What Is The Significance Of The Use Of The Phrase Deuteros Parousia In 2 Thessalonians 2:8, And How Does It Relate To The Apocalyptic Imagery Found In The Book Of Daniel, Specifically In Daniel 7:22-27, Within The Context Of Early Christian Eschatological Thought And The Polemical Responses To Jewish Messianic Expectations During The Late 1st Century CE?
The phrase "deuteros parousia" signifies the second coming of Christ, a concept present in 2 Thessalonians 2:8, where Paul describes Jesus' triumph over evil. This idea aligns with the apocalyptic imagery in Daniel 7:22-27, where the saints receive the kingdom after defeating the oppressive horn.
In early Christian eschatology, the parousia represents the ultimate divine intervention and judgment, fulfilling the expectations set in Daniel's vision. This connection allowed early Christians to link their beliefs to Jewish apocalyptic traditions, presenting Jesus as the Messiah who would bring God's kingdom.
During the late 1st century, this served as a polemical response to Jewish messianic expectations, arguing that Jesus was the fulfillment of prophetic hopes. The use of Daniel's imagery provided hope and assurance to early Christians, reinforcing their belief in God's triumph over evil.