Author Description

What does the Bible really teach about the end times? <br>Will there be a rapture with some people left behind? <br>How has the church traditionally understood the millennial age? <br><br>In a clear and accessible manner, Kim Riddlebarger presents and defends amillennialism as the historic Protestant understanding of the millennial age. Amillennarians believe that the millennium is a present reality centered in Christ's heavenly reign, not a future hope of Christ's rule on earth after his return.<br><br>Recognizing that eschatology-the study of future things-is a complicated and controversial subject, Riddlebarger begins with definitions of key terminology and an overview of various viewpoints and related biblical themes. He then discusses key passages of Scripture that bear upon the millennial age, including Daniel 9, Matthew 24, Romans 11, and Revelation 20. Finally, he evaluates the main problems facing each of the major millennial positions (dispensational premillennialism, historic premillennialism, postmillennialism, and preterism) and cautions readers to be aware of the consequences of each view.<br><br>"For combining thorough exegesis, readability, and lucid argumentation on this important subject, this volume has no peers."<br> Michael Horton, author of A Better Way<br><br>"By careful examination of the key biblical passages, Dr. Riddlebarger will help and encourage Christians both to understand the real teaching of the Bible and to appropriate the blessing of this truth."<br> W. Robert Godfrey, president and professor of church history, <br> Westminster Theological Seminary in California<br><br>"Carefully argued, clearly and charitably written, Riddlebarger brings needed balance and sense to the debate over the subject of the millennium."<br> Cornelis P. Venema, author of The Promise of the Future