A deadly pursuit? Dangerous ideas at the end of history

From ancient times the idea of a millennial period preceding the end of history - like that described in the closing chapters of the New Testament 'Book of Revelation' - has been a common theme across cultures and religious traditions. Within the Christian tradition - and increasingly beyond its boundaries - the words of John of Patmos have echoed for almost two thousand years as groups of Christians have longed for, and occasionally sought to bring about, a new heaven and a new earth where the elect will reign with Christ for a thousand years. In this envisioned millennial kingdom of the saints, God will wipe away all tears, and death, sorrow and pain will have passed away. Meanwhile, those who have opposed and persecuted God's chosen will face divine judgment and wrath.