Finis Dake’s Teaching that Humans Will have Babies on Earth Forever

Part 1: What Dake Actually Taught About Eternal Procreation

Finis Dake’s teaching on eternal procreation is not a minor or obscure doctrine in his theological system. It appears repeatedly throughout his major works, including his annotated study Bible, his book “God’s Plan for Man” (GPFM), “Revelation Expounded,” and other publications. Dake believed and taught that there would be two distinct classes of people in eternity: glorified saints with immortal bodies who would rule, and natural human beings who would continue to marry, have children, and populate the earth forever.

The Core of Dake’s Teaching

In his book “Revelation Expounded,” Dake makes his position crystal clear. He writes: “Natural men who are true to God at the end of the Millennium will multiply and replenish the Earth forever” (Revelation Expounded, Chapter on Ages and Dispensations). This is not an isolated statement but a consistent theme throughout his writings.

Dake bases this teaching on his literal interpretation of various Old Testament passages about “eternal generations.” In “Revelation Expounded,” he provides an extensive list of Scripture references that he believes prove eternal procreation will occur. He states:

This extensive list reveals how Dake built his doctrine by collecting every verse that mentions “eternal,” “forever,” or “everlasting” in connection with Israel, covenants, or generations, and then interpreting them all to mean literal eternal procreation.

Dake’s Two-Class System in Eternity

Central to Dake’s teaching is his belief that there will be two distinct classes of beings throughout eternity. In “Revelation Expounded,” he explicitly teaches:

Class 1 – Glorified Saints: These are the resurrected believers who will have immortal bodies. According to Dake, they will not marry or have children. He writes: “Eternal bodily life of the heavenly saints will not depend upon such trees for they will have immortal bodies” (Revelation Expounded).

Class 2 – Natural Humans: These are people who survive the tribulation and millennium in their natural bodies and continue living as natural humans forever. Dake states: “The nations of natural men on earth who will still be divided into nations and peoples and live throughout the New Earth to plant, harvest, build, multiply, and replenish it” (Revelation Expounded, Chapter 45).

This two-class system is fundamental to Dake’s entire eschatological framework. He believes these natural humans will need the leaves of the tree of life for the preservation of their natural life. As he explains:

The Scale of Dake’s Vision

Dake did not see this as a limited or temporary arrangement. He envisioned vast multitudes of people being born throughout eternity. When addressing potential objections about the earth’s capacity to hold such populations, he wrote:

“Some may object to our taking the Scripture so literally, but we find no authority for doing otherwise. Others may object because of the seeming impossibility of the earth to hold so many multiplying generations to come, and refuse to believe. But is the God who created all things now limited in power that He cannot do what He has foretold? God could easily take care of future generations, when necessary, by populating other planets or enlarging this one.” (Revelation Expounded)

Remarkably, Dake even suggests that humans might colonize other planets throughout eternity: “From Ps. 8 we understand that man was supposed to have dominion over all the works of God’s hands. This would include the planets. It seems, therefore, logical to believe that in the future restoration, when man comes into full possession of his rights, that he will have access to these planets which are a part of God’s handiwork.” (Revelation Expounded)

Dake’s Interpretation of Isaiah 59:21

One of Dake’s key proof texts for eternal procreation is Isaiah 59:21. He provides detailed analysis of this passage in “Revelation Expounded”:

This interpretation reveals Dake’s hermeneutical approach: he takes the most literal possible meaning of every term and applies it universally, even into eternity.

The “Thousand Generations” Argument

Dake also uses passages that mention “a thousand generations” to support his doctrine. He writes:

“Besides all these, which are just as plain as they read, and mean just what they say, there are three passages speaking of a ‘thousand generations’ (Dt. 7:9; 1 Chron. 16:15; Ps. 105:8), which is a Hebraism for ‘perpetual generations,’ as is plainly stated in Gen. 9:12. In Ps. 90:10 we have the allotted life of man to be seventy to eighty years. If the ‘thousand generations’ were to be figured on this basis we should have the continuance of the human race for 70,000 to 80,000 years.” (Revelation Expounded)

He then adds: “This would be just as hard to conceive of as eternal generations, and where do we get any information that they are to cease even after this long period?”

Natural Functions Continuing Forever

According to Dake, many natural, earthly functions will continue forever. He lists numerous activities that he believes will characterize the eternal state:

Dake explicitly states: “Planting and harvesting, cold and heat, summer and winter while the earth remains, Gen. 8:22; Ps. 104:5; Eccl. 1:4. Certainly glorified saints will not be the ones to plow, sow, reap, and enjoy the fruits of such labors.” (Revelation Expounded)

Part 2: Dake’s Treatment of Key Biblical Texts

To understand the full scope of Dake’s error, we must examine how he handles specific biblical passages that seem to contradict his teaching.

Matthew 22:30 and the Marriage Question

One of the most significant challenges to Dake’s doctrine comes from Jesus’ own words in Matthew 22:30: “For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.”

Dake attempts to circumvent this clear teaching by creating his two-class distinction. In one of his books, he argues that this verse only applies to resurrected saints, not to natural humans who never died. He claims that Jesus was only answering a question about the resurrection, not about all people in eternity.

However, this interpretation creates a serious problem. If there are going to be billions of natural humans being born throughout eternity who never experience resurrection, then Christ’s victory over death is incomplete. Death would not truly be the “last enemy” destroyed (1 Corinthians 15:26) if multitudes of humans remain subject to natural life that requires preservation through the tree of life.

The Tree of Life Interpretation

Dake’s interpretation of the tree of life in Revelation 22 is crucial to his system. He writes:

This interpretation misses the symbolic and commemorative aspects of the tree of life in the eternal state. Dake assumes that because the tree of life exists, there must be natural humans who need it for physical sustenance. However, this overlooks other possible purposes for the tree, such as representing eternal life as a gift from God or serving as a memorial of redemption.

