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40 Questions
40 Questions About the End Times
Even-handed, biblical, and broadly accessible answers to the most frequently asked questions abut the return of Christ This newest contribution to the 40 Questions series continues the tradition of excellent research presented in accessible language and clear writing. Designed for both students and general readers, this resource helps them make sense of one of the Bible's most difficult topics. Schnabel, a professor at a leading seminary and the author of several major works, looks at the future of the world, the church, and Israel; the return of Jesus; and the millennium and the final judgment. He answers questions related to the rapture, the 144,000, the identity of the two witnesses, Armageddon, how to interpret Revelation, heaven and hell, and so forth. The result is an even-handed treatment that avoids sensationalism and a "newspaper headline" approach to prophecy, that is, interpreting prophecy according to current events. Rather, Schnabel carefully studies the biblical text in light of its first-century context and draws biblically-based conclusions. Other volumes in the 40 Questions series include 40 Questions About Elders and Deacons by Benjamin Merkle, 40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible by Robert Plummer, and 40 Questions About Christians and Biblical Law by Thomas Schreiner.
346 pages, Paperback
First published January 12, 2012
8 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Eckhard J. Schnabel
41 books17 followersEckhard J. Schnabel (Ph.D., University of Aberdeen) is professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. He has taught previously at Freie Theologische Akademie (Giessen, Germany), Wiedenest Bible College (Bergneustadt, Germany) and Asian Theological Seminary (Manila, Philippines).
His books include Early Christian Mission (volumes 1 & 2) and Der erste Brief des Paulus an die Korinther, and he is the author of numerous articles, including "Luke" (with David W. Pao) in Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament and contributions in InterVarsity Press's Dictionary of Paul and His Letters and Dictionary of the Later New Testament & Its Developments.
His books include Early Christian Mission (volumes 1 & 2) and Der erste Brief des Paulus an die Korinther, and he is the author of numerous articles, including "Luke" (with David W. Pao) in Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament and contributions in InterVarsity Press's Dictionary of Paul and His Letters and Dictionary of the Later New Testament & Its Developments.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 3, 2017
Eschatology is a difficult topic for me as I don't quite grasp it all, but this book, as part of the "40 Questions About..." series is good stuff.
April 27, 2012
Few subjects spark such controversy among Christians as end times theology. For some, the only controversy lies in the inexplicable reluctance of some to fully embrace the truth. Why can't everyone be so moved and excited by the very evident relevance of Biblical prophecy? Can't they see just by picking up a newspaper how we are living in the last days? Others make it their mission to pop the bubble of the many believers who practice such a newspaper-theology. Whether they advocate preterism, pre-wrath, post-millennialism or some other minority position, they turn every conversation into a discussion of their favored end times view. Still others have been burned by churches for abandoning the official eschatological position. And many would rather avoid this subject than see another passionate argument arise.
Given the many opportunities to engender strife on such a volatile subject, we must assume that Eckhard Schnabel was perhaps a bit hesitant to put forth yet another book that aims to navigate the mine-field of eschatology. Whatever the case, Schnabel's new book "40 Questions about the End Times" (Kregel, 2012) will certainly prove to be an important and helpful contribution. I hope it receives wide attention as it offers a helpful corrective to careless end-times speculation and steers clear of divisiveness.
"40 Questions" is informative and expansive without being exhaustive. The format of attacking the subject by means of 40 separate questions allows the book to aim for a systematic treatment of the topic in small segmented bites. This approach means that it can't cover every relevant passage and answer every conceivable question, but it has its merits too. The book can serve as a manual to be referenced when one is looking for information specific to one question (the millennium, the rapture, Hell and judgement, etc.). And the approach keeps the book moving and on track.
Schnabel masterfully employs charts and comparisons between parallel passages and betrays a true mastery of the literature. Yet he doesn't write for scholars. He stays both practical and accessible, even as his footnotes point the way for further study. He tries his best to avoid discussing eschatological positions directly, preferring to cover the relevant Biblical texts exegetically. It is apparent that he is premillennial but not dispensational. He would be post-tribulational in a sense as well, but is more historic premil. And for the most part, he is right in the mainstream of evangelical scholarship: he defends eternal conscious punishment, but holds to a strange view of the millennium that sees the Gog and Magog rebellion at the end of the thousand years as a release of the unrepentant followers of Satan who are deceived and judged again. (This may just be strange to me, as I have not come across this view before. Yet, I can't help but suspecting this is a minority view at best in scholarship today.)
