Thomas R. Schreiner, The Joy of Hearing: A Theology of the Book of Revelation (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2021), 203 pp.
I had a professor in Bible College who made a dogmatic recommendation one day in class: “Select an eschatological position and stick with it. Resist the urge to read about the other positions.” It was some of the worst theological counsel I’ve ever received.
The professor subscribed to Dispensational Premillennialism, which was also the doctrinal position of the school. As such, every branch of theology was informed by a movement that was still in its infancy. Thankfully, I have moved beyond my initial exposure to Dispensational Premillennialism and have found great value in exploring the theological commitments of amillennialists, postmillennialist, and historical premillennial l thinkers.
The Joy of Hearing: A Theology of the Book of Revelation by Thomas Schreiner is a book that would have received a great deal of scorn from my professors in Bible College over thirty-five years ago. Now I celebrate the efforts of Dr. Schreiner who is willing to deal honestly with difficult texts and guide his readers on a path that glorifies the Lord.
Some readers may disagree with Schreiner’s conclusions at various points. But one thing will capture the attention of every thoughtful reader – Dr. Schreiner is intent on making sure that each student of Revelation walks away with a mindset of “listening,” an attitude of joy, and a posture of perseverance. The Joy of Hearing is a book that I will turn to again and again – both to educate and also to help maintain perspective in this confusing world.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Veritas et Lux 