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Is there a Doctor in the House?: An Insider’s Story and Advice on becoming a Bible Scholar
Many people assume that becoming a serious student of the Bible merely requires diligent study of English Bible translations, but biblical scholarship is much more complex. Is There a Doctor in the House? demonstrates what it takes to be a responsible Bible teacher, a well-published Bible scholar, or even a good student of the exacting knowledge of biblical languages and the languages in which most Bible scholarship is done; a love for history and archaeology; a sensitivity for literature and literary genres; and an understanding of theology, ethics, and ancient religions and philosophies. In one sense, every Bible scholar has to be a general practitioner—the foundation of biblical scholarship must be both broad and well built. Through the course of this book, Witherington invites would-be Bible experts to pursue excellence for the sake of the Bible’s world-altering message. From students considering a Ph.D. to lay Bible teachers, Is There a Doctor in the House? promises to be an informative, engaging, and often humorous resource.
161 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2011
8 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Ben Witherington III
129 books151 followersBen Witherington III (PhD, University of Durham) is Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, and is on the doctoral faculty at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. He is the author or coauthor of more than thirty books, including The Jesus Quest, The Paul Quest, and The New York Times bestseller The Brother of Jesus. He has appeared on the History Channel, NBC, ABC, CBS, and CNN.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
February 7, 2019
Basic issues potentials scholars or bible teachers should probably attend to.
Quoting John Wesley in length in his end discussion about”counting the cost” that comes along the call to scholarship is probably the cheapest move of this book.
Quoting John Wesley in length in his end discussion about”counting the cost” that comes along the call to scholarship is probably the cheapest move of this book.
January 31, 2017
Very helpful and highly readable. Dr. Witherington gives a lot of helpful examples from his own experience in order to help readers discern whether or not pursuing a doctorate is the right fit for them.
The unfortunate thing about the Kindle version of this book is that it has copious errors in punctuation: Periods in the middle of sentences and, more often than not, no periods at all. Don't let this keep you from reading the book, but you may want to get a print copy rather than the Kindle version.
The unfortunate thing about the Kindle version of this book is that it has copious errors in punctuation: Periods in the middle of sentences and, more often than not, no periods at all. Don't let this keep you from reading the book, but you may want to get a print copy rather than the Kindle version.
April 8, 2021
Lots of good advice, mostly specific to becoming a biblical scholar. Some useful for the more "ordinary" bible student or preacher. Since I am decidedly in the ordinary group, that made this book more interesting than anything else. It also doesn't have a lot of thematic coherence, it comes across more as random thoughts Witherington had as he pondered what would be required to become a biblical scholar. The personal stories mixed in were often helpful illustrations, the poems at the end of each chapter varied wildly in quality.
I don't feel I wasted my time, but I probably won't re read it, either.
I don't feel I wasted my time, but I probably won't re read it, either.
April 6, 2023
A good, solid, helpful book. You will likely not agree with everything he says in terms of doctrine or certain stances on issues, but this does not detract from the message of the book itself. However, as a couple of others have pointed out, I read the e-book, which has an ABYSMAL amount of errors, such as no full-stops/periods. There are a lot of them, and whoever did the typesetting and proofreading for this book should, quite frankly, not be working in the business anymore. However, read it and enjoy!
June 16, 2025
An inspiring read
Although I’m not a member of Ben Witherington’s target readership—those considering a career in Biblical scholarship—I bought this book because I do teach adults as a volunteer in church and because I love what Ben Witherington writes. Nearly everything here is to be treasured by anyone who teaches the Bible. So if you are like me and just wants to teach well, read this and be inspired.
Although I’m not a member of Ben Witherington’s target readership—those considering a career in Biblical scholarship—I bought this book because I do teach adults as a volunteer in church and because I love what Ben Witherington writes. Nearly everything here is to be treasured by anyone who teaches the Bible. So if you are like me and just wants to teach well, read this and be inspired.
September 26, 2018
Great overall book!
I liked how this book was an easy read and did not read as a scholarly account of how he become a biblical scholar. It read as if you where sitting at a coffee shop and where asking him questions one on one.
I liked how this book was an easy read and did not read as a scholarly account of how he become a biblical scholar. It read as if you where sitting at a coffee shop and where asking him questions one on one.
February 6, 2019
Solid book with some good advice, mixed with a lot of anecdotes. Appreciated his emphasis on languages, which is a weakness of mine that I'm reluctant to improve. Nothing mind-blowing here, but helpful encouragement for those thinking about scholarship.
October 3, 2024
Good advice for furthering an education in Biblical studies.
May 16, 2025
Excellent book, gives a good outline and stays within the right motivations a Christian scholar should have. Also very personal which I appreciated, I feel like I got to know Dr. Witherington a good bit.
January 2, 2012
The main message of Ben Witherington’s little book is quite simple: Becoming a good Bible teacher and scholar requires great sacrifice, preparation and character. I read this book hoping God would use it to direct me regarding the questions of if and when I should pursue a Ph.D. degree. Some parts helped me clarify questions, a few offered guidance, many told me things I already knew.
