The word “generation” has more than one meaning in scripture and in general. We have been thinking in terms of a group of people of a similar age in any particular period of time as being a “generation” and then their offspring as a generation, and so on. We have been trying to determine the length of a generation as a tool to unlock prophecy. There are different opinions on the length of a generation and the implication of that span of time based on Jesus’ statement in the gospels that “this generation will not pass away” after He described end-time events to the disciples.
I am certain the Lord was not using the term “this generation” in those scriptures to describe ANY ARBITRARY PERIOD OF TIME whether 40 years or 70 years or ANY length of time relating to human procreation.
Another meaning of generation is to produce something or cause something to happen. Ideas are generated. Culture and fads are generated. Electricity and energy is generated. Children can generate a mess in your house! Things that are generated can be either good or bad.
The Lord Jesus “generated the Church. That new thing in the earth; humans who were born again spiritually. A new product so to speak. Jesus was the generator. He was speaking to his disciples, the first to be generated. The Church, the Body of Christ, from the first disciples to the present time is the result or the product of that generation. He said “THIS GENERATION” will not pass away until all these things happen. THE CHURCH would not pass away until all these things be accomplished NOT those particular disciples that He was speaking to at that time. They died; they did not see all these things happen. We may be here somewhat longer than we have hoped. (Sigh!)
The term “this generation” is used in a similar way to describe the Pharisees. He called them an “evil generation.“ HE WAS NOT TALKING ABOUT A PERIOD OF TIME, but the product of a generator. They were generated by the father of lies! And that “generation” -- the tares -- will also be here at the end of the age according to scripture.
The question is what does this mean as far as our study of eschatology? As far as a pretrib rapture? I don’t know. I just know that God dropped this concept into my mind a few days ago, and I know I am supposed to share it with all you Doves.
I have been a Dove for many years, since the late 90’s when the internet was still fairly new. I have only posted once or twice over the years, but I never miss a day reading. The Doves is basically my church. I am so grateful and amazed and humbled that the Lord has allowed me of all people to be part of this amazing Work. I love ALL you Doves so much! GOD BLESS YOU RICHLY, JOHN TNG. Thank you so much!
This generation:
Matthew 24:34 Verily, I say unto you, this generation shall not pass till all these things be fulfilled.
Also Luke 21:32, Mark 13:30
Evil generation:
Matthew 16:4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.
Also Luke 11:29, Acts 2:40