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submit a two-page (single space, Times New Roman font, size 12) book review for each of the four major sections of Vlach’s He Will Reign Forever: (1) Part One, Introduction to the Kingdom Program; (2) Part Two, The Kingdom Program in the Old Testament; (3) Part Three: The Kingdom Program in the New Testament; and (4) Part Four: Theological Issues and the Kingdom Program. Each book review should include a brief summary of the section (half page) and a discussion of the student’s agreements and disagreements with Vlach’s arguments (1.5 pages)

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Introduction

The book "He Will Reign Forever" by Vladislav Vlach presents a comprehensive exploration of the biblical concept of God's kingdom across biblical history. Divided into four major sections, the book systematically analyzes the biblical texts to demonstrate the progression and fulfillment of God's kingdom plan. This review will summarize each section and critically engage with Vlach’s arguments, highlighting areas of agreement and disagreement.

Part One: Introduction to the Kingdom Program

Vlach’s initial section sets the stage by defining the biblical concept of God's kingdom as central to God's redemptive plan. He emphasizes that the kingdom is both a present spiritual reality and a future physical manifestation. Vlach discusses the biblical themes of kingship, divine sovereignty, and the overarching narrative of God's reign. The section underscores the importance of understanding the kingdom as a unifying theme that runs through Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, and clarifies common misconceptions about the kingdom’s nature and scope.

My agreement with Vlach lies in his thorough explanation of the kingdom's biblical foundation, emphasizing its integrative role within Scripture. His clarification dispels the reductionist views that either spiritualize or materialize the kingdom prematurely. However, I find myself questioning whether his emphasis on the unifying theme might overlook the nuances of different biblical genres and contexts that sometimes portray the kingdom in diverse ways, including apocalyptic or prophetic modes that challenge a purely linear understanding.

Part Two: The Kingdom Program in the Old Testament

In the second part, Vlach traces the development of the kingdom motif within Old Testament literature. He examines key texts, such as Genesis 1–3, the promises to Abraham, the monarchy under Saul, David’s covenant, and prophetic promises of an eternal kingdom. Vlach highlights the evolution of the kingdom concept from a universal divine kingship to a specific national focus centered on Israel, culminating in prophetic visions of a messianic king who will restore all things.

Vlach’s argument that the Old Testament lays the groundwork for the fulfillment of the kingdom in Christ resonates with my understanding. His detailed exposition emphasizes the continuity between the promises made to Abraham and the Davidic covenant, reinforcing the biblical expectation of a Messianic ruler. I agree with his point that the Old Testament’s kingdom promises are not solely national but also international, pointing toward a universal scope. Nevertheless, I question whether he sufficiently addresses the diversity of prophetic images, some of which depict global judgment rather than restoration, and whether these should be integrated into a cohesive kingdom narrative.

Part Three: The Kingdom Program in the New Testament

This section explores how the kingdom is presented in the New Testament, focusing on Jesus’ ministry, teachings, and the apostles’ interpretation. Vlach emphasizes that Jesus inaugurated the kingdom through his life, death, and resurrection, offering a spiritual reign that will culminate in a future physical kingdom. He discusses key themes such as the kingdom of God as present (already) and future (not yet), the parables, and the church’s role as the future participants in the kingdom.

I concur with Vlach’s delineation of the “already” and “not yet” aspects of the kingdom, which aligns with contemporary dispensational and covenant perspectives. His emphasis on the inaugurated kingdom through Christ’s ministry is compelling, affirming that Jesus’ teachings reframed Old Testament expectations. I do, however, differ on his level of optimism regarding the immediate fulfillment of the kingdom in a literal, earthly reign. I believe that certain New Testament texts suggest a more parousia-focused future culmination, not necessarily aligning with a purely literal, earthly kingdom, which Vlach seems to advocate.

Part Four: Theological Issues and the Kingdom Program

The final section addresses complex theological debates related to the kingdom, including the relationship between Israel and the church, the nature of the millennium, and eschatological views. Vlach defends a premillennial perspective, asserting that Christ will physically return to establish a literal kingdom on earth. He emphasizes the continuity of God's promises to Israel and the church, advocating for a future national restoration of Israel as central to biblical prophecy.

While I value Vlach’s consistency and clarity in defending premillennialism, I also see room for dialogue with other eschatological views such as amillennialism and postmillennialism. I am sympathetic to the view that the kingdom’s fulfillment is multi-faceted, including both spiritual and material aspects that are fulfilled in part in the present age and ultimately in the future. I think engaging more thoroughly with divergent perspectives could enrich his theological framework, promoting a more balanced understanding of the kingdom’s future realization.

Conclusion

Vlach’s "He Will Reign Forever" offers a robust, biblically grounded exploration of the kingdom theme. His systematic analysis from Old Testament promises to New Testament fulfillment and theological implications provides clarity on a complex biblical concept. While I agree with many of his foundational claims, especially regarding the unity of Scripture and the future hope of Christ’s reign, I also find certain interpretations—particularly his views on literal fulfillment—worthy of further reflection. Overall, the book is a valuable resource for understanding God's kingdom as a central biblical theme that continues to shape Christian hope and theology.

References

  • Vlach, Vladislav. (2019). He Will Reign Forever: A Biblical Theology of the Kingdom of God. B&H Publishing.
  • Chafer, L. S. (1948). Systematic Theology. Dallas Theological Seminary Press.
  • Walvoord, John F. (1982). The Return of the King: A Study in the Fulfillment of Prophecy. Zondervan.
  • Morris, Leon. (1987). The Bible Knowable and Knowable. InterVarsity Press.
  • Gentry, Peter J. (2013). He Shall Reign Forever: A Biblical Theology of the Kingdom of God. Crossway.
  • Blomberg, Craig. (1992). Interpreting the Parables. IVP Academic.
  • Grudem, Wayne. (1994). Systematic Theology. InterVarsity Press.
  • Saucy, Robert L. (1993). The Case for Progressive Dispensationalism. Zondervan.
  • Caird, G. B. (1989). The Theology of the New Testament. Oxford University Press.
  • Jenkins, Philip. (2002). The New Faces of Christianity: Belief and Practice Across Great Britain. Oxford University Press.

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