Book Description
The Moody Handbook of Theology leads the beginner into the appreciation and understanding of this essential field of study. It introduces the reader to the five dimensions that provide a comprehensive view of theology: biblical, systematic, historical, dogmatic and contemporary. The apostle Paul wrote that all Scripture is 'profitable for teaching' (2 Tim. 3:16), that Timothy should 'pay close attention to...your teaching' (1 Tim. 4:16), and that leaders should 'be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict' (Titus 1:9). When he wrote these statements, Paul was referring to theology. Beyond giving basic definitions and general descriptions, author Paul Enns summarized the substantial features of theology. In this way, he provides a concise doctrinal reference tool for the newcomer as well as the seasoned scholar seeking a refresher. There are fifty-five informative charts located at strategic points throughout the book.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent Book on Theology.......2007-08-25
This book is great! I have Wayne Grudem's Systematic Theology and although that is great - this book does no side stepping whatso ever. I actually received this book and read it in a week. Reformed, Calvinistic Theology at its best (IMHO). It is very too the point and gives variances along the way to the controversial doctrines; and yet, gives you the opportunity to see it from multiple sides. I highly suggest this book those Spiritual "Young Adults" ( I John ) Who are laying their foundatin to grow up in the Spiritual Fathers ( I John ). This is a very well written book.
Practical.......2007-01-03
This book covers basic Bible doctrine. The format is conducive to study. This is a thorough study for both the layman and the theology student in training. Enns uses plenty of references to allow students to build a biblical framework for the doctrines.
Great book but not very great........2006-02-01
This is a fantastic book - but in the overall scheme of God's Word and the study of it, me thinks it's not "very great". Useful perhaps as a starting point on the theological road.
Outstanding overview of major theological generes.......2005-10-04
I have had this book for years and refer to it quite frequently for a quick bursh-up on theology. Enns has done an excellent job of outlining salient facts on major areas of theological thought. The presentation methodology; of giving brief descriptions and using tables or charts, where needed; makes the material very accessible to the seminarian and layperson alike.
Each chapter has a very useful Notes and Bibliography section should you wish to get deeper into any topic.
This is an excellent tool that one can use for years to come. Outstanding contribution. Thank you.
An outstanding theology resource.......2003-12-31
This is a well written and well organized reference on the major branches of Christian theology. It is written from a Protestant/evangelical perspective but still gives adequate treatment to many other views including Roman Catholicism, liberal theologies and significant historical positions. Includes dozens of useful charts, some of which I have seen reprinted in other theology texts.
I particularly like the way the author develops the various layers of theological work starting with exegesis and biblical theology as the underpinning for systematics, dogmatics then contemporary etc. These relationships were not clear to me until I saw them in this book.
If you study theology to any degree, and especially if you are just starting to study it, this is dollar for dollar one of the best books you can invest in. Each topic is treated briefly but with sufficent depth to clarify the various views to help make further study fruitful. There are many lists of other works in the chapter end notes - also has a good subject index. I love this book and expect to continue using it often.
Customer Reviews:
Better on ecclesiology than eschatology........2007-08-04
Keith Mathison raises the question of whether or not dispensationalism is an accurate way to interpret the Bible. He makes some good points: a. Dispensationalism's anthropology depicts saved human people who have a civil war going on inside of themselves with the new nature versus the sin nature and the system doesn't seem to allow for consistently victorious living in this life (although, Galatians 5:16-18 does seem to capture what dispensationalists are trying to say).
Mathison also points out how there is only one people of God according to the New Testament (as opposed to dispensationalism's teaching that there are two peoples), and he makes his strongest case from Romans 11:11-24, where he shows that the one olive tree represents the one people of faith.
Keith also correctly identifies how most dispensationalists are more Arminian than Calvinist. However, he errs in his faulty definition of Arminianism, preferring to identify it with Semi-Pelagianism. I get ticked when Reformed people do this, because Arminius believed in the total depravity of man and the complete inability of humanity to lift a hand or a foot toward their own salvation apart from the prevenient grace of God.
Mathison does a better job of critiquing dispensational ecclesiology than he does with dispensational eschatology. For example, when discussing the rapture, he never brings up John 14, which clearly teaches that Christ is coming back to take believers with Him to the Father's house.
Moreover, Mathison completely sidesteps the passages of scripture which teach that the Lord could come back at any time (Luke 12:35-48; James 5:7-10, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2, etc). In addition, his teaching about the millennium in Revelation 20 just doesn't make any sense of the text, the premillennial interpretation is much to be preferred, in my opinion.
Keith does a good job of avoiding ad hominem argumentation, but he totally misunderstands and mispresents Arminianism, and he fails to grasp dispensational eschatology as well as he should have. 3 stars.
Dispensationalism: Rightly Dividing the People of God?.......2006-03-19
Very good book. I was looking into is Dispensationalist theology biblical, after being taught this without even knowing that this was a modern teaching since the late 1800's. Actually I thought it was the only way to look at the end times. After much study I'm leaning with the Amillenial way of understanding Rev 20. It was an awesome study for the last few months, and I learned much.
Jimmy from NJ
Poor understanding of the church.......2005-01-20
Mr Mathison has a poor understanding of the church and when it actually began. He claims all the faithful of Israel in the Old Testament are a part of the church, because they had a genuine faith in God. Mr Mathison overlooks two major things.
First of all, the church was not brought into being until Christ was on the earth and he said "I WILL BUILD my church", not "I will continue to build my church". The church was a future undertaking, starting with Christ and his apostles.
Secondly, being baptized in the Holy Spirit places one IN the church or the body of Christ.I Cor 12:13. None of the Old Testament saints were ever baptized by or in the Holy Spirit and so are not in the church of Christ.
