What do you think?
Rate this book
New Testament Theology
The Joy of Hearing: A Theology of the Book of Revelation
Join New Testament scholar Thomas Schreiner as he explores the meaning and purpose of the book of Revelation.
The book of Revelation can feel more intimidating to read than other books of the Bible. It invites readers into a world that seems confusing and sometimes even strange: golden lampstands, seven seals, a dragon, and a rider on a white horse. But at its core, Revelation is a message of hope written to Christians facing hardship, and it’s worth the effort to read it and understand it.
In this first volume in the New Testament Theology series, trusted scholar Thomas Schreiner walks step-by-step through the book of Revelation, considering its many themes—the opposition believers face from the world; the need for perseverance; God as sovereign Creator, Judge, and Savior—as well as its symbolic imagery and historical context. The Joy of Hearing brings clarity to the content and message of Revelation and explores its relevance for the church today.
The book of Revelation can feel more intimidating to read than other books of the Bible. It invites readers into a world that seems confusing and sometimes even strange: golden lampstands, seven seals, a dragon, and a rider on a white horse. But at its core, Revelation is a message of hope written to Christians facing hardship, and it’s worth the effort to read it and understand it.
In this first volume in the New Testament Theology series, trusted scholar Thomas Schreiner walks step-by-step through the book of Revelation, considering its many themes—the opposition believers face from the world; the need for perseverance; God as sovereign Creator, Judge, and Savior—as well as its symbolic imagery and historical context. The Joy of Hearing brings clarity to the content and message of Revelation and explores its relevance for the church today.
208 pages, Paperback
Published November 2, 2021
61 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Thomas R. Schreiner
113 books208 followersThomas R. Schreiner (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the author or editor of numerous books, including New Testament Theology; Magnifying God in Christ; Apostle of God's Glory in Christ; and Romans in the Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 8, 2022
I had a professor in Bible College who made a dogmatic recommendation one day in class: “Select an eschatological position and stick with it. Resist the urge to read about the other positions.” It was some of the worst theological counsel I’ve ever received.
My professor subscribed to Dispensational Premillennialism, which was also the doctrinal position of the school. As such, every branch of theology was informed by a movement that was basically still in its infancy. Thankfully, I have moved beyond my initial exposure to Dispensational Premillennialism and have found great value in exploring the theological commitments of amillennialists, postmillennialist, and historical premillennial l thinkers.
The Joy of Hearing: A Theology of the Book of Revelation by Thomas Schreiner is a book that would have received a great deal of scorn from my professors in Bible College over thirty-five years ago. Now I celebrate the efforts of Dr. Schreiner who is willing to deal honestly with difficult texts and guide his readers on a path that glorifies the Lord.
Some readers may disagree with Schreiner’s conclusions at various points. But one thing will capture the attention of every thoughtful reader. Dr. Schreiner is intent on making sure that each student of Revelation walks away with a mindset of “listening,” an attitude of joy, and a posture of perseverance. The Joy of Hearing is a book that I will turn to again and again - both to educate and also to help maintain perspective in this confusing world.
My professor subscribed to Dispensational Premillennialism, which was also the doctrinal position of the school. As such, every branch of theology was informed by a movement that was basically still in its infancy. Thankfully, I have moved beyond my initial exposure to Dispensational Premillennialism and have found great value in exploring the theological commitments of amillennialists, postmillennialist, and historical premillennial l thinkers.
The Joy of Hearing: A Theology of the Book of Revelation by Thomas Schreiner is a book that would have received a great deal of scorn from my professors in Bible College over thirty-five years ago. Now I celebrate the efforts of Dr. Schreiner who is willing to deal honestly with difficult texts and guide his readers on a path that glorifies the Lord.
Some readers may disagree with Schreiner’s conclusions at various points. But one thing will capture the attention of every thoughtful reader. Dr. Schreiner is intent on making sure that each student of Revelation walks away with a mindset of “listening,” an attitude of joy, and a posture of perseverance. The Joy of Hearing is a book that I will turn to again and again - both to educate and also to help maintain perspective in this confusing world.
November 8, 2023
This is an excellent primer on the themes of the book of Revelation, bringing the books full breadth to bear on each topic.
August 14, 2023
very cool. I’ve never spent any real time in Revelation out of intimidation but this makes me feel like I can tackle it a bit easier. it’s also helpful that it’s not an enormous book and was easy to read in just a few days.
November 8, 2021
The readers of Revelation need to hear the truth about who God is and what he does. He is sovereign and holy, and therefore he judges sin as Almighty God, as the Holy One of Israel.
Depending on your background of study of the bible and end times, this text will affirm what you know, will challenge you to know more, and you may have some disagreements. This did all three for me. It is important to read scripture first and supporting scripture when it comes to end times. In doing so, it gives you a desire to know more and to give hope. Hope is the reason for Revelation and also a warning. It will inquire courage and steadfastness in the faith.
The text is not deep but presses on important scripture. For example the letters to the churches, the bowls, and the 1000 year reign. What I struggled with the most is 144,000. Who are the 144,000 and what does it mean. What is Israel's role and the churches role? Does one cancel the other or work together. It is my understanding that the text implies the cancel of Israel and the chosen people of God. Scripture has been made plain to me that God is not finished with his Chosen people and will use them significantly in the end times. Prophecy has held true with Israel becoming a nation in one day and after the war, the Jewish people coming back to Israel to build their nation. With evil hell bent on destroying Israel as a people, God has maintained them. His hand is still on them.
"Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. 23 And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24 After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree! Romans 11:22.
So I leave you with this. Read the word, study with other believers, read books from trusted publishers and authors. Seek salvation from God thru Christ Jesus. Scripture testifies to the truth to what has happened and what will happen. God be the glory!