Throughout the book, Schnabel obliquely references "end times specialists" who presume that certain prophecies can only be fulfilled given modern technological advances. Such views are anachronistic, and worse: they represent "new prophecies", since they give a prophetic significance to history. He puts the claims that Babylon will be rebuilt and that a third temple will be built into this category. I have to agree with him that the false predictions and constantly modified interpretive declarations about end times theology (such as the identification of the European Union with the 10-kings who support the Beast) present a problem for the church. Schnabel elaborates:
"If the prophecy writer tries again and adjusts his prophecy, and the new prediction does not come to pass, the end-time `specialist' is clearly neither a specialist nor a prophet. Prophecy writers who get it wrong must apologize and they should stop writing, speaking, blogging, and tweeting about matters related to prophecy." (pg. 311)
This book, however, is more than a mere eschatological handbook or polemic against modern-day false prophets. It is a call for the Church to live in light of the big central truths of prophecy. Christ is returning at any moment, and He will judge the dead and reward the faithful. His kingdom will never end and everything wrong will be made right.
Even if one disagrees with some of Schnabel's particular interpretations, his discussion of the relevant arguments on each question will be both helpful and enlightening. But the book will especially be a help to those who remain "willing to consider the truth of other interpretations of biblical passages," and when warranted, "willing to concede that [they] may have to adjust [their] understanding" (pg. 315). Ultimately, what Schnabel says of Revelation applies to this book: it is written "not to satisfy our curiosity about God's timetable for the end times but in order to encourage believers who are suffering and to exhort believers who are in danger of compromising their faith" (pg. 316).
This book will both educate and encourage the believer. I highly recommend it.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Kregel Publications for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
Given the many opportunities to engender strife on such a volatile subject, we must assume that Eckhard Schnabel was perhaps a bit hesitant to put forth yet another book that aims to navigate the mine-field of eschatology. Whatever the case, Schnabel's new book "40 Questions about the End Times" (Kregel, 2012) will certainly prove to be an important and helpful contribution. I hope it receives wide attention as it offers a helpful corrective to careless end-times speculation and steers clear of divisiveness.
"40 Questions" is informative and expansive without being exhaustive. The format of attacking the subject by means of 40 separate questions allows the book to aim for a systematic treatment of the topic in small segmented bites. This approach means that it can't cover every relevant passage and answer every conceivable question, but it has its merits too. The book can serve as a manual to be referenced when one is looking for information specific to one question (the millennium, the rapture, Hell and judgement, etc.). And the approach keeps the book moving and on track.
Schnabel masterfully employs charts and comparisons between parallel passages and betrays a true mastery of the literature. Yet he doesn't write for scholars. He stays both practical and accessible, even as his footnotes point the way for further study. He tries his best to avoid discussing eschatological positions directly, preferring to cover the relevant Biblical texts exegetically. It is apparent that he is premillennial but not dispensational. He would be post-tribulational in a sense as well, but is more historic premil. And for the most part, he is right in the mainstream of evangelical scholarship: he defends eternal conscious punishment, but holds to a strange view of the millennium that sees the Gog and Magog rebellion at the end of the thousand years as a release of the unrepentant followers of Satan who are deceived and judged again. (This may just be strange to me, as I have not come across this view before. Yet, I can't help but suspecting this is a minority view at best in scholarship today.)
Throughout the book, Schnabel obliquely references "end times specialists" who presume that certain prophecies can only be fulfilled given modern technological advances. Such views are anachronistic, and worse: they represent "new prophecies", since they give a prophetic significance to history. He puts the claims that Babylon will be rebuilt and that a third temple will be built into this category. I have to agree with him that the false predictions and constantly modified interpretive declarations about end times theology (such as the identification of the European Union with the 10-kings who support the Beast) present a problem for the church. Schnabel elaborates:
"If the prophecy writer tries again and adjusts his prophecy, and the new prediction does not come to pass, the end-time `specialist' is clearly neither a specialist nor a prophet. Prophecy writers who get it wrong must apologize and they should stop writing, speaking, blogging, and tweeting about matters related to prophecy." (pg. 311)
This book, however, is more than a mere eschatological handbook or polemic against modern-day false prophets. It is a call for the Church to live in light of the big central truths of prophecy. Christ is returning at any moment, and He will judge the dead and reward the faithful. His kingdom will never end and everything wrong will be made right.
Even if one disagrees with some of Schnabel's particular interpretations, his discussion of the relevant arguments on each question will be both helpful and enlightening. But the book will especially be a help to those who remain "willing to consider the truth of other interpretations of biblical passages," and when warranted, "willing to concede that [they] may have to adjust [their] understanding" (pg. 315). Ultimately, what Schnabel says of Revelation applies to this book: it is written "not to satisfy our curiosity about God's timetable for the end times but in order to encourage believers who are suffering and to exhort believers who are in danger of compromising their faith" (pg. 316).
