Old Testament Theology in a Canonical Context

by Brevard S. Childs

In this important work, Child's thesis is that a canonical approach to the scriptures of the Old Testament opens up new possibilities for exploring the theological dimensions of the biblical text.

Genres: Biblical Studies, Theology, Old Testament

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1990

About the author

Brevard Springs Childs was Professor of Old Testament at Yale University from 1958 until 1999 (and Sterling Professor after 1992), and one of the most influential biblical scholars of the 20th century. Childs is particularly noted for pioneering canonical criticism, a way of interpreting the Bible that focuses on the text of the biblical canon itself as a finished product. In fact, Childs disliked the term, believing his work to represent an entirely new departure, replacing the entire historical-critical method. Childs set out his canonical approach in his Biblical Theology in Crisis (1970) and applied it in Introduction to the Old Testament as Scripture (1979). This latter book has been described as "one of the most discussed books of the 1980s".

Reviews

[Guillaume Bourin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Childs develops his well-known & influential canonical approach to deal with some of the most discussed issues in Old Testament theology. Undoubtedly, this volume will capture the interest of any serious student of the OT. Keep in mind that some knowledge of the field is assumed by the author (and this has lead me to some helpful review of former readings, by the way!)
Of course, evangelicals will not be fully convinced by Childs' approach, especially when it comes to the issue of the inspiration of the whole the process of inscriptuation (despite his emphasis on the canon, Childs does not make a distinction between inscriptuation and scribal transmission of the text).
Overall, good book, sometimes hard to read but thought-provoking and helpful.

[Caleb Rolling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Childs presents a good sketch of what an OT theology looks like from his canonical approach. There are a few really intriguing chapters, too. It’s not a full-blown OT theology, but it’s an important step in a much larger theological program. It’s also worth reading in order to better appreciate his bit biblical theology of the OT and NT.

[Hany Abdelmalek · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't agree with Childs' view of inspiration. Yet his canonical approach is impressive and insightful.

[Timothy Decker · Rating 2 out of 5]

Mneh

[Kyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who has become increasingly frustrated with an unconditional acceptance of the historical-critical method of Biblical interpretation this book is a breath of fresh air. Childs graciously diaglogues with the giants of the historical-critical method (van Rad, Willhausen, etc.) and accepts the good but moves on with his own canonical approach. Written for those who do not wished to get bogged down in footnotes, it is a good place for the OT theology beginner. As someone interested in revelation and the knowledge of God, the first few chapters are exceptionally poigniant.

[Brian Hohmeier · Rating 3 out of 5]

Old Testament Theology in a Canonical Context delivers what it promises in the title but is far too brief in its overview and comprehensive in scope to offer a sustained demonstration of the canonical-critical method or to offer very many insights. In the end, it's an interesting and readable introduction from a CC viewpoint, but readers will have to turn elsewhere for an introduction to CC itself.

[Ricardo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brevard Childs allows us to take knowledge of the Old Testament theological aspects without being boring or too technical. The book is well divided in various aspects which makes it easy to use. The "10 Commandments" deserve a special insight. To those who study the Old Testament, this book is a helpful asset.