Mr Mathison claims he attended Dallas Seminary. Well, he surely must have been asleep during studies on the beginnings of the church or his professor flunked him out altogether. This book is very poorly thought out that even a lay Christian can see the errors it presents. I recommend a more scholarly book also called "Dispensationalism", by Charles Ryrie. Mr Mathison needs to go back to Bible college and pay more attention this time.
Not for those that don't follow Calvinistic views.......2004-12-11
While there is some decent information in this book, overall I was disappointed with it. While I don't agree with many views of those that push Dispensationalism, this book seems to spend too much time attempting to point out that Dispensationalists do not follow Calvinistic doctrine. It becomes clear that the writer is more of an arrogant Calvinist than someone who wants to present an objective perspective on Dispensationalism. Starts out decent, and then raises flags with it's agreement to strict Calvinistic doctrine.
Awesome and Educational.......2004-02-03
Just like that book R.C. Sproul did on The Last Days According to Jesus, one of his associates, Mr. Keith Maithson, wrote another awesome and educational resource, to help the church better understand this unbiblical doctrine and its beliefs.
This book breaks down the Dispensationalist doctrine and exposes each part of it as unbiblical heresy. This book was another eye opener for me, as I read from its pages.
The church needs to get back to the Bible and stop trying to let some Tim LaHaye, Hal Lindsey and Jack Van Impe type trick them into thinking that we will not be here during the tribulation.
After all, this writer, myself. Mr. Sproul and from countless research, the historal church didn't and still doesn't support that unbiblical view.
Anyone that would promte the unbiblical doctrine of Dispensationalism, needs to read from their Bible again and get this wonderful and educational resource.
I would highly recommend it, for those wanting to learn more about this doctrine and how so many are being tricked and deceived by its false teachings.
Average customer rating:
- Thought provoking
- An honest evaluation from the reformed perspective
- superb!!!
- Good Intro Book on Dispensationalism
- A Sane Look at Dispensationalism
|
Understanding Dispensationalists
Vern S. Poythress
Manufacturer: P & R Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Fundamentalism
| Theology
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Theology
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
Eschatology
| Theology
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Theology
| Religious Studies
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
Process Theology
| Theology
| Religious Studies
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
Eschatology
| Theology
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Theology
| Christianity
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Theology
| Religious Studies
| Religion & Spirituality
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
All 4-for-3 Deals
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
The Israel of God: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow
-
The Returning King: A Guide to the Book of Revelation
-
Dispensationalism: Rightly Dividing the People of God?
-
A Case for Amillennialism: Understanding the End Times
-
The Christ of the Covenants
ASIN: 0875523749 |
Customer Reviews:
Thought provoking.......2007-09-17
Being raised in classic Dispensationalism, this book was very helpful to engage ideas that I had presumed to be true without serious consideration.
An honest evaluation from the reformed perspective.......2007-01-04
The book is an excellent discussion of Dispensationalism from the Reformed perspective. It will help people from both sides understand the issues that separate the two camps. Poythress also calls for open discussion between the two camps with regard to areas in which they are close.
superb!!!.......2006-09-20
carefully reasoned, accurate exposition, crisp and clean handling of scripture, the issues are handled with intelligence and sobriety of thought!!
Good Intro Book on Dispensationalism.......2006-05-25
This book is highly recommended for Dispensationalists to think about themselves and see where God wants them to go in the ocntext of 21st century America as well as for non-Dispensationalists. Dispensationalists and non-Dispensationalists should look out for the interests of the Kingdom of Christ and must be loyal to the LORD Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ must be hailed as LORD and not only Savior.
A Sane Look at Dispensationalism.......2004-06-18
If one wants a very scholarly and irenic book on the problems of dispensationalism, then this book is it. Poythress examines the characteristics of dispensationalism, the presuppositions of dispensationalism, the hermeneutics of dispensationalism, the social forces behind dispensationalism, and problems associated with dispensationalism. He also pursuasively argues why dispensationalism is biblically and inherently problematic as he examines the "literalistic/flat" hermeneutical method used by dispensationalists. He also offers alternative ways of reading biblical prophecy that make the biblical message of God's redemptive plan coherent. He also uses passages like 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (chapter 7) and Hebrews 12:22-24 (chapter 12) as test cases when examining the biblical faithfulness of the dispensational system. His chapters on OT intrepretation (chapter 10) and typology (chapter 11) are very insightful and interesting. These two chapters are a must read if one wants to understand the problems associated with dispensationalism. The only problem I have with Poythress is his insistence that Jesus Christ is the "fulfilled" or "ultimate remnant" Israel (pp. 126-9). Though he makes an interesting case here, I did not find it pursuasive. The Bible makes it clear that the new covenant (cf. Jeremiah 31:31-33) will be brought in by Christ's death. Believers participate in the new covenant through faith in Christ. As a result, they become the true Israel (cf. Galatians 3:9). Another interesting point Poythress brings up is on the matter of conditional/unconditional promises of the Bible. Poythress argues that dispensationalists have always tenaciously held onto the gracious and unconditional nature of God's redemptive purpose, and that this affects their hermeneutics (p. 63). Here, Poythress touches a little bit on the whole "lordship salvation controversy." Poythress is right to maintain that though the salvific promises of God are unconditional, that does not exclude the necessity of obedience and discipleship. God's promises are unconditional in one sense (Christ fulfills all the necessary requirements), but they are also conditional in another sense (these blessings are received by a faith that produces fruits). I would highly recommend this book for those wanting a short, scholarly, and thoughtful critique of dispensationalism. This book does not include the harsh polemics and irresponsible name-calling contained in other works critical of dispensationalism (i.e., Gerstner, Mathison, North, etc.). Poythress acknowledges that dispensationalists are also brothers and sisters in Christ who are striving to understand what the Bible teaches about God's dealings with humankind. This book will enlighten you and make you understand more clearly what dispensationalists believe. Thus, it is not a book you will regret picking up if you're interested in this subject.
