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Unseen Realities: Heaven, Hell, Angels and Demons
The concept of the invisible spiritual realm is something which is difficult for us to grasp. What we can see, hear, and feel we can take on face value that it is reality. But what about those things that are unseen? Scripture speaks about heaven, hell, angels and demons which are a part of this invisible spiritual realm. Internationally renowned Bible teacher R. C. Sproul helps us gain an understanding of these things so that we can come to a realisation that in fact all four are true realities that impact upon our everyday lives.
160 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
68 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
R.C. Sproul
675 books1,983 followersDr. R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian discipleship organization located near Orlando, Fla. He was founding pastor of Saint Andrew’s Chapel in Sanford, Fla., first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine.
Ligonier Ministries began in 1971 as the Ligonier Valley Study Center in Ligonier, Pa. In an effort to respond more effectively to the growing demand for Dr. Sproul’s teachings and the ministry’s other educational resources, the general offices were moved to Orlando in 1984, and the ministry was renamed.
Dr. Sproul’s radio program, Renewing Your Mind, is still broadcast daily on hundreds of radio stations around the world and can also be heard online. Dr. Sproul produced hundreds of lecture series and recorded numerous video series on subjects such as the history of philosophy, theology, Bible study, apologetics, and Christian living.
He contributed dozens of articles to national evangelical publications, spoke at conferences, churches, and academic institutions around the world, and wrote more than one hundred books, including The Holiness of God, Chosen by God, and Everyone’s a Theologian. He signed the 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy and wrote a commentary on that document. He also served as general editor of the Reformation Study Bible, previously known as the New Geneva Study Bible.
Dr. Sproul had a distinguished academic teaching career at various colleges and seminaries, including Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and Jackson, Miss. He was ordained as a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 2, 2023
Good book. Not your typical Sproul title. It’s kind of R.C. Lite. There are no in-depth exegetical studies here. This is an introductory level exploration of Heaven, Hell, Angels, & Satan. If you’ve taken a basic college level Theology class, you probably know or have at least heard 75% of the content in this book. Perhaps that is why the two chapters on Satan are the two most beneficial as this is the topic least covered in introductory theology courses. If you are looking for a place to start on these four topics, this is a great book for that.
May 5, 2021
Biblical and easy to read
This book is a simple and short read on some very hard to understand subjects. Sproul as always is biblically spot on. He’s honest about the arguments that come up and where the bible isn’t explicit in its teaching on the subject. He doesn’t try to argue for what he thinks by misapplying scripture but rather reveals what scripture says and expounds on it. Certainly a good book for newer Christians interested in knowing more on the subject.
This book is a simple and short read on some very hard to understand subjects. Sproul as always is biblically spot on. He’s honest about the arguments that come up and where the bible isn’t explicit in its teaching on the subject. He doesn’t try to argue for what he thinks by misapplying scripture but rather reveals what scripture says and expounds on it. Certainly a good book for newer Christians interested in knowing more on the subject.
December 26, 2021
While it’s Biblically solid (as always from RC Sproul), it’s simply too brief for my preference. Not to mention the book ends super abruptly. I would have liked for this book to have gone deeper in each section to really flesh out each topic.
All in all, a fine start to a study of the spiritual realm as it pertains to the Bible.
All in all, a fine start to a study of the spiritual realm as it pertains to the Bible.
February 3, 2021
Such a short book that barely brushes over the hefty topics of heaven, hell, angels, Satan, and demons. It was just so short and left so very many questions unanswered.
I appreciated that Sproul started with Heaven. The way the book was laid out made sense. However, it isn’t a scholarly work. It felt like there wasn’t any digging involved in writing it. Sproul does provide plenty of Biblical reference points. And I can’t say that what he said wasn’t true or accurate, he just seemed to stop very short on such big topics.
Definitely not a bad book. Perhaps the first stop along the way of deeper research. But not the most helpful book on the topic and not very deep. I was just looking for something much more exhaustive.