A special thank you to Crossway Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Depending on your background of study of the bible and end times, this text will affirm what you know, will challenge you to know more, and you may have some disagreements. This did all three for me. It is important to read scripture first and supporting scripture when it comes to end times. In doing so, it gives you a desire to know more and to give hope. Hope is the reason for Revelation and also a warning. It will inquire courage and steadfastness in the faith.
The text is not deep but presses on important scripture. For example the letters to the churches, the bowls, and the 1000 year reign. What I struggled with the most is 144,000. Who are the 144,000 and what does it mean. What is Israel's role and the churches role? Does one cancel the other or work together. It is my understanding that the text implies the cancel of Israel and the chosen people of God. Scripture has been made plain to me that God is not finished with his Chosen people and will use them significantly in the end times. Prophecy has held true with Israel becoming a nation in one day and after the war, the Jewish people coming back to Israel to build their nation. With evil hell bent on destroying Israel as a people, God has maintained them. His hand is still on them.
"Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. 23 And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24 After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree! Romans 11:22.
So I leave you with this. Read the word, study with other believers, read books from trusted publishers and authors. Seek salvation from God thru Christ Jesus. Scripture testifies to the truth to what has happened and what will happen. God be the glory!
A special thank you to Crossway Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
May 30, 2023
Clear and concise book on the theology of Revelation from a non-dispensational understanding. Schreiner's arguments were unconvincing but would still recommend the book to someone who wanted to learn that position.
Notable chapters include: The Declaration That God Rules on His Throne & Reigning with Christ for One Thousand Years.
Notable chapters include: The Declaration That God Rules on His Throne & Reigning with Christ for One Thousand Years.
February 27, 2022
I think this is bang on. Take up and read if Revelation is that book that you don’t know what to do with because of its lamp stands, beasts, prostitutes, dragons, and seals. Schreiner’s guide is deep, yet accessible .
December 23, 2021
When you think about the book of Revelation, what word comes to your mind??
Maybe it's judgement, prophecy, or end-times. We think on the vivid pictures of battles, plagues and the supernatural, probably relating it to some apocalyptic movie we've seen.
There's been an increased interest in prophecy lately, with the ongoing circumstances of the world, and particularly about the end times. The Joy of Hearing: A Theology of the Book of Revelation by Thomas Schreiner writes about the big ideas throughout the letter John wrote, helping us place these themes into their historical and biblical context, giving us a lens through which to see the role Father, Son and Spirit working in the world from beginning to the end.
"The joy of hearing Revelation consists of heeding the call of Jesus, listening to the words of the Spirit, and remaining confident that God rules on his throne."
The advent season perhaps isn't a common time to reflect on Revelation, but as I end my bible reading plan and picked up this book, I've been deeply encouraged with its message.
"John tells us that we are to stay close to Christ, that we must not compromise with evil, that we must endure to the end and that we must look to the final reward."
As we reflect on the challenges of the past year, isn't this a great encouragement?!
No matter what happens around us, God is on His throne with glory, power and might. There's no thwarting His plan, even if we don't like how it's playing out, because He is working all things for His good purposes. We're tempted to doubt, because life isn't turning out the way we want it, but the truth of who God is can't be based on our emotions or situations, they are timeless, eternal and enduring. His plans and purposes are greater than ours, so we keep our eyes fixed on the hope we have in Him.
One of my favourite parts is chapter two, as the author discusses the seven 'blessed' statements throughout Revelation, reminding us of the saints' responsibility to both hear and heed the Lord's instructions. As we find ourselves awaiting the return of Christ, anticipating His kingdom come, we are admonished to live out our calling and stay true to Christ, reflecting His love and peace toward others.
Yes, this becomes increasingly challenging in our divisive climate, yet it doesn't negate the importance. It's an invitation to search our hearts, our anxious thoughts and our offensive ways, that we may test them before the Word and find grace to repent and persevere.
If you're studying the book of Revelation and are looking to add theological discussion, this is a great resource!
Quick Stats
# of pages: 208
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
My Rating: 4 stars
*A big thanks to Crossway for the complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to post an honest review!
Maybe it's judgement, prophecy, or end-times. We think on the vivid pictures of battles, plagues and the supernatural, probably relating it to some apocalyptic movie we've seen.
There's been an increased interest in prophecy lately, with the ongoing circumstances of the world, and particularly about the end times. The Joy of Hearing: A Theology of the Book of Revelation by Thomas Schreiner writes about the big ideas throughout the letter John wrote, helping us place these themes into their historical and biblical context, giving us a lens through which to see the role Father, Son and Spirit working in the world from beginning to the end.
"The joy of hearing Revelation consists of heeding the call of Jesus, listening to the words of the Spirit, and remaining confident that God rules on his throne."
The advent season perhaps isn't a common time to reflect on Revelation, but as I end my bible reading plan and picked up this book, I've been deeply encouraged with its message.
"John tells us that we are to stay close to Christ, that we must not compromise with evil, that we must endure to the end and that we must look to the final reward."
As we reflect on the challenges of the past year, isn't this a great encouragement?!
No matter what happens around us, God is on His throne with glory, power and might. There's no thwarting His plan, even if we don't like how it's playing out, because He is working all things for His good purposes. We're tempted to doubt, because life isn't turning out the way we want it, but the truth of who God is can't be based on our emotions or situations, they are timeless, eternal and enduring. His plans and purposes are greater than ours, so we keep our eyes fixed on the hope we have in Him.
One of my favourite parts is chapter two, as the author discusses the seven 'blessed' statements throughout Revelation, reminding us of the saints' responsibility to both hear and heed the Lord's instructions. As we find ourselves awaiting the return of Christ, anticipating His kingdom come, we are admonished to live out our calling and stay true to Christ, reflecting His love and peace toward others.
Yes, this becomes increasingly challenging in our divisive climate, yet it doesn't negate the importance. It's an invitation to search our hearts, our anxious thoughts and our offensive ways, that we may test them before the Word and find grace to repent and persevere.
