Jesus—The Portrait and Inscription of God

Book excerpt: “If we want to understand what God was telling John about the future, we need to first understand what John understood.” —Professor Jon Paulien, Loma Linda University, USA In Jesus—The Portrait and Inscription of God, the author pours his years of research into addressing the issue that Jon Paulien highlights. Paki builds an intriguing case for a dual-focused method of interpreting Revelation. He uses this method to show (i) that Revelation was written primarily to John and his initial audience, (ii) that the same prophecies also speak to us with clarity and force. (iii) Then he wonders if God intentionally used the same material to speak to an audience, then and now. When this method is applied to Revelation 1–3, the text does come alive. Deep theological truths and nuggets extracted are way too many to recount in a single book. In fact, this fresh approach minimizes most of our interpretive issues and enhances our understanding and appreciation of the apocalyptic Christ. Some of our leading scholars agree: “It is well-written, well laid out, and has good solid biblical insights. … Good solid evidence for Revelation’s high Christology.” —Dr. Kayle de Waal, Avondale College, Australia “I found it thoughtful, helpful, and interesting to read. The style of presentation … is also very attractive.” —Professor Jon Paulien, Loma Linda University, USA “You have clearly shown the relationship between Revelation 1-3 with the rest of Revelation.” —Dr. Ross Cole, Avondale College, Australia The method used, its interpretations, and the theological insights are corroborated by other Johannine books, the New Testament, the Old Testament, and the Spirit of Prophecy. This volume will enhance the libraries of academics and laypeople alike.