Genesis 9:12 and Eternal Covenants

Dake frequently cites Genesis 9:12 and God’s covenant with Noah as proof of eternal procreation. He argues that since God made an “everlasting covenant” with Noah and his descendants, and with “every living creature,” this must mean eternal natural reproduction.

He states: “Eternal natural life of men and multiplication of beasts, Gen. 9:9-17. Beasts will be used in the sacrifices and offerings as stated before. God would not make such a covenant with men and living creatures if they were not eternal.” (Revelation Expounded)

This interpretation fails to recognize that “everlasting” (Hebrew: olam) in the Old Testament often means “age-lasting” or pertaining to a particular dispensation, not necessarily eternal in the absolute sense. Furthermore, the idea that animal sacrifices will continue in eternity contradicts the book of Hebrews, which clearly teaches that Christ’s sacrifice ended the need for animal sacrifices forever (Hebrews 10:1-18).

Isaiah 65 and 66 – The New Heavens and New Earth

Dake heavily relies on Isaiah 65 and 66 for his doctrine. Regarding Isaiah 66:22-24, he writes:

“In Isa. 66:22-24 God again assures Israel that they shall be an eternal earthly people and as long as ‘the new heavens and new earth’ remain the following will also remain: (1) ‘So shall your (Israel’s) seed and your name remain.’… (2) There will be new moons and sabbaths in the worship of ‘all flesh’ before God forever… (3) They (all flesh, peoples) will go forth and look upon the men that have transgressed against God, who will abide in the lake of fire.” (Revelation Expounded)

Dake’s interpretation here is extremely literalistic. He takes prophetic language about the future restoration of Israel and applies it to an eternal state where natural Jews will literally observe new moons and sabbaths forever. This fails to account for the fulfillment of these shadows in Christ (Colossians 2:16-17) and the book of Hebrews’ teaching that the old covenant observances have passed away.

Part 3: The Theological Problems with Dake’s Teaching

Dake’s doctrine of eternal procreation creates numerous theological problems that strike at the heart of biblical Christianity.

Problem 1: The Incomplete Victory Over Death

Perhaps the most serious problem with Dake’s teaching is that it implies Christ’s victory over death is incomplete. According to 1 Corinthians 15:26, “The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.” However, in Dake’s system, natural humans would remain dependent on the tree of life for preserving their natural life forever.

If natural humans need the leaves of the tree of life to maintain their physical life, then they are still subject to potential death. They are not truly immortal but only conditionally sustained. This contradicts Revelation 21:4, which declares, “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”

Problem 2: An Eternal Caste System

Dake’s two-class system creates an eternal hierarchy that contradicts biblical teaching about equality in Christ. According to his view, glorified saints would rule over natural humans forever, creating a permanent overclass and underclass.

He explicitly states: “Redeemed men and faithful angels ruling over natural men and helping God administer affairs of the universe forever” (Ages and Dispensations). And again: “Such could not be true of heavenly saints, for they will inherit all things and reign over these peoples” (Revelation Expounded).

This eternal caste system contradicts Galatians 3:28, which teaches that in Christ “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” The idea that some humans will eternally rule while others are eternally ruled creates a fundamental inequality that seems incompatible with the perfect justice and love of God’s eternal kingdom.

Problem 3: The Purpose of Procreation

The Bible teaches that procreation serves specific purposes in God’s plan:

• To fill the earth (Genesis 1:28) – but Dake admits the earth would become overpopulated
• To continue the human race in the face of death (Genesis 3:16-20) – but death will be no more
• To bring forth the Messiah (Genesis 3:15) – already fulfilled in Christ
• To create the family as a picture of spiritual truths (Ephesians 5:31-32) – but the reality will have come

Once these purposes are fulfilled, there is no biblical reason for procreation to continue. Dake never adequately explains why God would want or need eternal procreation. His only answer is that God promised it would happen, based on his literalistic reading of certain texts.

Problem 4: The Nature of Eternal Life

Dake’s system fundamentally misunderstands the nature of eternal life as presented in Scripture. Biblical eternal life is not merely endless duration of natural life, but a qualitatively different kind of existence – life in union with God himself.

Jesus defined eternal life in John 17:3: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” This is not about biological reproduction or natural functions, but about relationship with God.

Dake, however, envisions eternity as essentially a perfected continuation of natural life. He writes about eternal planting, harvesting, cold and heat, summer and winter – essentially projecting current earthly life into eternity without transformation. This misses the radical newness of the new creation that Scripture promises.

Problem 5: The Relationship Between the Physical and Spiritual

Dake’s extreme literalism reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the relationship between physical and spiritual realities. He assumes that eternal promises must involve physical, biological fulfillment rather than spiritual realities.

For example, when God promises that David’s seed will sit on his throne forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16), Dake interprets this to mean literal, natural descendants physically reproducing forever. He doesn’t adequately consider that this promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who is both David’s son and eternal King.

This materialistic interpretation of spiritual promises reduces the glory of God’s eternal kingdom to an endless repetition of natural, earthly processes.

Part 4: Dake’s Hermeneutical Errors

Understanding how Dake arrived at his doctrine of eternal procreation requires examining his approach to biblical interpretation. His hermeneutical method contains several serious flaws that led him to this and other erroneous conclusions.

Error 1: Hyper-Literalism

Dake’s most fundamental error is his hyper-literal approach to Scripture. He himself admits this, stating: “Some may object to our taking the Scripture so literally, but we find no authority for doing otherwise” (Revelation Expounded).

