Gathering the Glory. Language, Resurrection and the Eschatological Significance of Missions

Abstract

Summary Europeans are increasingly challenged by the multiplicity of languages that surround them. In this paper I offer a thought experiment on what our best answer regarding the phenomenon of language in the new creation might be, and I suggest that this might help Christians to engage positively with the multiple languages in their daily lives and local churches. I argue that we should expect the presence of a diversity of languages in the new creation. I do so on the basis of a biblical-theological analysis of key scriptural passages, support from the doctrine of the resurrection, and an appreciation of the significance of missions for language in the eschaton. These steps lead to a weighing of conceivable alternatives and a defence of my preferred solution. I conclude that these results encourage a generous and hospitable attitude towards speakers of other languages and provide a renewed incentive to make space for them in our churches and our lives.