This book will both educate and encourage the believer. I highly recommend it.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Kregel Publications for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
June 5, 2022
Not a huge fan of this work - the author claims to be simply looking at the relevant texts of Scripture to create his viewpoint but proceeds to make many assumptions the Bible doesn't make, paint strawmen arguments of other viewpoints to prove he's right, and overspiritualize many interpretations in unnecessary ways. While I appreciate his heart for the Gospel, I disagree with many of his conclusions and assumptions about the end times as presented in God's Word.
January 14, 2013
There's always been interest in the end of the world across many cultures. Western culture has always had those who try to predict the end of the world based on Nostradamus's prophecies, the Mayan calendar, or passages in the Hebrew and Christian bibles. ALL attempts at setting a date for the end of the world have failed. But that doesn't stop continual date setting by foolish "gurus" who attract just as foolish followers.
Eckhard Schnabel's book focuses specifically on the Hebrew and Christian bibles, examining every passage in them that talks about the end of times. So if you are interested in the whole issue of the end of time and, specifically, what the Bible might have to say about it, Schnabel's book is a must read. It avoids sensationalism, date setting, and all other nonsense that abuses the text to fit a particular agenda.
Instead, Schnabel takes a literary interpretive approach where he tries to interpret the texts within their own literary, historical and cultural contexts. He most certainly comes from a Christian perspective in accepting the authoritative nature of the texts for Christians. But he deliberately avoids labels and preconceived ideas (as much as one can) and provides fresh insights into the meaning of these ancient documents. Refreshingly undogmatic, it's a pleasure to read and would make a good entry into this genre for those starting that particular journey. It would also provide a reference point for evaluating other works on the subject.
Eckhard Schnabel's book focuses specifically on the Hebrew and Christian bibles, examining every passage in them that talks about the end of times. So if you are interested in the whole issue of the end of time and, specifically, what the Bible might have to say about it, Schnabel's book is a must read. It avoids sensationalism, date setting, and all other nonsense that abuses the text to fit a particular agenda.
Instead, Schnabel takes a literary interpretive approach where he tries to interpret the texts within their own literary, historical and cultural contexts. He most certainly comes from a Christian perspective in accepting the authoritative nature of the texts for Christians. But he deliberately avoids labels and preconceived ideas (as much as one can) and provides fresh insights into the meaning of these ancient documents. Refreshingly undogmatic, it's a pleasure to read and would make a good entry into this genre for those starting that particular journey. It would also provide a reference point for evaluating other works on the subject.
January 6, 2020
While many books on eschatology approach it from a systematic theology perspective, comparing and contrasting the various systems, Schnabel takes more of an exegetical approach, choosing instead to focus on the relevant texts and their implications for one’s eschatology. Rather than offering the definitive final answers to many of the questions raised, he seeks to present the reader with a survey of the relevant passages and main interpretive options for each one (though he will argue for which one he deems most likely in a given case). The result is a helpful overview of the exegetical debates that are crucial in developing a biblical understanding of the end times. I found myself regularly encountering views that I had never heard of before (e.g. the interpretations of Gog and Magog in both the Ezekiel and Revelation passages). The two areas that I wish he would have directly addressed are (1) the genre of the book of Revelation, and (2) principles for interpreting OT prophecies in light of the NT. The absence of such discussions weakened some of the chapters (especially the chapters on literal vs. symbolic interpretation and OT promises to Israel). Nevertheless, the book was well worth the read, leaving me with a lot of exegetical data to chew on. His humility in his conclusions (he never hesitates to admit when he is less than certain) and his pastoral applications were both refreshing to find in a discussion which can too often become more heated than it should be.
July 10, 2020
A fine book. Covers most or all of the pertinent question. Even on areas where I think him to be wrong (I.e. premill) it’s a good starting point and he covers the bases well.
But saying that the NE Puritans invented postmill is just wrong 🤷♂️
But saying that the NE Puritans invented postmill is just wrong 🤷♂️
April 23, 2012
To some the mere mention of the end times and eschatology turns their stomachs. To others, it is a hot button issue that people will stake their lives on and the faith of others against. Still others cannot even clearly articulate their position on the rapture, millennium or the new heaven and earth. After all, once Christ returns, what will it matter then what we think now?
But these kinds of reactions and thoughts, though at times understandable, should not characterize the Christian. After all, since the beginning of time, with the fall of Adam and Eve in Gen. 3, God’s people have been looking to the end. From Genesis to Revelation, there is a looking to the end and fulfilling of the end throughout Scripture. Eschatology is considered by many theologians to be a unifying theological discipline as it brings together the hopes and expectations of God’s people in a broken world.
