In thirteen thorough chapters David Ewert isolates the basic New Testament teaching on the “blessed hope” of the church. He carefully avolds speculation about current events and takes issue with those who set dates and establish timetables for end-time developments.
Standing in the Anabaptist tradition, the author holds that God’s final revelation was given in Christ. He limits his study of eschatological themes to the teachings of Jesus and His apostles, but clearly illustrates how the hope of the Christian church was rooted in the faith of the Old Testament.
The author contends that the “Iast days” began with Christ’s first coming and the birth of the church, the new people of God. From that assumption he argues that the church always lives in the “last hour” and that the purpose of New Testament eschatology is pastoral and ethical. A properly understood Christian hope leads to holy living and faithfulness in missions, to spiritual alertness and dlscipleship.
Ewert discerns two contrasting developments in history:
(1) the darkness of evil deopens as the end approaches and
(2) the light of Jesus Christ shines "brighter until the perfect day' when God will triumph over evil. The church is to wait for this final victory with patience, enduring persecution iif necessary. Ewert warns against those who promise escape from tribulation and suffering during this time of waiting. Instead he calls on believers to have their loins girded, keep their lamps burning, and redeem the time, for the days are evil.
And Then Comes the End is suitable for grouр study. Questions for group study follow each chapter.