Earthquake Resurrection, by David Lowe

In "Earthquake Resurrection," David Lowe makes an interesting case for an unusual view on end times events, what is essentially a blend of classic historicism and futurism. He holds that the seals are historical events, starting in the first century, but that the trumpets and bowls occur during a future Daniel's 70th Week. But this is more than a defense of a specific rapture view. It is a systematic presentation of a comprehensive end-times theology.

Despite the sensational title and marketing copy, this is a serious book by an author who has done his homework.  It reads more like a commentary than the sensational book that the jacket copy suggests. Its 300 pages are deceiving, since this is a 6x9 format with small type. This is a dense book and takes some time to get through, even if you are skimming.

In terms of the theology of the book, Lowe bases his view of the seals beginning in the first century on his interpretation of Jesus' appearance in Revelation 5, which he interprets as occurring immediately after His ascension. He interprets the seals symbolically, then switches to a literal interpretation of the trumpets and bowls during the future 70th Week. Like many of the other points critical to Lowe's theology, however, he does not spend sufficient time on these hinge-points to satisfy readers more immersed in the rapture debate. They serve to explain, but not always defend, his position.

Lowe does, however, spend considerable time and detail on basic concepts, such as resurrection and background on Daniel's 70th Week (as well as an interesting detour on the Shroud of Turin), as well as minor details in the many Old and New Testament passages he cites throughout the book. Thus, my major criticism of the book is that it may be too comprehensive. Rather than focusing tightly on what is unusual about his end-times views, he writes more in a commentary style, covering a lot of ground and frequently diverges into detailed discussions on minor points.

On one hand, these divergences can provide some interesting information, especially for novice readers. On the other hand, they also detract from his stated purpose, which is to outline the timing surrounding the Second Coming of Christ and the rapture of the Church. Indeed, readers familiar with end-times theology will find that this book contains far more discussion on classic theology than on, perhaps, that which is unique to Lowe himself — his blended historicist / futurist perspective.

This is not to say that this is not a good book. It is well-written, comprehensive, and full of detail. Those familiar with the rapture debate may be dissatisfied with the amount of time Lowe spends on the unique portions of his argument. But those NOT as familiar with end-times theology may find those divergences, which range from the nature of the resurrection to God's use of covenants, to be of great value.

In his theology, Lowe is prone, as many end-times writers are, to making some deductive leaps that the reader may or may not agree with, especially on some minor points that may make the reader look twice and say, "what?" However, his larger outline of the basic purpose of end-times prophecy, the resurrection, and the future judgment are classic and valuable presentations; and his perspective on the timing of end-times events is an interesting one that, even if you do not end up agreeing with, is worth adding to the broader discussion of end-times events.