Present Reality

The concept of present reality in the Bible refers to the current state of the world and humanity as it exists under the sovereignty of God. This reality is marked by the presence of sin, the ongoing work of redemption through Jesus Christ, and the active role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.

1. The Fallen World: The present reality is characterized by the fallen state of creation due to sin. Genesis 3 describes the entrance of sin into the world through Adam and Eve's disobedience, resulting in a curse upon the earth and humanity. Romans 8:22 states, "We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time."

2. Redemption through Christ: Despite the fallen state, the present reality includes the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. John 3:16 affirms, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This redemption is available to all who believe and is central to the Christian experience in the present age.

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the present reality by guiding, comforting, and empowering believers. In John 14:26, Jesus promises, "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you." The Spirit's presence is a guarantee of the believer's inheritance and a source of strength in the present age.

4. The Church's Mission: The present reality includes the mission of the Church to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. Matthew 28:19-20 commands, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

Future Reality

The future reality, as depicted in the Bible, encompasses the eschatological hope of believers, including the return of Christ, the final judgment, and the establishment of a new heaven and a new earth.

1. The Second Coming of Christ: The future reality is marked by the anticipated return of Jesus Christ. Acts 1:11 records the angels' message to the disciples, "This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven." This event is a cornerstone of Christian hope and expectation.

2. The Final Judgment: The Bible teaches that a final judgment will occur, where all individuals will be held accountable for their actions. Revelation 20:12 describes this scene: "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books."

3. The New Creation: The future reality includes the promise of a new heaven and a new earth, where God will dwell with His people. Revelation 21:1-4 provides a vision of this future: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more... He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away."

4. Eternal Life for Believers: The future reality promises eternal life for those who have faith in Christ. John 5:24 assures, "Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life."

The present and future realities as described in the Bible provide a comprehensive understanding of the Christian worldview, emphasizing the ongoing work of God in the world and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises.