May 24

A DEEPER LOOK INTO THE AGES ( EONS )

According to Joseph Kirk and A. E. Knoch:

-"The teaching of the scriptures concerning the eons has been concealed from many by the inconsistencies of the translators. An understanding of the eons and God’s eonian purpose, results in a revelation of God that is most enlightening and edifying. His every attribute becomes more wonderful and glorious. The truth on this subject reveals undreamed of value and success in the saving work of our Lord Jesus Christ. It leads to the solution of many difficult problems which exercise the hearts and minds of spiritual believers. The meaning of the word “eon” is clearly indicated by the way God has used it in the scriptures.

I. What is meant by an Eon?

An eon is a long period of time; an age.

II. The Eons have a beginning.

( Heb. 1:2 ) God made the eons … God made the worlds …

( 1 Cor. 2:7 ) Before the eons … Before the world …

( 2 Ti. 1:9 ) Before eonian times … Before the world began …

III. The Eons end, individually and collectively.

( Heb. 9:26 ) The end of the eons … The end of the world …

( 1 Cor. 10:11 ) The ends of the eons … The ends of the world …

( Mat. 24:3 ) The end of the eon … The end of the world …

IV. How many eons are there?

( Col. 1:26 ) Hid from eons … Hid from ages …

( Lu. 20:34 ) This eon … This world …

( Eph. 2:7 ) Eons to come … Ages to come …

*So … Seven distinct divisions are indicated, pre-eonian time ( 2 Tim. 1:9 ), five eons, two of which are future ( referred to as the eons of the eons ), and time after the conclusion of the eons ( Heb 9:26; 1 Cor. 15:28 ). There are past eons, this present eon, eons to come, and that which is before and after the eons.

V. The purpose of the eons.

( Eph. 3:8-11 ) Purpose of the eons … Eternal purpose …

( Eph. 1:9-10; Phil. 2:9-11; Col. 1:15-21; I Cor. 15:22-28 )

-Apart from a knowledge of these eons or ages, God’s plans and purpose are shrouded in darkness and doubt. In their light He is transformed from a heartless fiend into a most affectionate Creator and Reconciler, Who does all in love, Who will bring His creatures to Himself, through sin and suffering, and severe judgment for the unbeliever, on the basis of the blood of Christ’s cross." ( Quotes and excerpts on, The Eons or Ages, from Joseph E. Kirk and A. E. Knoch )

-The eons are the longest periods of time referred to in the scriptures. They should be distinguished from the eras and dispensations. The dispensations within the eons are:

1. INNOCENCE

2. CONSCIENCE

3. HUMAN GOVERNMENT

4. PROMISE

5. LAW

6. GRACE

7. THE MILLENNIUM ( THE EON )

8. THE AGE OF THE AGES ( THE EON OF THE EONS )

-Enjoy your search concerning the eons of our GREAT GOD! Throughout this search you will discover the purpose of your Father, WHICH IS TO BE ALL IN ALL!

-READ ROMANS 11:36!-