Atos 2:17

last days

A distinction must be observed between "the last days" when the prediction relates to Israel, and the "last days" when the prediction relates to the church 1 Timothy 4:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:1-8; Hebrews 1:1; Hebrews 1:2; 1 Peter 1:4; 1 Peter 1:5; 2 Peter 3:1-9; 1 John 2:18; 1 John 2:19; Jude 1:17-19. Also distinguish the expression the "last days" (plural) from "the last day" (singular); the latter expression referring to the resurrections and last judgment ; John 6:39; John 6:40; John 6:44; John 6:54; John 11:24; John 12:48. The "last days" as related to the church began with the advent of Christ Hebrews 1:2 but have especial reference to the time of declension and apostasy at the end of this age ; 2 Timothy 3:1; 2 Timothy 4:4. The "last days" as related to Israel are the days of Israel's exaltation and blessing, and are synonymous with the kingdom-age ; Isaiah 2:2-4; Micah 4:1-7. They are "last" not with reference to this dispensation, but with reference to the whole of Israel's history.