The most revealing book of the Bible: making sense out of Revelation

Dr. Eller has a very readable writing style. Like some of his other efforts it reminds you of a fascinating detective novel. In this case, you are searching for a powerful understanding of very difficult biblical material. Dr. Eller makes it feel easy. Eller explains some of the ways the stranger (he calls them calandarizing) interpretations got started and explains how they prevent Revelation from being a powerful spiritual resource in our lives. Here is an example of Dr. Eller's powerful, personal style of writing: 'However, what John intends, I now am convinced, is nothing other than to tell his churches: "Look, my friends, whether you recognize it or not, your history is part of the great and universal mission being directed from God's throne. What you do and what happens to you is an integral and meaningful part of the wonderful thing God is doing with the cosmos, through Christ, to Evil, for mankind. My story starts with you and ends with all things being made new--but it is one story! Until you can understand what it is you're part of, you're bound to see yourself and your efforts as lowly; your're defeated before you even get into the game. But look at it once with me from the true perspective of God's throne, and you'll see that because of Jesus there's no way we can lose--no way!" (page 71) Eller makes us understand that not only are John's first century brothers and sister's part of something big, but we 21st Century readers as well. Dr. Eller's background is from the Church of the Brethren which is a descendant of German Pietists and Anabaptist traditions. It may be nice for readers to get away from the excessive liberalism of mainline commentaries or the "we know all the answers" commentaries of evangelical writings. You get the best of both worlds. A nice feature of the book is that the passages commented on are there so the readers don't have to flip back and forth between a Bible and the commentary. The bad news is the translation used in Today's English version (TEV or Good News Bible) which is one of the weaker translations. Other concerns for some might be Dr. Eller's side mission of trying to make a compelling case for a modified Universalism throughout the book. Dr. Eller feels that all ultimately have the chance to be saved, though he does hold that some (especially Satan's close allies) will probably not accept the opportunity. Since it was writen in the 70's there is limited use of inclusive language which may bother some contemporary readers. Dr. Eller's powerful interpretation of Revelation holds up well after almost three decades. For lay people and pastors this is a great addition to their libary.