Book Description
This exegetical study examines the continuities and discontinuities regarding Israel and the church and also provides a look at changes in dispensational thought that have developed over the last twenty years. This is a Lightning Source, Inc. print-on-demand title and can be ordered only from Spring Arbor Distributors by calling 800-395-5599. International Customers please call 615-793-5000 ext. 24882 or fax at 615-213-5720.
Customer Reviews:
A good read with theological integrity.......2007-08-23
Unlike the hostility and polemics that usually accompany this issue, Craig Blaising and Darrell Bock have offered us a good willed, honest dialog on this divisive subject. It's interesting that they invited three theologians from the Covenant community to offer responses in this book. I am not aware of a single book written by a covenant theologian which has done the same. I wish someone would. My appreciation goes out to these gentlemen. May their tribe increase.
A good overview .......2006-03-23
What I like about this book is the "short and sweet" chapters written by various authors. I believe most authors can be succinct when they have to be, otherwise, they tend to overwrite and get wordy in order to meet publishers demands for size. I have a better understanding of progressive viewpoints because of reading this book; some I agree with and some I do not. Its a keeper for reference. I especially liked David L. Turner's viewpoints and was disappointed to find he has not published anything else.
The Search Continues.......2000-03-11
This book is a must-read for anyone seeking information on the state of Dispensationalism (a system of biblical interpretation founded by John Nelson Darby in the 19th century, and widely used within both Christian fundamentalism and evangelicalism) during the last two decades of the 20th century. At this point in time it's probably impossible to find a single source that fully explains the history, philosophical foundations, and relationship between Dispensationalism and its chief rival, Covenant theology. This has not been for want of trying, but the issues are so complex that one would need to read several key works to get the full picture. This book partially fulfills that need, and so can be added to the list of strategic resources, with an additional (somewhat surprising) bonus: it contains critiques of Dispensationalism (although mainly the new brand of Dispensationalism that this book promotes) from both within and without. This is highly unusual considering the editors both consider themselves Dispensationalists. Historically Dispensationalists have been loathe to open themselves up to criticism so freely. ¶ The majority of the book's contributors consider themselves Progressive Dispensationalists, and they explain how and why they depart from earlier versions of Dispensationalism. Afterward, three non-dispensational authors (Willem VanGemeren, Bruce Waltke and Walter Kaiser) provide feedback. Both of these aspects (i.e., internal and external criticism) are much-needed steps forward for a theological movement that has tended both to be ingrown and to avoid real, constructive dialogue with outsiders. ¶ The authors examine several issues that have historically occupied a central place in Dispensationalism, including the nature of God's kingdom, the relationship between Law and Gospel, Israel and the Church, and so on. Most of these issues, in fact, either already existed within Protestant theology since the 16th century, or had been raised (by the Anabaptist camp, in some cases) during the Reformation. For example, in the 18th century Reformed theologian Jonathan Edwards noted that the precise relationship between Law and Gospel has historically been one of the most contentious issues in all of Christian theology. ¶ The idea of a radical disjunction between the Israel and the Church, however, is unique to Dispensationalism. Dispensationalist Charles Calwell Ryrie taught that the distinction between Israel and the Church as the "sine qua non" of true Dispensationalism. Classical Dispensationalism (from Darby, through C.I. Scofield and Lewis Sperry Chafer (who died in the 1950s)) held that Israel and the Church are two separate and distinct "peoples of God," Israel being God's "earthly people" and the Church being God's "heavenly people," each with it's own divinely-ordained program and destiny. Classical Dispensationalism further held that this distinction would endure through all eternity. ¶ The Revised Dispensationalism of the 1960s, '70s and early '80s (when names like Ryrie and John F. Walvoord dominated the movement) softened the "eternal" aspect of this distinction somewhat, and also made a highly significant concession on the biblical doctrine of the New Covenant (Jer 31:31-34; Heb 8:8-13). Specifically, Revised Dispensationalism abandoned Chafer's "Two New Covenants" view, which had supposedly safeguarded certain premises embedded in Dispensational hermeneutics. The problem with that view was that it was totally unsustainable from the data of the New Testament. ¶ These changes set the stage for the advent of Progressive Dispensationalism movement in the mid-1980s. Despite the original Dispensationalism's affinities with Lutheran doctrine (especially in the relationship between Law and Gospel), Progressive Dispensationalism represents a step toward the Covenant theology of the Reformed churches (which, interestingly, was Lewis Sperry Chafer's original background). As such it is perceived as a threat by Classical and Revised Dispensationalists, which is unfortunate, because in this reviewer's opinion, the Progressive Dispensationalist position is on much firmer exegetical footing that any of its predecessors were. ¶ The final essays by VanGemeren, Waltke and Kaiser (especially the first two) alone are worth the price of the book. They address remaining points of contention between Dispensationalism and non-Dispensationalist systems which, if heeded, may point the way toward further movement in the direction of Covenant theology. If the trend continues, Dispensationalism may eventually find itself relegated to the pages of 19th and 20th century Church history. Even so, the need to respond to Dispensationalism has helped conservative evangelical Protestantism sharpen its heremeneutical theories and methods, and this has not been a bad thing.
Book Description
(Foreword by Charles R. Swindoll) This work examines (1) methods of interpretation, (2) the biblical covenants, and (3) the relationship of Israel and the church from the viewpoints of both the traditional and progressive dispensationalists.
