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More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation
A classic interpretation of Revelation. Solid scholarship and simplicity are combined, making this commentary useful to laypersons, pastors, and teachers.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 29, 1905
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
November 3, 2019
Our church just finished a sermon series on the book of Revelation. In his sermon today, Pastor Brian Key reminded us that the book of Revelation itself has two goals: 1) Refocus our vision. 2) Cultivate our longing. "Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!" (Rev. 22:20b ESV)
This commentary brings those two goals together in its title: "More Than Conquerors." Throughout, Hendriksen helps us understand the symbolism and visions; always pointing us to the fact that Christ is already on the throne and we will be with him soon--for we are conquerors with him. You might look at the publishing date of 1940 and dismiss it as irrelevant for the 21st century church. Not so! Our pastors quoted Hendriksen specifically more than once during our time studying Revelation. This commentary is just as described in the Goodreads summary -- so accessible and enlightening for the reader. I have had a copy in my personal library for decades. I was told that my paternal grandfather had a copy in his possession that had been bought from a travelling salesman shortly after publishing. Highly recommended! It is a timeless resource for those who want to understand the book of Revelation. Other books of note are "The Triumph of the Lamb" by Dennis Johnson and "Visions of the Revelation" by Jay E. Adams and Michael W. Carroll.
"And Lord haste the day
when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound,
and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul." (Horatio Gates Spofford)
This commentary brings those two goals together in its title: "More Than Conquerors." Throughout, Hendriksen helps us understand the symbolism and visions; always pointing us to the fact that Christ is already on the throne and we will be with him soon--for we are conquerors with him. You might look at the publishing date of 1940 and dismiss it as irrelevant for the 21st century church. Not so! Our pastors quoted Hendriksen specifically more than once during our time studying Revelation. This commentary is just as described in the Goodreads summary -- so accessible and enlightening for the reader. I have had a copy in my personal library for decades. I was told that my paternal grandfather had a copy in his possession that had been bought from a travelling salesman shortly after publishing. Highly recommended! It is a timeless resource for those who want to understand the book of Revelation. Other books of note are "The Triumph of the Lamb" by Dennis Johnson and "Visions of the Revelation" by Jay E. Adams and Michael W. Carroll.
"And Lord haste the day
when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound,
and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul." (Horatio Gates Spofford)
March 31, 2015
FINALLY! I've looked for an interpretation of Revelation that makes sense for YEARS, and I find it's been available since before I was born. Who knew? What I love about Hendriksen's interpretation is that he uses scripture to interpret scripture. He takes all views into account and argues for or against each one. With scripture. As a writer, I appreciate how he sees the literary craftsmanship of the Bible and considers that throughout the work. The ones who do this make the best teachers. Hendriksen challenged me, but the writing was never above my head. And I LOVED how he led me in worship every time I picked up the book. You really can't ask for more from a teacher. I'm so thankful More Than Conquerors was recommended to me. It has affected the way I view the world past and present, and it gives me direction as I disciple my kids. I can't think of many books of more importance. I'm now on an unapologetic crusade to spread this book among my friends and family. Next, the world. It was that good.
October 10, 2022
Have you ever been reading the last book of the Bible and found yourself scratching your head, wondering, What is this actually talking about? Or maybe you’ve just sort of avoided reading it, thinking it’s too hard to understand, or not important or of practical use to your life? I have felt like this at times, and after acquiring a copy of William Hendricksen’s book had always intended to read it sometime. Then when my pastor announced he was starting a sermon series preaching through the book of Revelation, I thought it would be a good time to start it.
The last book of the Bible has been approached and interpreted in many ways, and is often considered to be one of the most difficult and cryptic books in all of Scripture. Yet, the book of Revelation comes with the promise of a blessing to all who read it:
"Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near" (Rev. 1:3).
In spite of the various views and interpretations of the book and the teachings related to the Apocalypse/Last Day/End Times, we shouldn’t shy away from reading Revelation with an effort made towards understanding and profiting from it. Hendricksen says that Revelation is a book of symbols, not riddles. The book is meant to be an unveiling of truth, and was written to benefit and encourage believers in Christ, not to trouble and confuse us. However, in order to begin to understand it, certain rules of Biblical hermeneutics (the interpretation of scripture) need to be followed.
In his analysis of Revelation, Hendricksen begins by reminding the reader of the historical context and original audience to which it was written, and its main theme and purpose. He also reminds us that it needs to be interpreted in light of what is revealed throughout the entirety of Scripture, particularly considering the many Old Testament references, allusions, and symbolism that the book is full of, all of which are relevant and need to be kept in mind. In fact, there are over 500 allusions or references in Revelation to passages in the Old Testament (the books of Daniel, Ezekiel, and Isaiah, for example). There are also passages that parallel verses in Revelation found in the Gospels and other New Testament books as well. As one basic rule of hermeneutics states: allow Scripture to interpret Scripture. With this in mind, Hendricksen is constantly cross-referencing Revelation with other related passages of scripture.
Dr. Hendricksen points out that there are some keys and interpretive principles that help to unlock the apparent mysteries of Revelation; consider the following as you take up the book of Revelation:
1. As a book, Revelation is classified as Jewish apocalyptic literature, and it needs to be analyzed and interpreted as such. Generally, a good rule of thumb when reading the Bible is to take the text literally unless we are specifically told that it is symbolic (as with dreams and visions). As a genre, apocalyptic literature uses symbolism, imagery, metaphors, and poetry extensively to convey the ideas and concepts it is written to communicate. It is not a genre of literature that we are familiar with; as a result it is often handled and interpreted inappropriately. Unlike historical narrative texts, it generally should be interpreted figuratively, not literally.
2. The book was written for the instruction, warning, and comfort of first century Christians. The purpose of the message contained in it is to reveal Jesus Christ to His people, that God is with them, and He will defeat His and their enemies. The letter was written to seven actual churches that existed in the area of Asia Minor during a period of history that was very difficult to be a Christian. The letter would be distributed amongst the churches in the area. It would not make sense if its contents described events that would occur 1000 or more years later. Hendricksen explains,
“These believers were not primarily interested in the great events of future centuries so much as in the struggle between light and darkness, the Church and the world, Christ and the dragon, truth and error, which was being waged in their own time.”
The churches addressed in chapters two and three of Revelation, while seven real churches, also represent types and conditions of churches through the ages. Thus it is as relevant and helpful to us as God’s people living in the 21st century as it was to its original audience.
3. The book is not a narrative and was not written chronologically, nor is it meant to be read as a chronological account. Doing so leads to a lot of confusion. Hendricksen explains that the scenes described are depicted not in a linear manner, but in a cyclical manner, with certain occurrences being described several times but from a different perspective and with a different focus.
“A careful reading of the book of Revelation has made it clear that the book consists of seven sections, and that these seven sections run parallel to one another. Each of them spans the entire dispensation from the first to the second coming of Christ. This period is viewed now from one aspect, now from another.”
