The topic of living in the "last days" is quite a popular subject among many Christians in the era in which we live. Bring the question up of "are we living in the last days" among a discussion group and it is guaranteed to provoke a variety of opinions on the subject. But, very few people will ask the question "how are we supposed to live in the last days"? It is this question that is answered throughout the pages of Rick Renner's new book "Last Days Survival Guide". The book was given to me free by Rick Renner ministries and Harrison House publishers to review and the views expressed are my own.
You may not be familiar with Rick's writings previously but if you run a google search on 'Rick Renner books', dozens of titles will appear. Originally from the United States, he has spent the last 30 years in Russia, Pastoring and running a successful television ministry. One of the things you will instantly discover in the book is his unique ability to grasp the nuances of the Greek language in which the New Testament was originally written. It is this gifting which sets Rick (and the book) apart from others. The wealth of knowledge you gain from the New Testament words and their usage alone is worth the investment.
"Last Days Survival Guide" walks the reader verse by verse through the beginning of the Biblical text of 2 Timothy 3. Most people reading the book will probably already believe we are in the last days. But, if you ever wondered how to confirm it from the Bible, you will find it here, in stunning detail. Throughout the book, in addition to abundant scriptural support, Rick gives many pages of statistical data which support the Biblical position that we are indeed living in the last days. The end of each chapter also includes a few "action steps" for you to take which will help you navigate the days in which we live.
Is this book worth the read? Definitely yes. It is a hard hitting look at reality and a wake up call to do something in the midst of turbulent times. However, I do have to caution readers, it is best not to try and read this book quickly. It is 504 pages in 7 1/2 by 9 inch format. The publisher recommended I 'marinate' in the contents and I think that is good advice. A final unique feature is the inclusion of the Bible translation of 2 Timothy 3 using the "Renner Interpretive Version" (RIV), a Bible translation Rick is currently working on. So, get equipped for what we are currently facing and for what is yet to come. Arm yourself for the conflict so you can be victorious in spite of what is going on around you. The Last Days Survival Guide will be a good step in that direction and will help you to be an overcomes in the age we live in today.