Witherington’s first and final chapters were a helpful dose of wisdom and perspective wisdom regarding the realities and difficulties of completing a Ph.D. program - what it takes and what it will cost to achieve the goal. Much of middle of the book, though, covered ground that an aspiring doctoral student should already know. For example, although Witherington argues persuasively for the value of original and research language study, it seems obvious that these are required skills for doctoral study. Of course we need to know languages and historical background, have literary sensitivity and a grasp of hermeneutics. Learning the value and lay of the land in these disciplines was one of the main goals of Seminary. Witherington surveyed these fields succinctly, but there was no need to explain, for example, that the Bible has diverse genres and a scholar needs to interpret them correctly.
In much of the book, Witherington shared his own experience and journey. Sometimes this was helpful and encouraging; other times I thought, “Yeah, there’s a reason you’ve published dozens of books and the rest of us haven’t. You are incredibly gifted!” This, too, I suppose is good to remember, and he both stressed his indebtedness to God and other people for what he has accomplished and made clear that we each have different gifts and callings and we should not try to be someone we’re not.
Witherington also offered a few practical steps and suggested resources for budding scholars. For two examples, he suggested Campbell’s book, Keep Your Greek for staying sharp in Koine, and he listed 20 important monographs that a Bible (esp. NT) scholar should read. It was nice that the book did not create an overwhelming “to do list,” but I would have liked a few more of these practical suggestions throughout.
One final quibble: I felt some chapters lacked a clear internal organization and momentum. For all his discussion about the need to be a clear communicator, I would have liked a little more focused presentation. Each chapter had a main point, but he bounced around a bit in the making of it. This fuzziness was offset by an abundance of creative wordplays and catchy turns of phrase that so characterize Witherington. Each chapter finished with a piece of his own poetry, which was enjoyable and achieved his aim of delivering the book’s ideas in different and artistic way.
Witherington’s first and final chapters were a helpful dose of wisdom and perspective wisdom regarding the realities and difficulties of completing a Ph.D. program - what it takes and what it will cost to achieve the goal. Much of middle of the book, though, covered ground that an aspiring doctoral student should already know. For example, although Witherington argues persuasively for the value of original and research language study, it seems obvious that these are required skills for doctoral study. Of course we need to know languages and historical background, have literary sensitivity and a grasp of hermeneutics. Learning the value and lay of the land in these disciplines was one of the main goals of Seminary. Witherington surveyed these fields succinctly, but there was no need to explain, for example, that the Bible has diverse genres and a scholar needs to interpret them correctly.
In much of the book, Witherington shared his own experience and journey. Sometimes this was helpful and encouraging; other times I thought, “Yeah, there’s a reason you’ve published dozens of books and the rest of us haven’t. You are incredibly gifted!” This, too, I suppose is good to remember, and he both stressed his indebtedness to God and other people for what he has accomplished and made clear that we each have different gifts and callings and we should not try to be someone we’re not.
Witherington also offered a few practical steps and suggested resources for budding scholars. For two examples, he suggested Campbell’s book, Keep Your Greek for staying sharp in Koine, and he listed 20 important monographs that a Bible (esp. NT) scholar should read. It was nice that the book did not create an overwhelming “to do list,” but I would have liked a few more of these practical suggestions throughout.
One final quibble: I felt some chapters lacked a clear internal organization and momentum. For all his discussion about the need to be a clear communicator, I would have liked a little more focused presentation. Each chapter had a main point, but he bounced around a bit in the making of it. This fuzziness was offset by an abundance of creative wordplays and catchy turns of phrase that so characterize Witherington. Each chapter finished with a piece of his own poetry, which was enjoyable and achieved his aim of delivering the book’s ideas in different and artistic way.
July 26, 2014
I picked up this little book thinking it would only appeal to my interest in academia, but found it to be of value to all involved in Bible handling – students, preachers, teachers, scholars.
The label “scholar” gets thrown around a little too easily. If one person in the church is starting to learn biblical Greek, they get labelled a scholar. They may barely even be a student yet! In this book, Witherington reflects on his experiences as a student, pastor, teacher and writing scholar. His manner is winsome, his sometimes amusing experiences shine through, and his insight helps the reader to see just what is involved in being truly earnest about God’s Word.
He begins with an excellent illustrated guide to a PhD, before explaining his own experiences getting a PhD in Durham in the 1970′s. It is great to read of his exposure to such scholars as C.K. Barrett, C.E.B. Cranfield, T.H.L. Parker, etc.
Even if you don’t care to understand the differences between the British and American doctoral systems, the book quickly moves into a survey of the necessary fields of study required of biblical scholars. While brief and maintaining momentum, these chapters give helpful insight into language study, historical/cultural background study, literary sensitivity, as well as integrating biblical research into theological and ethical studies.
