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Australian Christian Resources |
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These two concise epistles confess a rich theology of the end times. They warn against libertine heretics who condone promiscuity as an acceptable expression of the Christian life, and who scoff at Christ's second coming because of his apparent delay. These inspired books of Scripture recall OT events such as the fallen angels' rebellion, the sexual abomination and destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, and Balaam's seduction of Israel. God's earlier acts of judgment and salvation guarantee that he will indeed act again. Christ will return, destroy the present corrupted world, raise all baptized believers, and bring them into the new creation characterized by righteousness. The final day is also the time of severe judgment against the false teachers. This message about the downfall of evildoers provides Gospel comfort to the church, which will be vindicated.
Dr. Lessing's scholarly expertise and decades of service as a seminary professor and pastor are evident as he meticulously expounds the text, historical setting, theology, Christology, and pastoral applications of "the fifth Gospel." He explains why the prophet's saving message, soaring language, and unforgettable imagery are so tightly woven into the fabric of Christian hymnody, liturgy, and prayer. Pericopes from chapters 40"55, which include the Suffering Servant Songs, permeate the lectionary throughout the church year.