So we are presented with a series of scenes which are full of action and symbols, depicting different views of the persecution and trials of Christ’s church, the ongoing conflict between Christ and Satan, the final judgment of the wicked, and Christ seated on his throne after his victorious defeat of his enemies (the Beast, the False Prophet, the harlot Babylon, and the Dragon/Serpent). For example, notice how the judgment of “those who dwell on earth” (the unbelieving, rebellious God-rejecters) is depicted in chapters 6, 14, 16 and 19. Again, notice how we see the saints of God worshipping and praising Christ for conquering the enemies of God in chapters 4, 7, 11, 14 and 19. When chapters 4 through 22 are read as if it is a series of chronological events, it really doesn’t make any logical sense.
4. The numbers and symbols that are used so repetitively are important in the book of Revelation and have non-literal meaning. Certain numbers are used over and over (3, 4, 7, 10, 12, and 1000 for example), and are meant to convey an idea. For example, the number 7 appears repeatedly (54 times) throughout the book, in just about every chapter, and symbolizes perfection or completeness. The number 12 should make you think of two things: the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 apostles of Jesus. Thus, the number 12 represents the people of God; 24 (12+12) represents the united people of God from both the Old Testament and the New. Likewise, items have a symbolic meaning representing a particular idea: horns = power, crowns = authority, eyes = knowledge. Rather than trying to dissect and separate each piece contained in every scene, however, we need to try to see what the picture as a whole is illustrating; what is the main idea being portrayed? Hendricksen guides the reader through this process.
Remember, the full title of this book of the Bible is The Revelation of Jesus Christ. The main focus and subject of the book is not the world, Satan, evil, tribulations, etc. The main subject is Jesus Christ. Hendricksen’s book is so instructive and insightful as the author provides his commentary chapter by chapter, explaining the meaning and pointing out the overarching theme that runs throughout the book from beginning to end: the victory of Christ and His church over all His and her enemies for His own glory.
The general message of the book of Revelation is one that we as believers need today! I encourage every Christian who has tried to make sense of this final and important book of the Bible, or has avoided reading it altogether, to set aside their preconceived ideas and read Hendricksen’s commentary with an open Bible and an open mind, and see for yourself if it doesn’t help to unveil the truths found in Revelation.
“We are conquerors; indeed, we are more than conquerors through him that loved, us for not only do we triumph over every foe but we also live and reign with Christ. And in this supreme joy many of those who formerly opposed us will participate. Truly, more than conquerors are we!”
The last book of the Bible has been approached and interpreted in many ways, and is often considered to be one of the most difficult and cryptic books in all of Scripture. Yet, the book of Revelation comes with the promise of a blessing to all who read it:
"Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near" (Rev. 1:3).
In spite of the various views and interpretations of the book and the teachings related to the Apocalypse/Last Day/End Times, we shouldn’t shy away from reading Revelation with an effort made towards understanding and profiting from it. Hendricksen says that Revelation is a book of symbols, not riddles. The book is meant to be an unveiling of truth, and was written to benefit and encourage believers in Christ, not to trouble and confuse us. However, in order to begin to understand it, certain rules of Biblical hermeneutics (the interpretation of scripture) need to be followed.
In his analysis of Revelation, Hendricksen begins by reminding the reader of the historical context and original audience to which it was written, and its main theme and purpose. He also reminds us that it needs to be interpreted in light of what is revealed throughout the entirety of Scripture, particularly considering the many Old Testament references, allusions, and symbolism that the book is full of, all of which are relevant and need to be kept in mind. In fact, there are over 500 allusions or references in Revelation to passages in the Old Testament (the books of Daniel, Ezekiel, and Isaiah, for example). There are also passages that parallel verses in Revelation found in the Gospels and other New Testament books as well. As one basic rule of hermeneutics states: allow Scripture to interpret Scripture. With this in mind, Hendricksen is constantly cross-referencing Revelation with other related passages of scripture.
Dr. Hendricksen points out that there are some keys and interpretive principles that help to unlock the apparent mysteries of Revelation; consider the following as you take up the book of Revelation:
1. As a book, Revelation is classified as Jewish apocalyptic literature, and it needs to be analyzed and interpreted as such. Generally, a good rule of thumb when reading the Bible is to take the text literally unless we are specifically told that it is symbolic (as with dreams and visions). As a genre, apocalyptic literature uses symbolism, imagery, metaphors, and poetry extensively to convey the ideas and concepts it is written to communicate. It is not a genre of literature that we are familiar with; as a result it is often handled and interpreted inappropriately. Unlike historical narrative texts, it generally should be interpreted figuratively, not literally.
2. The book was written for the instruction, warning, and comfort of first century Christians. The purpose of the message contained in it is to reveal Jesus Christ to His people, that God is with them, and He will defeat His and their enemies. The letter was written to seven actual churches that existed in the area of Asia Minor during a period of history that was very difficult to be a Christian. The letter would be distributed amongst the churches in the area. It would not make sense if its contents described events that would occur 1000 or more years later. Hendricksen explains,
“These believers were not primarily interested in the great events of future centuries so much as in the struggle between light and darkness, the Church and the world, Christ and the dragon, truth and error, which was being waged in their own time.”
The churches addressed in chapters two and three of Revelation, while seven real churches, also represent types and conditions of churches through the ages. Thus it is as relevant and helpful to us as God’s people living in the 21st century as it was to its original audience.
3. The book is not a narrative and was not written chronologically, nor is it meant to be read as a chronological account. Doing so leads to a lot of confusion. Hendricksen explains that the scenes described are depicted not in a linear manner, but in a cyclical manner, with certain occurrences being described several times but from a different perspective and with a different focus.
“A careful reading of the book of Revelation has made it clear that the book consists of seven sections, and that these seven sections run parallel to one another. Each of them spans the entire dispensation from the first to the second coming of Christ. This period is viewed now from one aspect, now from another.”
So we are presented with a series of scenes which are full of action and symbols, depicting different views of the persecution and trials of Christ’s church, the ongoing conflict between Christ and Satan, the final judgment of the wicked, and Christ seated on his throne after his victorious defeat of his enemies (the Beast, the False Prophet, the harlot Babylon, and the Dragon/Serpent). For example, notice how the judgment of “those who dwell on earth” (the unbelieving, rebellious God-rejecters) is depicted in chapters 6, 14, 16 and 19. Again, notice how we see the saints of God worshipping and praising Christ for conquering the enemies of God in chapters 4, 7, 11, 14 and 19. When chapters 4 through 22 are read as if it is a series of chronological events, it really doesn’t make any logical sense.
4. The numbers and symbols that are used so repetitively are important in the book of Revelation and have non-literal meaning. Certain numbers are used over and over (3, 4, 7, 10, 12, and 1000 for example), and are meant to convey an idea. For example, the number 7 appears repeatedly (54 times) throughout the book, in just about every chapter, and symbolizes perfection or completeness. The number 12 should make you think of two things: the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 apostles of Jesus. Thus, the number 12 represents the people of God; 24 (12+12) represents the united people of God from both the Old Testament and the New. Likewise, items have a symbolic meaning representing a particular idea: horns = power, crowns = authority, eyes = knowledge. Rather than trying to dissect and separate each piece contained in every scene, however, we need to try to see what the picture as a whole is illustrating; what is the main idea being portrayed? Hendricksen guides the reader through this process.
