The Ratings
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Overall Rating
(HIGHER IS BETTER)
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Readability4 (LOWER IS BETTER FOR LAY PEOPLE)
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Table of Contents
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Part 1: Background Views
1. Schweitzer and Dodd 2. Bultmann and Moltmann Part 2: Millennial Views 3. Postmillennialism 4. Amillennialism 5. Premillennialism Part 3: Tribulational Views 6. Dispensationalism 7. Pretribulationism 8. Posttribulationism 9. Mediating Positions |
The Review
This was a 184 page book. I felt that Dr. Erickson was very fair in his assessment of the different millennial and tribulations views. At the conclusion of the book he clearly states that he is a Premillennial Posttribulationist. I was surprised by that because after reading the book I assumed he was an Amillennialist, to me that seems to indicate he was giving a balanced perspective of opposing views.
Each chapter started with a clear statement of what the beliefs of that particular system are. Then he went over any particular difficulties with that view. Finally he pointed out the positive attributes (strengths) of the system and negative attributes (weaknesses) of the system. By pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of each view, especially in relation to each other, helped me to appreciate the complexity of the overall debate, and to better respect those who I disagree with.
One negative aspect of the book was the complexity or Part 1. For a book that is a "Basic Guide" starting off with a detailed analysis of different historical views between academics was very confusing. I wasn't who was taking which position or what the impact was on basic eschatology. I would have much preferred a section on Covenant Theology or a deeper discussion of Preterism, Historicism, Futurism, and Idealism. Part 1 could easily have been omitted or moved to appendices.
All things said this was a good book and worth the time invested in it (especially parts 2 &3). If you are interested in an introductory text on the subject of eschatology I would recommend "The Last Days Handbook" by Robert P. Lightner.
Review by: Eric (5/28/2018)
Each chapter started with a clear statement of what the beliefs of that particular system are. Then he went over any particular difficulties with that view. Finally he pointed out the positive attributes (strengths) of the system and negative attributes (weaknesses) of the system. By pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of each view, especially in relation to each other, helped me to appreciate the complexity of the overall debate, and to better respect those who I disagree with.
One negative aspect of the book was the complexity or Part 1. For a book that is a "Basic Guide" starting off with a detailed analysis of different historical views between academics was very confusing. I wasn't who was taking which position or what the impact was on basic eschatology. I would have much preferred a section on Covenant Theology or a deeper discussion of Preterism, Historicism, Futurism, and Idealism. Part 1 could easily have been omitted or moved to appendices.
All things said this was a good book and worth the time invested in it (especially parts 2 &3). If you are interested in an introductory text on the subject of eschatology I would recommend "The Last Days Handbook" by Robert P. Lightner.
Review by: Eric (5/28/2018)