When the book, The End arrived in the mail, it lovingly became called the Encyclopaedia book, based on its size. My eyes widened at the thought of reviewing this giant book. What had I gotten myself into? However, from the first page I knew it was amazing. The author, Mark Hitchcock has a tremendous way with words. Don't be intimidated by this 400+ page hard cover book! It is well worth your time and effort.In his own words, Mark tells us a little about why he wrote this book and what he hopes it will accomplish.
"My goal is for The End, in some small way, to provide for my generation and the ones following what Dr. Pentecost did for his. While no book can or should replace his work, I would like for this book to serve as a comprehensive resource for a new generation interested in biblical eschatology. There has never been a time when it is more important for God’s people to understand the prophetic word and look for His appearing. People everywhere today have sobering questions, searching questions, about what the future holds. God’s Word is the only place we can find sure answers. Yet, at the very time when serious study and preaching and teaching about prophecy is most needed, its importance has diminished in many churches and in the lives of many Christians. I pray that this work can play some small role in sparking a renewed interest and passion for the blessed hope.”
I have never read the book by Dr. Pentecost wrote, titled Things To Come so I have no reference to compare it to. However I feel that Hitchcock's attempt to provide this generation with a comprehensive resource on the end times have been accomplished.
Before I break down the benefits of this book, please let me state that I am in no way a scholar or theologian - even as a hobby. I am the type of Christian who has read my bible and spent my time focusing on how it applies to my life today instead of what might be in the future. I have read books like Revelation but choose not to delve into it too much for the complexities it brings. I have stood in the camp of 'it will happen the way God wants it to happen anyway'. I review this book based on that stepping stool.
I found Mark's book well written and very easy to read. It did not feel like a textbook. He has the ability to bring the deep doctrine of bible eschatology down to an easy to follow level for anyone. The terminology and descriptions are written for the average layman.
Hitchcock starts at the beginning, (why should I study the end times?) and takes us through scripture to the end - (what is eternity like?). He explains all relevant opinions and slants until he has walked you through to The End. Hitchcock also has done an excellent job of explaining his side and his beliefs alongside the opposing views. I really appreciate that. It allows you to intelligently make up your own mind as opposed to just accepting his.
The book is filled with scriptural references and charts to help you along in the understanding of the complexities of the end times. It was a joy to read - even if it is the size of an encyclopaedia!
Thank you Mark for tackling this huge issue and teaching me about The End.
Mark Hitchcock is a leading Bible prophecy expert, prolific author who has penned over 20 books on the end times, senior pastor, and adjunct faculty member of the Dallas Theological Seminary. Check out his website here. The book is available at on-line retailers and your local Christian book stores.
Book Trailer video available on Christianbook.com site at this link.
This book was provided to me by Tyndale House Publishers at no charge in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to rate it positively.
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