I recently had the pleasure of reading Fred DeRuvo’s new book entitled “Interpreting the Bible Literally Is Not As Confusing As It Sounds.” DeRuvo is a prolific Dispensational author with whom I did a podcast a few weeks back. He sent me copies of two of his books (one of which I’ve reviewed so far), and the .PDF of a third which is about to hit the press.

   What makes DeRuvo’s work interesting is its down-to-earth approach — not to mention the author’s knack of taking complicated theological issues and making them easy to understand. In his book on literal interpretation, DeRuvo gives what I consider a fine presentation on the literal hermeneutic, which is really the foundation and “sine qua non” of any Dispensational theology.

   DeRuvo starts off by examining the true definition of “literal,” in contradistinction to that mere ‘letterism’ which seeks to exclude figures of speech. The author shows that in many cases, we cannot understand language except we allow for use of figures. Such usage, however, does not override the literal truths which the Holy Spirit seeks to convey.

   Like myself, DeRuvo is no relativist. He believes that through a proper understanding of the literal hermeneutic, Christians will arrive at the objective truths of God’s word. But let no reader suppose that the author is a shallow dogmatist.

   DeRuvo writes:

“The important question is whether we can know the truth with certainty in the midst of all the various opinions regarding these doctrines. In most areas, the answer is yes, we can know the truth. In other areas, there is wiggle room” (pg. 42).

  On subjects like the Abrahamic covenant, the Olivet Discourse, and the vital necessity of being “born again” (John 3: 3), DeRuvo believes that Dispensationalism, in its employment of a literal hermeneutic, arrives at the absolute truth of God’s word. Nevertheless, as he points out, Dispensationalism is often seen as an “enemy” by those who do not read the Bible according to its plain and natural sense.

   DeRuvo observes:

“There exists a general belief that Dispensationalism negatively impacts the truth of God’s word. In fact, the charge of heresy is not uncommon to hear. This is due to the fact that people simply do not understand the true meaning of Dispensationalism, nor its use of the literal hermeneutic in the study of God’s word” (pg. 101).

   Frankly, I couldn’t agree more. As DeRuvo points out, Replacement Theology is based on Roman Catholic hermeneutics which are traceable to the Origenistic school of thought. The Protestant Reformation only set the stage, however, for a return to apostolic teaching, and the application of a consistent literal method of interpretation. As it stands, Dispensationalism gives the most accurate presentation of Christian theology.

   For those who wish to “get the goods” on the literal method, DeRuvo’s book is essential. It is purchaseable at Amazon; or one can get it directly through DeRuvo’s website. We thank the author for giving us the opportunity to read this monumental work, and look forward to reviewing more of his books, three of which of (as I understand it) are soon to be published.