If you're studying the book of Revelation and are looking to add theological discussion, this is a great resource!
Quick Stats
# of pages: 208
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
My Rating: 4 stars
*A big thanks to Crossway for the complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to post an honest review!
September 4, 2024
Fuller review at my blog SpoiledMilks (April 11, 2022).
As the subtitles gives away, The Joy of Hearing is a “theology of the book of Revelation,” surveying six main themes in Revelation (the chapter on the millennium is more of an appendix, as Schreiner notes).
In his introduction, Schriener writes, “Revelation reveals to us where the world is going, and it tells us what we should do to be part of the new world that is coming.” But, as he notes, people are easily repelled by the book of Revelation because it is so confusing and difficult to read. John reminds us in Revelation that even while it appears that evil is reigning, God is still on his throne. He has not forsaken his people, and Jesus will come and rescue us. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ stand at the center of history, and those who will suffer judgment are those who turn against Jesus.
Schreiner covers six themes within Revelation:
1. Those who refuse to hear the truth;
2. The saints and what they are called to do;
3. God’s sovereignty, holiness, and judgment;
4. The message about Jesus Christ—his shared identity with the God of Israel, his redemption for us, his return, the coming judgment;
5. The Holy Spirit’s work in Revelation—the Spirit calls readers to hear what is said to the churches, and points to the crucified and risen Christ;
6. The promises of blessing and the new creation.
The purpose of Revelation isn’t to show us that helicopter locusts will attack the earth in the future. Instead, John wanted to see “ethical formation and transformation, since genuine hearing leads to obedience,” that is, “to keeping the words of the prophecy (1:3; 22:7).”
One thing I really appreciate about Schreiner is how clear his writing is. He is able to give nuance with clarity, and he carefully represents other views.
Recommended?
This is a great start to the New Testament Theology series, and I really look forward to the upcoming volumes. Schreiner is clear and careful, deep but easy to read. Since this is a theology of Revelation, Schriener doesn’t lead you into the weeds. That means there will likely be some places where you will disagree and where Schreiner hasn’t been able to give enough information on his particular view. Regardless, he draws Revelation together and helps you to “hear” the words in Revelation better in order to form you into a better doer, one who perseveres and conquers.
As the subtitles gives away, The Joy of Hearing is a “theology of the book of Revelation,” surveying six main themes in Revelation (the chapter on the millennium is more of an appendix, as Schreiner notes).
In his introduction, Schriener writes, “Revelation reveals to us where the world is going, and it tells us what we should do to be part of the new world that is coming.” But, as he notes, people are easily repelled by the book of Revelation because it is so confusing and difficult to read. John reminds us in Revelation that even while it appears that evil is reigning, God is still on his throne. He has not forsaken his people, and Jesus will come and rescue us. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ stand at the center of history, and those who will suffer judgment are those who turn against Jesus.
Schreiner covers six themes within Revelation:
1. Those who refuse to hear the truth;
2. The saints and what they are called to do;
3. God’s sovereignty, holiness, and judgment;
4. The message about Jesus Christ—his shared identity with the God of Israel, his redemption for us, his return, the coming judgment;
5. The Holy Spirit’s work in Revelation—the Spirit calls readers to hear what is said to the churches, and points to the crucified and risen Christ;
6. The promises of blessing and the new creation.
The purpose of Revelation isn’t to show us that helicopter locusts will attack the earth in the future. Instead, John wanted to see “ethical formation and transformation, since genuine hearing leads to obedience,” that is, “to keeping the words of the prophecy (1:3; 22:7).”
One thing I really appreciate about Schreiner is how clear his writing is. He is able to give nuance with clarity, and he carefully represents other views.
Recommended?
This is a great start to the New Testament Theology series, and I really look forward to the upcoming volumes. Schreiner is clear and careful, deep but easy to read. Since this is a theology of Revelation, Schriener doesn’t lead you into the weeds. That means there will likely be some places where you will disagree and where Schreiner hasn’t been able to give enough information on his particular view. Regardless, he draws Revelation together and helps you to “hear” the words in Revelation better in order to form you into a better doer, one who perseveres and conquers.
December 24, 2023
7 days ago I was in one of the 7 emirates of the UAE enjoying a weekend seminar on Revelation, and 7 days on I am still feeling the joy and blessedness of that revelatory class, and now this book by the same man who taught that weekend. It would have been really cool if this review were to be my 49th in the 12th month of the present 12-month period.
Though some sections jumped out technical and required digestion, I don’t think that book is aimed at doing that. From my reading of this book, I feel that Schreiner wants us to know that Revelation carries a rich christological content and we should finish reading it feeling refreshingly encouraged, and ready to get back out into the world. There were two sections which were more technical that Schreiner forewarned and advised readers to skip if they wish; I thought that this was a neat concession that some analyses do not necessarily edify us as much as others would.
I can’t help but feel cheered on and encouraged by this book where Schreiner always heralded to the eventual eschatological blessing that awaits who those endure, stressing that the victory is won despite the conflicts that pervade us and compromises that we are tempted to make, while we await for the new dwelling place of God with man.
The Johannine letters have always been my favourite NT scripture and with this new found understanding of Revelation, I now too very much like this other Johannine work.
Though some sections jumped out technical and required digestion, I don’t think that book is aimed at doing that. From my reading of this book, I feel that Schreiner wants us to know that Revelation carries a rich christological content and we should finish reading it feeling refreshingly encouraged, and ready to get back out into the world. There were two sections which were more technical that Schreiner forewarned and advised readers to skip if they wish; I thought that this was a neat concession that some analyses do not necessarily edify us as much as others would.
I can’t help but feel cheered on and encouraged by this book where Schreiner always heralded to the eventual eschatological blessing that awaits who those endure, stressing that the victory is won despite the conflicts that pervade us and compromises that we are tempted to make, while we await for the new dwelling place of God with man.
