Noe, John: Beyond the End Times - The Rest of... the Greatest Story Ever Told.

Reviewed by H. Edward Rowe, B.A., Th. M., D.D.

Any serious evaluation of this book must conclude that it is a masterful treatment of the entire spectrum of biblical prophetic revelation. Every Christian pastor, teacher and layperson will benefit greatly from studying it with careful scrutiny of the details presented. Whether the reader prefers premillennarian, amillennarian or postmillenarian eschatological formulations, this volume will challenge his existing perceptions of the Divine program set forth in prophetic revelation.

Unlike the arrogant Pharisees of the first century, sincere biblical interpreters today will always welcome thoughtful communication from biblically committed and dedicated researchers who have invested considerable life-energy in the investigation of contemporary, broadly accepted Theological positions, and have presented a variant viewpoint. The contents of this blockbuster volume demonstrate beyond any doubt that author John Noe is such a dedicated biblical researcher, and this factor alone justifies a meticulous study of this work.

First, let it be understood that Noe is committed to historic biblical Christian faith and is thoroughly evangelical. Therefore we must approach this book with the attitude that he is "one of us" - a brother who cares enough about a proper understanding of prophetic revelation, and about his brethren, to share his research and findings. Nothing but good can result from open-minded consideration of the careful work of a scholarly Christian brother who believes in plenary biblical inspiration, the undiminished Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, and salvation by grace through faith.

John Noe argues compellingly that the "time of the end" mentioned by Daniel (12:4) referred to the cataclysmic events culminating in the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in A.D.70. "Make no mistake about it," writes Noe on p. 196, "A.D.70 was the Lord's promised and personal return!" He returned as and when He was expected to." His exposition of Daniel's prophetic timetable (pp. 91-98) and of Jesus' most extended prophetic utterance (Matt. 24:1-35) reveals the perfect harmony of these passages.

He points out that "postponement theories" which envision the fulfillment of Daniel's "70th Week" and the "second coming of Christ" (Matt 24:30-31) far down the corridors of time - 2,000 years and counting - have no biblical bases. Indeed, such prophetic schemes run directly contrary to Jesus' clear, solemn assertion: " I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened" (Matt. 24:34).

The focal point of differences in the interpretation of these and other key prophetic passages, Noe contends, lies in the area of hermeneutics. "...figurative language is the language of the prophets," he writes (p. 124). He establishes this fact by alluding to scriptural examples. The main difference between Noe and many other interpreters is found in the question of which prophetic scriptures will be interpreted literally and which will be interpreted figuratively. Apocalyptic/figurative Jewish prophetic expression must be recognized. Thus a "trumpet call" (Matt 24:31) does not intend to convey a brass horn being blown, but rather, as shown by biblical-historical precedent, a calling together of God's people.

The author's understanding of first century events - especially from the birth of Christ to the destruction of Jerusalem - is remarkable. Repeatedly the writings of Josephus are adduced to assist with a clearer comprehension of the time. Even if there were no other reason for reading this book, this factor alone would justify it. In chapters 12 and 13 (pp. 171-221), Noe provides the most plausible scenario available for understanding all of the events which were to transpire according to Jesus' famous Olivet discourse as reported by the inspired writer (Matt 24).

This reviewer has never been comfortable with the kind of interpretive manipulation that attempts to explain away Jesus' reference to the fulfillment of "all these things" within the time frame of "this generation" (Matt 24:34). Obviously, Jesus "said what He meant and meant what He said," as Noe puts it. To identify "this generation" as the one beginning with the establishment of the modern State of Israel, as Hal Lindsey does, is at best questionable and at worst specious. Once this issue is settled, and harmonization with Daniel and the Revelation is accomplished, an understanding of many other aspects of the prophetic scenario of scripture will fall into place.

John Noe is eminently deserving of respect as a first-rate biblical interpreter. His writings should be read widely within the Christian community. This reviewer urges him to continue his research, writing, lecturing and debating the issues relevant to prophetic writ - and urges others to accord him an honest, sincere, respectful and open-minded hearing.

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