The Implications of Paul’s Eschatological Thought for Today’s Churches
The parousia is the most emphasized event in both the first and second letters written to the Thessalonians. For emergency reasons related to the historical context, the apostle to the Gentiles intervenes surgically, instructing the believers in Thessalonica regarding the second coming of Christ, since the mistaken understanding of the doctrine of the last things (ἐσχατολογία) was causing disturbances in the church.
In the second letter to the Thessalonians, there was a misunderstanding similar to the first regarding the parousia; however, the reason for their distress was the opposite of the inaugural letter. While the church’s earlier concern was uncertainty about the fate of those who had already died, now it was believed that the Day of the Lord had already come and that the second coming was imminent, to the point that many were neglecting their socioeconomic responsibilities.
Thus, Paul resorts to the most effective means of his era to resolve an ecclesiological matter, explaining clearly and lucidly the signs that would precede the second coming of the Lord Jesus. One of these signs is apostasy (ἀποστασία), which, in the original sense of this passage, refers to a rebellion against God. Regardless of the interpretive line, however, this apostasy would precede the spiritual decline and the appearance of the son of perdition.
From an analysis of the eschatological perspective of the second letter to the believers in Thessalonica, today’s church can and should draw valuable lessons to nurture an edifying and balanced spirituality, awaiting the Lord’s coming with an optimistic and hopeful vision. Today, much is said of an alarmist apocalyptic eschatology, which provokes frustration, fear, and legalism.
However, one should not live carelessly either, oscillating between extremes, as happened with the Thessalonians. The spiritual life must be treated with seriousness but with the lightness of the sweet presence of the Holy Spirit, who testifies to the heart of the born-again believer the certainty of their salvation.
Therefore, the conviction of the parousia is unquestionable, but its imminence is unknown; no one knows the day or the hour. The example to be followed is that of the five wise virgins, who did not neglect their devotional life and were always prepared, in total vigilance. So too must the Bride be, for the Bridegroom comes seeking her.
