The Book Corner
The Millennium. Edited by Robert G. Clouse. Downers Grove, Ill.: Intervarsity Press, 1977. 223 pp. Paper, $4.25.
Most Christians grow up in churches that teach one school of prophetic interpretation. The tendency is to view with suspicion any deviation from this scheme, perhaps even questioning a person’s sincerity or salvation. This book may help broaden one’s perspective. Real Christians do differ on prophetic details.
The editor has four men present their prophetic schemes in order. After each presentation the other three react to the views presented. This makes interesting reading at times. There is Christian grace revealed through it all.
George Eldon Ladd presents Historic Premillennialism. By this he means a post-tribulation rapture of the Church preceding the setting up of an earthly kingdom by the Messiah. This view is called “Historic” because it seems to have been the prevailing view of the Church during the early centuries of its existence.
Herman A. Hoyt argues for Dispensational Millennialism. The Church will be caught up before the seven-year tribulation. The kingdom will be set up by Christ following this period. The dispensations are more strongly delineated than in Ladd’s position. This prophetic scheme is more recent, dating back to the 1800’s. Dispensational theology has been especially widespread in the U.S.A. among evangelicals. The Scofield Reference Bible takes this position.
Loraine Boettner presents Postmillennialism. He believes through the preaching of the Gospel that Christian ethics will influence the world more and more. Christianity will permeate world culture until millennial-like conditions prevail. Then Christ will return to set up His eternal kingdom.
Probably few who read this presentation will be converted. It seems to be a case of wishful thinking and finds little credence in Scriptural exegesis or world conditions.
Last is the defense by Anthony A. Hoekema of Amillennialism. This view rejects any physical, earthly millennium. When Christ returns, the judgment takes place for all and the universe is ushered into the eternal kingdom of Christ. All prophetic teachers realize that some prophecies employ figurative language. The dispensationalist stresses literal interpretation if at all possible. Mr. Hoekema and his school say the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies to Israel is found spiritually in the Church today, the present people of God. Israel is finished as God’s chosen people. God now only deals with the Church.
Mr. Hoekema does examine Scripture carefully. Whether he will convince the reader who has been premillennial is doubtful.
All Christians believe Christ is returning. Reading this book will acquaint you with details where they differ. Perhaps we should remember that Christ’s return should not be bitterly argued but fervently lived (1 John 3:3).
—Donald L. Norbie
The Chief Meeting of the Church. By John Reid. Waynesboro, GA: Christian Missions Press, 1978. 123pp. Paper, N.p.
The subtitle of this brief book is: “In Remembrance of Me.” It is, as Mr. Reid states at the very beginning, “A short treatise concerning the Scriptural observance of the Lord’s Supper with some needful principles of truth governing the worship of the Lord’s people.”
Following a “Foreword” by Mr. J. W. Bramhall and introductory words by the author, the latter goes on to stress the place and importance of the Lord’s Supper. He then proceeds to the main thrust of his exposition of this vital subject.
Under the heading, “Scriptural Principales and the Lord’s Supper,” the author thoughtfully and systematically lays out his comments, defining and developing his treatment of this key church ordinance from a sevenfold standpoint. He points out that the Lord’s Supper is:
1. An Act of Love
2. An Act of Commemoration
3. An Act of Responsibility
4. An Act of Fellowship
5. An Act of Thanksgiving
6. An Act of Testimony
7. An Act of Expectation
One of the great values of this little book is that it is a contemporary treatment of the Lord’s Supper by a beloved and respected servant of Christ among the assemblies of so-called “Brethren.”
Essentially, as the author states, he wrote this brief book as “An appeal to young Christians.” Here, then, is something tangible which can be placed in the hands of young believers (and older ones, too) who may have questions about the Lord’s Supper. If such are willing to read this book with an open heart and mind, they cannot help but be led into a fuller understanding of the importance and significance of “The Chief Meeting of the Chruch.”
It would be good for every local assembly of believers to have on hand a few copies of Mr. Reid’s book to pass along to those who sincerely inquire about the stress which “Brethren” place on the Lord’s Supper.
—The Editor