Remember, the full title of this book of the Bible is The Revelation of Jesus Christ. The main focus and subject of the book is not the world, Satan, evil, tribulations, etc. The main subject is Jesus Christ. Hendricksen’s book is so instructive and insightful as the author provides his commentary chapter by chapter, explaining the meaning and pointing out the overarching theme that runs throughout the book from beginning to end: the victory of Christ and His church over all His and her enemies for His own glory.
The general message of the book of Revelation is one that we as believers need today! I encourage every Christian who has tried to make sense of this final and important book of the Bible, or has avoided reading it altogether, to set aside their preconceived ideas and read Hendricksen’s commentary with an open Bible and an open mind, and see for yourself if it doesn’t help to unveil the truths found in Revelation.
“We are conquerors; indeed, we are more than conquerors through him that loved, us for not only do we triumph over every foe but we also live and reign with Christ. And in this supreme joy many of those who formerly opposed us will participate. Truly, more than conquerors are we!”
May 30, 2008
For those who are tired of contemporary end time readings, annoyed at wacky interpretations of Revelation, and wanting a sober well exegete of the Bible's last book, then this book is a MUST read for you. Hendrickson does well to keep your attention, and most importantly that is so lost on Biblical reading, he uses the Bible to interpret the Bible. He presents and makes a compelling case for Amillenniumism(spelling?). Although not completely exhaustive of the text, Hendrickson provides the reader with the tools to further his or her reading and understanding of a such a fascinating book. I couldn't recommend this book more for those who are new to eschatology (like myself), and are tired of contemporary versions of the end times.
August 29, 2022
This was a great interpretation, written by William Hendriksen, on the Book of Revelation, the most read and controversial book of the Holy Bible. Everyone wants to know what it means and how to perceive it. I believe Hendriksen’s thoughts on it is a close to the truth of it as we can get, here on this earth. I loved reading it and studying on it. It took me quite a long while, but I liked taking my time to absorb it well and can we ever soak up as much as we hope to. I recommend this one for sure to anyone as interested in Revelation as I am. I don’t believe you’ll be disappointed.
May 26, 2025
This is a great intro to Revelation from an iterist/amillenial viewpoint. Great for seminarians of course, but also for an educated lay member!
January 25, 2024
Never has Revelation made more sense, or been so encouraging at the same time. If you want to be challenged but encouraged, this is well worth the time and energy to get through. You will not regret it!
April 21, 2020
Though I've read More Than Conquerors before, this read through has been an inspiring part of my current morning devotions. It is an excellent study and reminded me daily of the joy in reading John's Revelation.
I highly recommend this book, especially for anyone seeking to find relevant meaning in this last book of the Bible. As Hendriksen says on page 10, "we should give equal prominence to the fact that this book was intended not only for those who first read it, but for all believers throughout this entire dispensation."
We are, indeed, more than conquerors.
I highly recommend this book, especially for anyone seeking to find relevant meaning in this last book of the Bible. As Hendriksen says on page 10, "we should give equal prominence to the fact that this book was intended not only for those who first read it, but for all believers throughout this entire dispensation."
We are, indeed, more than conquerors.
December 21, 2018
I used this book as a commentary as I was reading though Revelation. I found it very helpful and I would recommend it to others.
September 27, 2020
I recommend this book if you would like to read a great, common sense book on Revelation. It's old (copyright 1940), but still quite good. It is approachable at a popular level and not too academic (but shows signs of good scholarship, including references to other works.
A couple of thoughts:
This book was written in the heyday of Dispensationalism and treats that theory (which Hendriksen disagrees with) as if readers are familiar with it. If you are not, you might need to brush up on that a little.
The old fashioned language can also seem pietistic in an off-putting way. I encourage you, if you're going to try it, to look past that. It certainly seems as if the author was sincere.
A couple of thoughts:
This book was written in the heyday of Dispensationalism and treats that theory (which Hendriksen disagrees with) as if readers are familiar with it. If you are not, you might need to brush up on that a little.
The old fashioned language can also seem pietistic in an off-putting way. I encourage you, if you're going to try it, to look past that. It certainly seems as if the author was sincere.
February 4, 2014
This book proved such a great help once again. I first read it some years back, but reread it due the dispensationalist teaching that I was being assaulted with at my local church. Dr Hendriksen gives a us thorougher explanation of the Book of Revelation, and his spiritual application of its theology is most refreshing.
April 28, 2014
Awesome - truly sets forth the triumph of Christ over all enemies. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
June 24, 2020
Let's just say...Hendriksen didn't convince me to become a card carrying amillennialist yet...but he's making me consider it.
August 19, 2024
Excellent book very helpful. For years I was always told to avoid the book of Revelations leave it to the scholars. But Christ delivered this book for all his people, the church collectively throughout the ages. It is meant to comfort, encourage and warn his people in all times and places. Like Voddie Baucham said “it is not a book of codes but a book of pictures…” and what a glorious picture it puts together! Christ our King conquering and all those in him conquering with him!
Come Lord Jesus!
Come Lord Jesus!
June 22, 2020
Ce superbe livre existe en Français sous le nom : "Apocalypse plus que Vainqueurs"
Il est pour tous les amoureux de la bible et du livre de l'Apocalypse qui souhaitent "défricher" ce livre compliqué, en découvrir un plus les contours ou en saisir davantage le sens (à son époque et pour la notre).
-Le livre présente une bonne fidélité au livre de l'apocalypse lui même. L'auteur prend le temps de nous parler de la structure du livre du language employé, des différentes images, du contexte, de son arrière plan veterotestamentaire (ancré dans l'ancien Testament)...
-De plus son format est très agréable : court, simple, l'auteur présente des traits généraux du livre, avant de nous offrir une sorte de commentaire simplifié qui trace le livre de l'Apocalypse du début à la fin.
-Finalement il permet d'enrichir le débat à propos du millénium (le règne de 1000 ans de Jésus Christ) . L'auteur présente dans ce livre les meilleurs arguments (ou parmi les meilleurs) pour la position qu'il défend puisque ces argument émanent du texte lui même. Je n'en dis pas plus à vous de le découvrir.
La seule critique qui pourrait lui être fait et peut être la simplicité excessive accordé au plan et à la chronologie du livre de l'Apocalypse. Celui-ci semble un petit peu plus complexe et recherchée que l'auteur ne le présente. Pourtant il ne trahit jamais le livre de l'Apocalypse en lui même, et à ainsi pour mérite de contrer toutes les interprétations beaucoup plus artificielle et extravagantes qui peuvent être données à ce livre de la bible méconnu ou mal-connu malheureusement.
Une bonne approche de base donc pour le livre de l'Apocalypse.
Il est pour tous les amoureux de la bible et du livre de l'Apocalypse qui souhaitent "défricher" ce livre compliqué, en découvrir un plus les contours ou en saisir davantage le sens (à son époque et pour la notre).
-Le livre présente une bonne fidélité au livre de l'apocalypse lui même. L'auteur prend le temps de nous parler de la structure du livre du language employé, des différentes images, du contexte, de son arrière plan veterotestamentaire (ancré dans l'ancien Testament)...
-De plus son format est très agréable : court, simple, l'auteur présente des traits généraux du livre, avant de nous offrir une sorte de commentaire simplifié qui trace le livre de l'Apocalypse du début à la fin.