I appreciated that Sproul started with Heaven. The way the book was laid out made sense. However, it isn’t a scholarly work. It felt like there wasn’t any digging involved in writing it. Sproul does provide plenty of Biblical reference points. And I can’t say that what he said wasn’t true or accurate, he just seemed to stop very short on such big topics.
Definitely not a bad book. Perhaps the first stop along the way of deeper research. But not the most helpful book on the topic and not very deep. I was just looking for something much more exhaustive.
May 18, 2025
Review:
Good, quick read on Heaven, Hell, Angels, and Demons.
Interesting Notes/Quotes:
Part 1: Heaven
2. Sitting On A Suitcase.
"Have you come to the place in your thinking where you understand that death is not tragic for the Christian, but that it is a triumph - that it means crossing the threshold into glory?"
Part 2: Hell
5. The Place of God's Disfavor. The origins of "hellfire and brimstone" seem to stem from Jonathan Edwards, wrongfully labeled a sadistic by some critics, but what we know of Hell is older than Edwards and more, as it comes from scripture, and even older, comes from the lips of Jesus Himself, who spoke of Hell constantly. The concept of eternal punishment and a Holy loving God is so difficult to understand that only Jesus could convince us of its reality.
6. The Great Separation. "That from which you are saved ultimately is God. We like to think of God as the Savior, as the One who redeems us from judgement, and indeed, He is our Savior if we have genuinely repented and cast ourselves on the mercy of Christ. So God is the Author of salvation, and yet, to be saved, in the final analysis, is not simply to be saved by him, but to be saved from Him, because the ultimate crisis, the worst calamity a person could ever face, is the judgment of a holy God."
Part 3: Angels
Visions of the heavenly host in Scripture, through Isaiah, John, Ezekiel,
9. The Heavenly Choir.
When things are stated twice, like Verily, Verily or Truly, Truly, it signifies the importance of the statement. When they are stated thrice, as the angels sing Holy, Holy, Holy, it's that much more significant. The angels in God's presence had three sets of wings: to fly, and to cover their faces and feet from the glory of God's presence, like Moses removing his shoes for holy ground.
10. The Heavenly Host.
"Sin is the barrier between us and God, and as long as there is sin in our hearts, as long as we're not pure in heart, we're not going to see Him." Theophany = Theos and Phaneros are God and Manifestation, respectively, so a visible manifestation of the invisible God. Christophany is of Christ.
11. Earthly Enforcers.
"Sons of God" is seen as a reference to angels, along with singing stars at the time of our realm's creation. Sproul thinks it may also be a reference, along with "daughters of man", to the intermarriage of Cain's descendants with Seth's. Swiss theologian Oscar Cullman broke the mold on studying angelic powers (good and bad) in history.
14. Angel Worship?
"Look at this pattern that has been given to us by Christ, who gave up the privileges that he enjoyed in heaven to condescend to our loneliness, to take upon Himself our humanity, and to bear humiliation in our stead."
Part 4: Satan
16. The Angel of "Light".
"If Satan were to manifest himself in a human person, it would not be some horrible, famous, miserably wicked person like Osama bin Laden or Adolf Hitler. Rather, he would come on the stage of history looking like a saint." Greek word poneros = evil one. Diabolos = accuser. "When the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, as painful as it may be for a moment, there's always something sweet in it, because in conviction, the Spirit always gives us the promise of forgiveness and restoration."
Good, quick read on Heaven, Hell, Angels, and Demons.
Interesting Notes/Quotes:
Part 1: Heaven
2. Sitting On A Suitcase.
"Have you come to the place in your thinking where you understand that death is not tragic for the Christian, but that it is a triumph - that it means crossing the threshold into glory?"
