Revelation Reclaimed

This book by Jon K. Newton, Senior Lecturer and Head of Biblical Studies at Harvest Bible College, Melbourne, Australia, should be on the shelf or desk of students of the book of Revelation. Newton very capably surveys out how Revelation has been misused (e. g. , to predict what is to happen in the world scene or to find fulfillments of prophecy in current events and trends). He then proceeds to point out the speculative nature of dispensationalist premillennialism and how it lacks robust biblical support. Newton also considers the historicist and futurist interpretations of Revelation pointing out their weaknesses and limitations. Arguing for a spiritual, Idealist reading of Revelation, Newton goes on to affirm the value of Revelation (e. g. , it makes a valuable contribution to Christian theology, etc. ), share some principles of responsible interpretation, discuss possible reasons why John wrote Revelation, and argue how Revelation can be relevant to every age and time. Newton's book closes with a chapter on the controversial issue of the millennium. His discussion of premillennialism, amillennialism and postmillennialism is helpful, pointing out the weaknesses and limitations of each view. Newton seems inclined towards postmillennialism, albeit with some qualifications. This book is well-researched, readable, thought-provoking, and highly recommended!

Though a Christian of some 30 years, a couple of years ago, as a doctoral writing student at Sydney University, I began a systematic journey through what experts think and know about Revelation. \\r\\nIn sum, significant aspects of the popular contemporary Christian interpretive worldview seem disconnected from Revelation's cultural, historical and theological origins. \\r\\nDr Jon Newton is an Australian pentecostal churchman, scholar and educator. He has published academically and substantially elsewhere, but his short book, Revelation Reclaimed: The Use and Misuse of the Apocalypse is for general readers and also draws on relevant and current scholarship. \\r\\nRevelation Reclaimed clearly and concisely highlights interpretive misuses and dangers, along with the possibility and benefits of clearer and """"responsible"""" understanding. In the process Newton debunks rubbishy interpretation without bludgeon or ridicule: his writing style is a model of humility and grace. For readers seeking more depth, Dr Newton has appended an excellent and concise, annotated list for further reading. \\r\\nThis book may be the best short primer on Revelation available. It is not a commentary, and stays away from second level concerns to focus on primary issues of interpretive importance. It is notably under-priced for its value. \\r\\nRevelation Reclaimed provides sound, liberating education and lives up to its title.