This approach fails to recognize the various literary genres in Scripture – poetry, prophecy, apocalyptic literature, and wisdom literature all use figurative language. When Isaiah speaks of the wolf dwelling with the lamb (Isaiah 11:6), or when Revelation describes a city with streets of gold, these images convey spiritual truths through physical imagery.

Dake’s literalism is selective, however. He doesn’t interpret Jesus as a literal door (John 10:9) or believers as literal salt (Matthew 5:13). This inconsistency reveals that even Dake recognized some statements are figurative, but he failed to apply this recognition consistently.

Error 2: Ignoring Progressive Revelation

Dake fails to account for progressive revelation – the principle that God revealed His truth gradually throughout history, with later revelation building upon and clarifying earlier revelation. He treats all biblical passages as equally clear and equally applicable to all time periods.

For instance, when Old Testament passages speak of “eternal” sacrifices or priestly service, Dake doesn’t consider that these were shadows pointing to Christ (Hebrews 10:1). The book of Hebrews explicitly teaches that the old covenant practices were temporary, but Dake insists they will resume and continue forever.

Error 3: Failure to Recognize Prophetic Perspective

Old Testament prophets often described future realities using the language and concepts familiar to their original audience. When prophets spoke of Israel’s future blessing, they used terms their hearers would understand – agricultural abundance, military victory, long life, and numerous descendants.

Dake takes these prophetic descriptions and projects them literally into eternity without considering that the prophets were describing spiritual realities through physical imagery. When Isaiah speaks of new moons and sabbaths in the new heavens and earth, Dake sees literal lunar cycles and weekly observances rather than understanding these as symbols of perfect worship and rest.

Error 4: Misunderstanding “Eternal” and “Forever”

Dake makes a critical error in his understanding of the Hebrew word “olam” and the Greek word “aion,” often translated as “eternal” or “forever.” He writes: “The same words are used for eternity of God, so if one is eternal the others must be” (Revelation Expounded).

However, these words often mean “age-lasting” or refer to the duration of a particular dispensation, not necessarily eternal in the absolute sense. For example:

• The Aaronic priesthood was to be “everlasting” (Exodus 40:15), yet Hebrews says it has been replaced
• Circumcision was an “everlasting covenant” (Genesis 17:13), yet the New Testament teaches it is no longer required
• The Sabbath was a “perpetual covenant” (Exodus 31:16), yet Colossians says it was a shadow

Context determines whether these terms mean “eternal” in the absolute sense or “age-lasting” for a particular period. Dake’s failure to recognize this distinction leads him to see eternal duration where the Bible intends age-long duration.

Error 5: Proof-Texting Without Context

Dake’s method involves collecting numerous verses that contain certain words (like “eternal,” “seed,” or “generation”) and stringing them together to build his doctrine. This proof-texting approach ignores the context of each passage.

For example, he cites Genesis 8:22 (“While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease”) as proof of eternal seasons. But the verse explicitly says “while the earth remaineth” – indicating these things continue as long as the present earth exists, not necessarily in the new earth.

Part 5: The Biblical View of Eternity

To fully understand the error of Dake’s teaching, we must examine what the Bible actually teaches about the eternal state.

The Nature of the Resurrection

The Bible teaches that all believers will receive resurrection bodies like Christ’s glorious body (Philippians 3:21). These bodies will be:

• Imperishable – not subject to decay or death (1 Corinthians 15:42)
• Glorious – reflecting God’s glory (1 Corinthians 15:43)
• Powerful – not subject to weakness (1 Corinthians 15:43)
• Spiritual – fully animated by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 15:44)
• Heavenly – suited for eternal existence (1 Corinthians 15:49)

There is no biblical indication that some people will remain in natural bodies while others have resurrection bodies. The resurrection is presented as the hope of all believers, not just some special class.

The New Creation

Second Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” This principle applies not just individually but cosmically. Revelation 21:5 quotes God saying, “Behold, I make all things new.”

The new creation is not merely the old creation perfected and continued forever. It represents a fundamental transformation. The very categories of existence change:

Dake’s vision of eternity essentially extends the old creation indefinitely rather than embracing the radical newness Scripture promises.

The Fulfillment of God’s Purposes

Scripture presents history as moving toward a goal – the summing up of all things in Christ (Ephesians 1:10). This is not an endless cycle of birth and death, but a culmination where God’s purposes are fully realized.

Consider God’s stated purposes:

1. To display His glory – fulfilled when every knee bows and every tongue confesses
2. To defeat evil – fulfilled when Satan is cast into the lake of fire
3. To redeem a people – fulfilled when the full number of the elect is gathered
4. To restore creation – fulfilled in the new heavens and new earth
5. To dwell with His people – fulfilled when God makes His dwelling with man

None of these purposes requires or implies eternal procreation. They point to a definite conclusion, not an endless process.

The Biblical Picture of Eternal Life

The Bible’s description of eternal life focuses on relationship with God, not biological functions:

• Seeing God face to face (1 Corinthians 13:12; Revelation 22:4)
• Being like Christ (1 John 3:2)
• Serving God perfectly (Revelation 22:3)
• Reigning with Christ (Revelation 22:5)
• Enjoying perfect fellowship (Revelation 21:3)

The focus is vertical (toward God) and communal (with God’s people), not on horizontal expansion through procreation.

Part 6: The Influence of Dake’s Other Doctrinal Errors

Dake’s teaching on eternal procreation doesn’t exist in isolation. It connects to and flows from other problematic aspects of his theology. Understanding these connections helps explain how he arrived at such an unusual doctrine.

The Gap Theory Connection

Dake was a strong proponent of the Gap Theory – the idea that there was a previous creation that was destroyed between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2. He believed there were pre-Adamite races that were destroyed in Lucifer’s rebellion.

