Israel and the Kingdom: An Eschatology of VictoryJesus warned of false messiahs, wars and rumors of wars, natural disasters, persecution, great tribulation, a great falling away, and the abomination of desolation. All are addressed in this hope-filled view of the teachings of the last things.There is a great debate over Eschatology, the study of last things. Fear, uncertainty, and confusion reign when prophecy pundits rush to publish the latest predictions of the end-of-the-world events. Shaffer brings a fresh, faith-filled approach to Jesus' teachings in Matthew 24, and of the Israel of God.Although eschatology may be one of the most talked-about Bible subjects, it is also the most misunderstood. Misunderstandings stem mainly from attempts to interpret end-time events based on current news, as opposed to basing every event on the Bible itself. "Let the Bible interpret the Bible," writes Glenn Shaffer in his clear-cut study guide, Israel and the Kingdom: An Eschatology of Victory.As a young pastor, Shaffer was troubled that only a select few seemed to be in the know about the end times. It seemed that only world travelers, sought-after speakers and specialists, had anything to say about this doctrine. Normal pastors or church leaders relied upon traveling experts with their theories and charts. These experts who were looked upon as authorities on this subject, often quoted the latest news happenings to prove they were "in the know." Often their interpretations required presuppositions beyond the simple reading of the scriptures. Modern day catastrophes and national events in the Middle East were regularly cited to support scriptural texts. Why would God make such a crucial subject difficult to understand? The author contends that the study of last things should be clear and should bring hope to every Bible student. He sees the present Church as the fulfillment of God's people and the mystery of the ages fulfilled in Christ.In Israel and the Kingdom, Shaffer addresses the importance of understanding who is the Israel of God, and the present reign of Christ in the earth. This study guide springs from more than four decades of teaching as it presents a Partial-Preterist view of the study of last things.
