In Strozier’s astute discussion of what it means to be fundamentalist, he describes Ostow’s breakdown of apocalyptic discourse into three different categories – one type which gives hope to an oppressed or suffering group, another which is used by those in authoritarian positions to maintain their power by scaring everyone with apocalyptic images and the last type of discourse is one in which people are encouraged to get ready to fight the enemy. All of these types of fundamentalist apocalyptic discourse can be found clearly throughout LaHaye’s Glorious Appearing. However, I was intrigued by the first type of apocalyptic discourse as seen through the eyes of Enoch.

The first type of apocalyptic discourse is woven deeply into Lahaye’s text, specifically with Enoch of The Place. It begins when Enoch and the remaining ministry members hear of the destruction of New Babylon and Enoch prays for Jesus’ return – “It was every man for himself now, and any vestige of politeness or manners or even lawfulness would soon be history. Enoch prayed Jesus would return right on schedule.” (p. 35) Later, as his city is being attacked Enoch tries to quell his people’s fear: “’I believe we’re protected!’ he said. ‘None of the judgments from heaven harmed God’s people! We bear His mark, His seal! He will protect us!” (p. 131) Last, when Enoch is yelling out verses from the Old Testament there is one that stands out as being particularly resonant of this first type of apocalyptic discourse as well as the opposing duality of apocalyptic thought: “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him. But with an overflowing flood He will make an utter end of its place, and darkness will pursue His enemies.” (p. 150). So, Strozier was right when he says that fundamentalist believers feel compelled to simplify things into purely evil and purely good especially since biblical texts seem to be clearly outlined in this way. All in all, even though it doesn’t seem to be a significant part of the storyline, each time the story shoots back to Chicago and Enoch’s followers, I am intrigued by the anxious mix of fear and hope that is inevitably a result of a strong belief in the apocalypse.

Also, I’m assuming that Enoch’s name comes from the Book of Enoch which we read about in Kirsch’s text. It is quite funny that Enoch is named after an apocalyptic text that is later rejected by Jews for being outlandish while the character himself is heavily immersed in apocalyptic thought and attempting to be one of those rare souls that are saved.