-Finalement il permet d'enrichir le débat à propos du millénium (le règne de 1000 ans de Jésus Christ) . L'auteur présente dans ce livre les meilleurs arguments (ou parmi les meilleurs) pour la position qu'il défend puisque ces argument émanent du texte lui même. Je n'en dis pas plus à vous de le découvrir.
La seule critique qui pourrait lui être fait et peut être la simplicité excessive accordé au plan et à la chronologie du livre de l'Apocalypse. Celui-ci semble un petit peu plus complexe et recherchée que l'auteur ne le présente. Pourtant il ne trahit jamais le livre de l'Apocalypse en lui même, et à ainsi pour mérite de contrer toutes les interprétations beaucoup plus artificielle et extravagantes qui peuvent être données à ce livre de la bible méconnu ou mal-connu malheureusement.
Une bonne approche de base donc pour le livre de l'Apocalypse.
April 1, 2019
The images and symbols of biblical book of Revelation have been interpreted many ways down through history. Hendriksen brings to his analysis considerable skill in connecting with the prophetic symbols of the OT and the internal structure of the book. I am profiting from reading this for the second time. Hendriksen is a careful, knowledgeable, commentator of many Bible surveys and commentaries. This is an excellent and readable survey of one of the most difficult books of the New Testament. In his view, Revelation describes the Victory of Christ and his Church over the Dragon (satan) and his helpers.
The various sections of the book refer to the whole period of history from different perspectives. It describes the whole Gospel age between the two comings of Christ. It emphasizes the glory of Christ and the perseverance under satanic persecution of the Church. It is divided into 7 sections. Each section runs parallel, spanning the entire dispensation from the first to the second coming. The seals, trumpets, bowls of wrath represent first persecutions of the church then judgements on the world which are ignored by the world. The world learns nothing of the fear of God and so continues throughout history to experience judgement..
First (chap. 1-3) we see 7 churches which are probably representative of churches down through the centuries until Christ returns.
Chapters 4-7 again give us a view of the whole period but in this case from the perspective of the Lamb who opens the seven seals. Throughout history the church faces persecution. Final judgement is mentioned at end.
Chapters 8-11 refer to the Seven Trumpets that affect the world. Final judgement is mentioned at end.
Chapters 12-14 describe the Woman the Man-child persecuted by the Dragon and His helpers; the beast from the sea and the great harlot, Babyon. Final judgement is mentioned at end.
Chapters 14,16, the bowls of Wrath… Again judgement is mentioned at end.
Chapters, 17-19 give a vivid description of the fall of Babylon, and punishment of Beast and False Prophet…Judgement, 19:11ff.
Chapters 20-22, The Devil’s doom and the 1000 years in which the devil is bound, the loosed for a short period before his final doom. The new heaven and new earth is introduced.
For how he interprets certain symbolic utterances, refer to the book: The 144,00 thousand represent Christians in all ages; The Anti-Christ; the thousand year when Satan is bound equals the church age; the Holy City is the Church militant, triumphant with God in the midst providing all the Church needs.
An excellent and thorough interpretation.
The various sections of the book refer to the whole period of history from different perspectives. It describes the whole Gospel age between the two comings of Christ. It emphasizes the glory of Christ and the perseverance under satanic persecution of the Church. It is divided into 7 sections. Each section runs parallel, spanning the entire dispensation from the first to the second coming. The seals, trumpets, bowls of wrath represent first persecutions of the church then judgements on the world which are ignored by the world. The world learns nothing of the fear of God and so continues throughout history to experience judgement..
First (chap. 1-3) we see 7 churches which are probably representative of churches down through the centuries until Christ returns.
Chapters 4-7 again give us a view of the whole period but in this case from the perspective of the Lamb who opens the seven seals. Throughout history the church faces persecution. Final judgement is mentioned at end.
Chapters 8-11 refer to the Seven Trumpets that affect the world. Final judgement is mentioned at end.
Chapters 12-14 describe the Woman the Man-child persecuted by the Dragon and His helpers; the beast from the sea and the great harlot, Babyon. Final judgement is mentioned at end.
Chapters 14,16, the bowls of Wrath… Again judgement is mentioned at end.
Chapters, 17-19 give a vivid description of the fall of Babylon, and punishment of Beast and False Prophet…Judgement, 19:11ff.
Chapters 20-22, The Devil’s doom and the 1000 years in which the devil is bound, the loosed for a short period before his final doom. The new heaven and new earth is introduced.
For how he interprets certain symbolic utterances, refer to the book: The 144,00 thousand represent Christians in all ages; The Anti-Christ; the thousand year when Satan is bound equals the church age; the Holy City is the Church militant, triumphant with God in the midst providing all the Church needs.
An excellent and thorough interpretation.
July 25, 2018
A classic exposition of the amillennial view, standard before GK Beale's work became popular in recent decades. I enjoyed it, but I'm just beginning my study of the subject. Hendriksen tries to stay on the conservative side of symbolical interpretation, but does significant work with symbolism. The numerical symbolism is probably more right than wrong. There were two major apparent contradictions in the book. (1) He repeatedly states that Revelation is about "general guiding principles" of world-government, and discourages any readers from tying it to any particular historical events, but reads several symbolical meanings as events from the first century. (2) He differentiates his view from any historical optimism several times, but has no problem adopting optimistic readings when they are "confirmed" by historical facts (for ex. the positive influence of the church in the world). Which is it? Will the church be successful in discipling the nations or not? He would probably answer in the negative. But even while keeping it amillennial, there are several optimistic notes he strikes when they are inescapable from the text.
January 5, 2018
The book of Revelation has always been difficult for me to access. I'm immensely thankful that my seminary professor assigned us this reading. Hendricksen spends his early chapters introducing an eclectic, parallelism approach to interpreting the seven sections of Revelation. He defends this hermetical framework persuasively, namely that every section of Revelation covers the entire Gospel Age, the inter-advent period.
Hendricksen's writing style is refreshing. He has a great voice that a laymen can understand, but doesn't needless avoid technical language.
The books only real shortfall was that the author occasionally will tell the reader what certain visions or objects symbolizing without revealing how he came to that conclusion.
Hendricksen's writing style is refreshing. He has a great voice that a laymen can understand, but doesn't needless avoid technical language.
The books only real shortfall was that the author occasionally will tell the reader what certain visions or objects symbolizing without revealing how he came to that conclusion.
April 17, 2008
This is a good book for people who are researching information on the book of Revelation. It presents a lot of useful information. However, if you insist that the pretribulation Rapture view is correct and everything else is worthless, then you will be wasting your time reading this book.
Even though the author takes the point of view that Revelation has a nonliteral interpretation, he does in fact say that there is some literal meaning in it.
Even though the author takes the point of view that Revelation has a nonliteral interpretation, he does in fact say that there is some literal meaning in it.
June 4, 2012
I first read this book as an undergraduate and it was great to re-acquire and re-read it. This is the clearest and most cohesive treatment of Revelation I have read. This 1940 book is a classic.
August 11, 2019
This is an excellent examination of the book or Revelation. It is very readable and has lots of good tidbits for life and teaching.
February 27, 2020
Wow, really changed my perspective on the book of Revelation.
