Christianity Quote by N.T. Wright
““This means that the church, the followers of Jesus Christ, live in the bright interval between Easter and the final great consummation. Let's make no mistake either way. The reason the early Christians were so joyful was because they knew themselves to be living not so much in the last days (that that was true too) as in the first days - the opening days of God's new creation. What Jesus did was not a mere example of something else, not a mere manifestation of some larger truth; it was itself the climatic event and fact of cosmic history.””
About This Quote
Early Christians saw their era as the inaugural phase of a divine new creation, interpreting Jesus' life as the pivotal, historic climax rather than a mere illustration.
In simple terms: Jesus' life is the historic climax of a new creation.
Key Takeaway
Living in the 'first days' offers hopeful perspective.
Themes
theology
eschatology
joyful anticipation
historical significance
Mood
hopeful
reverent
inspired
Type
theological
historical
When to use this quote
- faith community worship
- personal spiritual reflection
- historical study of early church
Key Concepts
Easter interval
new creation
Christ's role
cosmic climax
Practical Applications
- sermons emphasizing present joy
- educational curricula on early Christianity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does framing history as a 'bright interval' affect believers' outlook?
- What implications does this have for eschatological expectations?
