In this volume, V. Donald Emmel—a university pastor at San Jose State—describes his theories regarding Satan and hell, painting a picture that differs from the traditional understanding of eternal punishment. Emmel’s approach is intended to reassure those “who have been taught to fear the myths of Satan and hell.” He argues that, through misunderstandings and mistranslations, many see God as a cranky and punishing creator. Believing that the idea of hell and punishment is no longer valid in modern theology, Emmel points to “today’s scientific knowledge” in an attempt to debunk what he considers the “myths” of Satan and hell.
In the Logos edition, this volume is enhanced by amazing functionality. Scripture citations link directly to English translations, and important terms link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Perform powerful searches to find exactly what you’re looking for. Take the discussion with you using tablet and mobile apps. With Logos Bible Software, the most efficient and comprehensive research tools are in one place, so you get the most out of your study.
Emmel’s book offers an indispensable survey of the emergence of the concepts of Satan and hell as they appear in the writings of both the Old and New Testaments. By locating their origin in the myths that constructed the social and religious world of antiquity, Emmel discloses the contextual limitations of these mythical realities in their historical life-situation, and at the same time, their theological irrelevance for the world of today.
—Herman C. Waetjen, professor emeritus, San Francisco Theological Seminary, CA
Don Emmel is waging a long-overdue battle against the devil and his lair. His research shows how original Hebrew teachings changed when they were translated into Greek and then Latin, and how, once entrenched into doctrine, a complete reversal of Jesus’s theology came to be standard Christian orthodoxy. Emmel thinks it’s time to correct the record. You will agree with him as you close the book.
—Jack Batson, retired high school teacher, CA
Drawing on a wonderful pastoral sense and thorough scholarship, Emmel has helped free us from ideas of hell and Satan used to intimidate and control; and in the process has given a vision of a compassionate, loving God you and I can believe in.
—Jonathan Eastman, pastor, Presbyterian Church of Saint Helena, CA
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