The Johannine letters have always been my favourite NT scripture and with this new found understanding of Revelation, I now too very much like this other Johannine work.
December 20, 2022
Used this in a Sunday school class on Revelation. Schreiner is lucid, concise, and anchored to the text. He helpfully cuts through a lot of chatter and speculation by only emphasizing the major plumb lines of the text of Revelation itself (read: he avoids silly extremes). The book is organized into major themes of the book, looking at what the whole of Revelation teaches us about the Church, about evil, about God the Father, etc. So much of Revelation relies on the Old Testament, and Schreiner’s interaction with the OT texts are likely the most helpful contribution he gives. There were times where I found myself frustrated at his brevity, wanting him to dig into an issue more thoroughly. But this is also one of the book’s great strengths: the book isn’t bloated, but very accessible. A (mature) but regular church goer could easily read this. Further, Schreiner’s irenic and charitable tone for those who disagree with him throughout (especially regarding the millennium) is a great model for all.
March 20, 2024
Sane, clear, accessible and really helpful.
October 7, 2021
First sentence: In this chapter we consider those in Revelation who refuse to hear the truth, those who close their ears to the message about Jesus Christ.
The Joy of Hearing is not a verse by verse commentary on the book of Revelation. It provides commentary and insight on the whole book thematically. The chapters are, "The Deafness of Those Living On Earth," "The Saints Hear and Heed," "The Declaration that God Rules on His Throne," "The Good News of the Lion and the Lamb," "The Testimony of the Holy Spirit," "The Promise of Blessing and the New Creation," "Reigning with Christ for One Thousand Years." (There's an introduction and epilogue as well).
The book of Revelation is complex; the subject matter can be heavy. (It doesn't have to be heavy. You can read the book of Revelation as a worship book. You can focus on the GLORY and MAJESTY of God, savor the richness of the promises and blessings. You don't have to focus on the whole THE WORLD IS ENDING aspect of it.) The Joy of Hearing may be a SHORT book, certainly more concise than some other commentaries out there on the book of Revelation. But it is still a scholarly approach--with tons of notes (footnotes? endnotes? note-notes?). It does not have a devotional approach. For better or worse.
I found it to be a dense read. I don't say that to be mean. I don't. I really don't. I just didn't have the desire to slowly chew and digest--unpack--the weighty contents of this one. I did find myself loving how each chapter had several pages of conclusion that summed up in a concise manner the contents of the chapter. The conclusions were proof that the contents were good--if not a little dense, theologically complex. That with the right consistent amount of effort, it would be to the reader's benefit.
The book does give an overview of the book of Revelation.
The Joy of Hearing is not a verse by verse commentary on the book of Revelation. It provides commentary and insight on the whole book thematically. The chapters are, "The Deafness of Those Living On Earth," "The Saints Hear and Heed," "The Declaration that God Rules on His Throne," "The Good News of the Lion and the Lamb," "The Testimony of the Holy Spirit," "The Promise of Blessing and the New Creation," "Reigning with Christ for One Thousand Years." (There's an introduction and epilogue as well).
The book of Revelation is complex; the subject matter can be heavy. (It doesn't have to be heavy. You can read the book of Revelation as a worship book. You can focus on the GLORY and MAJESTY of God, savor the richness of the promises and blessings. You don't have to focus on the whole THE WORLD IS ENDING aspect of it.) The Joy of Hearing may be a SHORT book, certainly more concise than some other commentaries out there on the book of Revelation. But it is still a scholarly approach--with tons of notes (footnotes? endnotes? note-notes?). It does not have a devotional approach. For better or worse.
I found it to be a dense read. I don't say that to be mean. I don't. I really don't. I just didn't have the desire to slowly chew and digest--unpack--the weighty contents of this one. I did find myself loving how each chapter had several pages of conclusion that summed up in a concise manner the contents of the chapter. The conclusions were proof that the contents were good--if not a little dense, theologically complex. That with the right consistent amount of effort, it would be to the reader's benefit.
The book does give an overview of the book of Revelation.
February 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this commentary (read like a conversation) by Dr. Schreiner. The title alone speaks volumes about his greatest concern for his readers… HEAR the words of this prophecy. And by hearing we are filled with joy that carries us, gives us strength to persevere, to not compromise with the imperial cult (then) and the movements, institutions and politics (now) that would demand or seduce us into compromise.
I am so thankful for his humility in the areas where certainty is harder to find. He showed incredible respect and balance to differing opinions and interpretations and commended the continued conversations around many aspects of the letter.
Dr. Schreiner spoke at a conference on Revelation that I attended recently. He gave the most sincere and simply response to the question of the millennium… it will be clear when it’s clear. I can rest in that while I’m laboring to understand. Thank you Dr. Schreiner for putting in the time, heart, conviction and discipline to write this book. In it your heart for Christ’s glory is very apparent. good work.
I am so thankful for his humility in the areas where certainty is harder to find. He showed incredible respect and balance to differing opinions and interpretations and commended the continued conversations around many aspects of the letter.
Dr. Schreiner spoke at a conference on Revelation that I attended recently. He gave the most sincere and simply response to the question of the millennium… it will be clear when it’s clear. I can rest in that while I’m laboring to understand. Thank you Dr. Schreiner for putting in the time, heart, conviction and discipline to write this book. In it your heart for Christ’s glory is very apparent. good work.
December 30, 2021
A wonderful summary of the book of Revelation. Schreiner is a great scholar with a writing style that makes understanding difficult theology much easier. He is one of my personal favorite theologians. This book does lean towards Amillennialism, but the writer is very fair and unbiased representing the other major views. Its draws the reader to Christ as the focal point of eschatology and encourages readers to find joy in the completed work of Christ. Highly recommend this book, especially for getting to know the book of the Revelation more intimately and thoroughly.