40 Questions About the End Times is not your typical book on eschatology. Most books on the end times are intentionally written seeking to present the view of the writer. So, the eschatological view of the writer may be on the cover of the book such as premillennialism, amillennialism or postmillennialism. No doubt there is value to these kinds of books because the author believes their position is what Scripture teaches. In serving the author, they also serve the reader.40 Questions About the End Times is different. Though the author does have his own eschatological position, he does not clearly state it anywhere in the book. Schnabel’s goal is to read “the relevant texts of the Old and New Testaments afresh” (p. 11). So this book is an exegetical, historical, grammatical and linguistical examination of the relevant texts of Scripture that answer the 40 questions Schnabel seeks to answer.
There are five basic principles of interpretation that Schnabel follows. First, though both testaments are the word of God, it is the New Testament that receives the primary voice in the interpretation of the Old Testament prophecies. “The prophecies of the Old Testament must be integrated into the framework of New Testament prophecy. While the Old Testament remains the revealed word of God, it is the New Testament that informs Christians how to read the Old Testament” (p. 11). The New Testament is the churches guide for interpreting the Old Testament. Second, because, though Jesus said that his return was imminent, Jesus said many times that no one knows the day or hour when Jesus would return and that His return would be like a thief in the night, we are to steer clear of date setting. Third, that “the early Christians believed the end times began with the coming of Jesus, in particular with his death and resurrection” we need to take this seriously by allowing it to inform our understanding of end time events. Fourth, because the first century Christians believed that Jesus might return in their lifetime, “this means that the apostles interpreted biblical prophecy concerning the end times as either fulfilled or as about to be fulfilled in the near future” (p.12). Fifth, as faithful interpreters of Scripture we need to interpret prophetic texts the same way we would any other text of Scripture. We need to take into account the genre of the book, the historical, cultural, and literary background as well and the context of the texts and intent of the author. We need to let the text tell us what it is intending to say, whether literally, figuratively or symbolically, instead of telling the text what we want it to say just so it fits our presuppositions of the end times.
40 Questions About the End Times is an even handed approach to interpreting many biblical texts concerning the end times. Because of Schnabel’s first interpretive principle (see above), the New Testament is given the primary voice in answering the questions. However, in answering every question, the Old Testament texts that give birth to the New Testament discussion are brought into the conversation. Schnabel rightly holds to the already-not-yet tension of eschatology in Scripture. The predominate Old Testament text from which Schnabel sees most of the New Testament referring to eschatologically is Daniel 7-12. There is a lot of discussion given to Matthew 24 and the book of Revelation.
One of the guiding beliefs Schnabel holds to is that the coming of Jesus, namely the resurrection, inaugurates the beginning of the end times (see question 1). Thus, the end times have already begun in Christ. The eleven signs of the end times (see question 3) are to be understood as occurring between the first and second coming of Christ (see question 4). This leads to the belief that all of the NT texts that refer to the return of Christ are speaking of the same event, though they mention different aspects, and thus there is no secret rapture of the church before a seven year tribulation (see question 10) and further, Christians will live during (are living in now) the tribulation as discussed in Dan. 12-13, Matt. 24, 1 Thess. 4-5 and Rev. 1, 4, 7 and 12 (see question 8). Many other issues are discussed such as the future of Israel, the meaning of the millennium, the relationship between the seal, trumpet and bowl judgments of Rev. 6-16, many of the events in Revelation and the day of judgment.
I applaud what Schnabel has done here and readers will find it very helpful. If you are unsure of where you are with a number of end times issues, this book is for you. If you are in transition between eschatological views, this book is for you. If you are seeking a fresh (as much as a work can be) approach to the end times passages in the New Testament that does not have a certain eschatological position as its agenda, this book is for you. If you are firm in your conviction about your eschatology, this book is still for you. In short, this book is for every laymen, pastor, student and teacher who wants to gain a better grasp on the end times passages of the Bible.
40 Questions About the End Times is scholarly in research, timely, exegetically based, lucid in presentation and respectful to various end times positions. Schnabel unashamedly affirms what Scripture is clear on, leaves room for disagreement where it is not and does not tread where Scripture does not allow.
NOTE: I received this book for free to review for Kregel and was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.
But these kinds of reactions and thoughts, though at times understandable, should not characterize the Christian. After all, since the beginning of time, with the fall of Adam and Eve in Gen. 3, God’s people have been looking to the end. From Genesis to Revelation, there is a looking to the end and fulfilling of the end throughout Scripture. Eschatology is considered by many theologians to be a unifying theological discipline as it brings together the hopes and expectations of God’s people in a broken world.
