Unveiling the Depths of Revelation: A Commentary by Paul M. Hoskins, Reviewed by Ched Spellman

Paul Hoskins, a New Testament studies professor at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, has released a new commentary on the book of Revelation that aims to make this complex text more accessible to a wide audience. In his analysis, Hoskins emphasizes the deep connections between Revelation and the rest of the biblical canon, particularly the Old Testament and the Gospel of John.

Unlike some commentaries that focus heavily on historical background information or attempts to link the text to contemporary events, Hoskins prioritizes the text of Revelation itself as the key to understanding its message. He argues that the book communicates a powerful message that transcends historical particulars and resonates across the centuries.

Throughout his commentary, Hoskins pays close attention to the structure and flow of the text, providing helpful summaries and analyses of key sections. He also explores the numerous connections between Revelation and the Old Testament, noting how John alludes to and interprets Hebrew Scriptures in his writing.

One of the theological positions Hoskins takes in his commentary is a Historic Premillennial view on the millennium mentioned in Revelation 20. This perspective allows him to understand the symbolic aspects of the book while maintaining a future-looking orientation to John’s vision. While readers may have differing views on this theological point, Hoskins’s careful attention to the text and internal development of the book’s argument provides a solid foundation for his interpretation.

Overall, Hoskins’s commentary offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on the book of Revelation, steering clear of sensational or speculative interpretations in favor of a textually grounded approach. His work invites readers to engage with the challenging and rewarding message of this biblical book and to listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches through its pages.