Christian Eschatology - Realised Eschatology

Question 1

What scholar made an argument for realised eschatology and in what book did he write about this?

Answer 1

C.H.Dodd (1884-1973)

‘Apostolic Preaching and its Developments’

Question 2

What did Dodd argue?

Answer 2

That the ‘last things have already happened and was realised in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus

Question 3

What Bible quote does Dodd use to support his argument ?

Answer 3

‘the kingdom of God has already come upon you.’ (Matthew 12:28)

Question 4

How was Dodd’s argument for realised eschatology criticised?

Answer 4

Dodd misinterpreted the Greek translation of the Bible, which said ‘the Kingdom is at hand’, which actually means that the Kingdom is nearer but has not actually come

Question 5

Following criticism how did Dodd change his argument?

Answer 5

Changed it to inaugurated eschatology - the Kingdom had ‘begun’ but was not completely realised yet