September 21, 2023
3.5/5
A great little book on a challenging subject, written in an accessible and lucid style by a world-class NT scholar. That said, I would probably give a slight nod to the similar contributions of Richard Bauckham (The Theology of the Book of Revelation) and/or Brian Tabb (All Things New) over this one if I had to choose. Nevertheless, Schreiner's work here makes me quite excited about his forthcoming commentary on Revelation in the Baker series.
A great little book on a challenging subject, written in an accessible and lucid style by a world-class NT scholar. That said, I would probably give a slight nod to the similar contributions of Richard Bauckham (The Theology of the Book of Revelation) and/or Brian Tabb (All Things New) over this one if I had to choose. Nevertheless, Schreiner's work here makes me quite excited about his forthcoming commentary on Revelation in the Baker series.
October 2, 2023
This book was for a New Testament class I am taking. I honestly have not studied revelation much and have been nervous to even start. This book was great in that it showed me that there was a lot more to Revelation than just the millennium and it actually provides a lot of hope for the future defeat of Satan and the joy of believers who will be with our savior forever and ever.
August 17, 2024
This is both an accessible book for personal study and also a deep pool of resources and scholarship. The beauty of Christ is exalted and I have such a greater understanding of the themes and promises in Revelation. Highly recommend!
January 13, 2025
I really liked this approach to Revelation, going by theme instead of by chapter. And I respect Schreiner a lot for arguing fairly for each view. Though he does draw his own conclusions and espouse his view it is not at the expense of the other. 👍
January 5, 2022
I love Tom Schreiner. He's a great professor and a tremendous author. This thematic treatment of Revelation may not walk readers through the text verse by verse, but it does introduce readers to the broad themes that form the heart of Revelation. Remarkably helpful.
August 26, 2022
Great book and great explanation on Revelation.
January 21, 2022
“The book of Revelation can feel more intimidating to read than other books of the Bible. It invites readers into a world that seems confusing and sometimes even strange: golden lampstands, seven seals, a dragon, and a rider on a white horse. But at its core, Revelation is a message of hope written to Christians facing hardship, and it’s worth the effort to read it and understand it. In this first volume in the New Testament Theology series, trusted scholar Thomas Schreiner walks step-by-step through the book of Revelation, considering its many themes—the opposition believers face from the world; the need for perseverance; God as sovereign Creator, Judge, and Savior—as well as its symbolic imagery and historical context. The Joy of Hearing brings clarity to the content and message of Revelation and explores its relevance for the church today.” – Crossway Books
The book of Revelation is the most intimidating book of the Bible, in my opinion. Navigating different interpretations, timelines, and references makes it hard to know where to begin. When I saw this book coming out, I took it as a challenge to read and start studying the book of Revelation. Thomas Schreiner lays out the book in 7 chapters that correspond to different themes, The deafness of those living on earth, The saints hear and heed, The declaration that God rules on his throne, The good news of the Lion and the Lamb, The testimony of the Holy Spirit, The promise of blessing and the New Creation, and Reigning with Christ for one thousand years.
Schreiner does a good job laying out the differences in timeline and dating between the different interpretations from the very beginning. Where you land on the dating of the book of Revelation will lead you to differing expositions and views. He does make a case for his choice in dating for his interpretation which I would say is amillennial/ idealist view that lays his foundation for the rest of the book.
In later chapters, he gives other interpretational views of passages and explains why he thinks they are wrong. His critiques stem from their differences in the dating of the book and their differences in viewpoint. I feel this information is lacking from his criticism. He does explain why they don’t go along with his view on the book, but I felt overall there was some information lacking as to how the other viewpoints got to their interpretation of particular passages. I also understand this may not have been the purpose of this book as it was not an exhaustive study but more an overview focusing just on themes.
I did appreciate that he stayed on task with each theme. He frequently mentioned that specific topics would be addressed in other chapters, which he delivered. He gives each subject its own time to be explained. It very well could have been filled with rabbit trails. I appreciated the focus he put on each theme. I also valued the longest chapter focused on John’s high Christology. I knew John had a high Christology from his gospel but, Schreiner pointed out and melded together all of John’s writing into a cohesive overview of his thoughts. I would have never made the connections on my own with my first reading of Revelation so, I appreciated that chapter the most.
Overall this book was a great resource for me. With Revelation being overwhelming to most people, it was good to have this book as a starting point. This book would be great for any Christian wanting to study differing viewpoints and interpretations of Revelation. I am excited to read future books in the New Testament Theology series, co-edited by Thomas Schreiner and Brian Rosner.
*I received this book free from NetGalley along with Crossway in exchange for an honest review.*
The book of Revelation is the most intimidating book of the Bible, in my opinion. Navigating different interpretations, timelines, and references makes it hard to know where to begin. When I saw this book coming out, I took it as a challenge to read and start studying the book of Revelation. Thomas Schreiner lays out the book in 7 chapters that correspond to different themes, The deafness of those living on earth, The saints hear and heed, The declaration that God rules on his throne, The good news of the Lion and the Lamb, The testimony of the Holy Spirit, The promise of blessing and the New Creation, and Reigning with Christ for one thousand years.
Schreiner does a good job laying out the differences in timeline and dating between the different interpretations from the very beginning. Where you land on the dating of the book of Revelation will lead you to differing expositions and views. He does make a case for his choice in dating for his interpretation which I would say is amillennial/ idealist view that lays his foundation for the rest of the book.
In later chapters, he gives other interpretational views of passages and explains why he thinks they are wrong. His critiques stem from their differences in the dating of the book and their differences in viewpoint. I feel this information is lacking from his criticism. He does explain why they don’t go along with his view on the book, but I felt overall there was some information lacking as to how the other viewpoints got to their interpretation of particular passages. I also understand this may not have been the purpose of this book as it was not an exhaustive study but more an overview focusing just on themes.
