This second edition of Four Views on Hell is part of the Zondervan Counterpoints series. As with the other books of the series, we find a presentation of the current views on just what hell is. This updated edition features all new contributors. Each contributor presents his view of the doctrine of hell in an essay. They are:
– Eternal Conscious Torment by Denny Burk
– Terminal Punishment by John Stackhouse
– Universalism by Robin Parry
– Purgatory by Jerry Walls
After each essay, the other three contributors present a short response.
An introduction by Preston Sprinkle gives a summary on the existence and nature of hell, then briefly introduces each contributor and the view he will be presenting. He reminds us that while these gentlemen are presenting varying views on the nature of hell, none of them disagree that hell does, in fact, exist.
In the conclusion, Sprinkle once again takes the reins and offers his own response to each of the fours views. He points out the strengths and weaknesses of each argument using scripture and comparing each essay.
Ultimately, any conclusion is left up to the reader. Sprinkle, while he admits he has his own leanings, never expressly states which view it is, and treats each view fairly.
Personally, I went in with a specific view. I have to admit that my view has been challenged by one view in particular. I hope to do more research on my own to follow through to a conclusion and, hopefully, a biblical view of hell.
This book is meant to challenge you. It is meant to open a discussion among Christians with opposing views so that, at the very least, we can stop vilifying each other. Most importantly, it is meant to challenge the views we hold onto so strongly. Is what we believe really biblical? Or are we just holding on to the beliefs we have been taught?
It is the reader’s responsibility to decide.
1) Is it understandable = 5
2) Presentation of Information = 5
3) Quality of Writing = 4.5
4) Overall Enjoyability = 4.5
Average score of 4.75 out of 5
I received a complimentary copy of this book from BookLook in return for an honest review.
Jess Boudreaux 