Replacement Theology – David Dunlap

In many places, ‘Replacement Theology’ is gaining ground. Professing evangelicals are turning away from dispensational eschatology and embracing the view that there is no future for Israel. Replacement theologians argue that the church has replaced Israel in the purposes of God. David Dunlap is to be commended for writing a book that deals with this subject in a manner that is accessible for the general reader.

Dunlap traces the history of this view, touching upon the writings of Origen, Marcion, and Clement of Alexandria. He also makes reference to Luther and more modern writers such as Rushdoony, DeMar, Berkhof, Mathison, and Chilton. It is clear that Dunlap has done his research! However, he does not allow that research to make his book a heavy read.

Having established the background and beliefs of Replacement Theology, Dunlap tackles certain so-called ‘proof’ texts and passages to show where a more literal interpretation makes better sense. As one might expect, Romans features heavily in this chapter. Following on from this, the writer then examines the new Covenant and its impact upon what God promised to Israel.

The greater part of the book explores the establishment of the nation of Israel and its claims to the land. However, there are also some short papers at the end of the book covering such topics as the church and the Tribulation, Preterism, and Muslim conversions.

This book is to be welcomed as another simple but helpful addition to the works that challenge the allegorical approach to biblical study and interpretation, particularly in the area of prophecy. Replacement Theology is a growing problem and one that should exercise believers to study the scriptures to see what they actually teach.