The concept of "This Age and the Age to Come" is a significant theme in biblical eschatology, reflecting the temporal dualism present in Scripture. This dualism distinguishes between the current era of human history and a future period characterized by the full realization of God's kingdom.

This Age

"This Age" refers to the present world order, marked by human sinfulness, suffering, and the influence of evil. It is the time in which humanity lives under the consequences of the Fall, as described in Genesis 3. The Apostle Paul frequently contrasts this age with the age to come, highlighting the temporal nature of the current world system. In 1 Corinthians 2:6, Paul speaks of "the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing," indicating the transient and flawed nature of current worldly powers.

Jesus Himself acknowledged the challenges of this age, warning His disciples of persecution and trials. In Matthew 13:22, He explains the parable of the sower, noting that "the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful." This age is characterized by spiritual warfare, as believers contend with the "god of this age" (2 Corinthians 4:4), who blinds the minds of unbelievers.

The Age to Come

In contrast, "The Age to Come" represents the future era inaugurated by the return of Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. This age is characterized by the fulfillment of God's promises, the restoration of creation, and the ultimate defeat of sin and death. Jesus often spoke of the age to come in terms of eternal life and the kingdom of God. In Mark 10:30, He promises that those who sacrifice for His sake will receive "a hundredfold in the present age, and in the age to come, eternal life."

The age to come is depicted as a time of renewal and restoration. Revelation 21:1-4 describes a new heaven and a new earth, where God will dwell with His people, and "there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This future age is the culmination of God's redemptive plan, where righteousness and peace will reign.

Transition Between the Ages

The transition from this age to the age to come is a central focus of New Testament eschatology. It is initiated by the second coming of Christ, an event that will bring judgment and the consummation of God's kingdom. In Matthew 24:3, the disciples ask Jesus about the signs of His coming and the end of the age, indicating their understanding of a future transition.

Believers are called to live in anticipation of the age to come, maintaining faith and hope amidst the trials of this age. In Titus 2:12-13, Paul exhorts Christians to "live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age, as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ."

Already, But Not Yet

The New Testament also presents the concept of "already, but not yet," where aspects of the age to come are already present through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The kingdom of God has been inaugurated but awaits its full realization. In Ephesians 1:21, Paul speaks of Christ being seated "far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in the present age but also in the one to come."

This tension calls believers to live as citizens of the kingdom, embodying its values and mission while awaiting its complete fulfillment. The Holy Spirit serves as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come (2 Corinthians 1:22), empowering believers to live in the light of the future age.