CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 INTRODUCTION

2.2 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK 

Eschatology in the 21st Century

The term eschatology, which stems from the Greek "eschatos" meaning last, refers to theological issues related to the ultimate fate of humankind, including death, judgment, heaven, hell, and the ultimate destination of mankind. Historically, one of the major parts of Christian theology, it has greatly contributed to the understanding of Christianity regarding the end of times and fulfillment of divine plans. It can be seen from the latest scholarly debates (2023 onwards) that eschatology in the new millennium has gone through renewal and evolution due to global catastrophes, technological advancements, and integration of disciplines.

Recent literature argues that eschatology is still an important theological language for understanding the human being and the future. Carey(2023) for example, claims that recent eschatological literature has been delving into the resurrection, the second coming, and eternal life, which are the primary biblical motifs, but it has also been rereading them from the perspective of present realities (2023). They are not only theological, but also human, talking about death, meaning, and the desire for hope in a worried world. Likewise, Landes (2023)sees eschatology as a set of beliefs about the end of time and the final fate of man, and he points out the fact that it has been relevant throughout the times and across faiths.

One of the trends that can be observed among the eschatology of the 21st century is moving from purely futuristic perspectives to the perspective that concerns reality. As Schlebusch (2023) states, “eschatology involves not only future events but also human activities in the present.” The concept of eschatology called realized or inaugurated eschatology is grounded on the idea that some elements of the “end times” are already being realized due to changes in human society and spirituality.

The other important issue that affects contemporary discussion about eschatology relates to the relationship between theology and science. According to researchers such as Gionti (2023), the debate between theological and scientific theories related to the creation of the Universe, for example, the Big Bang theory, is ongoing. While it raises questions and creates conflict between the two perspectives, this debate also creates possibilities for a dialogue. According to Nürnberger (2017, as cited in ), advances in science also pose challenges for traditional eschatological beliefs and require re-thinking of concepts like resurrection or eternal life.

In addition, modern eschatology is also affected by contemporary developments and sociopolitical crises around the world. According to modern analyses, periods of crisis such as epidemics, wars, or climate changes make people interested in the end-times more than usual. People look for some kind of spiritual salvation at times of great uncertainty. Indeed, as reported by Encyclopaedia Britannica (2026, ), crises throughout history led to eschatological expectations in one way or another.

Moreover, modern eschatological thinking has been influenced by different theological schools and exegeses. One of the issues is the doctrine of rapture and millennialism. According to Youvan (2024), the history of rapture theology shows its emergence as an individual interpretation in the context of evangelical Christianity. It contradicts the traditional understanding of eschatology by suggesting the occurrence of a separate event when people who follow Christ will be raised in heaven before the period of suffering.

Another recent trend in the field is the contextual approach to eschatology in different cultures, for example, in Africa. Researchers point out that in most cases, African views on eschatology include elements of traditional religion and culture related to ancestor worship, spirit belief, and collective destiny. The combination of traditional beliefs and biblical texts generates unique interpretations that vary significantly according to local conditions and cultural traditions..

Technological developments and digital media also have affected contemporary discussion of eschatology. With the spread of social media, many end-of-times teachings and ideas can be easily distributed on the internet, resulting in speculation about what is actually contained in sacred texts. Even though this has contributed to the popularization of eschatology and made more people interested in the concept, there is a danger that certain messages will be distorted, and scholars note the importance of critical reading and proper theological education to prevent this from happening.

In addition, ethic issues are important within modern discussion of eschatology, since many contemporary theologians claim that one's belief in apocalyptic events and end times must encourage people to live an ethical life and be socially responsible. Contrary to traditional views, which were preoccupied with future salvation, 21st-century eschatology encourages people to take care of their lives in the current world.

Moreover, interdisciplinary approaches have quite recently expanded the eschatological investigations. For example, a group of specialists from different fields including philosophy, sociology, and anthropology contribute to understanding the social role of eschatological beliefs more profoundly. This multidisciplinary perspective highlights how eschatology plays a part in the creation of cultural narratives, identity, and collective aspirations. Besides, it makes us aware of the necessity of dialogues between theology and other fields for the nature of the quite intricate questions regarding the future.

However, the eschatological research in the twenty-first century still encounters several issues. One of the main difficulties is that a wide variety of different interpretations can hardly be avoided to confound and separate scholars and believers. Also, theological paradigms are in need of continuous updates through global rapid changes, so that it is hardly possible to come to final conclusions. Nevertheless, such issues on the other hand are the opportunity for research and discussion to go on.

In conclusion, a review of the literature reveals that eschatology in the 21st century is a vibrant and evolving field, shaped by the Bible, contemporary environment, and engagement with other disciplines. While concepts coming from the traditional scheme such as judgment, resurrection, and the end of the world are still dominant in the spotlight, many of the emerging perspectives however stress the transformation of the present moment, the moral responsibility, and the importance