Customer Reviews:
Good Debate Between the "Old" and "New" Dispensationalists.......2005-04-20
This book is a good introduction of the differences between the old (traditional) and new (progressive) dispensationalism. The first essay of the book (by Bateman) deals with the origins and historical developments of dispensationalism. Bateman goes through the revisions that started after the Darby-Scofield-Chafer era, and through the middle of the Century (McClain-Pentecost-Ryrie-Walvoord days). Those wanting a good historical background on the developments of dispensational thought should consult Bateman's essay.
The first section deals with the hermeneutical differences between traditional and progressive dispensationalism. The difference being that progressives use a complementary hermeneutic which takes into account extra-biblical literature during the post-exilic era. Progressives have changed the structure of dispensationalism due to the realization that a wooden literal hermeneutic cannot be taken for granted, and that the practice of exegesis must be understood in the historical and cultural context of the period when the OT prophetic books were written.
The second section deals with the Abrahamic, Davidic, and New Covenants promised in the OT and how they relate to the Church. Both traditional and progressive dispensationalists agree that the Abrahamic and New Covenants have been partially realized in the Church today; the question is how much of these covenants have been realized in the Church. However, both camps agree that the OT covenants cannot be totally relegated to Israel during the Millennial Kingdom.
The third section deals with the differences between Israel and the Church. Both groups share the belief that Israelites were saved by grace through faith alone. That salvation has always been by God's grace and sovereignty. That there is no distinction between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven. The only differences between both camps is that progressives believe that there is more continuity between Israel and the Church spiritually, and that the Church is not an interruption in God's soteric purposes. However, both groups tend to have more similarities than differences since both agree that Israel still has a place in God's redemptive plan.
Overall, a good debate between traditional and progressive dispensationalists on key theological issues.
Book Description
Bible prophecy gives us signs of the end times. Just like road signs, they come closer together as we near the end. According to the Bible, in the last days--in a time when Israel has been restored as a nation--a 10-nation confederacy will appear on the European continent. It will be a revival of the Roman Empire. From this confederacy, one man will rise to power. He will make a seven-year agreement with Israel that he will break in three and a half years. This man is known as the Antichrist and, in some way, he will be identified with the number 666.
Are You Sitting Down?
What if I said that an important warning sign about the rise of the Antichrist began occurring in 1992, but it has been completely overlooked? And what if I told you that the 10 kings of Daniel and Revelation may have already been on scene since 1995, but no one has noticed? Not only that, but a powerful new office has been created that could soon belong to the Antichrist. And, it happened with Assembly Recommendation 666. Hang on, because that's exactly what I'm going to tell you.
Customer Reviews:
Decent book.......2007-08-23
This book was very interesting, it described some history of the European Union and how it appears to be playing a role in prophecies. I do not claim to know a lot about Revelations symbolism and meanings but the book will make you set back and say "hmmm". Revelations can be interpreted so many different ways and so many people could qualify for the part of the AC. But, you have to admitt, once you know who Herb is talking about, this guy has his hands in a lot of stuff and has a great deal of power. Is Herb correct in his analysis? Well, he could be and then again he could be wrong (as many people in the past have been). In the book he doesn't say one way or the other, he lets you decide. He just points to prophecies and relates the prophecies to things that have happened in the EU. My only issue with the book is that so much has happend since it was printed, a lot of which Herb thought/suggested would happen. Bottom line is that I purchased the book, read it and enjoyed the book.
Sobering.......2007-03-09
First of all, if you're not a Christian, you can respect this book for the verified research presented.
If you are a Christian, I think this book not only illuminates the nearness of Christ's return, but in doing so, brings your own spiritual life under the blade of the Holy Spirit and if there are things that need to be delt with, after reading this book it will be hard to let them go.
A must read for anyone serious about end times prophecy (which is NOW times prophecy) Jesus is coming soon. Yes they have been saying that for a long time, but when you read this book, you'll see that we are VERY VERY close to the actual event happening.
The EU's Power Play.......2006-12-06
There are a number of things I think are worth noting about this book:
1) The author presents his material in an intelligent, non-sensational fashion.
2) He consistently states that you should not take his word for anything, nor should you build your faith around what he says in his book. You should judge for yourself.
3) I did not get the impression that the author is dead set on naming Javier Solana as the Anti-Christ. What I DID come away with was that the author believes it is very possible that the position Solana now holds in the EU could very well be the position from which the Anti-Christ eventually rises, whether it's Solana or someone else.
While Mr. Peters' book is not perfect, it is worth reading - with your Bible open - as it details many of the things that have occurred and are occurring in today's world. From a Christian perspective, I often wondered how someone like the Anti-Christ could come onto the world's playing field unnoticed. I assumed the signs would be so obvious that it would be difficult NOT to notice. This book delves into the origins and growth of the European Union and its impact it has had and continues to have on the world's stage. It seems that the EU has been quietly working in the background for decades and while the organization itself has built up what appears to be a tremendous position of power within the world's community, it has largely gone unnoticed by most of the world.
Is Javier Solana the Anti-Christ? Only God knows. Is this book worth reading? Absolutely, for no other reason that to be brought up to date on the EU and the true power it possesses as well as learning what its political aims might be, based on the articles that the organization has written, approved and put into effect.
It boggles my mind that an organization like the EU can become what it has become, right under our collective noses - a perfect venue for the eventual rise of the individual that will one day make a pact with Israel, only to break it 3 and a half years later, and turn then to fight against God and all who side with Him.