Read
July 28, 2020Great perspective on the book of Revelation. It helped me connect to the beauty and hope in the story.
February 4, 2024
This is the best book I've read on the book of Revelation. It explains the book by drawing on the rest of the Bible, rather than speculating about hidden symbology. It's easy to understand without dumbing things down.
It explains that Revelation contains progressive parallelism: the 7 sections of Revelation are in ascending, climactic order. The final judgment is first announced, then introduced, then described. The new heaven and earth are described more fully in the final section than previous sections. Revelation spans the gospel age (the period between Christ's 1st and 2nd comings).
Throughout the book, Hendrikson shows that the main theme of Revelation is the victory of Christ and His Church over every enemy.
Hendrikson explains that one of the keys to understanding Revelation is distinguishing between principle and detail. You shouldn't try to turn every detail into a symbol. The seals, trumpets, bowls, etc. don't refer to specific events, but to principles that operate throughout history, especially since Christ's 1st coming.
Hendrikson was Professor of New Testament at Calvin Theological Seminary, and a consultant and translator on the NIV.
This book was recommended in Let's Study Revelation by Derek Thomas, and by a few pastors and seminarians I know.
Notes
Progressive Teaching Concerning Final Judgment
Throughout history, when trumpets (warnings) of judgment are unheeded, bowls of wrath (judgment) are poured out.
"Babylon" falls whenever nations collapse. The great and final fall of "Babylon" occurs in connection with Christ's 2nd coming.
All sections of Revelation run parallel, and span gospel age (period between Christ's 1st and 2nd comings).
Progressive parallelism: 7 sections of Revelation are in ascending, climactic order. The final judgment is first announced, then introduced, then described. New heaven and earth are described more fully in final section than previous sections.
Symbolism in the Book
Distinguish between principle and detail. Don't try to turn every detail into a symbol.
Seals, trumpets, bowls, etc. don't refer to specific events, but to principles that operate throughout history, especially since Christ.
God's purpose in Revelation is to make people wise unto salvation. Simply predicting historical events wouldn't do that, but revealing principles of God's moral government does.
Revelation 2–3
Rev 3:20 "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. …" means that when God regenerates a heart, the person receives Christ (they're converted). Regeneration (John 3:3ff; Acts 16:14) is different than conversion.
Revelation 4–7
"Living ones" (Rev 4:6) are cherubim (Ezek 10:20), one of the highest orders of angels. The creatures represent their attributes (lion: strength; ox: service; man: intelligence; eagle: speed).
4 Horsemen
• White horseman represents Christ.
• Red horseman represents religious persecution which follows Christ.
• Black horseman represents Christians being economically oppressed for their beliefs.
• Pale horse represents death and Hades (disembodied existence after death) caused by warfare, famine, pestilence, wild beasts.
Final judgment (Rev 6:12-17)
Astronomical signs aren't necessarily literal; they're symbols of how terrible the judgment will be for the wicked.
Tribulation is called "great" because it includes all persecutions and trials of God's people.
Revelation 8–11
Silence in heaven (Rev 8:1-6) shows breathless amazement at God's judgment (see Hab 2:20; Zeph 1:7; Zech 2:13).
1st 4 trumpets show God answering prayers of saints by using nature to judge persecutors.
Star falling from heaven (Rev 9:1) represents Satan losing his position in heaven after his rebellion (Luke 10:18).
Opening abyss represents Satan releasing demons to incite evil among people.
Locusts (Rev 9:7-11) represent demons terrorizing and destroying people.
6th trumpet represents all wars, but especially those towards end of time.
4 angels released (Rev 9:14) represent evil angels that plunge humanity into war.
Horses (Rev 9:16-19) represent war machines and tools.
General meaning of trumpets: God will repeatedly punish Church's persecutors with disasters in every sphere of life, physical and spiritual.
Angel on sea and land (Rev 10:1-11) represents that his message concerns entire universe.
7 thunders that are not to be written represent principles hidden from us.
Scroll/book (Rev 10:8-10) represents God's Word, which is itself sweet (Ezek 2:9ff; 3:1; Ps 119:103), but followed by bitter persecution.
Measuring of temple (Rev 11:1-2)
• Jerusalem is earthly Jerusalem (Luke 21:24).
• Sanctuary represents true Church (1 Cor 3:16-17; 2 Cor 6:16; Eph 2:21; Ezek 43:4ff; 47:1ff). Measuring it represents Church being protected from judgments on wicked (Rev 21:15; Ezek 40:5; 42:20; Zech 2:1).
• Court of Gentiles represents those outside Church, who aren't protected from judgment (John 9:34).
• 42 months represent gospel age.
• Earthly Jerusalem symbolizes anti-Christianity; immorality (Sodom) and persecution (Egypt).
Two witnesses (Rev 11:3-14) represent Church militant in gospel age.
Revelation 12-14
"Time, times, and half a time" is period of Antichrist (Dan 7:25; 12:7). In Rev, 3.5 yrs refers to gospel age. It's followed by 3.5 days during which beast (final phase of anti-Christian world) kills witnesses and silences voice of gospel (cf. Rev 11:17ff).
Mark of beast on forehead and hand refers to being characterized by anti-Christian thought and action.
Revelation 15–16
Armageddon (Har-Magedon) is rooted in Judges 4-5, and represents every battle in which believers are oppressed, and at moment of greatest need, God reveals His power and defeats the enemy. Final Armageddon is Christ delivering His people from anti-Christian government and anti-Christian religion (dragon, beast, false prophet).
Hailstones (Rev 16:21) represent final and complete outpouring of God's wrath.
Revelation 17–19
Beast from sea represents governments and peoples who persecute Christians.
Woman (harlot) represents all that tempts and seduces people away from God.
7 heads symbolize 7 mountains/hills of Rome. In John's day it was center of anti-Christian persecution and temptation. 7 heads also symbolize 7 kingdoms: Ancient Babylonia, Assyria, New Babylonia, Medo-Persia, Greco-Macedonia, Rome, and future empire (see Daniel).
Beast that "was and is not" is 8th and final, most terrible dominion of Antichrist toward close of history (2 Thess 2:3ff).
10 kings represent all mighty ones in government, industry, commerce, etc.
Theme of Revelation: "These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful." (Rev 17:14)
Water on which harlot sits represents surging nations and peoples who persecute Church (cf. Jer 51:13).
Angel dropping millstone into sea represents irreversible destruction of wicked world.
Beast (Rev 19:19; cf. Rev 13) represents anti-Christian persecution. False prophet (Rev 19:20) is beast out of earth, great deceiver (Rev 13:13-14) who represents anti-Christian religion and philosophy.
Revelation 20–22
Rev 20 returns to beginning of gospel age, as Rev 12 did.
Rev 11-14 and Rev 20 give overview of gospel age history: Christ's 1st coming, long period in which Satan is bound, Satan's little season of being loose (Rev 20:3), Christ's 2nd coming in judgment.
Rev 20 makes clear that "thousand years" precedes 2nd coming.
Work of binding Satan began when Jesus triumphed during His temptations (Matt 4:1-11) and when He and disciples began to cast out demons (Luke 10:17-18; John 12:20-32).
Satan was bound so that he could no longer deceive nations, and gospel could spread beyond Jews. He cannot stop Church as missionary organization.