I did appreciate that he stayed on task with each theme. He frequently mentioned that specific topics would be addressed in other chapters, which he delivered. He gives each subject its own time to be explained. It very well could have been filled with rabbit trails. I appreciated the focus he put on each theme. I also valued the longest chapter focused on John’s high Christology. I knew John had a high Christology from his gospel but, Schreiner pointed out and melded together all of John’s writing into a cohesive overview of his thoughts. I would have never made the connections on my own with my first reading of Revelation so, I appreciated that chapter the most.
Overall this book was a great resource for me. With Revelation being overwhelming to most people, it was good to have this book as a starting point. This book would be great for any Christian wanting to study differing viewpoints and interpretations of Revelation. I am excited to read future books in the New Testament Theology series, co-edited by Thomas Schreiner and Brian Rosner.
*I received this book free from NetGalley along with Crossway in exchange for an honest review.*
March 5, 2022
We are coming out of a pandemic. Russia invaded Ukraine. I finished reading a book about the Book of Revelation. You can’t make it up. People often call the Book of Revelation the most difficult book in the Bible. For decades, people have anxiously read it side by side with a newspaper trying to decipher who is who in the end times. I always had a sense of fear associated with the book when I was a kid. So, it may seem odd to some that Thomas Schreiner titles his book about the Book of Revelation The Joy of Hearing.
Comfort & Encouragement
In The Joy of Hearing, Schreiner clearly explains and illustrates how the Book of Revelation was not meant to be a guessing game of symbolism and current events leading to the end of the world. It was meant to be a book of comfort and encouragement to the Christians living in difficult times, which means it should be a book of comfort and encouragement to believers today as well. As evil calls believers to compromise and worship the things of the world, John encourages us to stay faithful and look forward in hope.
Schreiner writes in the introduction:
In the midst of evil, in a world in which the Christian faith is under attack, we need hope and assurance that evil will not have the last word, and Revelation teaches us that a new world is coming, that a new creation is coming, and that all will be well. God is just and holy and righteous, and those who turn against God and his Christ will suffer judgement. At the same time, we see in the book that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are the center of history, or the fulcrum of history, Evil has been defeated because of what Christ has accomplished.
For Everyone
What I really like about Schreiner’s writing is that it is accessible to everyone. The average Christian who wants to learn more will appreciate The Joy of Hearing. The writing is not overly academic, and the book is roughly 200 pages. That’s doable for everyone. Clearly, it is not a comprehensive verse-by-verse commentary. It does not cover everything there is to know regarding the Revelation. However, Schreiner expertly summarizes and focuses the readers attention on the important themes. The book can then be a stepping stone to more in-depth study.
Schreiner organizes the chapters around the main themes of Revelation, which is helpful for those new to the book. For example, chapter one is “The Deafness of Those Living on Earth.” In this chapter, Schreiner walks through how Revelation identifies those who live on earth, but refuse to hear or see “the truth about life, death, evil, and goodness.”
He then shows how throughout Revelation the “earth dwellers” have listened to the world, rather than God. They have fallen into idolatry and worshipped the beast, rather than the one true God. During that discussion, we learn of the two beasts, Babylon the Harlot, and the dragon.
Schreiner writes:
John in apocalyptic colors draws the line for his readers: one is either on the side of the earth dweller, the beasts, Babylon, and Satan, or else one belongs to God. There is no neutral space; either one hears the message proclaimed by the Lord, or one is deaf to the things of God.
The Joy of Hearing
In the final chapter before the epilogue, Schreiner addresses the three views of the millennium. He calls this chapter “a kind of appendix.” At this point in the book, he has already addressed the theological themes. Yet, it is a topic that people have debated since early in Christianity.
As always, Schreiner approaches this topic humbly. He looks at the reasons that people hold to each position and their strengths and weaknesses. He comes to the conclusion that the amillennial reading is the most compelling for him, although the points he makes for premillennialism make it somewhat difficult to see how he lands there.
That being said, if you’re looking for a book that’s going to tell you who the antichrist is in current events or who Gog and Magog are in relation to Russia and China, The Joy of Hearing is not that book. Schreiner is more interested in showing us how the Book of Revelation would have encouraged the Christians living when John wrote it and how it should encourage us today. As he writes in the Epilogue:
Depsite the power and lure of evil, goodness will finally triumph, the world will be renewed, and all that is wicked will be removed. John writes to encourage the saints to hear and heed, to listen and obey, to pay attention and persevere.
Comfort & Encouragement
In The Joy of Hearing, Schreiner clearly explains and illustrates how the Book of Revelation was not meant to be a guessing game of symbolism and current events leading to the end of the world. It was meant to be a book of comfort and encouragement to the Christians living in difficult times, which means it should be a book of comfort and encouragement to believers today as well. As evil calls believers to compromise and worship the things of the world, John encourages us to stay faithful and look forward in hope.
Schreiner writes in the introduction:
In the midst of evil, in a world in which the Christian faith is under attack, we need hope and assurance that evil will not have the last word, and Revelation teaches us that a new world is coming, that a new creation is coming, and that all will be well. God is just and holy and righteous, and those who turn against God and his Christ will suffer judgement. At the same time, we see in the book that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are the center of history, or the fulcrum of history, Evil has been defeated because of what Christ has accomplished.
For Everyone
What I really like about Schreiner’s writing is that it is accessible to everyone. The average Christian who wants to learn more will appreciate The Joy of Hearing. The writing is not overly academic, and the book is roughly 200 pages. That’s doable for everyone. Clearly, it is not a comprehensive verse-by-verse commentary. It does not cover everything there is to know regarding the Revelation. However, Schreiner expertly summarizes and focuses the readers attention on the important themes. The book can then be a stepping stone to more in-depth study.
Schreiner organizes the chapters around the main themes of Revelation, which is helpful for those new to the book. For example, chapter one is “The Deafness of Those Living on Earth.” In this chapter, Schreiner walks through how Revelation identifies those who live on earth, but refuse to hear or see “the truth about life, death, evil, and goodness.”
