Good afternoon Nancy!
Transmillennialism is defined as: The belief that the millennial reign of Christ brought about the change, or transformation of the ages, from the Old to the New Covenant in A.D. 70. Also known as covenant eschatology, or a preterist view of Scripture.
Preterism is theology just like futurism. Although often referred to as a "view" (though in the sense that it is a way to see scripture,) it is not a "world view" in that it does not seek to address how a fulfilled and realized Kingdom lifts up and comforts individuals, brings acceptance and healing and in so doing builds society up.
Transmillennialism balances the knowledge in our heads (Theology) with our love for God and others in our hearts (Worship) so that it flows from our hands in ministry (Service) to others. In short, it is the Head, Heart and Hands for the believer.
Transmillennialism encompasses three major areas of study, theology,as discussed here; history and culture of the first century; and future building for the church of the 21st century so that we may be a postive element for stabilizing culture so that following generations need not be terrified and terrorized by futurist thinking. It is taking people where they are, not to convert to doctrine (that is what the Jews did) but to bring them into relationship with God, just as Jesus said he was here to do and what he expects those of us that follow to continue to do. To illuminate others to the very real fact that they are now in God's presence...no waiting required.
Transmillennialism has been presented to Biblical scholars at Westminster Abby, Harvard University, The World Future Society's Annual Meeting in 2001 and to the leading Religious Leaders in Palestine including Elias Chacour who has been nominated three times for the Nobel Peace Prize. Many Futurist leaders in this country try unsucessfully to meet with him, and he turns them down. Instead he was the featured writer for Presence Magazine in 2001. This year, Dr. Naim Ateek who is the director of the Sabeel Theology Centre in Jerusalem is the featured writer.
If you would like to know more about what Transmillennialism is about here are some resources to check out:
The Official Website for Living Presence Ministries -- Many good articles in the database.
Presence Books
LPM Message Board
Presence Magazine Online
Starting Wednesday, Living Presence Ministries is also sponsoring its National Transmillenial Conference to be held in Warren, Oh. This years subject, "The Restoration of All Things."
Transmill 2002 Conference
If you would like to hear an interview recently held between John Anderson of Lighthouse Productions and Tim King, President of LPM then check this archive link:
John Anderson, "The Voice of Reason" May 9 and 19th.
In His service and yours,
--Beth