The Lost World of the Prophets

Old Testament Prophecy and Apocalyptic Literature in Ancient Context

By: John H. Walton

Narrated by: Tyler Boss

Being responsive to God is at the heart of prophecy. But readers of ancient prophecies and apocalyptic literature—including those in the Old Testament—can come away thoroughly perplexed. Are the prophets speaking about their own times, about our present, or about some still-unrealized future?

It's common to study prophecy with a focus on the sole question of prediction and fulfillment, either for the sake of apologetics or for understanding the end times, but such an approach can fail to track with the original intent of the authors.

John Walton applies his signature method to help us recover the lost world of the prophets. To read these biblical books well, we must understand: the role of the prophet, the nature of prophetic literature, the theological significance of prophecy, and how apocalyptic differs from prophecy.

A fresh reading of the Old Testament text in light of the ancient Near Eastern context can open new avenues of awareness. Walton provides a clear, helpful guide to the nature of biblical prophecy and apocalyptic literature that will help listeners avoid potential misuse and reclaim the message of the prophets for their lives.

©2024 John H. Walton (P)2024 eChristian

Viewpoints

By only referring to the Protestant 66 Book Bible and not the Catholic Cannon Original Bible you are missing context and prophecy that was witnessed in books like maccabees and etc.

Great info

As a student of the Bible for over forty years I believe this perspective is essential for understanding the overall biblical message.

Grounded perspective

The prophets should never be romanticized. This is a healthy dose of reality grounded in historical and literal context. Refreshing read.

This is the Modern “Prophecy” Book Christians Need to Read

If there was one book I wanted to recommend to the general church audience on Biblical prophecy, this would be the one. As usual, John Walton writes powerfully for both scholars and laypeople alike, and he does a terrific job of setting the record straight on what prophecy is and isn’t. He also helps his readers get a better grip on how to read books that fall into the apocalyptic genre, which is very needed for modern Christians. I think this book is important for all Christians to read.

Helpful insights great reading!

I loved the comparison of the institution of prophecy in the ANE and how Israel compared and contrasted from that. Very helpful. I loved the last section of how to then study and faithfully apply them in our own walks with God.