Christians need to know what's going on in the world. Things are moving at breakneck speed and too many Christians are asleep, or have long given up trying to figure out anything about the End Times because they have been too long confused by it. Me? I like to know what the human powers are attempting to accomplish in this world. Whether the Anti-Christ comes on the scene in my lifetime, or my children's lifetime, the EU has quickly become a powerhouse that can no longer be ignored. There are far too many coincidences occurring now in the EU for that organization to NOT be part of the prophetic package of the End Times.
The only reservations I have about Herb Peters is the way in which he seems to focus primarily (and possibly ONLY) on the End Times, preferring to not even deal with other controversial issues within Christendom today. This is in evidence at his posting forum, where his moderators are allowed to run the place however they like and as it turns out, if you tend not to agree with THEIR particular theological bent, then say "good-bye."
While Herb's book is a good one, there is much more to being a Christian than focusing solely on the End Times debate.
Interesting Read.......2006-11-30
Herb has made this book very easy to follow, and it makes for a very interesting read.
Although I may not agree 100% with everything he says, I haven't found anyone yet that I do agree with 100% of the time.
I would recommend the book if this sort of thing interests you.
There are a few 'Herb Peter bashers' that I've found on a well known 'Christian Forum' who are likely the ones that left the negative comments about his book here.
If you are looking for true christianity, please look into your local churches; Not on the internet.
Would resell it here but I threw it in the garbage..........2006-11-10
I definitely would not recommend this book. The author is completely wrapped up in his conspiracy theory about his choice for the AC. He refuses to look at the whole picture because afterall, he wrote a book that he wants to come true.
As another person said previously, stick with the Bible. Don't allow yourself to get caught up in this conspiracy theory because his version of the AC and the AC Kingdom is not Biblical no matter how hard he tries to twist scripture.
Book Description
Dispensationalism is a framework for understanding the Bible, teaching that God has dealt with man historically in different administrations or dispensations. It maintains a radical distinction between Israel and the Church - that there are two peoples of God with two different destinies and it distinguishes between the Rapture and the Second Coming of Christ (that one precedes the other by seven years of tribulation). Taught at Dallas Theological Seminary and Moody Bible Institute among others, dispensationalism still provokes debate within the Christian world. In this bestseller, Ryrie makes a complex subject understandable.
Customer Reviews:
Dispensational Diarrhea.......2007-03-11
Ryrie writes with zero academic integrity. He proof texts throughout the book. When quoting from his "go-to Covenant Theologian, Louis Berkhof, he twists his words to mean whatever he wants them to mean. For example, Ryrie quotes Berkhoff as implying two ways of salvation in the OT, and when he quotes Berkhof, he quotes him in a section where Berkhof describes Dispensationalism. A few sentences later Berkhof actually says "This representation is contrary to Scripture, which does not represent fallen man as still on probation, but as an utter failure, totally unable to render obedience to God, and absolutely dependent on the grace of God for salvation" (p. 291). This part of Berkhof's section was not quoted. Ryrie also proof texts Acts 21:21 to back his claim of "the proper apostasy from Judaism to Christ". You read the context for yourselves.
Aside from these mortal sins of the academy, Ryrie's overall tone is one of condescension and arrogance, and his teaching is wrong and dangerous.
A Good Steward with What He has Been Entrusted.......2007-02-23
I gave it 5 stars because there is nothing out there to compare it too at this moment. The movement that classical dispensationalism has had on theology has truly been illumination from the Holy Spirit. Back in the 1800's no one was reconizing the promises to a literal Israel until men like Darby, Scofield and Chafer stepped on the seen preparing the way in the early 1900's for the establishment of the literal nation of Israel. Just look back at 1948. Israel is there waiting for the 2nd comming of there messiah which will not occur until they "reconize Him whom they have peirced". Obviously that statment does not appply to the church. Once we're in the Body of Christ the book of life is signed, we are sealed and delivered.
This book will give you a greater understanding of the theological system of dispensationalism. Of course it is not inspired like the Bible. The author never claimed to be infallible, in fact his humilty is clearly seen when he states that 'the 7 dispensations are not inspired' but they're a good way of understanding bible prophecy. If anyone else has a better system in understanding Bible prophecy please feel free to write a book and share it with us. We really need to know.
This book is worth the $$$.
Classic Work. But also..........2007-02-06
This was a great book for research. Also check out the newer book "Classical Dispensationalism and its Eschatological Foundations."
There are not enough good books on this very interesting topic.
Recommended Reading.......2005-11-15
I am a layperson who is very interested in theology, so that is the perspective from which I am writing this review.
I really have to recommend the book to everyone, dispensationalist or not, because it really is a very comprehensive look at the subject. Already being a dispensationalist, I have a much greater understanding of the belief, as well as an appreciation for the arguments for and against it. However, I felt that Ryrie left a few questions hanging and didn't really answer them well, for example, on page 85 he talks about how the dispensationalist believes that God has two distinct purposes, one for the Church, one for Israel. However, he never clearly said what those 2 purposes were.
As someone already stated, I, too, feel the book was quite defensive on the whole. It seems as though he was using some of the same fallacies towards the other beliefs (covenent theology, progressive disp.) as he was accusing their proponents of having towards dispensationalism. I realize this was one of the purposes of writing the book, but I just felt the tone didn't have to be quite SO defensive.
I think he did a wonderful job of dispelling some of the incorrect views antidispensationalists have on the belief.
My primary complaint, however, is the author seemed to be exceptionally negative towards progressive dispensationalism. Most of the accusations that he had toward that belief were on what the progressive COULD POTENTIALLY believe. His arguments against what they actually currently claim to be seemed to be quite weak considering even I could easily see the logical (and seemingly valid) response that the progressive would have.
