This Hallelujah Banquet: How the End of What We Were Reveals Who We Can Be

While the Book of Revelation in the Christian New Testament is well known for depicting events at the end times, it also represents new beginnings. Late in his ministry, the apostle John wrote letters of instruction to the seven churches he had established, helping them to realign with characteristics of Christ. Through a posthumous compilation of past sermons, Peterson (The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language) focuses on these letters and makes relevant parallels with modern-day Christians. Whether the characteristic under question is love, suffering, truth, holiness, reality, witness, or commitment, Peterson’s use of historical references helps readers to better understand challenges faced by the early churches and thus the importance of spiritual renewal and realignment. The author’s tone and use of personal and relatable anecdotes will draw in those new to Peterson and fans of his writings. This encouraging work presents a reminder that a glorious feast, a “hallelujah banquet,” awaits true followers of Christ at the beginning of eternity. To help readers to reflect and to renew spiritually through reading and note-taking, the book’s section of Final Exams is especially useful.