Part 2: Hell
5. The Place of God's Disfavor. The origins of "hellfire and brimstone" seem to stem from Jonathan Edwards, wrongfully labeled a sadistic by some critics, but what we know of Hell is older than Edwards and more, as it comes from scripture, and even older, comes from the lips of Jesus Himself, who spoke of Hell constantly. The concept of eternal punishment and a Holy loving God is so difficult to understand that only Jesus could convince us of its reality.
6. The Great Separation. "That from which you are saved ultimately is God. We like to think of God as the Savior, as the One who redeems us from judgement, and indeed, He is our Savior if we have genuinely repented and cast ourselves on the mercy of Christ. So God is the Author of salvation, and yet, to be saved, in the final analysis, is not simply to be saved by him, but to be saved from Him, because the ultimate crisis, the worst calamity a person could ever face, is the judgment of a holy God."
Part 3: Angels
Visions of the heavenly host in Scripture, through Isaiah, John, Ezekiel,
9. The Heavenly Choir.
When things are stated twice, like Verily, Verily or Truly, Truly, it signifies the importance of the statement. When they are stated thrice, as the angels sing Holy, Holy, Holy, it's that much more significant. The angels in God's presence had three sets of wings: to fly, and to cover their faces and feet from the glory of God's presence, like Moses removing his shoes for holy ground.
10. The Heavenly Host.
"Sin is the barrier between us and God, and as long as there is sin in our hearts, as long as we're not pure in heart, we're not going to see Him." Theophany = Theos and Phaneros are God and Manifestation, respectively, so a visible manifestation of the invisible God. Christophany is of Christ.
11. Earthly Enforcers.
"Sons of God" is seen as a reference to angels, along with singing stars at the time of our realm's creation. Sproul thinks it may also be a reference, along with "daughters of man", to the intermarriage of Cain's descendants with Seth's. Swiss theologian Oscar Cullman broke the mold on studying angelic powers (good and bad) in history.
14. Angel Worship?
"Look at this pattern that has been given to us by Christ, who gave up the privileges that he enjoyed in heaven to condescend to our loneliness, to take upon Himself our humanity, and to bear humiliation in our stead."
Part 4: Satan
16. The Angel of "Light".
"If Satan were to manifest himself in a human person, it would not be some horrible, famous, miserably wicked person like Osama bin Laden or Adolf Hitler. Rather, he would come on the stage of history looking like a saint." Greek word poneros = evil one. Diabolos = accuser. "When the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, as painful as it may be for a moment, there's always something sweet in it, because in conviction, the Spirit always gives us the promise of forgiveness and restoration."
March 6, 2021
Not a very comprehensive look at the subject, but a deeply Scriptural one and richly pastoral in its tone, as Sproul always was. Particularly helpful and edifying were the chapters dealing with the activity of angels as ministers and messengers; these pages bring great comfort as Sproul guides us through the many instances in Scripture of angels as heralds of God’s benevolence and kindness. The closing two chapters dealing with Satan were also a helpful study into how Christians often assign the attributes of God to Satan, i.e. omniscience, omnipresence, omnipotence, and how this is utterly contrary to Scripture. Overall, the book is a helpful introduction to the study of these subjects from the pages of Scripture itself. I do think that future studies of this sort also need to utilise the oft-overlooked apocryphal Book of Enoch, which, while not inspired Scripture itself, richly informed the worldview of the characters and writers of Scripture itself (Jude quotes it, and many believe the “spirits in prison” reference from Peter refers to it). It can help us understand some of the language used by Scripture when referring to such subjects.
May 18, 2023
I love reading these short books by RC Sproul. They are readable, factual and concise. This book focused on heaven, hell, angels and satan and his demons. These are realities that Jesus spoke about during His earthly ministry. Although we can’t know everything about the unseen realm, we need to use the knowledge given to us in our battle against sin so that we can effectively share the gospel with the lost.
September 3, 2023
This is one of my favorite books I've read by Sproul. His writing is growing on me, and I believe even influencing my own writing. "Unseen Realities" was an easy read with insightful truths on the afterlife, angels, and demons (satan).
