Reclaiming the Book of Revelation

Book excerpt: Progressive Christians have largely resisted studying the book of Revelation, but Reclaiming the Book of Revelation shows that the last book of the Bible has great relevance for progressive Christians and congregations in this world. It addresses themes such as how to avoid being drawn into the values of a consumerist society, how to describe our fears instead of fleeing from them, and how to live with hope in difficult times. Because Revelation has been claimed by the «religious right» and proponents of rapture theology, Wilfried E. Glabach addresses the need for more progressive Christians to give another interpretation of the book. Reclaiming the Book of Revelation offers an interpretation that stresses God's forgiveness and the «healing of the nations» rather than the destruction of many and the redemption of a few. Dr. Glabach motivates and encourages preachers, teachers, and lay readers to explore Revelation's vision of assurance, justice, and peace.