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Originally Posted by bearbear
Q: Where did the doctrine of millennial or kingdom exclusion where the warnings in the New Testament about being excluded from the kingdom refers to the millennial kingdom of Christ after his return and not the eternal kingdom of Christ originate from?
The doctrine of millennial or kingdom exclusion is a relatively niche and debated topic within Christian eschatology. This view interprets certain New Testament warnings about being excluded from the kingdom as referring specifically to the millennial kingdom of Christ, a 1,000-year reign of Christ on earth after his return, rather than the eternal kingdom of God. Here's a brief overview of its origins and development:
- 19th Century Roots: The concept gained some attention in the 19th century, particularly among certain dispensationalist circles. Dispensationalism is a theological framework that emphasizes the division of history into distinct periods or "dispensations," each marked by different ways God interacts with humanity. Some dispensationalists began to interpret certain biblical warnings about the kingdom as referring to a temporary exclusion from the millennial kingdom rather than eternal damnation.
- Key Proponents: One of the early proponents of this view was Robert Govett (1813-1901), an English pastor and theologian. Govett's writings on the subject laid a foundation for others who would later develop and promote the doctrine of millennial exclusion. He argued that certain unfaithful Christians would be excluded from reigning with Christ during the millennium but would still be saved eternally.
- 20th Century Developments: The doctrine was further developed in the 20th century by authors such as Watchman Nee and others within the Plymouth Brethren and other dispensationalist groups. They emphasized the idea that the millennial kingdom would be a reward for faithful Christians, while unfaithful Christians would face temporary exclusion and loss of rewards during this period.
- Scriptural Basis: Proponents of millennial exclusion often cite passages such as Matthew 25:14-30 (the Parable of the Talents), 1 Corinthians 3:10-15, and Hebrews 12:14-17. They argue that these passages warn of loss of rewards and exclusion from the millennial reign for unfaithfulness, but not of eternal separation from God.
- Criticism and Controversy: The doctrine is not widely accepted and has faced significant criticism from many within mainstream Christianity. Critics argue that it creates a two-tiered system of salvation and rewards that is not clearly supported by Scripture. They also contend that it undermines the assurance of salvation and the unity of the body of Christ.
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Here we touch on a deeper matter of the truth mostly misunderstood by most.
Robert Govett did expound on these unpopular truths concerning Christian rewards and punishment when He returns. Reading his books always impresses the reader with brilliant careful exposition of scripture, regardless of the prevailing thoughts. Others before him presented fragments of the picture, but he put it together most clearly all the verses of Scripture.
GH Lang and DM Panton both built on his scholarship. Govett was challenged by many of his peers, which only served to refine the presentation of the details of the truth. He was always the Christian gentleman which won him the respect of his peers like Alford, Spurgeon, Darby, Newton, and many others. Sadly, there are very few today who teach these truths, and their books are nearly lost in the Christian public.
I agree that the scripture clearly presents a
"two-tiered system of salvation and rewards." This corresponds with the two judgment seats which are to come. The
Bema Seat of Christ is only for the regenerated children of God, the members of His great house. The
Great White Throne is for those who are not written in the Lamb's Book of Life.
Let me quote fragments from what I just read yesterday from Govett's pamhlet, "
Sins Before Faith & Sins After Faith." (Page 34)
There are TWO SALVATIONS spoken of in the New Testament. The first is that which is possessed already by faith, and which ends assuredly in everlasting life.
But there is a future salvation, which looks onward to the day of Christ's appearing as its time of possession.
The gift of God is one thing; and it is received by grace. The prize of God is another thing; and it is to be won, as its name shows, according to works. For two objects are set before the eyes of the disciples (1.) ETERNAL LIFE, and (2.) THE MILLENNIAL KINGDOM.