In his book “God’s Plan for Man,” Dake writes about God’s eternal plan involving multiple creations and restorations. This cyclical view of creation and restoration influences his view of eternity. Just as he sees multiple past creations, he envisions ongoing creation through procreation in eternity.

The Gap Theory itself lacks solid biblical support, and building further doctrines upon this shaky foundation only compounds the error. Dake’s willingness to speculate about pre-Adamite races shows the same tendency toward speculation that characterizes his teaching about eternal procreation.

Dake’s View of God’s Body

One of Dake’s most controversial teachings is that God the Father has a physical body. In his “God’s Plan for Man,” he presents detailed arguments that God has a body with specific dimensions and features.

This materialistic view of God influences his understanding of eternity. If God Himself has a physical body (in Dake’s view), then it follows that physicality and materiality are essential to existence, even eternal existence. This helps explain why Dake envisions eternity in such physical, material terms – with literal planting, harvesting, and procreation.

Misunderstanding of the Trinity

Dake’s confusion about the Trinity also contributes to his errors about eternity. He sometimes writes in ways that suggest the three persons of the Trinity are three separate beings rather than one God in three persons. This affects his understanding of how believers relate to God in eternity.

If the Trinity consists of three separate beings (as Dake sometimes implies), then the unity between God and believers in eternity might still allow for fundamental distinctions and classes – some ruling, others being ruled, some glorified, others natural. But if God is truly one, and believers are brought into union with Him, then the artificial distinctions Dake proposes cannot stand.

Dispensational Extremism

While dispensationalism itself is a legitimate theological framework, Dake takes it to extremes. He rigidly separates Israel and the Church, law and grace, and different groups of people in God’s plan. This hyper-dispensationalism leads him to envision these distinctions continuing forever.

For Dake, natural Israel must continue forever as a distinct natural people to fulfill God’s promises. This requires them to remain in natural bodies, which requires procreation. His rigid dispensationalism doesn’t allow for these promises to be fulfilled in a transformed, spiritual way.

Part 7: Historical and Theological Context

Dake’s teaching on eternal procreation is virtually unique in Christian history. Understanding why this doctrine has been rejected by orthodox Christianity throughout history provides important perspective.

The Historic Christian Position

From the early church fathers through the Reformers to modern evangelicals, Christian theology has consistently taught that procreation ceases in the eternal state. This isn’t because of tradition alone, but because of careful biblical exegesis.

Early Church Fathers: Augustine, in “The City of God,” explicitly addresses this issue. He argues that in the resurrection, while gender distinctions may remain, the purpose of sexuality (procreation) will cease. The body will be perfected for glory, not for biological reproduction.

Medieval Theologians: Thomas Aquinas, in his “Summa Theologica,” explains that procreation serves to continue the species in the face of death. When death is no more, procreation has no purpose. The resurrection body will be suited for its eternal purpose – glorifying God, not reproducing.

Reformers: John Calvin, commenting on Matthew 22:30, notes that earthly relationships are transformed in heaven. While we may recognize loved ones, the exclusive bonds of marriage and the need for procreation cease because all are perfectly united in Christ.

Modern Evangelicals: Virtually no respected evangelical theologian supports the idea of eternal procreation. This includes dispensationalists who might be expected to be sympathetic to Dake’s literalistic approach.

Why Dake’s Teaching Is Dangerous

Some might argue that Dake’s teaching about eternal procreation is merely speculative and harmless. However, this doctrine has serious negative implications:

1. It diminishes the glory of the eternal state by making it merely an improved version of the current world rather than a radically transformed existence.
2. It undermines the sufficiency of Christ’s work by suggesting that death is not fully conquered and that natural life must be perpetually sustained.
3. It creates confusion about the nature of eternal life, leading people to think in terms of biological existence rather than spiritual union with God.
4. It promotes an unhealthy materialism that values physical procreation over spiritual transformation.
5. It can lead to other doctrinal errors as people adopt Dake’s flawed hermeneutical method.

The Appeal of Dake’s Teaching

Despite its problems, Dake’s teaching has appeal for some people. Understanding this appeal helps us address the underlying concerns biblically:

Appeal to Human Experience: People can’t imagine existence without families, children, and human relationships as we know them. Dake’s vision seems to preserve what people value most about earthly life.

Biblical Response: The eternal state will be far better than we can imagine (1 Corinthians 2:9). We won’t miss earthly relationships because we’ll have something infinitely better – perfect union with God and all believers.

Appeal to Literalism: Some appreciate Dake’s commitment to taking the Bible “literally” and see this as more faithful than “spiritualizing” texts.

Biblical Response: True faithfulness to Scripture means interpreting it as intended. Forcing literalism on poetic or apocalyptic passages actually distorts their meaning rather than honoring it.

Appeal to Continuity: The idea that earthly life continues (perfected) into eternity seems to give meaning to our current existence and relationships.

Biblical Response: There is continuity between this life and the next, but it’s a continuity of persons and relationships transformed, not biological processes extended.

Part 8: Specific Problems with Eternal Procreation

Beyond the theological issues already discussed, Dake’s doctrine of eternal procreation creates numerous practical and logical problems that he never adequately addresses.

The Population Problem

If humans reproduce forever, the population would grow exponentially without limit. Dake acknowledges this problem but offers an inadequate solution:

This speculation about colonizing other planets has no biblical support. Moreover, it doesn’t solve the problem – it merely postpones it. Even with an infinite universe, exponential population growth would eventually fill any finite space. Would God keep creating new planets forever? This reduces God to a cosmic real estate developer, constantly expanding to accommodate endless population growth.