It isn't an overly difficult read, but it's not your light reading, either. I found myself re-reading several passages to make sure that I clearly understood the authors point of view.
Like I said, I highly recommend it just because it seems to be the most comprehensive look on dispensationalism out there. Even for the non-dispensationalist, it really gives you a good overview of the arguments for and against dispensationalism.
Helpful Book on Understanding Dispensationalism.......2005-04-20
When I started reading this book I was kind of skeptical because I pretty much knew the arguments for dispensationalism. However, as I kept reading the book I found out that there were lots of things I didn't know about the arguments for dispensationalism. This book should be read by both dispensationalists and non-dispensationalists. For the dispensationalist to understand their system more; for the non-dispensationalist to understand the system period. Ryrie's chapter on Hermenuetics is good. I also thought his chapters on Progressive Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology were helpful. Though he doesn't get too indepth on why Covenant Theology is unbiblical, he does bring up questions and insights about Covenant Theology. This book is a recommended read for those who are trying to understand this movement within the conservative-evangelical circle. Even if you're not a dispensationalist this book is a great help to understand why dispensationalists are dispensationalists.
Product Description
There is no doubting the legacy of the Protestant Reformers and their successors. Luther, Calvin, and Wesley not only spawned specific denominational traditions, but their writings have been instrumental in forging a broadly embraced evangelical theology as well. In this volume, Ben Witherington wrestles with some of the big ideas of these major traditional theological systems (sin, God s sovereignty, prophecy, grace, and the Holy Spirit), asking tough questions about their biblical foundations. Witherington argues that evangelicalism sometimes wrongly assumes a biblical warrant for some of its more popular beliefs and, further, he pushes the reader to engage the larger story and plot of the Bible to understand these central elements of belief.
Customer Reviews:
Good, but incomplete.......2007-10-04
Although imbalanced in many ways because of a lack of direct contact with many of the most important dispensationalist arguments and because he defends Wesleyianism more than critiques it, at least fifty-percent of his work is phenomenal.
Especially important is his detailed exegesis of Romans, which exposes the biases that come into biblical interpretation that leans toward Calvinism. As a Greek scholar, I was impressed when looking at his analysis of how difficult and ambiguous much of the Greek text is at this point. He truly has a fine grasp of the Greek language (although I did find a wrong statement by him in his analysis of "eph' ho"; see below). For those unconvinced that Calvinism is true - especially in light of the rest of the counsel of scripture - and yet feeling that Romans gives indisputable proof for the Calvinist viewpoint, Ben Witherington III's analysis is bound to be a breath of fresh air. (After all, the reason the passage seems unambiguously to support Calvinism may have something to do with the fact that the first English translation of the Bible was the Geneva Bible - i.e. translated by and for Calvinists.)
Certainly Dispensationalists and Calvinists will be unhappy with his commentary, but it seems to me that their reaction is normal for anyone who has their convictions being attacked whether even-handedly or belligerently. For the most part, though, Witherington III doesn't show animosity.
** "eph' ho" in 5:12 he says cannot refer to "hamartia", but any good Greek grammar will tell you can if it is referring to the natural gender of "hamartia" rather than the grammatical gender; cf. Ephesians 6:17 where "ho" refers back to "makhaira"/"makhaira pneumatos" as a neuter concept not "pneumatos" its grammatically neuter antecedent - however, it seems unlikely that "ho" refers so far back and more likely that it refers to the nearest work with the same grammatical gender "thanatos", death **
The sub-title is misleading!.......2006-10-13
I thought this book was going to interact exegetically with the texts that each system uses to establish itself. At least as far as the central three chapters go, on that score, this is a disappointing book. The author starts his overview of dispensational theology with the same tired arguments (posed and answered many times before) over the origins of dispensationalism along with the (apparently) obligatory derogatory language ridiculing dispensationalism. (In the culture at large, it seems the only people one can deride without fear of being called intollerant are evangelical Christians; simply deriding them/us is somehow a means to establish oneself as superior. Among evangelical scholars this role [mock-able and dismiss-able] is assigned to dispensationalists). (He apparently got some of his material from B. Rossing's really mean, poorly researched and really bad attack piece "Rapture Exposed." Please! can we just leave C. I. Scofield's undocumented past out of the discussion? How is this "testing" the exegetical foundations?) The author demonstrates a serious ignorance of dispensational theology when he claims that Matthew 24: 36-41 (p. 112) is "of course" a "favorite text to prove the rapture." Simply false; that text is about the Second Coming and no reputable dispensationalist I know claims otherwise. He conflates texts that speak of the rapture (1 Thess 4) with texts that speak of the Second Coming without a single reference to the dispensational arguments that keep such texts separate. It boils down to Witherington's assertions as to the meaning of 1 Thess 4, 5 and Matthew 24 set next to inaccurate and inadequate summaries (by Witherington) of what dispensationalists teach (see the summary list on p. 109). His discussion of the nature of prophecy is largely irrelevant to a critique of dispensationalism since many of the points he makes could be and are made by dispensational exegetes.
His overview of Romans 9-11 is not really a critique of dispensationalism, so much as his contribution to the very crowded boat-load of Romans commentators; some more some less amenable to dispensationalism. Yes, there are implications for dispensationalists given the author's take on Romans 9-11 but Witherington's view casts a shadow over many alternate interpretations and is by no means the most sound (see Moo, Romans: NICNT, among others).
If you are a non-dispensationalist looking for a fair overview of the system this book is clearly not it.
Tough but Fair.......2006-08-19
Witherington presents a tough but fair examination of the biblical foundations of some major schools of thought in theology today.
Regardless of your current shifting wind ideals regarding the church, how you read Scripture and therefore what conclusions you arrive at are most likely influenced by either Calvinism, Dispensationalism, or Wesleyanism...whether you know it or not.
