Guest Author - Diana Pederson

Stewart Custer. From Patmos to Paradise: A Commentary on Revelation. BJU Press. 2004.

Bible commentaries often appear to be nothing but dull writing with plenty of Hebrew or Greek included to keep the ordinary Christian from understanding the book involved. Let me introduce you to a bible commentary that is clearly none of the above.

This author included some colored photographs from the Island of Patmos, where the beloved disciple John wrote this book while in exile. Just these photographs make the book of Revelations come alive for the 21st century believer. His chart at the start of each chapter, listing persons involved, persons referred to, places mentioned, and doctrines taught help to break Revelation down into understandable sections.

I am simply unable to comment on how accurate his commentary is. That is left to the Holy Spirit of God. I can tell you that he goes verse by verse. There are ample footnotes further explaining the verses – each indicating its source. The author closes each chapter with a list of “practical applications” from that chapter in Revelations and a brief prayer. The entire book ends with an outstanding Bibliography of writings on The Revelation.

Recommendation

This book is clearly intended for all Believers. The author’s goal is to open The Revelation to those myriads of Christians who can’t possibly understand it. His writing style is clear, yet specific and comprehendible. I am impressed that this author has tried to shrink the book’s explanation into fewer words than Revelation contained. I’ve never understood how you could write a commentary using fewer words than the original book.

It obviously should be read by pastors and other teachers of the Word. However, this book is also suitable for those Believers ready to go deeper into one of the most misunderstood and controversial books of the Bible.