Description

The latest edition of ‘The Fire that Consumes’ now contains a foreword by celebrated theologian Richard Bauckham. Edward William Fudge’s seminal work enlightens Christians and theologians with a coherent and comprehensive defence of the view that the fate of the unsaved will be final destruction, not eternal torment.Rooted in a careful analysis of biblical references to Hell, Fudge’s treatise incorporates consideration of Platonic influences, the further development in the 4th Century A.D. of the concept of an immortal soul separate from the body, and a comprehensive study of the development of the doctrine of Hell in the influential teachings of Augustine and Calvin among others. The treatment of Hell is traced from the days of the early Church through the Middle Ages and Reformation to the present day. Edward William Fudge is a Christian theologian, Bible teacher, author, and, for more than twenty years, a practicing attorney. He maintains an international internet ministry at www.EdwardFudge.com. ‘This highly acclaimed book, a classic since its publication in 1982, will be of great interest to anyone seeking a greater understanding of the doctrine of final punishment, and the conditionalist view of Hell as final destruction. I commend this book warmly. It is likely to remain a standard work to which everyone engaged with this issue will constantly return.’ Richard Bauckham, Emeritus Professor of New Testament Studies, University of Saint Andrews. ‘ ‘The Fire That Consumes’ has long been recognized as one of the most thorough and compelling statements available of the view that the destiny of the unsaved will be final destruction rather than eternal torment. In this new edition, Edward Fudge provides extended engagement with traditionalist critics and an overview of developments in the last thirty years ensuring that it will remain a definitive work on the issue for years to come. John R. Franke, Theologian in Residence, First Presbyterian Church of Allentown.