February 16, 2025
Some of R.C.s best work. This small helpful book is helping me see/ponder the spiritual reality around me. If Vesta Sproul ever lays her eyes on this review please know that I am very thankful for your husband's work, especially this book.
December 1, 2018
Nice short book with some good practical applications and clear Biblical teaching.
March 11, 2019
Relatively brief thoughts on the spiritual realm (heaven, hell, angels and Satan). It would be a good introductory book for a young Christian on the reality and basics of those topics.
January 23, 2021
Excellent overview of these topics.
December 12, 2023
I always enjoy reading anything from RC. This was very surface level, and probably not for those who want a deep dive into any of these doctrines.
June 2, 2024
Review!!
“Unseen Realties” by R.C. Sproul
I hate that I did not really like this book but my Sunday school was on the topic of Angels and Demons this past semester so I found this book super boring and learned a lot more from my youth pastor.
Sproul discussed different opinions about heaven, hell, angels, and demons with a few too many personal anecdotes mixed in. I am sorry lol. Most of this book was really just speculation built upon what is written in Scripture. This just was not very scholarly. He mentions rewards in Heaven for specific people and more severe punishments for some people in Hell but gives no backing for it. I tried doing research and found that a lot of people believe this but I do not think there is enough scriptural support to say that with certainty. I read a Johnathan Edwards sermon/lecture that was a little convincing but that’s it.
My favorite section was probably on angels and Sproul ended chapter 12 with this, “The angels attend our Lord in the manifestation of His glory. But when the glory of God is eclipsed in a culture and in the church, as in our day, angels are dismissed as insignificant. When the glory of God is honored and the exaltation of Christ is upheld, we see attending those moments the heavenly host, who serve as an escort for the King.”
“Unseen Realties” by R.C. Sproul
I hate that I did not really like this book but my Sunday school was on the topic of Angels and Demons this past semester so I found this book super boring and learned a lot more from my youth pastor.
Sproul discussed different opinions about heaven, hell, angels, and demons with a few too many personal anecdotes mixed in. I am sorry lol. Most of this book was really just speculation built upon what is written in Scripture. This just was not very scholarly. He mentions rewards in Heaven for specific people and more severe punishments for some people in Hell but gives no backing for it. I tried doing research and found that a lot of people believe this but I do not think there is enough scriptural support to say that with certainty. I read a Johnathan Edwards sermon/lecture that was a little convincing but that’s it.
My favorite section was probably on angels and Sproul ended chapter 12 with this, “The angels attend our Lord in the manifestation of His glory. But when the glory of God is eclipsed in a culture and in the church, as in our day, angels are dismissed as insignificant. When the glory of God is honored and the exaltation of Christ is upheld, we see attending those moments the heavenly host, who serve as an escort for the King.”
March 18, 2019
Great Read!
The late and great RC Sproul is fantastic in explaining the unseen realm in scripture that are very real in space and time.
The late and great RC Sproul is fantastic in explaining the unseen realm in scripture that are very real in space and time.
July 30, 2018
A good course correction for our theology of angels and demons
RC does a great job of focusing on angels in this work as they are what the Bible talks much about. My only critique is that I wish he would have talked about demon possession and exorcism, it’s only mentioned in the last paragraph of the book, yet we see it so often in the Word.
RC does a great job of focusing on angels in this work as they are what the Bible talks much about. My only critique is that I wish he would have talked about demon possession and exorcism, it’s only mentioned in the last paragraph of the book, yet we see it so often in the Word.