The Relationship Problem

If procreation continues forever, family relationships would become impossibly complex. Consider:

• After millions of years, how many descendants would one couple have?
• How would people relate to their million-times-great grandparents?
• Would family gatherings include billions of relatives?
• How would marriage work when potential partners might be related through thousands of genealogical lines?

These practical problems reveal the absurdity of projecting earthly patterns into eternity without transformation.

The Purpose Problem

Dake never explains why God would want eternal procreation. What purpose would it serve? In the current age, children are a blessing because:

• They continue the human race in the face of death
• They provide joy and fulfillment to parents
• They learn to know and love God
• They exercise dominion over creation

But in eternity:

• There is no death to overcome
• Joy and fulfillment are found perfectly in God
• All will know God fully
• Dominion will be perfectly exercised by glorified saints

What additional purpose would endless procreation serve?

The Inequality Problem

In Dake’s system, those born in eternity would never experience:

• The fall and redemption
• Salvation by grace through faith
• The struggle against sin
• The joy of conversion
• The experience of being rescued from death

They would be eternally second-class citizens who never experienced the drama of redemption. How could they fully appreciate God’s grace? How could they sing the song of the redeemed? This creates a fundamental inequality in the eternal state.

The Christological Problem

Most seriously, Dake’s system undermines the centrality of Christ. In Scripture, Christ is the goal of all history (Ephesians 1:10). Everything moves toward summing up all things in Him. But in Dake’s system, history has no culmination – it just continues endlessly with more births, more people, more expansion.

Furthermore, if billions of people will be born who never needed redemption (being born in the sinless eternal state), then Christ’s redemptive work affects only a tiny fraction of all humans who will ever exist. This diminishes the cosmic significance of the cross.

Part 9: Biblical Texts That Refute Eternal Procreation

While Dake marshals numerous proof-texts for his position, there are clear biblical passages that refute the idea of eternal procreation. Examining these texts demonstrates the biblical position.

Luke 20:34-36 – The Definitive Statement

Jesus’ clearest statement on this issue appears in Luke’s account of His discussion with the Sadducees:

Notice several key points:

1. “The children of this world” (literally “this age”) marry – marriage belongs to the current age
2. “That world” (literally “that age”) – the age to come is fundamentally different
3. “Neither marry, nor are given in marriage” – marriage ceases completely
4. “Neither can they die any more” – death is impossible, removing the need for procreation
5. “Equal unto the angels” – angels don’t procreate, neither will resurrected humans

Dake tries to limit this to resurrected saints only, but Jesus is contrasting “this age” with “that age” – the entire age to come, not just certain people in it.

1 Corinthians 15:24-28 – All Things Subjected

Paul describes the end goal of God’s plan:

“Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power… And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.”

This passage describes a definite culmination, not an endless process. God becomes “all in all” – not just ruling over an ever-expanding population of natural humans, but filling all things with His presence and glory. This is completion, not continuation.

Revelation 21:1-5 – All Things New

John’s vision of the eternal state emphasizes radical transformation:

“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea… And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new.”

Key observations:

• “The former things are passed away” – the old order, including procreation, has ended
• “No more death” – removing the primary reason for procreation
• “No more pain” – including the pain of childbirth (Genesis 3:16)
• “I make all things new” – not “I make all things better” but fundamentally new

Galatians 3:28 – Neither Male Nor Female

While gender distinctions may remain in some sense in eternity, Paul points to a transcending of these categories in Christ:

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”

In Christ, the fundamental distinction that enables procreation (male and female) is transcended. While this has a present application, its ultimate fulfillment is in the eternal state where these distinctions no longer serve their earthly purposes.

Ephesians 1:10 – The Summing Up

Paul reveals God’s ultimate purpose:

“That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him.”

This is a gathering together, a summing up, a bringing to completion – not an endless expansion. God’s plan has a goal: the unification of all things in Christ. Eternal procreation would mean this goal is never fully reached, as new people would constantly be added who need to be brought into this unity.

Part 10: The True Biblical Hope

Having examined the errors in Dake’s teaching, it’s important to present the true biblical hope for eternity. The Bible’s vision of eternal life is far more glorious than Dake’s naturalistic projection.

Perfect Union with God

The greatest promise of eternity is unmediated fellowship with God. Revelation 21:3 declares:

“And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.”

This is not God ruling over natural humans from a distance, but God dwelling with His people in perfect intimacy. The barrier between heaven and earth is removed. The separation caused by sin is forever ended.

Transformation, Not Continuation

The resurrection represents transformation, not merely continuation. Paul uses the analogy of a seed in 1 Corinthians 15:

The resurrection body is as different from the natural body as a plant is from a seed. It’s not simply the natural body made immortal, but a fundamentally transformed existence suited for eternal life with God.

The Beatific Vision

Christian theology has long emphasized the “beatific vision” – seeing God face to face – as the ultimate human fulfillment. 1 John 3:2 promises:

“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”

This vision of God will so satisfy the human heart that no earthly pleasure, including the joy of having children, could add to it. As the psalmist says, “In thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Psalm 16:11).

A New Kind of Creativity

While procreation may cease, human creativity will not. Revelation speaks of the glory and honor of the nations being brought into the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:26). This suggests that redeemed humanity will continue to create, build, and glorify God – but in ways that transcend biological reproduction.

The cultural mandate to exercise dominion (Genesis 1:28) will be fulfilled perfectly, but in a transformed way suited to the new creation. Rather than filling the earth through procreation, humanity will fill eternity with praise, worship, and creative expressions of God’s glory.

Perfect Relationships

While marriage and procreation cease, relationships do not. In fact, relationships will be perfected. The barriers that divide people – sin, misunderstanding, selfishness – will be removed. We will know and be known fully (1 Corinthians 13:12).

