In the last few years, books in the Left Behind fiction series, co-authored by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins, have taken Christian publishing by storm. Although the books are fictional, they are based on--"and promote--"a particular understanding of end times events. Here, Flesher describes and challenges the theological framework, interpretative practices, and the end times scenario which, while prominent in the Left Behind series, are not shared by most biblical scholars. Flesher exposes the use and abuse of Scripture to support the peculiar doctrines of "Rapture" and "Tribulation." She explodes the myth of "literal interpretation" and highlights the importance of understanding history, context and literary genre. Flesher continues with a presentation of alternative readings of Daniel, Revelation, and other key Scriptures, and offers practical guidelines for applying their message in a post modern world. Ideal for preachers, church educators, and laypersons.