January 23, 2024
This book falls in the zone of books that are too basic for actual study but too narrow in scope to pique the interest of readers. The subjects of Angelology and Demonology are important as the Christian grapples with spiritual matters. Unseen Realities provides a very basic survey into the topics of Heaven, Hell, Angels, and Demons. Sproul provides his interpretation of scriptural passages with some references to other Reformed writers as well. Though it is a biblical (and Reformed) treatment of the subjects, the book lacks depth and suggestions for further study. It does not even provide a notes section or a bibliography where readers can find other resources. In terms of format, Sproul's content is much more suited for a podcast or lecture. When in book form, his teachings lack the usual charisma he carries in his live teachings. For a more in-depth and practical treatment of spiritual warfare, I would recommend Dr. Karl I. Payne's book, Spiritual Warfare. For systematic theology texts on angels and demons, Dr. Graham A. Cole's Against the Darkness would be a start.
January 15, 2012
If I had a top ten lists of favorite authors, Dr. R.C. Sproul would be somewhere in the top three. The man is simply brilliant. By that I mean he is both simple and brilliant. The guy just has a great way of breaking down complex theological issues into understandable pieces that people like me can digest.
Recently, I was given the opportunity to review one of Dr. Sproul’s latest books, Unseen Realities. In this small paperback seeks to explore the spiritual realm of things unseen. Normally, I am not really attracted to such topics, but anything by R.C. is normally worth a try. I was not disappointed.
The book is neatly divided up into four parts – Heaven, Hell, Angels and Satan.
The first part on heaven stood out to me the most. Quoting a few select passages just won’t do it justice because its not so much the content or the exact wording that stands out, it is the tone. Sproul writes as a man reminiscing about his moved beloved memories. He writes as a man genuinely intrigued by a place to which he’s never been but so longs to be one day.
From a wistful talk about heaven, Sproul dives into the uncomfortable subject of eternal damnation, hell. This section artfully deals with some of the common questions people have about this subject. Are there literal flames? How can a loving God send people there? Does everyone face the same type of punishment in hell? The reader is also treated to some keen insight on more in-depth subjects like the existence of the soul and annihilationism.
In the next section dealing with Angels, we are given clear descriptions of the role angels play in God’s creation. So often we are tempted to downplay this role so that we don’t seen too weird, so I found this section refreshing and informative. We also see discussion of related topics such as angel veneration and the exaltation of Mary.
The final section deals with Satan himself. Summarizing the basic misconception people have of our adversary Sproul writes, “In church history, there has been two serious distortions about the person and work of Satan. The first common distortion is to minimize his reality, or to even deny he exists, and to fail to take him seriously as a real spiritual adversary. The second distortion is to attribute to him greater power and significance than he actually enjoys. So often the church has been influenced by dualistic perspectives that see forces of good and evil, light and darkness, as equal and opposite powers, vying for supremacy. But the Biblical view knows nothing of such dualism, because the contest between God and Satan is no contest at all. Satan is a creature, and a created being. He is always and everywhere under the sovereign power and authority of the Creator.” Sproul also discusses Satan’s fall, limitations and ultimate destiny.
What I found missing from this book was much of a discussion about demons/fallen angels. When you mention the word “demon” on the cover, you expect more of an appearance in the pages thereafter.
This book is definitely worth your time to read. It’s a short and easy read, but by no means is it a fluff piece that only skims the surface. Sproul does a great job in providing in-depth theology at a layman level. Go out and buy the book today.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
Recently, I was given the opportunity to review one of Dr. Sproul’s latest books, Unseen Realities. In this small paperback seeks to explore the spiritual realm of things unseen. Normally, I am not really attracted to such topics, but anything by R.C. is normally worth a try. I was not disappointed.
The book is neatly divided up into four parts – Heaven, Hell, Angels and Satan.
The first part on heaven stood out to me the most. Quoting a few select passages just won’t do it justice because its not so much the content or the exact wording that stands out, it is the tone. Sproul writes as a man reminiscing about his moved beloved memories. He writes as a man genuinely intrigued by a place to which he’s never been but so longs to be one day.
From a wistful talk about heaven, Sproul dives into the uncomfortable subject of eternal damnation, hell. This section artfully deals with some of the common questions people have about this subject. Are there literal flames? How can a loving God send people there? Does everyone face the same type of punishment in hell? The reader is also treated to some keen insight on more in-depth subjects like the existence of the soul and annihilationism.
