Ruth’s book draws you in from the first sentence. It is compelling and conversational, leaving the reader both uplifted and encouraged from start to finish.

The extended introduction to John, his history and his context, grounds the reader and opens their mind to read the letters as he meant for them to be read. I particularly enjoyed the interweaving of gospel memories into John’s coming to Patmos, a feature which suffuses the narrative with the unmistakeable light of Jesus. The study of the seven letters, meanwhile, shows an impressive attention to detail, which is clearly borne out of a deep passion for Jesus, the church, and the part of the world where the church began. This detail itself makes the book more persuasive, as it shows Ruth’s mindfulness of historical evidence, but also concern that the history and message be genuinely taken to heart by her readers.

This book shows that Revelation is not just a book of the past but one for now, today. The history is used to challenge our failings as followers of Christ; otherwise it would be meaningless. ‘Seven Letters’ is encouragement that is exhortation. Not to be merely read, this is book that should make you stand up and act.

Available to purchase from The GLO Bookshop.

Miriam Montgomery, Free Church Books