40 Questions About the End Times is not your typical book on eschatology. Most books on the end times are intentionally written seeking to present the view of the writer. So, the eschatological view of the writer may be on the cover of the book such as premillennialism, amillennialism or postmillennialism. No doubt there is value to these kinds of books because the author believes their position is what Scripture teaches. In serving the author, they also serve the reader.40 Questions About the End Times is different. Though the author does have his own eschatological position, he does not clearly state it anywhere in the book. Schnabel’s goal is to read “the relevant texts of the Old and New Testaments afresh” (p. 11). So this book is an exegetical, historical, grammatical and linguistical examination of the relevant texts of Scripture that answer the 40 questions Schnabel seeks to answer.
There are five basic principles of interpretation that Schnabel follows. First, though both testaments are the word of God, it is the New Testament that receives the primary voice in the interpretation of the Old Testament prophecies. “The prophecies of the Old Testament must be integrated into the framework of New Testament prophecy. While the Old Testament remains the revealed word of God, it is the New Testament that informs Christians how to read the Old Testament” (p. 11). The New Testament is the churches guide for interpreting the Old Testament. Second, because, though Jesus said that his return was imminent, Jesus said many times that no one knows the day or hour when Jesus would return and that His return would be like a thief in the night, we are to steer clear of date setting. Third, that “the early Christians believed the end times began with the coming of Jesus, in particular with his death and resurrection” we need to take this seriously by allowing it to inform our understanding of end time events. Fourth, because the first century Christians believed that Jesus might return in their lifetime, “this means that the apostles interpreted biblical prophecy concerning the end times as either fulfilled or as about to be fulfilled in the near future” (p.12). Fifth, as faithful interpreters of Scripture we need to interpret prophetic texts the same way we would any other text of Scripture. We need to take into account the genre of the book, the historical, cultural, and literary background as well and the context of the texts and intent of the author. We need to let the text tell us what it is intending to say, whether literally, figuratively or symbolically, instead of telling the text what we want it to say just so it fits our presuppositions of the end times.
40 Questions About the End Times is an even handed approach to interpreting many biblical texts concerning the end times. Because of Schnabel’s first interpretive principle (see above), the New Testament is given the primary voice in answering the questions. However, in answering every question, the Old Testament texts that give birth to the New Testament discussion are brought into the conversation. Schnabel rightly holds to the already-not-yet tension of eschatology in Scripture. The predominate Old Testament text from which Schnabel sees most of the New Testament referring to eschatologically is Daniel 7-12. There is a lot of discussion given to Matthew 24 and the book of Revelation.
One of the guiding beliefs Schnabel holds to is that the coming of Jesus, namely the resurrection, inaugurates the beginning of the end times (see question 1). Thus, the end times have already begun in Christ. The eleven signs of the end times (see question 3) are to be understood as occurring between the first and second coming of Christ (see question 4). This leads to the belief that all of the NT texts that refer to the return of Christ are speaking of the same event, though they mention different aspects, and thus there is no secret rapture of the church before a seven year tribulation (see question 10) and further, Christians will live during (are living in now) the tribulation as discussed in Dan. 12-13, Matt. 24, 1 Thess. 4-5 and Rev. 1, 4, 7 and 12 (see question 8). Many other issues are discussed such as the future of Israel, the meaning of the millennium, the relationship between the seal, trumpet and bowl judgments of Rev. 6-16, many of the events in Revelation and the day of judgment.
I applaud what Schnabel has done here and readers will find it very helpful. If you are unsure of where you are with a number of end times issues, this book is for you. If you are in transition between eschatological views, this book is for you. If you are seeking a fresh (as much as a work can be) approach to the end times passages in the New Testament that does not have a certain eschatological position as its agenda, this book is for you. If you are firm in your conviction about your eschatology, this book is still for you. In short, this book is for every laymen, pastor, student and teacher who wants to gain a better grasp on the end times passages of the Bible.
40 Questions About the End Times is scholarly in research, timely, exegetically based, lucid in presentation and respectful to various end times positions. Schnabel unashamedly affirms what Scripture is clear on, leaves room for disagreement where it is not and does not tread where Scripture does not allow.
NOTE: I received this book for free to review for Kregel and was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.
April 3, 2024
Not great.