Though bound, Satan still has a damaging influence, as a chained dog has.
Rev 20:1-3 describe millennium on earth; v 4-6 describe millennium in heaven.
Rev 20:4-6 describes souls of dead Christians reigning with Jesus in heaven during gospel age. In Revelation, Christ's throne is always in heaven). Passage doesn't say anything about resurrection; it speaks of souls of dead. 1st resurrection is translation of soul from earth to heaven; 2nd resurrection is resurrection of body at 2nd coming.
At end of thousand years, just prior to 2nd coming, Satan musters anti-Christian forces (Gog and Magog; see Ezek 4) for brief attack on Church. This battle of Rev 20:8 is same battle as 16:12ff and 19:19; all are Armageddon.
Satan's little season of being loose (Rev 20:3) after thousand years means that Church won't be able to spread gospel to all parts of the world all the way to 2nd coming; Satan will prevent its spread to some parts as 2nd coming approaches.
Bible teaches only one simultaneous, general resurrection of believers and unbelievers, on last day (John 6:39-44, 54).
Rev 21:1 - 22:5 doesn't refer exclusively to Church now or in future; it describes the ideal result of God's redeeming grace, now or in future.
New creation is same heaven and earth, rejuvenated and transformed.
Sea represents nations in conflict, unrest (Rev 13:1; 17:15). That new creation has no sea (Rev 21:1) means there's peace.
New Jerusalem
• Characteristics of New Jerusalem will be fully realized after 2nd coming, but are partially realized in gospel age.
• City (Rev 21:2) represents permanent residence, large number of inhabitants, safety, fellowship.
• Pure gold similar to pure glass (Rev 20:18; cf. 4:6; 15:2) represent pure, holy character of fellowship between God and His people.
• That city is cube of 12,000 furlongs each side represents complete and perfect communion with God. Holy of Holies was also perfect cube.
• Lack of night represents Christ as Light driving away darkness of ignorance, misery, guilt, moral pollution.
• Wall (Rev 21:12, 17, 18) represents Church being secure in communion with God.
• 12 open gates represent abundant opportunities during gospel age to enter fellowship with God. Gates facing 4 directions means that believers enter from all nations.
Rev 22:11a ("He who is unjust, let him be unjust still; he who is filthy, let him be filthy still") could be paraphrased, "Do not hinder the man who, in spite of all pleadings and exhortations has completely hardened himself to wickedness; do not hinder him from continuing in unrighteousness."
It explains that Revelation contains progressive parallelism: the 7 sections of Revelation are in ascending, climactic order. The final judgment is first announced, then introduced, then described. The new heaven and earth are described more fully in the final section than previous sections. Revelation spans the gospel age (the period between Christ's 1st and 2nd comings).
Throughout the book, Hendrikson shows that the main theme of Revelation is the victory of Christ and His Church over every enemy.
Hendrikson explains that one of the keys to understanding Revelation is distinguishing between principle and detail. You shouldn't try to turn every detail into a symbol. The seals, trumpets, bowls, etc. don't refer to specific events, but to principles that operate throughout history, especially since Christ's 1st coming.
Hendrikson was Professor of New Testament at Calvin Theological Seminary, and a consultant and translator on the NIV.
This book was recommended in Let's Study Revelation by Derek Thomas, and by a few pastors and seminarians I know.
Notes
Progressive Teaching Concerning Final Judgment
Throughout history, when trumpets (warnings) of judgment are unheeded, bowls of wrath (judgment) are poured out.
"Babylon" falls whenever nations collapse. The great and final fall of "Babylon" occurs in connection with Christ's 2nd coming.
All sections of Revelation run parallel, and span gospel age (period between Christ's 1st and 2nd comings).
Progressive parallelism: 7 sections of Revelation are in ascending, climactic order. The final judgment is first announced, then introduced, then described. New heaven and earth are described more fully in final section than previous sections.
Symbolism in the Book
Distinguish between principle and detail. Don't try to turn every detail into a symbol.
Seals, trumpets, bowls, etc. don't refer to specific events, but to principles that operate throughout history, especially since Christ.
God's purpose in Revelation is to make people wise unto salvation. Simply predicting historical events wouldn't do that, but revealing principles of God's moral government does.
Revelation 2–3
Rev 3:20 "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. …" means that when God regenerates a heart, the person receives Christ (they're converted). Regeneration (John 3:3ff; Acts 16:14) is different than conversion.
Revelation 4–7
"Living ones" (Rev 4:6) are cherubim (Ezek 10:20), one of the highest orders of angels. The creatures represent their attributes (lion: strength; ox: service; man: intelligence; eagle: speed).
4 Horsemen
• White horseman represents Christ.
• Red horseman represents religious persecution which follows Christ.
• Black horseman represents Christians being economically oppressed for their beliefs.
• Pale horse represents death and Hades (disembodied existence after death) caused by warfare, famine, pestilence, wild beasts.
Final judgment (Rev 6:12-17)
Astronomical signs aren't necessarily literal; they're symbols of how terrible the judgment will be for the wicked.
Tribulation is called "great" because it includes all persecutions and trials of God's people.
Revelation 8–11
Silence in heaven (Rev 8:1-6) shows breathless amazement at God's judgment (see Hab 2:20; Zeph 1:7; Zech 2:13).
1st 4 trumpets show God answering prayers of saints by using nature to judge persecutors.
Star falling from heaven (Rev 9:1) represents Satan losing his position in heaven after his rebellion (Luke 10:18).
Opening abyss represents Satan releasing demons to incite evil among people.
Locusts (Rev 9:7-11) represent demons terrorizing and destroying people.
6th trumpet represents all wars, but especially those towards end of time.
4 angels released (Rev 9:14) represent evil angels that plunge humanity into war.
Horses (Rev 9:16-19) represent war machines and tools.
General meaning of trumpets: God will repeatedly punish Church's persecutors with disasters in every sphere of life, physical and spiritual.
Angel on sea and land (Rev 10:1-11) represents that his message concerns entire universe.
7 thunders that are not to be written represent principles hidden from us.
Scroll/book (Rev 10:8-10) represents God's Word, which is itself sweet (Ezek 2:9ff; 3:1; Ps 119:103), but followed by bitter persecution.
Measuring of temple (Rev 11:1-2)
• Jerusalem is earthly Jerusalem (Luke 21:24).
• Sanctuary represents true Church (1 Cor 3:16-17; 2 Cor 6:16; Eph 2:21; Ezek 43:4ff; 47:1ff). Measuring it represents Church being protected from judgments on wicked (Rev 21:15; Ezek 40:5; 42:20; Zech 2:1).
• Court of Gentiles represents those outside Church, who aren't protected from judgment (John 9:34).
• 42 months represent gospel age.
• Earthly Jerusalem symbolizes anti-Christianity; immorality (Sodom) and persecution (Egypt).
Two witnesses (Rev 11:3-14) represent Church militant in gospel age.
Revelation 12-14
"Time, times, and half a time" is period of Antichrist (Dan 7:25; 12:7). In Rev, 3.5 yrs refers to gospel age. It's followed by 3.5 days during which beast (final phase of anti-Christian world) kills witnesses and silences voice of gospel (cf. Rev 11:17ff).