The exclusive relationship of marriage will be transcended by perfect love for all. The joy of parent-child relationships will be surpassed by the perfect family of God. Every relationship will be characterized by perfect love, understanding, and unity.

Part 11: Responding to Dake’s Specific Arguments

To thoroughly address Dake’s teaching, we must respond to his specific arguments and proof-texts. This section examines his major supporting passages and demonstrates proper interpretation.

Response to the “Eternal Generations” Argument

Dake cites numerous Old Testament passages that speak of “eternal” or “perpetual” generations. For example, he references Exodus 3:15:

“This is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.”

Proper Interpretation: The phrase “all generations” refers to all generations throughout history, not infinite future generations. It’s a Hebrew idiom for “throughout all time” or “as long as history continues.” When the current age ends and the eternal state begins, the concept of successive generations ends as well.

Furthermore, many of these “eternal” promises find their fulfillment in Christ and the church. When God promises David an eternal throne, this is fulfilled in Christ’s eternal reign, not in endless natural descendants sitting on a physical throne.

Response to the Tree of Life Argument

Dake argues that the tree of life in Revelation 22 proves natural humans will need its leaves for sustaining natural life forever. He writes:

“What is the purpose of the tree of life in the New Earth if it be not for the preservation of natural life?”

Proper Interpretation: The tree of life in Revelation 22 serves multiple purposes:

1. Symbolic Purpose: It represents the reversal of the curse. Humanity, barred from the tree of life in Genesis 3, now has free access to it.
2. Memorial Purpose: It serves as an eternal reminder of God’s provision of eternal life through Christ.
3. Worship Purpose: Eating from the tree may be an act of worship and communion with God, not biological necessity.
4. Healing of Nations: The “healing” (Greek: therapeia) can mean “service” or “care.” It may refer to the tree’s role in the ongoing blessing and service of the nations, not medical healing.

The text never states that people will die without the tree’s leaves. In a realm where death is impossible (Revelation 21:4), the tree cannot be necessary for preventing death.

Response to the Isaiah 65 Argument

Dake frequently cites Isaiah 65:17-25, particularly verse 20’s reference to death at a hundred years being considered young, as proof that natural life continues in the new earth.

Proper Interpretation: Isaiah 65 presents challenges for all interpreters, but several observations help:

1. Millennial vs. Eternal: Many interpreters see Isaiah 65:17-25 as describing the millennium, not the eternal state. The mention of death (v. 20) and the serpent eating dust (v. 25) suggest this is not the final eternal state where death is no more.
2. Prophetic Telescope: Isaiah may be looking at both the millennium and the eternal state, with the prophecy telescoping between them without clear distinction.
3. Phenomenological Language: The prophet describes future blessing in terms his audience could understand. Long life and numerous descendants were the highest blessings conceivable to ancient Israelites.
4. Already/Not Yet: The “new heavens and new earth” language can refer to the beginning of God’s restoration (starting with Christ’s first coming) rather than only the final state.

Using this difficult passage as a cornerstone for the doctrine of eternal procreation is problematic, especially when clearer New Testament passages contradict this interpretation.

Response to the Covenant Argument

Dake argues that God’s “everlasting covenants” with Noah, Abraham, and David require eternal natural descendants. He states:

“Such could not possibly be if the parties of the covenants were not eternal.”

Proper Interpretation: This argument misunderstands how covenants are fulfilled:

1. Fulfillment in Christ: The New Testament repeatedly shows that Old Testament promises find their “yes and amen” in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20). The Abrahamic covenant is fulfilled in Christ, the true seed of Abraham (Galatians 3:16).
2. Spiritual Fulfillment: The promises of land, descendants, and blessing are fulfilled spiritually in the church, which includes people from every nation who become Abraham’s spiritual descendants (Galatians 3:29).
3. Transformation, Not Termination: The covenants are not broken but transformed and fulfilled in a greater way than originally anticipated. Physical descendants become spiritual descendants; earthly land becomes the new creation; temporal blessing becomes eternal life.

Part 12: The Implications for Christian Living

Dake’s teaching about eternal procreation is not merely a theoretical error – it has practical implications for how Christians understand their purpose and live their lives today.

Wrong Focus in This Life

If procreation continues forever, then having children becomes an eternal purpose rather than a temporal calling. This can lead to:

• Idolizing Family: Making family and procreation ultimate rather than seeing them as temporary blessings pointing to eternal realities
• Devaluing Singleness: If procreation is eternal, then single people miss out on an eternal purpose, contradicting Paul’s teaching that singleness is preferable (1 Corinthians 7:7-8)
• Misunderstanding Mission: The Great Commission focuses on making disciples, not making babies. Spiritual reproduction through evangelism is emphasized over physical reproduction

Wrong Understanding of the Body

Dake’s teaching promotes a wrong understanding of the body and physical existence:

This affects how Christians view:

• Physical health and aging
• Sexuality and gender
• Death and resurrection
• The relationship between physical and spiritual realities

Wrong Understanding of God’s Kingdom

Dake’s eternal procreation doctrine reflects and reinforces a materialistic view of God’s kingdom. If the eternal kingdom involves literal planting, harvesting, and baby-making, then:

• The kingdom is essentially this world perfected rather than transformed
• Physical activities take precedence over spiritual realities
• God’s ultimate purpose is to have a populated universe rather than a people who know and glorify Him

This contradicts Jesus’ teaching that “my kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36) and Paul’s emphasis that “the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost” (Romans 14:17).

