Revelation (Reformation Commentary on Scripture)

Discover the world of sixteenth-century interpretation of Revelation

Known as one of the most enigmatic books of the Bible, Revelation has sparked centuries of diverse theological debate, capturing the imaginations of Reformers navigating a time of immense upheaval. This volume, part of the Reformation Commentary on Scripture series, invites readers to engage with the perspectives of key Reformation-era theologians, offering a window into their reflections on prophecy, eschatology, and profound hopes for moral renewal.

Guided by Rodney Petersen and Gerald Bray, this masterfully curated commentary guides readers through a wealth of early modern commentary on the book of Revelation, including voices across theological traditions—Lutheran, Reformed, Anglican, Radical, and Catholic. Much of the material—including commentaries, sermons, treatises, and confessions—appears for the first time in English, providing pastors, scholars, and students with fresh perspectives on the text. Through their expert curation, Petersen and Bray expand our understanding of how Revelation has been interpreted historically, enlightening contemporary reflection and practice.

This volume offers more than theological insights—it’s a resource for spiritual growth and deeper engagement, ideal for pastors seeking to invigorate their sermons or scholars aiming to broaden their knowledge of Reformation biblical interpretation.

Key Features:

• Reformation Insights on Revelation: Discover how sixteenth-century Reformers approached one of the Bible's most provocative books, navigating interpretations from preterist to futurist, historicist to spiritualist.
• Diverse Theological Voices: Read from Reformation commentators such as David Chytraeus and Heinrich Bullinger, as well as lesser-known figures.
• Previously Untranslated Works: Engage with sermons, treatises, confessions, and commentaries appearing in English for the first time, enriching your understanding of Reformation theology.
• Scholarly Depth: Expand your knowledge of early modern exegetical diversity while gaining fresh perspectives on apocalyptic literature.
• Pastoral Utility: Equip your sermons with insights that connect Scripture's historical richness to contemporary issues.

Additional contents include:

• A Guide to Using This Commentary
• Introduction to Revelation
• Map of Europe (Reformation Era)
• Timeline of the Reformation
• Biographical Sketches of Reformation-Era Leaders

Enrich your library with this essential resource. Whether you're a pastor or a scholar deepening your study of biblical history and interpretation, Revelation is a volume that inspires understanding and bridges past and present. Add this commentary to your collection today and immerse yourself in the rich legacy of Reformation thought.

Gerald L. Bray (PhD, La Sorbonne) is a professor at Beeson Divinity School of Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, and director of research for the Latimer Trust. He has written and edited a number of books on different theological subjects, including Galatians, Ephesians in the Reformation Commentary on Scripture series, Biblical Interpretation: Past and Present, The Doctrine of God, and Romans in the Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture series. A priest of the Church of England, Bray has also edited the post-Reformation Anglican canons.

Rodney Petersen (PhD, Princeton) is emeritus executive director of Cooperative Metropolitan Ministries in Boston and president of Forgiveness International. He is also a visiting scholar at Duke University Divinity School.