He then shows how throughout Revelation the “earth dwellers” have listened to the world, rather than God. They have fallen into idolatry and worshipped the beast, rather than the one true God. During that discussion, we learn of the two beasts, Babylon the Harlot, and the dragon.
Schreiner writes:
John in apocalyptic colors draws the line for his readers: one is either on the side of the earth dweller, the beasts, Babylon, and Satan, or else one belongs to God. There is no neutral space; either one hears the message proclaimed by the Lord, or one is deaf to the things of God.
The Joy of Hearing
In the final chapter before the epilogue, Schreiner addresses the three views of the millennium. He calls this chapter “a kind of appendix.” At this point in the book, he has already addressed the theological themes. Yet, it is a topic that people have debated since early in Christianity.
As always, Schreiner approaches this topic humbly. He looks at the reasons that people hold to each position and their strengths and weaknesses. He comes to the conclusion that the amillennial reading is the most compelling for him, although the points he makes for premillennialism make it somewhat difficult to see how he lands there.
That being said, if you’re looking for a book that’s going to tell you who the antichrist is in current events or who Gog and Magog are in relation to Russia and China, The Joy of Hearing is not that book. Schreiner is more interested in showing us how the Book of Revelation would have encouraged the Christians living when John wrote it and how it should encourage us today. As he writes in the Epilogue:
Depsite the power and lure of evil, goodness will finally triumph, the world will be renewed, and all that is wicked will be removed. John writes to encourage the saints to hear and heed, to listen and obey, to pay attention and persevere.
March 21, 2023
I’ve been in a nonfiction mood lately! I picked this book because of the title. :)
I feel mixed about this one. There were definitely some pros - easy to read, the focus on God reigning as King, the future hope of the believer - all of these things were wonderful!
What I didn’t like - well, this is hard because I tend to agree more with the premillennial dispensational viewpoint and this author does not. But I like to hear from authors I might not agree with - they make me think! But I just didn’t feel like he supported his points very well. A lot of the answers tended to be, “We obviously don’t take this literally,” or “This is obviously meant to be symbolic.” But why?
For example, the 144,000 from the tribes of Israel - the author concludes they must not actually be Jews. But I didn’t find his reasons sufficient, especially since they are listed out by tribe. Why would John do that if he really meant the church?
And the plagues - he also concluded that they were symbolic. But why? If the plagues in Exodus were literal, why not in Revelation?
So while I do agree with a lot of his application, some of his interpretation I personally did not find compelling.
A good book to compare this to and chew on ideas from a different viewpoint would be Revealing Revelation by Amir Tsarfati.
I feel mixed about this one. There were definitely some pros - easy to read, the focus on God reigning as King, the future hope of the believer - all of these things were wonderful!
What I didn’t like - well, this is hard because I tend to agree more with the premillennial dispensational viewpoint and this author does not. But I like to hear from authors I might not agree with - they make me think! But I just didn’t feel like he supported his points very well. A lot of the answers tended to be, “We obviously don’t take this literally,” or “This is obviously meant to be symbolic.” But why?
For example, the 144,000 from the tribes of Israel - the author concludes they must not actually be Jews. But I didn’t find his reasons sufficient, especially since they are listed out by tribe. Why would John do that if he really meant the church?
And the plagues - he also concluded that they were symbolic. But why? If the plagues in Exodus were literal, why not in Revelation?
So while I do agree with a lot of his application, some of his interpretation I personally did not find compelling.
A good book to compare this to and chew on ideas from a different viewpoint would be Revealing Revelation by Amir Tsarfati.
February 24, 2023
This may be my first official Biblical Theology of Revelation that I have read, and that is sad. I've was raised with a strong dispensational view of the New Testament book of revelation, and yet, I've never throughly looked at it from a biblical theological perspective (I did write a paper in college that came close to this though).
The good news is that I am ready now to look at Revelation outside the lens of dispensationalism which made me ready to read Tom Schreiner's book, and thereby enjoy Revelation in a way that wasn't possible before - daresay the way the original readers/hearers would have received it. Tom does a great job collating the major themes of the book in a way that is refreshing to the soul, and he carefully and respectfully defangs the literalism that so many have tried to impose on the book.
I have little to complain about concerning this book. One minor thing was that Schreiner used the phrase "impossibly large" when referring to a literal interpretation of the New Jerusalem. Saying that what God created could be "impossibly large" sounds ridiculous to me. But, that is minor.
The good news is that I am ready now to look at Revelation outside the lens of dispensationalism which made me ready to read Tom Schreiner's book, and thereby enjoy Revelation in a way that wasn't possible before - daresay the way the original readers/hearers would have received it. Tom does a great job collating the major themes of the book in a way that is refreshing to the soul, and he carefully and respectfully defangs the literalism that so many have tried to impose on the book.
I have little to complain about concerning this book. One minor thing was that Schreiner used the phrase "impossibly large" when referring to a literal interpretation of the New Jerusalem. Saying that what God created could be "impossibly large" sounds ridiculous to me. But, that is minor.
July 31, 2025
This is a fantastic resource written by one of the great NT Scholars/Theologians of our time. If the rest of the series is a great as this, I would read all of them.
This book is organized around the prevalent themes and theologies of the book of Revelation. As many know, Revelation can be a confusing book given its strange Apocalyptic imagery, but Schreiner is a careful guide who makes the most confusing passages able to be simply understood. He filled in some gaps for me and even offered some alternate views on things that I've heard (such as how to understand the relationships between the Seals, Trumpets, and the bowls) where I have felt 90% at home, but not entirely. Schreiner offered an alternative that makes sense given what I have felt for years.