If you can handle a tough but fair analysis of the biblical footing of these 3 theological camps, enjoy. If sound exegesis and fair Historical-Critical/Grammatical analysis of certain key conclusions upsets your pastoral theology, run away. Fast. However, if you are willing to engage the text along with Witherington, and argue from the same material with him, you will find this book a very engaging conversation, one which will help you lose some of the Chaff that tends to gather in all of us over time.
I personally would commend the book to American pastors who are much more influenced by Dispensationalism than they often realize, and urge them to take a long, hard look at the wafer-thin foundation for much of Dispensationalism. It may hurt, but like exercise, it will benefit you if you can tough it out. If nothing else, please read chapters 5,6,7, and weigh what the NT is TRULY saying regarding Israel.
5-star reading! Enjoy!
An informative study of the traditions, practices, and writings of the evangelist church.......2006-04-08
The Problem With Evangelical Theology: Testing The Exegetical Foundations Of Calvinism, Dispensationalism, And Wesleyanism by Ben Witherington (Professor of New Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary) is an informative study of the traditions, practices, and writings of the evangelist church. With great depth and scholarly insight, Witherington covers many spectra of the faith with analysis on sin, God's sovereignty, prophesy, grace and the Holy Spirit. The Problem With Evangelical Theology is highly recommended to all students of the Evangelical Christian faith for its inevitably informational content, as well as to readers of general religious information or reference books.
Weighing the foundations........2006-02-26
I greatly enjoyed this book and the intellectual challenge it gave me. As others have noted, Witherington challenges the foundational beliefs of Calvinism, Dispensationalism and Weslyan-Arminianism. That's a key point. Witherington does not go over every proof text each system uses to prove their point. He goes after the initial interpretations of scripture that led each group down their respective theological paths. A warning though, this is not standard Christian pulp writing that puts forth ideas that any new Christian can grasp. It's a bit on the technical side with lots of references to greek words and phrases. In most cases he translates their meaning. This is not a bad thing if you enjoy a little work along with your reading. I would recommend this book to anyone with a somewhat open mind and a desire to get at the truth and let the chips fall where they may.
Book Description
With the unparalleled worldwide success of the Left Behind series, both fans and critics are curious about the relationship between Bible prophecy and the events depicted in the novels. Responding to recent works that question Left Behind's biblical accuracy, two respected theologians set forth solid, biblical answers in this reader-friendly resource. Beginning with a clear presentation of prophecy interpretation and dispensationalism, the authors examine specific end times events represented in Left Behind and offer historical and biblical support for each event.
The popular Left Behind books are works of fiction. But how seriously can you take their predictions about the end of the world - and you own future?
In this reader-friendly resource, two respected theologians respond to recent attacks on Left Behind's interpretation of Bible prophecy, providing clear historical and biblical support for specific end times events described in the novels.
Gain a deeper appreciation of these phenomenal bestsellers - and a deeper understanding of earth's cataclysmic final days!
Story Behind the Book
With the incredible success of this series, we believe that it would be beneficial to the body of Christ for someone to publish a book that gives solid, thoughtful, biblical answers to the critics of the Left Behind theology. With the questions that are being raised and will continue to be raised, many may begin to wonder if the Left Behind theology is really biblical. Some of the impact of the series could be undermined. This book would set forth substantive biblical points in favor of the various end times events presented in the series.
Customer Reviews:
book review.......2004-06-15
I was quite amazed at the "epistle" negative reviews of this book. One in particular talked about the 'literal' weapons and such. It only took reading three sentences of this review to know that the writer has an extreamly limited knowledge of the Bible itself, and biblical prophecy, yet went on to write what amounted to a 300 word essay. Those who are not of the spirit, can NOT understand the things of the spirit.
Why Not Believe the Truth?.......2004-04-23
I have just finished reading "The Truth Behind Left Behind" by Hitchcock and Ice. As a layman who considers himself to be a well read and versed student on the subject of Bible prophecy, I would consider this book to be an highly accurate and well documented explaination of the end times as they are written in the Bible. Many people who study prophecy have many different interpretations of what, when and how the Bible says that the world will end and Gods Kingdom will be ushered in. To many of those people I would say, "stop trying to read between the lines!" The Bible is the inerrant Word of God and what it says as you read it is exactly what it means. People try to put too much conjecture into Gods Word that simply isn't there. The books of the Old Testament and their prophecies of the end times identically match those in the New Testament so I truly do not understand where most of these detractors of the "Left Behind" series come up with their arguments that say the books are untrue and not well founded. These people are supposed to be Biblical scholars, well they either aren't reading the same Bible I do or they need to work on their comprehension skills. "The Truth Behind Left Behind" is right on the money in explaining the Biblical accuracy and validity of the "Left Behind" series of books concerning end times events. So as I stated in my title, "Why Not Believe the Truth?" this book is a must read for all of those who have been distracted by the detractors. I would recommend that everyone who is seriously interested in the truth about end times events should read "The Truth Behind Left Behind"!