In the next section dealing with Angels, we are given clear descriptions of the role angels play in God’s creation. So often we are tempted to downplay this role so that we don’t seen too weird, so I found this section refreshing and informative. We also see discussion of related topics such as angel veneration and the exaltation of Mary.
The final section deals with Satan himself. Summarizing the basic misconception people have of our adversary Sproul writes, “In church history, there has been two serious distortions about the person and work of Satan. The first common distortion is to minimize his reality, or to even deny he exists, and to fail to take him seriously as a real spiritual adversary. The second distortion is to attribute to him greater power and significance than he actually enjoys. So often the church has been influenced by dualistic perspectives that see forces of good and evil, light and darkness, as equal and opposite powers, vying for supremacy. But the Biblical view knows nothing of such dualism, because the contest between God and Satan is no contest at all. Satan is a creature, and a created being. He is always and everywhere under the sovereign power and authority of the Creator.” Sproul also discusses Satan’s fall, limitations and ultimate destiny.
What I found missing from this book was much of a discussion about demons/fallen angels. When you mention the word “demon” on the cover, you expect more of an appearance in the pages thereafter.
This book is definitely worth your time to read. It’s a short and easy read, but by no means is it a fluff piece that only skims the surface. Sproul does a great job in providing in-depth theology at a layman level. Go out and buy the book today.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
February 11, 2012
I guess it might have been that this book ended up not really being what I had hoped or expected, but it was also that it was very week and "Greek" thinking throughout. I was hoping it would be a study in cosmology type things, but it ends up being just a very, very milk tradition view of death, heaven, hell and angels.
No real discussion on the differences in the words (and places) referred to as "hell" in the Bible. When he dealt with the story (I said story, not parable as he and others call it) of Luke 16 and the rich man and Lazarus, he only looked at it as some form of story about hell and suffering - nothing being said about the Jewish concept of the realm of the dead, underworld, Hades, Abraham's bosom, etc. I guess this was not too shocking considering how the Reformed world in general has sought to ignore the "unseen realm" and redefine the whole life after death concept of pre-Christ understandings. I guess I just did not expect someone of Sproul's caliber to do so without even mentioning them.
When he started by applying Rev. 20 & 21 about the New Heavens and Earth to "heaven" I had a bad feeling this book was going to not be a winner. For a post-mil pastor with heavy preterist leanings to see the this as being "heaven" kind of had me scratching my head, but so be it.
I guess for such a small writing, he didn't get into any depth on much, so this is like theology 101, heaven and hell "fluff" with no real depth. However, when a lot of it is used in error or totally ignoring the Hebrew understandings, it makes it that much worse.
I guess I have just studied too much deeper material of the Hebrew culture and mindset on these topics (and how the bible uses them) - and that understanding tends to "stray" from what many mainline, very conservative Reformed churches (and their "Greek" redefinition of things at times), that this book was a huge let down in my studies.
No real discussion on the differences in the words (and places) referred to as "hell" in the Bible. When he dealt with the story (I said story, not parable as he and others call it) of Luke 16 and the rich man and Lazarus, he only looked at it as some form of story about hell and suffering - nothing being said about the Jewish concept of the realm of the dead, underworld, Hades, Abraham's bosom, etc. I guess this was not too shocking considering how the Reformed world in general has sought to ignore the "unseen realm" and redefine the whole life after death concept of pre-Christ understandings. I guess I just did not expect someone of Sproul's caliber to do so without even mentioning them.
When he started by applying Rev. 20 & 21 about the New Heavens and Earth to "heaven" I had a bad feeling this book was going to not be a winner. For a post-mil pastor with heavy preterist leanings to see the this as being "heaven" kind of had me scratching my head, but so be it.
I guess for such a small writing, he didn't get into any depth on much, so this is like theology 101, heaven and hell "fluff" with no real depth. However, when a lot of it is used in error or totally ignoring the Hebrew understandings, it makes it that much worse.
