last days
A distinction must be observed between "the last days" when the prediction relates to Israel, and the "last days" when the prediction relates to the church (1 Timothy 4:1-3); (2 Timothy 3:1-8); (Hebrews 1:1); (Hebrews 1:2); (1 Peter 1:4); (1 Peter 1:5); (2 Peter 3:1-9); (1 John 2:18); (1 John 2:19); (Jude 1:17-19). Also distinguish the expression the "last days" (plural) from "the last day" (singular); the latter expression referring to the resurrections and last judgment; (John 6:39); (John 6:40); (John 6:44); (John 6:54); (John 11:24); (John 12:48). The "last days" as related to the church began with the advent of Christ (Hebrews 1:2) but have especial reference to the time of declension and apostasy at the end of this age; (2 Timothy 3:1); (2 Timothy 4:4). The "last days" as related to Israel are the days of Israel's exaltation and blessing, and are synonymous with the kingdom-age; (Isaiah 2:2-4); (Micah 4:1-7). They are "last" not with reference to this dispensation, but with reference to the whole of Israel's history.