American Seventh-Day Adventist Latter Rain Synopsis

The original purpose of this study was to determine the function of the latter-rain terminology within Seventh-day Adventist theology; and this portion of the study was very rewarding. The latter rain being found to be a symbol for the special bestowal of grace—which is as real as the air we breathe—by the Holy Spirit which brings the work of grace in the soul to completion.

However, as I attempted to set this work of the Holy Spirit and the circumstances under which it was realized in a contemporary context, the thesis took an unexpected turn and became a look at current eschatological formulations in the light of the already examined Seventh-day Adventist symbol which carries with it much eschatology.

Our evaluations of the surveyed materials point up to the conclusion that eschatological symbols carry a meaning that gives continuity with the historical predecessors most readily when they are seen as being portrayers of a reality that is recognizable through the symbol employed.

Therefore, it was our conclusion that current eschatological studies could be strengthened by a re-evaluation of the older theological stance which saw eschatological messages in scripture as pointers to a coming of events that could be seen—though dimly—with enough clarity to enable and require preparation on the part of those to whom the Biblical messages were addressed.

This thesis is approximately 48,000 words.