I guess I have just studied too much deeper material of the Hebrew culture and mindset on these topics (and how the bible uses them) - and that understanding tends to "stray" from what many mainline, very conservative Reformed churches (and their "Greek" redefinition of things at times), that this book was a huge let down in my studies.
October 22, 2011
R.C. Sproul, one of the greatest theologians alive, offers a short handbook on the spiritual realms of the supernatural. Though definitely not an exhaustive work, Dr. Sproul lays down a sharp biblical groundwork that is a great starting point for further study.
Most noticeable in Dr. Sproul's writing is his humility. He always lets us know when he's speculating and shows other historically held viewpoints. He is careful to articulate his reasoning and back it up with Scripture. He also says a few times, "I don't know." For such a scholarly man, it's refreshing to leave some mysteries as they are.
The book is divided into four sections: Heaven, Hell, angels, and demons, each with a survey of biblical and historical research. Dr. Sproul also shares some personal stories to ground the theology. Since these particular doctrines are so neglected in the church, it's great to read them with such clarity and conviction.
Many books on doctrine can be "cold," but Dr. Sproul has a way of making doctrine relevant to our lives in just a few short sentences. He speaks plainly to our everyday mind. In this way the doctrine becomes white hot and alive: the foreign subject matter became to me as real as our sight, so the book succeeds. I was compelled by the reality of Heaven when he reverses the tragedy of death to a triumph of the eternal soul.
The only weakness here is I wished for a much longer work by Sproul. The section on demons was so captivating that I was actually upset when it ended. There is also no conclusion to the book, which could have tied up what we are to do with this invisible reality.
Bottom Line: The time invested for this tiny book has exponential gains as Dr. Sproul doesn't waste a single word on the supernatural. It will certainly pique your interest in a much neglected issue in our Christian doctrine.
Most noticeable in Dr. Sproul's writing is his humility. He always lets us know when he's speculating and shows other historically held viewpoints. He is careful to articulate his reasoning and back it up with Scripture. He also says a few times, "I don't know." For such a scholarly man, it's refreshing to leave some mysteries as they are.
The book is divided into four sections: Heaven, Hell, angels, and demons, each with a survey of biblical and historical research. Dr. Sproul also shares some personal stories to ground the theology. Since these particular doctrines are so neglected in the church, it's great to read them with such clarity and conviction.
Many books on doctrine can be "cold," but Dr. Sproul has a way of making doctrine relevant to our lives in just a few short sentences. He speaks plainly to our everyday mind. In this way the doctrine becomes white hot and alive: the foreign subject matter became to me as real as our sight, so the book succeeds. I was compelled by the reality of Heaven when he reverses the tragedy of death to a triumph of the eternal soul.
The only weakness here is I wished for a much longer work by Sproul. The section on demons was so captivating that I was actually upset when it ended. There is also no conclusion to the book, which could have tied up what we are to do with this invisible reality.
Bottom Line: The time invested for this tiny book has exponential gains as Dr. Sproul doesn't waste a single word on the supernatural. It will certainly pique your interest in a much neglected issue in our Christian doctrine.
September 25, 2011
One of the things I like about RC Sproul his is mission statement- to help people grow in their knowledge of God and Holiness. That is what this book does with Unseen realities of heaven,hell, angels and demons. There will be some things you know because of the word but also I was happy to learn and glean other insights as well. In heaven RC Sproul reminds us to look ahead at heaven. It is much better than it is here yet we can get comfortable with our lives and all that we do. We are on a pilgrimage. With the doctrine of Hell, that the only one to have authority to convince us of the reality of such a place would be Jesus himself. It is hard to reconcile a loving God to a God that created a place of hell that people send themselves too. That God is a God of wrath that in essence it is not simply to be saved by Him, but to be saved from Him. Our ultimate crisis, the worst calamity a person could ever face, is the judgement of a holy God. One of the statements that made be think is you always hear God loves us unconditionally, on page 70 "Because God's salvific love is conditional. It requires repentance faith on our part and the work of Christ as well." A definition of repentance is a recognition of sin and turning away from sin towards the cross. Another surprising statement is Hell glorifies God by showing in clear terms the goodness of God. In the Old Testament God was set on Israel destroying evil and not being a part of evil. Goodness is that evil will be destroyed. This book is more for the believer to encourage and remind them of these realities and to search the scriptures our selves for these truth.