I highly recommend his discussion on the Millennium; in this volume, he argues for an A-millennial interpretation of Revelation 20. However, in his new commentary with Baker - he argues against his old Amillennial arguments with his new view called "New Creation Millennialism." I highly encourage you to read both; you will learn a lot.
This book is organized around the prevalent themes and theologies of the book of Revelation. As many know, Revelation can be a confusing book given its strange Apocalyptic imagery, but Schreiner is a careful guide who makes the most confusing passages able to be simply understood. He filled in some gaps for me and even offered some alternate views on things that I've heard (such as how to understand the relationships between the Seals, Trumpets, and the bowls) where I have felt 90% at home, but not entirely. Schreiner offered an alternative that makes sense given what I have felt for years.
I highly recommend his discussion on the Millennium; in this volume, he argues for an A-millennial interpretation of Revelation 20. However, in his new commentary with Baker - he argues against his old Amillennial arguments with his new view called "New Creation Millennialism." I highly encourage you to read both; you will learn a lot.
October 2, 2022
Tom Schreiner's theology of Revelation book starts with an introduction focusing on apocalyptic literature and its purposes (which alone is worth the cost of the book if Revelation confuses you!). Then he goes through six themes in the book (the deafness of those living on earth, the saints hear and heed, the declaration that God rules on his throne, the good news of the Lion and the Lamb, the testimony of the Holy Spirit, the promise of blessing and the New Creation) and then has a chapter on the millennium.
It's not a commentary, so there's no verse-by-verse explanations, but it's still helpful for knowing how to think about Revelation as a whole, and he does address some specific questions as well (and as is usual with Crossway, there's a great Scripture index in the back if you want to look up certain passages).
The short length makes it accessible to many and it isn't very academic, but I also wish it was longer and that he was more specific at times.
Highly recommended.
It's not a commentary, so there's no verse-by-verse explanations, but it's still helpful for knowing how to think about Revelation as a whole, and he does address some specific questions as well (and as is usual with Crossway, there's a great Scripture index in the back if you want to look up certain passages).
The short length makes it accessible to many and it isn't very academic, but I also wish it was longer and that he was more specific at times.
Highly recommended.
March 4, 2025
The joy of hearing is a joy to read. However, it will not be if you are looking for a line by line commentary. The vast majority of the book deals not with specific verses, but with the major things of the apocalypse. A brief introduction, handles the date and what emperor are being referred to. But the major themes include being weary of the government and what we are called to do, spoiler alert, it’s faithfulness and perseverance judgment, well, but it is announced as a call to persevere, and a reminder that victory is promised to all who drafted in. There is a heavily focus on the spirit Whose purpose it is to put the focus on Christ and remind us that any sort of human flourishing, we see now is a reminder of what we will enjoy in heaven. The final chapter does deal with the millennium because any description of revelation in current times seems to. It does throw for a loop what I thought the author’s position was which in itself is a call to evaluate your own position. The log ends with the reminder that despite all : God wins.
January 26, 2022
Revelation is the one book of the Bible that is shied away from by most Christians but yet people still have an opinion as to how the end times are going to play out. There are many ways of interpreting the visions of John and regardless of what our beliefs may be, we simply cannot hold any of them as absolute truth. The historical nature of the book is often overlooked by Christians because it is easier to look forward to the second coming of Christ than it is to look back into the beginning of the movement.
The ability of Schreiner to give an overview of both the historical nature of the book as well as the future events is uncanny. He has a way of bringing both the past and the future together to create a book that is a great resource for any Christian. Sure there are other works that are more in depth and get into the weeds a bit more but that was not the intent of this book. It is one that should easily find its way to a bookshelf of a lay leader.
Rather than running from the book, Schreiner helps the readers understand what was written to the original readers of Revelation. He also gives enough grace to lay out contrasting views of the millennial reign of Christ recognizing that there is enough room in the kingdom of God for all of the views. While he does hold to a specific belief, he recognizes that there are other followers of Christ that hold a different outlook and there is room enough in the kingdom for those views.
Overall, if you are looking for a brief theological work on the book of Revelation, this would be a valuable resource to have. It is one that will find its way to my bookshelf and one that will be consulted when the topic comes up in discussion.
The ability of Schreiner to give an overview of both the historical nature of the book as well as the future events is uncanny. He has a way of bringing both the past and the future together to create a book that is a great resource for any Christian. Sure there are other works that are more in depth and get into the weeds a bit more but that was not the intent of this book. It is one that should easily find its way to a bookshelf of a lay leader.
Rather than running from the book, Schreiner helps the readers understand what was written to the original readers of Revelation. He also gives enough grace to lay out contrasting views of the millennial reign of Christ recognizing that there is enough room in the kingdom of God for all of the views. While he does hold to a specific belief, he recognizes that there are other followers of Christ that hold a different outlook and there is room enough in the kingdom for those views.
Overall, if you are looking for a brief theological work on the book of Revelation, this would be a valuable resource to have. It is one that will find its way to my bookshelf and one that will be consulted when the topic comes up in discussion.
March 20, 2024
This was pretty good! I felt like it was a very level-headed introduction to what is often a pretty controversial book. I particularly appreciated his emphasis on the message of hope/encouragement that John intended with Revelation. I also think he did a good job of refuting those who would take an overly literal interpretation of the text, specifically when referring to numbers and measurements.
He is writing from an amillenialist perspective, which may turn away some potential readers. However, I found his arguments to be very strong and he was generally gracious towards other perspectives. But I agree with most of his positions, so I can’t say how I would have responded if I was coming from a different perspective.
This is worth reading if you want a high-level overview of Revelation from an Amillenialist perspective!
He is writing from an amillenialist perspective, which may turn away some potential readers. However, I found his arguments to be very strong and he was generally gracious towards other perspectives. But I agree with most of his positions, so I can’t say how I would have responded if I was coming from a different perspective.
This is worth reading if you want a high-level overview of Revelation from an Amillenialist perspective!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews