Richard Lehmann is one of the best known European Adventist theologians. He taught for many years in the faculty of theology at the Adventist Seminary in Collonges-sous-Salève, France. Until recently he was the President of the Franco-Belgian Union Conference, but at the present time he is retired working as the president of the Seminary in Collonges. Did I say retired?

This is the second volume of his commentary on the book of Revelation. The first volume covered chapters 1-3, and this one covers chapters 4-8:1. The commentary, is characterized by a careful reading of the biblical text in dialogue with the rest of the Scripture and with Adventist and non-Adventist exegetes. Lehmann argues for a historicist interpretation of Revelation as the best approach to the book and proceeds to use this method in his exegesis and interpretation of the visions of the throne (Rev 4-5; the enthronement of Christ) and the seals (chaps. 6-8:1). Recapitulation is presented as characterizing not only apocalyptic thinking but also as part of the Hebrew mentality. He correctly finds the use of recapitulation in the messages to the seven churches and the vision of the seven seals.

In his analysis of the text Lehmann pays attention to the structure and other literary features of the book without overlooking the message and the fulfillment of its prophecies within the flow of history. This is important at a time when there is a tendency among some Adventists to overemphasize the literary beauty of the text and the development of the plot in the book while placing little emphasis on the historical fulfillment of the prophecies recorded there. For Adventists the book of Revelation is about God’s plans for his people throughout the Christian era with particular emphasis on the end-time remnant. Lehmann strengthens that position and provides significant insights for its support and development.

In this volume the exegetical task is accompanied by a pastoral concern in which the message of the book is made relevant for the believer. Therefore, the pastor as well as other church members will find here useful material to nurture their faith in God’s message for these last days. We look forward to the next volumes in the series.