Mark of beast on forehead and hand refers to being characterized by anti-Christian thought and action.
Revelation 15–16
Armageddon (Har-Magedon) is rooted in Judges 4-5, and represents every battle in which believers are oppressed, and at moment of greatest need, God reveals His power and defeats the enemy. Final Armageddon is Christ delivering His people from anti-Christian government and anti-Christian religion (dragon, beast, false prophet).
Hailstones (Rev 16:21) represent final and complete outpouring of God's wrath.
Revelation 17–19
Beast from sea represents governments and peoples who persecute Christians.
Woman (harlot) represents all that tempts and seduces people away from God.
7 heads symbolize 7 mountains/hills of Rome. In John's day it was center of anti-Christian persecution and temptation. 7 heads also symbolize 7 kingdoms: Ancient Babylonia, Assyria, New Babylonia, Medo-Persia, Greco-Macedonia, Rome, and future empire (see Daniel).
Beast that "was and is not" is 8th and final, most terrible dominion of Antichrist toward close of history (2 Thess 2:3ff).
10 kings represent all mighty ones in government, industry, commerce, etc.
Theme of Revelation: "These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful." (Rev 17:14)
Water on which harlot sits represents surging nations and peoples who persecute Church (cf. Jer 51:13).
Angel dropping millstone into sea represents irreversible destruction of wicked world.
Beast (Rev 19:19; cf. Rev 13) represents anti-Christian persecution. False prophet (Rev 19:20) is beast out of earth, great deceiver (Rev 13:13-14) who represents anti-Christian religion and philosophy.
Revelation 20–22
Rev 20 returns to beginning of gospel age, as Rev 12 did.
Rev 11-14 and Rev 20 give overview of gospel age history: Christ's 1st coming, long period in which Satan is bound, Satan's little season of being loose (Rev 20:3), Christ's 2nd coming in judgment.
Rev 20 makes clear that "thousand years" precedes 2nd coming.
Work of binding Satan began when Jesus triumphed during His temptations (Matt 4:1-11) and when He and disciples began to cast out demons (Luke 10:17-18; John 12:20-32).
Satan was bound so that he could no longer deceive nations, and gospel could spread beyond Jews. He cannot stop Church as missionary organization.
Though bound, Satan still has a damaging influence, as a chained dog has.
Rev 20:1-3 describe millennium on earth; v 4-6 describe millennium in heaven.
Rev 20:4-6 describes souls of dead Christians reigning with Jesus in heaven during gospel age. In Revelation, Christ's throne is always in heaven). Passage doesn't say anything about resurrection; it speaks of souls of dead. 1st resurrection is translation of soul from earth to heaven; 2nd resurrection is resurrection of body at 2nd coming.
At end of thousand years, just prior to 2nd coming, Satan musters anti-Christian forces (Gog and Magog; see Ezek 4) for brief attack on Church. This battle of Rev 20:8 is same battle as 16:12ff and 19:19; all are Armageddon.
Satan's little season of being loose (Rev 20:3) after thousand years means that Church won't be able to spread gospel to all parts of the world all the way to 2nd coming; Satan will prevent its spread to some parts as 2nd coming approaches.
Bible teaches only one simultaneous, general resurrection of believers and unbelievers, on last day (John 6:39-44, 54).
Rev 21:1 - 22:5 doesn't refer exclusively to Church now or in future; it describes the ideal result of God's redeeming grace, now or in future.
New creation is same heaven and earth, rejuvenated and transformed.
Sea represents nations in conflict, unrest (Rev 13:1; 17:15). That new creation has no sea (Rev 21:1) means there's peace.
New Jerusalem
• Characteristics of New Jerusalem will be fully realized after 2nd coming, but are partially realized in gospel age.
• City (Rev 21:2) represents permanent residence, large number of inhabitants, safety, fellowship.
• Pure gold similar to pure glass (Rev 20:18; cf. 4:6; 15:2) represent pure, holy character of fellowship between God and His people.
• That city is cube of 12,000 furlongs each side represents complete and perfect communion with God. Holy of Holies was also perfect cube.
• Lack of night represents Christ as Light driving away darkness of ignorance, misery, guilt, moral pollution.
• Wall (Rev 21:12, 17, 18) represents Church being secure in communion with God.
• 12 open gates represent abundant opportunities during gospel age to enter fellowship with God. Gates facing 4 directions means that believers enter from all nations.
Rev 22:11a ("He who is unjust, let him be unjust still; he who is filthy, let him be filthy still") could be paraphrased, "Do not hinder the man who, in spite of all pleadings and exhortations has completely hardened himself to wickedness; do not hinder him from continuing in unrighteousness."
July 4, 2019
After uncounted volumes of nonsense (some of it borderline heretical or blasphemous) where Revelation is treated as a puzzle just needing a newspaper and a smart guy or gal to crack the code, it is refreshing to read an interpretation of Revelation that approaches it from the recognition that it is Scripture and can and should be interpreted with and like other Scripture. It was originally published in 1940.
The point of view of the author is amillenial. For those who may not be exposed to amil views, it is not heresy and it doesn't mean that they don't believe in the Millenium - they just don't believe Revelation teaches a literal 1000 year period where Christ reigns on earth. Instead, they believe the Church Age (i.e., now) is the "Millenium" where Christ is reigning from heaven until His return.
The author provides some propositions that he believes help in the interpretation of Revelation. I know they helped me. Here they are in no particular order:
1) Revelation is a book of symbols, not riddles.
2) The book is an organic whole. Its principles of human conduct and divine moral government are progressively revealed. It is not to be read like a novel where chapter 10 happens chronologically after chapter 9, etc.
3) The book consists of two parts with a total of seven sections. Part 1 (chapters 1-11), with three sections, portrays the struggles on earth between the Church and unbelievers. Part 2 (chapters 12-22), with four sections, portrays the deeper, spiritual "background" behind Satan and his allies' attacks on the Church.
4) The book is rooted in the Sacred Scriptures. It should be interpreted in harmony with the teachings of the entire Bible.
5) The fabric of the book consists of "moving pictures." The details that pertain to the picture should be interpreted in harmony with its central thought. We should ask two questions. First, what is the entire picture? Second, what is its predominant idea?
6) Revelation consists of seven sections. They are parallel to each other, not chronological, and each spans the entire new dispensation, from the first advent of Christ to the second.
7) The book is rooted in the mind and revelation of God. God in Christ is the real author, and this book contains the purpose of God concerning the history of the Church.
8) The book can be described as "progressive parallelism". That is, the seven sections are arranged in ascending, climactic order. There is progress in eschatological emphasis. The final judgment is first announced, then later introduced, and finally described. Similarly, the new heaven and the new earth are described more fully in the final section than in those that precede it.
9) The book is rooted in contemporaneous events and circumstances. Its symbols should be interpreted in the light of conditions that prevailed when the book was written.
Dr. Hendricksen makes it clear that Revelation is a book teaching of the ultimate victory of Christ and the unspeakable blessings believers will experience. He takes great pains to point out how the principles described demonstrate Christ's love for His Church - even the letter to the church at Laodicea. This is a book that should encourage, edify and comfort every believer for we are more than conquerors in Christ!
