Apocalypse and Millennium: Studies in Biblical Eisegesis
Cambridge University Press
Edition: Illustrated, 8/10/2000
EAN 9780521773348, ISBN10: 0521773342
Hardcover, 264 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.9 cm
Language: English
This book is about the various ways in which the Book of Revelation (the Apocalypse) has been interpreted over the last 300 years. It examines in detail Methodist, Baptist, English Anglican and Roman Catholic uses of Revelation from 1600 to 1800, and then American Millerism and Seventh-day Adventist uses from 1800 on. The book argues that, far from being a random sequence of bizarre statements, millennial schemes (including the setting of dates for the second coming of Christ) are more often characterized by complex and internally consistent interpretations of scripture. As an example, the work of David Koresh is examined at length. Koresh, styled by some the 'Wacko from Waco', clearly had views which some would find odd. However, his interpretation of scripture did not lack system or context, and to see him in that light is to begin to understand why his message had appeal.
List of illustrations
Preface
1. Introduction
texts, eisegesis and millennial expectation
2. Hanserd Knollys, Benjamin Keach and the Book of Revelation
a study in Baptist Eisegesis
3. Revelation 13 and the Papal Antichrist in eighteenth-century England
4. Catholic apocalypse
the Book of Revelation in Roman Catholicism from 1600 to 1800
5. Methodists and the millennium
eschatological belief and the interpretation of biblical prophecy
6. Charles Wesley
prophetic interpreter
7. William Miller, the Book of Daniel, and the end of the world
8. 'A Lamb-like Beast'
Revelation 13:11-18 in the Seventh-day Adventist tradition
9. Waco apocalypse
the Book of Revelation in the Branch Davidian tradition
Bibliography
Index of names
Index of scripture references.
From the hardback review: ‘Read and be challenged!’ Baptist Times
From the hardback review: 'Well-documented and supplied with excerpts from primary source materials, Newport's study provides an intriguing look at how the book of Revelation has frequently been the victim of highly subjective exegesis. The practical result of this work is that better understanding of the exegetical assumptions and approaches of apocalyptically-minded groups like the Branch Davidians may help prevent another Waco-like disaster.' Perspectives in Religious Studies