Understanding Prophecy
A Biblical-Theological Approach
An authoritative guide to clearly understanding the place and meaning of prophecy in the Bible
For thoughtful readers who are curious about biblical prophecy, this book will help them learn the place of prophecy in the message of the Bible and clear up the confusion that often surrounds reading these texts.
Studying biblical prophecy is about much more than predicting end-times events. Rather, a proper approach to prophecy acknowledges that the threads of prophecy crisscross throughout Genesis to Revelation, forming the fabric of canonical Scripture. This is why having a good grasp of the prophetic genre is essential for understanding the message of the entire Bible. Authors Alan Bandy and Benjamin Merkle not only offer thoughtful and careful explanations of individual biblical prophecies, but also give the reader the big picture of how all prophecy relates to and should be interpreted in light of Jesus Christ.
This book examines the nature, themes, purposes, and theology of biblical prophecy and provides a framework for how to interpret any passage in the context of the Bible as a whole.
"Merkle and Bandy are diligently, rigorously, and refreshingly honest with the biblical text, offering valuable insights on an often-contested subject."
-Craig Keener, Professor of New Testament, Asbury Theological Seminary
"This comprehensive treatment works through the whole of the Bible. I am delighted to recommend this book to anyone who wants a better grasp of the prophetic material in the Bible."
-Daniel L. Akin, President, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
"Bandy and Merkle accessibly and responsibly introduce prophecy with a biblical-theological approach."
-Andy Naselli, Assistant Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology, Bethlehem College & Seminary
"Rooted in a careful treatment of all the relevant prophetic texts and with a keen awareness to the development of redemptive history, Bandy and Merkle have given us what may be the standard text on biblical prophecy for years to come."
-Sam Storms, Ph.D., Bridgeway Church, Oklahoma City, OK
"Understanding Prophecy brings solid scholarship and an abundance of interpretive wisdom to bear on the difficult topic of biblical prophecy. By locating prophecy in the larger story of Scripture, [the authors] help readers grasp its theological significance in Gods redemptive plan and--as a result--provide them the framework for understanding and applying prophecy in a reliable fashion."
-J. Scott Duvall, Professor of New Testament, J. C. and Mae Fuller Chair of Biblical Studies, Ouachita Baptist University
Author:
Alan S. Bandy (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is professor of New Testament at Oklahoma Baptist University and is a contributing author to the Biblical Theology of the New Testament Series.
Benjamin L. Merkle (PhD, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is Professor of New Testament Greek at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the editor of the 40 Questions series and the author of 40 Questions about Elders and Deacons.