August 15, 2011
In Unseen Realities R.C. Sproul gives us another good over view of some important biblical subjects. Sproul examines Heaven, Hell, angels and demons in this brief, simple, yet solid book.
Sproul readily espouses the fact that there is something behind the Christian worldview that we call "supernaturalism." He is unafraid to read the Bible and take its teaching for the truth, which is certainly refreshing.
Whether one is a new believer who is seeking to learn, is struggling with questions about these issues, or is a more mature believer who simply feels the need of confirmation, this book presents simply and concisely what the Bible teaches about the unseen world and the after life.
If I had one complaint it would be that the book was too brief. It is a book to appreciate, enjoy, and learn from.
This review copy provided by Christian Focus Publications with no demand or expectation of a positive review.
Sproul readily espouses the fact that there is something behind the Christian worldview that we call "supernaturalism." He is unafraid to read the Bible and take its teaching for the truth, which is certainly refreshing.
Whether one is a new believer who is seeking to learn, is struggling with questions about these issues, or is a more mature believer who simply feels the need of confirmation, this book presents simply and concisely what the Bible teaches about the unseen world and the after life.
If I had one complaint it would be that the book was too brief. It is a book to appreciate, enjoy, and learn from.
This review copy provided by Christian Focus Publications with no demand or expectation of a positive review.
January 4, 2025
Sproul is doctrinally sound and assessable as usual. After reading more on angelology and demonology it made me realize how little is covered in this book especially on angels and demons. Other authors like Beeke, William Perkins, and Graham A Cole go into much more detail and practical application while still remaining orthodox and confessional. For a brief sound introduction to heaven and hell this is a great volume, but it definitely lacks much detail on angles and demons. If you're looking for a short assessable work on angels and demons I'd recommend Joel Beeke's work Fighting Satan as an alternative.
March 20, 2012
I thought Sproul did an excellent job explaining the scriptural evidence for Heaven, Hell, angels, and demons without straying too much into speculation. I especially appreciated his take on Satan and how he is not an equal to G-d but rather a creature that was created by G-d, and therefore does not have the power that so many think he does.
"G-d never, ever tempts us...however, scripture tells us that G-d sometimes will put us in the place of testing...yet G-d never tries to encourage us to sin..."
"G-d never, ever tempts us...however, scripture tells us that G-d sometimes will put us in the place of testing...yet G-d never tries to encourage us to sin..."
February 1, 2013
Although an enjoyable and informative read from one of my favorite theologians, Dr. R.C. Sproul, this short book appeared to be more of a collection of transcripts from his podcasts. I was hoping to get a more in-depth treatment from scriptures regarding Heaven, Hell, Angels and Demons. I would recommend this to new Christians and seekers who are just starting to learn about the subject matter.
May 15, 2013
As always, Dr. Sproul provides an interesting and stimulating read. He is easy to understand and yet deals with some complex issues. One critique: While the subtitle contains "Demons," there is next to nothing in the book on the subject! Rather, Sproul takes the final two chapters to deal with Satan. Nevertheless, it is a good read.
September 7, 2015
In classic Sproul fashion, this book helped remind me of the Biblical realities of the spiritually unseen world. Heaven is real, Hell is a true destination for all unrepentant sinners. There is a war going on between holy angels and fallen angels. My prayer is the LORD would help his people to be more cognizant as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that unseen.
May 1, 2013
Brought me to tears
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