April 22, 2012
The 40 Questions and Answers Series from Kregel has been a tremendous help to me. I've previously benefited from both 40 Questions About Elders and Deacons by Benjamin Merkle and 40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible by Robert Plummer. Kregel has also published 40 Questions About Christians and the Law by Tom Schreiner. The most recent book in the series though is 40 Questions About the End Times by Eckhard Schnabel.
There are few areas of theology that have attracted more attention than the end times. This is partially because of the difficulty in explaining many prophetic Scripture passages relating to the end times and also the general fascination of wanting to know how the end is all going to work. In this book by Schnabel he gives short, succinct, answers to many of the most common questions raised in end times study. Those questions are:
Part 1: General Questions about the Future
A. The Future of the World
1. When Do the End Times Begin?
2. What Is the Fullness of Time?
3. What Are the Signs of the End (Matt. 24)?
4. When Will the Signs of the End Take Place?
5. What Are the Seal, Trumpet, and Bowl Judgments (Rev. 6-16)?
6. Should We Understand John’s Visions Literally or Symbolically?
7. When Will the Seal, Trumpet, and Bowl Judgments Take Place?
B. The Future of the Church
8. Will Christians Live during the Tribulation?
9. Who Are the 144,000 in Revelation 7?
10. Will the Church Disappear in a Rapture to Heaven?
11. Will the Work of the Church Bring about a Period of Faith, Righteousness, Peace, and Prosperity on Earth?
C. The Future of Israel
12. What Are Israel’s Old Testament Promises?
13. Does National Israel Have a Special Destiny?
14. Does the Modern State of Israel Represent Fulfillment of Prophecy?
15. What Is Christian Zionism?
16. Will a Third Temple Be Built in Jerusalem?
Part 2: The Return of Jesus Christ
A. Events before the Return of Jesus
17. What Is the “Abomination of Desolation” in Jesus’ Prophecy?
18. Who Is the “Lawless One” in Paul’s Prophecy?
19. Who Is the Beast in John’s Prophecy?
20. Who Is the Antichrist?
21. What Is the Meaning of the Number 666?
22. Who Is the False Prophet?
23. What Is the Mark of the Beast?
24. Who Is the Great Harlot of Babylon?
25. Who Are the Two Witnesses of Revelation 11?
26. Who Are Gog and Magog in Ezekiel?
27. Who Are Gog and Magog in Revelation?
28. What Is the Battle of Armageddon?
29. What Is the Great Earthquake?
B. The Return of Jesus
30. Why Will Jesus Return?
31. How and Where Will Jesus Return?
32. Will Jesus Return Soon?
Part 3: The Millennium and the Last Judgment
A. The Millennium and the New Jerusalem
33. What Is the Millennium?
34. When Will the Millennium Take Place?
35. What Is the New Jerusalem?
B. The Day of Judgment
36. When Will the Day of Judgment Take Place?
37. What Will Happen to Believers on the Day of Judgment?
38. What Will Happen to Unbelievers on the Day of Judgment?
Part 4: Interpreting the End Times
39. How Should We View the Prophecies of Prophecy Writers?
40. Why Should I Care about the End Times?
As far as perspectives goes, Schnabel is writing from a historic, pre-millennial position. He answers this question in chapter 34. In looking to his view on the rapture he shows that he is post-tribulational in chapter 10. As far as I can tell he covers all major questions as it relates to the end times and gives a fair answer. There could be some things that you would disagree with, such as his rapture view, but Schnabel writes charitably and helpfully.
One of the great things about a book organized like this is its accessibility. The chapters do not necessarily build upon one another so the reader can turn directly to the questions that interest them the most. This can be very helpful when trying to wade through 345 pages. From my reading of the book I have no hesitancies in recommending this book to anyone that is interested in a biblical foundation of the end times.
If you are interested in a commentary that will complement this book well please check out Jim Hamilton's new commentary, Revelation: The Spirit Speaks to the Churches.
FTC Rhetoric: I do not receive payment for my book reviews. I do sometimes receive free review and giveaway copies from authors, publishers, and publicists. My first responsibility is to my readers, therefore, I am committed to honest reviews.