There were several parts where I wished he had elaborated more, or explained his reasons underlying several assertions, but the reader should remember this is an interpretation, not a commentary. After Hendricksen's death, his professional colleague Simon Kistemaker wrote a commentary on Revelation which I presume is similar to what Hendricksen would have written had he lived. Hendricksen also makes numerous references to the Revelation commentary by R. C. H. Lenski, so the reader may wish to seek it out.
I recommend this book as an antidote to the fantastical and often incoherent, interpretations that are all too common in our present day.
The point of view of the author is amillenial. For those who may not be exposed to amil views, it is not heresy and it doesn't mean that they don't believe in the Millenium - they just don't believe Revelation teaches a literal 1000 year period where Christ reigns on earth. Instead, they believe the Church Age (i.e., now) is the "Millenium" where Christ is reigning from heaven until His return.
The author provides some propositions that he believes help in the interpretation of Revelation. I know they helped me. Here they are in no particular order:
1) Revelation is a book of symbols, not riddles.
2) The book is an organic whole. Its principles of human conduct and divine moral government are progressively revealed. It is not to be read like a novel where chapter 10 happens chronologically after chapter 9, etc.
3) The book consists of two parts with a total of seven sections. Part 1 (chapters 1-11), with three sections, portrays the struggles on earth between the Church and unbelievers. Part 2 (chapters 12-22), with four sections, portrays the deeper, spiritual "background" behind Satan and his allies' attacks on the Church.
4) The book is rooted in the Sacred Scriptures. It should be interpreted in harmony with the teachings of the entire Bible.
5) The fabric of the book consists of "moving pictures." The details that pertain to the picture should be interpreted in harmony with its central thought. We should ask two questions. First, what is the entire picture? Second, what is its predominant idea?
6) Revelation consists of seven sections. They are parallel to each other, not chronological, and each spans the entire new dispensation, from the first advent of Christ to the second.
7) The book is rooted in the mind and revelation of God. God in Christ is the real author, and this book contains the purpose of God concerning the history of the Church.
8) The book can be described as "progressive parallelism". That is, the seven sections are arranged in ascending, climactic order. There is progress in eschatological emphasis. The final judgment is first announced, then later introduced, and finally described. Similarly, the new heaven and the new earth are described more fully in the final section than in those that precede it.
9) The book is rooted in contemporaneous events and circumstances. Its symbols should be interpreted in the light of conditions that prevailed when the book was written.
Dr. Hendricksen makes it clear that Revelation is a book teaching of the ultimate victory of Christ and the unspeakable blessings believers will experience. He takes great pains to point out how the principles described demonstrate Christ's love for His Church - even the letter to the church at Laodicea. This is a book that should encourage, edify and comfort every believer for we are more than conquerors in Christ!
There were several parts where I wished he had elaborated more, or explained his reasons underlying several assertions, but the reader should remember this is an interpretation, not a commentary. After Hendricksen's death, his professional colleague Simon Kistemaker wrote a commentary on Revelation which I presume is similar to what Hendricksen would have written had he lived. Hendricksen also makes numerous references to the Revelation commentary by R. C. H. Lenski, so the reader may wish to seek it out.
I recommend this book as an antidote to the fantastical and often incoherent, interpretations that are all too common in our present day.
March 14, 2025
This is, apparently, a classic textbook supporting the Amil view and more of an idealist type approach to Revelation. While the exegetical and interpretive issues with Amil abound, they were probably found most humorous in a footnote on page 120 "We do not think it at all necessary to allegorize sun and air. It is possible to look upon sun and air as indicating the literal sun and the literal air as these appear in the vision..."
Because so many of the descriptions and details were far too symbolic and therefore allegorically tossed aside, he thought it needful for an entire footnote justifying his taking something literally and plainly.
He found a large portion of the book to be little more than visuals demonstrating the struggle between the redeemed and the unregenerate, with no direct ties to particular events.
His writing was informative, and the opening introduction chapters were a great way to see his viewpoint and theological approach. The commentary itself was less engaging, but still offered an adequate defense of his position. I'm more and more convinced the Amil position is simply untenable, and this only strengthened that conclusion.
Because so many of the descriptions and details were far too symbolic and therefore allegorically tossed aside, he thought it needful for an entire footnote justifying his taking something literally and plainly.
He found a large portion of the book to be little more than visuals demonstrating the struggle between the redeemed and the unregenerate, with no direct ties to particular events.
His writing was informative, and the opening introduction chapters were a great way to see his viewpoint and theological approach. The commentary itself was less engaging, but still offered an adequate defense of his position. I'm more and more convinced the Amil position is simply untenable, and this only strengthened that conclusion.
October 18, 2022
This is a classic, and it doesn't need my review. I'll just offer a couple reflections.
• Hendriksen's writing is sermonic and devotional -- this book would make good devotional reading.
• Being over 80 years old now, some of the information here is outdated. However, in the main, this remains a solid amillennial exposition.
• Perhaps the most valuable part of the book is the introductory chapters, which lay out a proper hermeneutical approach to Revelation. Hendriksen does not stick to this method perfectly, though he comes close.
• Hendriksen's approach to numbers struck me as needlessly complicated in a number of places.
• In a few instances, the author drew weak intertextual connections based on single common words.
This is a great lay-level book on Revelation. I would balance it out with Leon Morris' volume in the Tyndale series.
• Hendriksen's writing is sermonic and devotional -- this book would make good devotional reading.
• Being over 80 years old now, some of the information here is outdated. However, in the main, this remains a solid amillennial exposition.
• Perhaps the most valuable part of the book is the introductory chapters, which lay out a proper hermeneutical approach to Revelation. Hendriksen does not stick to this method perfectly, though he comes close.
• Hendriksen's approach to numbers struck me as needlessly complicated in a number of places.
• In a few instances, the author drew weak intertextual connections based on single common words.
This is a great lay-level book on Revelation. I would balance it out with Leon Morris' volume in the Tyndale series.
August 21, 2019
More Than Conquerors by William Hendriksen is a wonderful exposition of the Book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ. The book of Revelation is Jewish apocalyptic literature and must be treated as such to be properly interpreted and explained. Hendricksen does a great job of verse by verse exposition and helps to explain the symbols and types through a clear analogy of faith. For the Amillennialist this is the classic work on eschatology. For the pre mil dispensationalist this is a clear and loving refutation of your dispensational view. All can learn from this outstanding contribution to the greatest story ever told. Ps. and spoiler alert, we win and are More Than Conquerors in Christ!
November 1, 2020
While I enjoy some of the books basic arguments (the purpose of the book of Revelation being to comfort a church struggling in the face of persecution), I was often distracted by the dispensational theology present in the book. Make no mistake, it is a good book and offers good insight to a lot of the book of Revelation, but there were several times throughout the book where I disagreed with many of his arguments
September 28, 2021
I always found the book of Revelations a pain to go through with respects to the apocalyptic language and visions that John uses. This interpretation of the book of Revelations is a gem! It is easy to read but also sheds much light on understanding the different symbols provided in these Scriptures. Reading through More Than Conquerors has been a tremendous encouragement to my heart and has been helpful shedding light upon where we are and how God is working in this present dispensation.
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