The hope is of Christ for heaven. Prophecy treats of events for the earth, which a better knowledge of the Word learns to be subsequent. There is no earthly sign revealed to intercept the hope of Christ's coming for us, to receive us to Himself.
The language of Scripture joins issue with the theology of the schools. Christendom has lost the tongue of Canaan, because the truth is no longer a living reality for men. The Apostle put no date and made not a shade of error. Like his Master, he in the Spirit would have the saints ever waiting and looking for Christ's coming.
How could it surprise any suddenly if it cannot be before a thousand years of peace beyond example? The coming of the Lord rightly held presupposes the believer resting on redemption, sealed with the Holy Spirit of God, and already meet for the inheritance of the saints in light. [45]