Wrong Understanding of Hope

Christian hope is radically different depending on whether eternity involves eternal procreation:

If Dake is right:

• Our hope is for an improved version of current life
• Relationships continue much as they are now
• The best of this life continues forever
• Change is minimal – just the removal of sin and death

If the Bible is right:

• Our hope is for transformation beyond imagination
• Relationships are transformed and perfected
• Something far better than the best of this life awaits
• Radical transformation – all things become new

The biblical hope is far greater than Dake’s naturalistic vision.

Part 13: Dake’s Hermeneutical Method Examined

Understanding how Dake arrived at his doctrine of eternal procreation requires examining his interpretive method more closely. His hermeneutical approach contains several fundamental flaws that, when combined, lead to serious doctrinal errors.

The Problem of Atomistic Interpretation

Dake often interprets verses in isolation from their context, treating the Bible as a collection of independent propositions rather than a unified narrative. This “atomistic” approach is evident in how he compiles lists of proof-texts.

For example, when Dake lists dozens of verses containing the word “eternal” or “everlasting,” he treats each occurrence as having identical meaning without considering:

• The literary context of each passage
• The historical situation being addressed
• The progressive nature of revelation
• The genre of literature (poetry, prophecy, narrative, etc.)

This method violates the basic principle that “context determines meaning.” A word like “eternal” can have different nuances depending on its usage – sometimes meaning “age-lasting,” sometimes “unending,” sometimes “pertaining to the age to come.”

The Concordance Method Gone Wrong

Dake’s approach resembles someone using a concordance to build doctrine by collecting every verse containing certain words. While concordances are valuable tools, they become dangerous when used as Dake uses them – to build doctrine by word association rather than careful exegesis.

Consider how Dake handles the word “seed” (Hebrew: zera). He notes that it appears 273 times in the Old Testament and concludes that every reference to “eternal seed” must mean eternal physical procreation. But this ignores that “seed” is used metaphorically throughout Scripture:

• The “seed of the woman” (Genesis 3:15) ultimately refers to Christ, not all human offspring
• Abraham’s “seed” includes all believers, not just physical descendants (Galatians 3:29)
• The “seed” in Jesus’ parables often represents the Word of God (Luke 8:11)

Selective Literalism

While Dake claims to interpret Scripture literally, his literalism is inconsistent. He doesn’t interpret:

• Jesus as a literal door (John 10:9)
• Believers as literal salt (Matthew 5:13)
• The church as a literal body (1 Corinthians 12:27)
• Christ as a literal lamb (Revelation 5:6)

Yet when it comes to Old Testament promises about Israel, covenants, and the eternal state, Dake insists on the most wooden literal interpretation possible. This selective literalism reveals an inconsistent hermeneutic driven more by theological presuppositions than by sound interpretive principles.

Ignoring Biblical Theology

Biblical theology traces themes through Scripture, showing how they develop and find fulfillment. Dake largely ignores this discipline, treating all parts of Scripture as equally developed and equally clear.

For example, the theme of “rest” develops throughout Scripture:

1. God’s rest after creation (Genesis 2:2)
2. Sabbath rest for Israel (Exodus 20:8-11)
3. Rest in the Promised Land (Joshua 21:44)
4. Rest in Christ (Matthew 11:28)
5. Eternal rest for God’s people (Hebrews 4:9)

Each stage builds on and transforms the previous understanding. But Dake would take the Sabbath commands and project them literally into eternity, missing how the theme develops and finds fulfillment.

Part 14: The Influence and Legacy of Dake’s Teaching

While Dake’s teaching on eternal procreation is not widely accepted, his influence through the Dake Annotated Reference Bible and his other works continues. Understanding this influence helps us grasp why addressing this error is important.

The Dake Study Bible’s Reach

First published in 1963, the Dake Annotated Reference Bible has sold millions of copies worldwide. It remains popular in certain Pentecostal and Charismatic circles, particularly among those who appreciate its:

• Extensive notes and cross-references
• Dispensational framework
• Emphasis on the supernatural
• Detailed prophetic interpretations

Many users of the Dake Bible may not realize the extent of his unusual teachings, including eternal procreation. They may unconsciously absorb these ideas while studying what they assume are orthodox interpretations.

The Danger of Respected Error

When error comes packaged in a study Bible or from a seemingly knowledgeable teacher, it can be particularly dangerous. People assume that someone who knows so much about the Bible must be reliable in their interpretations. Dake’s obvious knowledge of Scripture (he claimed to have read the Bible through numerous times and memorized large portions) gives his teachings a veneer of authority.

However, knowledge of biblical facts doesn’t guarantee sound interpretation. The Pharisees knew the Scriptures extensively but misunderstood their meaning. Similarly, Dake’s encyclopedic knowledge of biblical data didn’t prevent him from serious interpretive errors.

The Pattern of Error

Dake’s teaching on eternal procreation is part of a larger pattern of doctrinal problems in his work:

These errors reveal a consistent pattern: extreme literalism, speculation beyond Scripture, and failure to recognize the unified message of the Bible. The doctrine of eternal procreation fits this pattern perfectly.

The Need for Discernment

Dake’s influence highlights the need for careful discernment when using study tools. Even helpful resources can contain serious errors. Christians must:

• Test all teaching against Scripture (Acts 17:11)
• Consult multiple reliable sources
• Understand basic principles of interpretation
• Be aware of the theological perspective of their study tools
• Distinguish between biblical teaching and human speculation

Part 15: A Biblical Theology of the Eternal State

Having examined the errors in Dake’s position, we must present a positive biblical theology of the eternal state. What does Scripture actually teach about eternity?

The Consummation of All Things

Scripture presents history as linear, not cyclical. It moves toward a goal – the consummation of God’s purposes in Christ. Ephesians 1:9-10 reveals this plan:

“Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him.”