The Fiction Behind Left Behind.......2004-04-16
Let me cite just one example from The Truth Behind Left Behind that makes it a very weak defense of the Left Behind theology. There are many more, but there are space limitations. In Tim LaHaye's Introduction to TBLB, we read: "Jerry [Jenkins] and I have unashamedly taken the position that all prophecy should be interpreted literally whenever possible. We have been guided throughout by the golden rule of interpretation: When the plain sense of Scripture makes common sense, seek no other sense. Take every word at its primary, literal meaning unless the facts of the immediate context clearly indicate otherwise" (7). So shouldn't the reader interpret the weapons of Ezekiel 38-39--bows, arrows, shields, war clubs, spears, horses, and chariots--literally? Not according to our authors. Here's their interpretation from their chapter "The Coming Russian/Islamic Invasion": "Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Ezekiel spoke in language that the people of his day could understand. If he had spoken of MIG-29s, laser-fired missiles, tanks, and assault rifles, this text would have been nonsensical to everyone until the twentieth century" (47). Of course, this is question begging in the extreme. Why would the people in Ezekiel's day need to understand a prophecy if it wasn't meant for them? Why confuse them and us? How do Hitchcock, Ice, and LaHaye KNOW that this is what the Holy Spirit meant? Once the trio makes these ancient weapons of no consequence, they are free to create their own prophetic scenario that can't be tested because it all takes place after Christians are no longer here! Convenient. Consider their words: "The focus clearly is NOT the specific weapons that will be used by these invaders" (47). What happened to "literal interpretation"? The weapons may not be the passage's "focus," but they can't be dismissed as inconsequential to the narrative. The weapons are part of the story from beginning to end, and if taken literally would negate the future scenario outlined by the authors. They claim that Ezek. 38-39 has to be a DISTANT future battle because it takes place in the "latter years" (38:8) and the "last days" (38:16). Most biblical scholars, even some dispensationalists, would say that these two time expressions most often mean nothing more than "in the future" or "in the days to come." The same Hebrew phrase is translated as "the days to come" in Num. 24:14, which probably refers to David's victory over Moab. The prophecy of Deut. 31:29, where the same expression is used, came to pass in the period of the Judges (cf. 2:20-21). Here's how one Bible expositor explains it: "this expression does not refer to 'the latter days' (KJV, RSV) in the eschatological sense. . . , but rather to that portion of the future that falls within the scope of the speaker's perspective (cf. Gen. 49:1)." Then one has to wonder why the authors avoid interacting with Edwin M. Yamauchi's Foes of the Northern Frontier which refutes their historical, geographical, and lexographic arguments line by line, and it was written in 1982! Yamauchi is a noted expert on this subject. The Russian invasion premise is only one of the book's many problems. If readers are interested in this topic, I suggest that they pick up a copy of End Times Fiction: A Biblical Consideration of the Left Behind Theology written by me. Since Hitchcock and Ice refer to it several times, it would be helpful to read what they do not deal with.
Dissapointed.........2004-04-06
I waited for this book for months. It's a fair read but the information's chunky. Mark's written much better. Read Mark's, 'WOEIGO' instead.
A good explanation of the truth behind Left Behind........2004-04-05
This book has very good explanations for the questions raised by many of the readers of the Left Behind series. It is a good companion to "Are We Living In The End Times?" by LaHaye and Jenkins. I encourage readers to read this book side by side with a Bible, in order to reach a satisfactory conclusion.
There are several views of interpretation of the End Times, and I happen to agree with the view presented in Left Behind.
For all serious seekers and skeptics out there, there are many good books on Bible Prophecy and Eschathology, but the best answers will always come from the Bible.
To anyone interested in this subject, I suggest taking a good course on it at your local Bible college, or attend a class or teaching of prophecy at your local church.
The LB series is fictional, but the events are very real nevertheless. They will happen. Weather they will happen as portrayed or not, they will happen regardless.
This is a very good book indeed, although I did expect a little more of it than what was delivered (thus the 4 stars), but it's still good enough for answering basic questions.
Book Description
(Foreword by John MacArthur) A definitive look at what the New Testament really says about the work of the Holy Spirit in our world today. Dispels teachings not founded in Scripture and builds an accurate and meaningful theology of the Holy Spirit's fruits, gifts, and authority.
Customer Reviews:
Great Book on the Holy Spirit.......2004-04-29
Dr. Larry Pettegrew is to be praised for his book on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the context of the New Covenant. Dr. Pettegrew does a great job of not only teaching on the ministries of the Spirit but he gives hundreds of Scriptures for his points. He deals with nearly every possible work in the new covenant from coversion to glorification.
If you are a Charismatic you may not fully agree with all that Dr. Pettegrew writes concerning the Spirit but nonetheless he will cause you to biblically think about the Holy Spirit and remain committed to biblical truth (1 Timothy 4:16; Titus 2:1).
Books:
- Moses and Monotheism
- Murder in Amsterdam: The Death of Theo van Gogh and the Limits of Tolerance
- Praise Habit: Finding God In Sunsets And Sushi
- Prepare for War
- Psychotherapy for Borderline Personality Disorder: Mentalization Based Treatment
- Real Vampires Have Curves (Glory St. Claire, Book 1)
- Rediscovering God in America: Reflections on the Role of Faith in Our Nation's History
- Religious Literacy: What Every American Needs to Know--And Doesn't
- Saint Francis
- Simple Church: Returning to God's Process for Making Disciples
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- The Africans Who Wrote the Bible
- Extreme Lo-Carb Meals On The Go: Fast And Fabulous Solutions To Get You Through The Day
- 201 Atwater
- Basta!: Land And The Zapatista Rebellion In Chiapas
- Contemporary Asian Cinema: Popular Culture in a Global Frame
- Geosystems: An Introduction to Physical Geography
- Confessions of a Barbarian: Selections from the Journals of Edward Abbey, 1951-1989
- Base Company Taxation
- Beyond Performance: What Employees Really Need to Know to Climb the Success Ladder
- Business Ethics: Profiles in Civic Virtue
Basic Theology: A Popular Systematic Guide to Understanding Biblical Truth
Dispensationalism
Romans: The Gospel of God's Grace
Christian Theology,
Principles of Christian Living from Romans Five to Eight