There are few areas of theology that have attracted more attention than the end times. This is partially because of the difficulty in explaining many prophetic Scripture passages relating to the end times and also the general fascination of wanting to know how the end is all going to work. In this book by Schnabel he gives short, succinct, answers to many of the most common questions raised in end times study. Those questions are:
Part 1: General Questions about the Future
A. The Future of the World
1. When Do the End Times Begin?
2. What Is the Fullness of Time?
3. What Are the Signs of the End (Matt. 24)?
4. When Will the Signs of the End Take Place?
5. What Are the Seal, Trumpet, and Bowl Judgments (Rev. 6-16)?
6. Should We Understand John’s Visions Literally or Symbolically?
7. When Will the Seal, Trumpet, and Bowl Judgments Take Place?
B. The Future of the Church
8. Will Christians Live during the Tribulation?
9. Who Are the 144,000 in Revelation 7?
10. Will the Church Disappear in a Rapture to Heaven?
11. Will the Work of the Church Bring about a Period of Faith, Righteousness, Peace, and Prosperity on Earth?
C. The Future of Israel
12. What Are Israel’s Old Testament Promises?
13. Does National Israel Have a Special Destiny?
14. Does the Modern State of Israel Represent Fulfillment of Prophecy?
15. What Is Christian Zionism?
16. Will a Third Temple Be Built in Jerusalem?
Part 2: The Return of Jesus Christ
A. Events before the Return of Jesus
17. What Is the “Abomination of Desolation” in Jesus’ Prophecy?
18. Who Is the “Lawless One” in Paul’s Prophecy?
19. Who Is the Beast in John’s Prophecy?
20. Who Is the Antichrist?
21. What Is the Meaning of the Number 666?
22. Who Is the False Prophet?
23. What Is the Mark of the Beast?
24. Who Is the Great Harlot of Babylon?
25. Who Are the Two Witnesses of Revelation 11?
26. Who Are Gog and Magog in Ezekiel?
27. Who Are Gog and Magog in Revelation?
28. What Is the Battle of Armageddon?
29. What Is the Great Earthquake?
B. The Return of Jesus
30. Why Will Jesus Return?
31. How and Where Will Jesus Return?
32. Will Jesus Return Soon?
Part 3: The Millennium and the Last Judgment
A. The Millennium and the New Jerusalem
33. What Is the Millennium?
34. When Will the Millennium Take Place?
35. What Is the New Jerusalem?
B. The Day of Judgment
36. When Will the Day of Judgment Take Place?
37. What Will Happen to Believers on the Day of Judgment?
38. What Will Happen to Unbelievers on the Day of Judgment?
Part 4: Interpreting the End Times
39. How Should We View the Prophecies of Prophecy Writers?
40. Why Should I Care about the End Times?
As far as perspectives goes, Schnabel is writing from a historic, pre-millennial position. He answers this question in chapter 34. In looking to his view on the rapture he shows that he is post-tribulational in chapter 10. As far as I can tell he covers all major questions as it relates to the end times and gives a fair answer. There could be some things that you would disagree with, such as his rapture view, but Schnabel writes charitably and helpfully.
One of the great things about a book organized like this is its accessibility. The chapters do not necessarily build upon one another so the reader can turn directly to the questions that interest them the most. This can be very helpful when trying to wade through 345 pages. From my reading of the book I have no hesitancies in recommending this book to anyone that is interested in a biblical foundation of the end times.
If you are interested in a commentary that will complement this book well please check out Jim Hamilton's new commentary, Revelation: The Spirit Speaks to the Churches.
FTC Rhetoric: I do not receive payment for my book reviews. I do sometimes receive free review and giveaway copies from authors, publishers, and publicists. My first responsibility is to my readers, therefore, I am committed to honest reviews.
April 27, 2012
Eckhard Schnabel in his new book, “40 Questions About the End Times” Book Four in the 40 Questions Series published by Kregel Publications tackles common questions about the final period before Christ’s second coming.
From the back cover: Organized in an accessible FAQ format, 40 Questions About the End Times tackles common questions about the final period before Christ’s second coming. In his clear, balanced style, Eckhard Schnabel cuts through the confusion and hype to offer meaningful answers through analysis of the relevant biblical texts as well as theological and practical conclusions. Questions include: Who are the 144,000 in Revelation 7? Will the Church disappear in a rapture to heaven? Does national Israel have a special destiny? What will happen to believers on the day of judgment?
There are lots of commentators on the Bible book of Revelation out there. Some are good, some are not so good and not everyone is in agreement about what this book means. Revelation is the last book of the Bible and the only one that has a blessing attached for the reader. John was on the island of Patmos, under arrest, when he was given a series of revelations about the future. He then had to write about these future events using terms that was available to him at the time. Because of this some of what he wrote is difficult to understand. In this book Dr. Schnabel attempts to make it easier for the reader to grasp the real meaning of the book. The book is arranged in four parts,
1. General Questions about the Future, 2. The Return of Jesus Christ, 3. The Millenium and Last Judgment, 4. Interpreting the End Times. At the end of each chapter is a summary and further “Reflection Questions”. This book is a resource that will be used over and over again. I recommend this book highly.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Organized in an accessible FAQ format, 40 Questions About the End Times tackles common questions about the final period before Christ’s second coming. In his clear, balanced style, Eckhard Schnabel cuts through the confusion and hype to offer meaningful answers through analysis of the relevant biblical texts as well as theological and practical conclusions. Questions include: Who are the 144,000 in Revelation 7? Will the Church disappear in a rapture to heaven? Does national Israel have a special destiny? What will happen to believers on the day of judgment?
