What defines premillennialism?

Premillennialism is defined by the belief that Christ will return before the establishment of a thousand-year reign, known as the millennium. This theological perspective emphasizes a literal interpretation of biblical texts regarding the end times, where the return of Jesus occurs prior to the millennium, leading to a period of peace and righteousness on earth. The central tenet is that Christ's second coming will initiate this age, during which He will reign directly.

Understanding the significance of Christ's return in this context helps clarify why this viewpoint is distinct among various eschatological positions. Those who adhere to premillennialism often look to scriptural references such as Revelation 20:1-6, which specifically states that Christ will reign for a thousand years following His return.

The other positions do not align with the premillennial perspective. For example, viewing Christ's return as occurring after the millennium contradicts the definition of premillennialism itself. Similarly, actions that describe Christ reigning during the millennium without acknowledging His return before it misrepresent the sequence of events that this doctrine outlines. Lastly, interpreting the millennium as a metaphor would imply a non-literal understanding of the text, which is not in keeping with premillennial belief, as adherents typically affirm a