earthly reign by Jesus Christ of approximately a thousands years. Premillennialism sees Christ as physically present during this time and believes that Jesus Christ will return presonally and bodily to start the millennium.

The key passage for premillennialism is Revelation 20:4-6. Premillennialists observe that here is evidence of a 1000 year period and 2 resurrections (one at the beginning and the other at the end)From this Rev 20:4-6, the Greek word is used in reference to both resurrections and hence they must be of the same type.

Premillennialists agree that the world situation will be at its very worst just before Christ comes to establish the millennium.

The strength of this position is that there are no blibical passages with which premillennialism cannot cope or which it cannot adequately explain. In other words, there are passages from the Bible to give support on this position. The basis for this position is indeed solid.

What is the Universal Church? How should the Church reflect her unity to the world?

The universal church is made up of all the believers in Jesus Christ worldwide. The word "church" can be explained as of ownership and literally means “belonging to the Lord.” This Greek word is only used twice in the New Testament and is never used directly naming the church (1 Corinthians 11:20; Revelation 1:10).

The universal church is the name given to the church worldwide. The understanding of the universal church is not so much in the assembly itself but rather in those constituting it.

Now how should the church reflect her unity to the world through ecumenism? First of all, we must know that the church of Jesus Christ is one church. Secondly, spiritual unity of the believers of Christ should demonstrate love and fellowship among each other. Hence, despite of our differences, cooperation among the body of Christ is essential.

Indeed, there will be always disagreement and different opinions regarding some doctrinal understanding. Compromising of our belief and doctrinal teaching is not the best way to resolve tension and disagreement. Hence, we always need to learn to relate to each other rather than quick to refute.

In conclusion, ecumenical movement has helped the church to be united in a common task and purpose - world evangelization. However, the distinctiveness of our doctrinal teachings must be upheld and shall not be compromised. It is because despite of all the differences, there is always ONE thing that bridges us together: the love for God and people. Therefore, let the love of Christ fills our hearts all the days of our lives.

Christian Theology by Millard J. Erickson