This is not endless continuation but culmination. God’s purposes reach fulfillment. The kingdom is delivered to the Father. Christ’s mediatorial work is complete. God becomes “all in all” (1 Corinthians 15:28).

The New Creation

The eternal state is consistently described as “new”:

• New heavens and new earth (Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1)
• New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:2)
• New covenant (Jeremiah 31:31; Hebrews 8:8)
• New creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17)
• New song (Revelation 5:9; 14:3)
• All things new (Revelation 21:5)

This newness is not merely improvement but transformation. The Greek word “kainos” emphasizes qualitative newness – new in kind, not just in time. The eternal state represents a new mode of existence, not an endless extension of the current mode.

The Presence of God

The central feature of the eternal state is God’s immediate presence with His people:

Throughout Scripture, God’s presence is the ultimate blessing:

• Walking with God in Eden (Genesis 3:8)
• The tabernacle/temple where God dwelt (Exodus 25:8)
• Emmanuel – God with us (Matthew 1:23)
• The Spirit’s indwelling (1 Corinthians 6:19)

In eternity, this presence is unmediated and unrestricted. No temple is needed because God Himself is present (Revelation 21:22). No sun is needed because God is the light (Revelation 21:23).

The Absence of Former Things

Revelation 21:4-5 lists what will be absent in the eternal state:

• No more death
• No more mourning
• No more crying
• No more pain
• Former things passed away

These absences are not just the removal of negative things but the transformation of the entire order of existence. Death’s absence means no need for birth. Pain’s absence includes the pain of childbirth. The passing of former things includes the passing of the procreative order.

The Eternal Sabbath

Hebrews 4:9 speaks of a “sabbath rest” that remains for God’s people. This eternal rest is not inactivity but the cessation of laborious toil and the full enjoyment of God’s presence. It’s the fulfillment of what the weekly Sabbath pointed toward.

In this eternal Sabbath:

• The work of redemption is complete
• The struggle against sin is over
• The labor of childbearing is ended
• The toil of survival is finished
• Perfect rest in God is realized

Part 16: Conclusion – The Danger of Speculation

Finis Dake’s teaching on eternal procreation serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of speculation beyond what Scripture clearly reveals. While the Bible gives us glimpses of the eternal state, it doesn’t satisfy all our curiosity. This is by design.

The Limits of Revelation

Paul acknowledges the limits of our current understanding:

“For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” (1 Corinthians 13:12)

And again:

“Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

These verses remind us that the eternal state transcends our current capacity to understand. Rather than speculating about details God hasn’t revealed, we should focus on what He has made clear.

What We Know for Certain

While many details remain mysterious, Scripture is clear about the essential truths:

1. We will be with Christ: “Today shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43)
2. We will be like Christ: “We shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2)
3. We will serve God perfectly: “His servants shall serve him” (Revelation 22:3)
4. We will be completely satisfied: “In thy presence is fulness of joy” (Psalm 16:11)
5. We will live forever: “And they shall reign for ever and ever” (Revelation 22:5)

These truths are sufficient for faith and hope. We don’t need to know whether we’ll colonize other planets or have eternal babies. We need to know that we’ll be with God forever, and that is enough.

The Error of Making the Eternal State Too Earthly

Dake’s fundamental error was making the eternal state too much like the current world. He couldn’t imagine existence without the familiar patterns of earthly life – marriage, children, planting, harvesting. But God’s promise is not to perpetuate the current order but to create something new and unimaginably better.

C.S. Lewis captured this well when he wrote that if we find in ourselves desires that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world. The eternal state won’t simply satisfy our current desires better – it will transform our desires and satisfy them in ways we cannot now imagine.

The Sufficiency of Scripture

Dake’s speculation reminds us of the importance of the Reformed principle of the sufficiency of Scripture. The Bible tells us everything we need to know for salvation and godliness (2 Timothy 3:16-17). When we go beyond what is written, we enter dangerous territory.

The Westminster Confession of Faith wisely states: “The whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for His own glory, man’s salvation, faith and life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture: unto which nothing at any time is to be added.”

Final Assessment

Finis Dake’s teaching that natural humans will have babies forever in eternity is:

• Biblically unfounded – contradicted by clear Scripture passages
• Theologically problematic – undermining key doctrines like the complete victory over death
• Hermeneutically flawed – based on poor interpretive methods
• Practically dangerous – distorting Christian hope and mission
• Historically unprecedented – rejected by orthodox Christianity throughout history

This doctrine represents one of the clearest examples of how a flawed interpretive method, combined with unrestrained speculation, can lead to serious doctrinal error. It serves as a warning to all Bible students about the importance of sound hermeneutics and the danger of going beyond what Scripture reveals.

Epilogue: Learning from Dake’s Errors

While this analysis has been necessarily critical of Dake’s teaching, the goal is not to attack Finis Dake personally but to uphold biblical truth and protect God’s people from error. We can learn valuable lessons from examining these teachings:

1. The importance of hermeneutics: How we interpret Scripture matters immensely. Poor methods lead to poor conclusions.
2. The danger of systematic consistency without biblical warrant: Dake built an internally consistent system, but consistency doesn’t equal truth if the foundation is flawed.
3. The need for theological humility: Where Scripture is silent or unclear, we should be cautious about dogmatic assertions.
4. The value of historical theology: When our interpretation differs from 2000 years of Christian understanding, we should reconsider carefully.
5. The centrality of Christ: All biblical interpretation should lead us to Christ and His completed work, not to speculation about eternal biology.

May this examination lead us all to greater faithfulness in handling God’s Word, deeper appreciation for the true biblical hope, and increased anticipation of the glorious eternity that awaits all who trust in Christ.

“For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”
– 1 Corinthians 13:12

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