Monthly Archives: December 2009

Theology Proper in the Book of Revelation

Theology proper is displayed in Revelation mostly with regard to God’s sovereignty. God’s sovereignty is displayed most significantly in three ways: 1. The use of the word “throne,” which appears 34 times in the Revelation 2. The use of the … Continue reading

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Some Thoughts on the Genre of Revelation

“Genre” has to do with what type of literature describes a work or writing. There are four options for the Book of Revelation: Prophecy, epistolary literature (that is, a letter), apocalyptic (in which heavenly truths are revealed through symbolism), or, … Continue reading

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Soteriology (the doctrine of salvation) in the Book of Revelation

The emphasis on soteriology in Revelation has mainly to do with perseverance. Christ is introduced (ch. 1) as the one who died and was raised again. Christ is also the Lamb slain (ch. 5) who calls the thirsty to drink … Continue reading

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Christology in Revelation

Christ is the center of the Book of Revelation. Christ is the one who communicates with John (taking the initiative to do so) in the opening chapters, commissioning John to write what he sees. Christ is the one who charges … Continue reading

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The Holy Spirit in the Book of Revelation

The Holy Spirit is not referenced by many of the names used elsewhere in the NT. The expression “the seven spirits of God” used in the opening chapters (1:4; 3:1; 4:5; 5:6) may refer to Zechariah’s prophecy (4:2, 10) and … Continue reading

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Who or what is "Babylon" in Revelation 17-18?

“Babylon” is a symbol, a cipher (it is called a “mystery” in 17:5) that must be understood figuratively. It represents a world system with much power, influence and wealth (17:2-4, 15; 18:7, 16) and whose power and influence provides a … Continue reading

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Some Thoughts on Ladd on Revelation

George E. Ladd’s section on the Apocalypse in his A Theology of the New Testament packs quite a bit into a few pages (16 to be exact), but considering how much Ladd has written on issues relating to the apocalypse … Continue reading

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Some Further Thoughts on Unity and Diversity in the NT

Unity and diversity in the NT should not be pitted against one another as if it is an either-or proposition. As one who is committed to inerrancy, I believe firmly in the unity of Scripture. Against Dunn (Unity and Diversity … Continue reading

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The Perry Noble James Duncan Fiasco

James Duncan criticized Perry Noble and New Spring Church on his blog and in return, he was sent pornography, serial killers and sex perverts were invited to his home, his name and his family’s name and address were posted on … Continue reading

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Crisis at Calvin College over Homosexuality

Another preacher mentioned to me recently that the day will come when many (professing) Christians will consider homosexuality to be permissible. I responded that such a day is already here in some circles. Where I didn’t think it would be … Continue reading

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