There are lots of commentators on the Bible book of Revelation out there. Some are good, some are not so good and not everyone is in agreement about what this book means. Revelation is the last book of the Bible and the only one that has a blessing attached for the reader. John was on the island of Patmos, under arrest, when he was given a series of revelations about the future. He then had to write about these future events using terms that was available to him at the time. Because of this some of what he wrote is difficult to understand. In this book Dr. Schnabel attempts to make it easier for the reader to grasp the real meaning of the book. The book is arranged in four parts,
1. General Questions about the Future, 2. The Return of Jesus Christ, 3. The Millenium and Last Judgment, 4. Interpreting the End Times. At the end of each chapter is a summary and further “Reflection Questions”. This book is a resource that will be used over and over again. I recommend this book highly.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 28, 2012
When will Christ return? What is the millennium? Will there be a rapture of the church? These are questions we have all been provoked to ask by popular End Times literature. Sadly much speculation has taken place and has caused Christians much confusion. American culture is all too familiar with wacky predictions regarding doomsday.
This book is a breath of fresh air in a discussion that desperately needs it. This book, as the title suggests, deals with 40 questions about the end times. Each chapter is 5-7 pages long and is written extremely readable prose for the average reader to be able to deal with these tough questions. As a biblical scholar and theologian the author ably gives biblical support for each of his positions. While it is clear that the author comes from an historic premillenial position, those who hold other views will find much to agree with. The author gives fair treatment to disagreements, with the exception of the postmillenial view, and is to be commended for his desire cover all views and not create straw men. A great introduction to the topic, highly recommended.
Kregel publications supplied this book in exchange for a review, I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
This book is a breath of fresh air in a discussion that desperately needs it. This book, as the title suggests, deals with 40 questions about the end times. Each chapter is 5-7 pages long and is written extremely readable prose for the average reader to be able to deal with these tough questions. As a biblical scholar and theologian the author ably gives biblical support for each of his positions. While it is clear that the author comes from an historic premillenial position, those who hold other views will find much to agree with. The author gives fair treatment to disagreements, with the exception of the postmillenial view, and is to be commended for his desire cover all views and not create straw men. A great introduction to the topic, highly recommended.
Kregel publications supplied this book in exchange for a review, I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
October 15, 2013
This book would have received 5 stars had it not been for a few of the author's views that I believe are unbiblical. For example he holds a premillennial view of Rev. 20:1-6 (Question #34) and this causes him to hold some unbiblical views on the timing of the final judgment (Question #36). But this is certainly one of those issues where there is room for disagreement and the author can still be considered an orthodox Christian. Aside from what I just mentioned the author is very balanced and biblical in his treatment of the other questions and I agreed with his answers just about every time. This is also a great tool to help someone understand the book of Revelation better.
August 27, 2016
Book is definitely from a premillennial perspective. While it might explain some other views on certain things, the conclusions are premillennial (a view which I share). Takes certain things in Revelation more symbolically but I think the it's a good overall treatment of Revelation and that the book will help a person make sense of one of the most complicated books in the Bible. If you're historic premillennial, might help clarify some things for you. If you're not historical premil, it's a good resource into the interpretation of Revelation from that view.
July 17, 2013
A very well-written book on an often contentious topic. I appreciate Schnabel's model of interpretation and application apocalyptic literature. 4 start are given for some of the editorial decisions of Kregel that were at times distracting from the overall book.
June 13, 2013
This book takes a preterist interpretation of Revelation and the end times. The good point of the book was that it showed us how much one has to twist events around the fall of Jerusalem to make it fit with Scripture.
February 16, 2015
Only about half of these questions are ones i actually had. Some of the answers seemed inconsistent with others but overall, decent book and lots of good answers.
March 22, 2015
Quite helpful. Gets past all of the "millennial" descriptors to take an honest look at what scripture really says about end times.
June 20, 2019
It’s a good reference book but not worth reading as a whole.
April 14, 2017
Can be somewhat dry but the author brings many clarifying things to light for someone coming from a pre-mill background (such as myself).
April 26, 2017
Good reference book to have on hand. Well done.
read-sections
May 25, 2018Dnf. My husband and I read some of this together. Good book, but I guess we answered a few of our questions and moved on.
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