The latter chapters address the necessary subject areas of research and writing, hermeneutics, key skills in lecturing and teaching, as well as the character issues that can easily get lost in the mix. The book ends with a brief survey of the sacrifices involved (not just for the scholar, but also for the spouse), and a resounding, “I would do it all again!” from a man delighted by the privilege of his study, his career, his vocation.
I interact with folks who hold to a kind of self-taught piety. They have their library of 66 and the Holy Spirit and consider themselves to be un-credentialed scholars. Maybe some are, in some way. But where their attitude becomes derisory toward academic biblical scholarship, I do get concerned. This book should be required reading for all who care to sit in judgment over the academy, as well as those fascinated by it.
Most of all, this book graciously raises the bar on our commitment to really doing the work involved in handling the Bible well, and offering the fruit of that study to others in ministry.
Originally reviewed on http://biblicalpreaching.net
The label “scholar” gets thrown around a little too easily. If one person in the church is starting to learn biblical Greek, they get labelled a scholar. They may barely even be a student yet! In this book, Witherington reflects on his experiences as a student, pastor, teacher and writing scholar. His manner is winsome, his sometimes amusing experiences shine through, and his insight helps the reader to see just what is involved in being truly earnest about God’s Word.
He begins with an excellent illustrated guide to a PhD, before explaining his own experiences getting a PhD in Durham in the 1970′s. It is great to read of his exposure to such scholars as C.K. Barrett, C.E.B. Cranfield, T.H.L. Parker, etc.
Even if you don’t care to understand the differences between the British and American doctoral systems, the book quickly moves into a survey of the necessary fields of study required of biblical scholars. While brief and maintaining momentum, these chapters give helpful insight into language study, historical/cultural background study, literary sensitivity, as well as integrating biblical research into theological and ethical studies.
The latter chapters address the necessary subject areas of research and writing, hermeneutics, key skills in lecturing and teaching, as well as the character issues that can easily get lost in the mix. The book ends with a brief survey of the sacrifices involved (not just for the scholar, but also for the spouse), and a resounding, “I would do it all again!” from a man delighted by the privilege of his study, his career, his vocation.
I interact with folks who hold to a kind of self-taught piety. They have their library of 66 and the Holy Spirit and consider themselves to be un-credentialed scholars. Maybe some are, in some way. But where their attitude becomes derisory toward academic biblical scholarship, I do get concerned. This book should be required reading for all who care to sit in judgment over the academy, as well as those fascinated by it.
Most of all, this book graciously raises the bar on our commitment to really doing the work involved in handling the Bible well, and offering the fruit of that study to others in ministry.
Originally reviewed on http://biblicalpreaching.net
June 28, 2012
Witherington's book is a concise, articulate introduction to the world of Biblical studies. His premise is simple: if you are truly called to be a biblical scholar, know what you are getting yourself into, buckle up, and commit yourself to doing good scholarship in service of the church. However, before attempting to climb into the world of biblical studies, examine yourself because, "not many of you should presume to be teachers...because teachers will be judged more strictly." This is an arduous path to which few are called.
Admittedly, Witherington presents a slightly rosier picture of Biblical studies from what many Ph. D. hopefuls have heard from forthright professors. Still, I suspect his work will be a shock to the systems of recent undergrads who are expecting a linear path to their favorite professor's position. The truth is, with the proliferation of adjunct position and the glut on the teaching market, those full-time posts likely won't exist in a few years from now.
Witherington's hopeful tone is a welcome reprieve from job-market naysayers, and his exhortation to those who truly sense a call is refreshing. As his own story is a testament to, God does often make a way, even in the wilderness of the job market. Just know that God does not always make a way, and one should always think of being a pastor or teach overseas, even after grad school.
BW III ends every chapter with a pithy poem about his own life as a teacher - I found these to be surprisingly meaningful. His pen has a deft touch and his diction is economical but enjoyably clever. I suspect that few NT scholars could write such a polymathic book; indeed, it mirrors the Bible itself in its many genres.
A great read for anyone who has recently been bit by the biblical-studies gadfly. Enjoy, and may God bless you in this endeavor!
-Nate
Admittedly, Witherington presents a slightly rosier picture of Biblical studies from what many Ph. D. hopefuls have heard from forthright professors. Still, I suspect his work will be a shock to the systems of recent undergrads who are expecting a linear path to their favorite professor's position. The truth is, with the proliferation of adjunct position and the glut on the teaching market, those full-time posts likely won't exist in a few years from now.
Witherington's hopeful tone is a welcome reprieve from job-market naysayers, and his exhortation to those who truly sense a call is refreshing. As his own story is a testament to, God does often make a way, even in the wilderness of the job market. Just know that God does not always make a way, and one should always think of being a pastor or teach overseas, even after grad school.
BW III ends every chapter with a pithy poem about his own life as a teacher - I found these to be surprisingly meaningful. His pen has a deft touch and his diction is economical but enjoyably clever. I suspect that few NT scholars could write such a polymathic book; indeed, it mirrors the Bible itself in its many genres.
A great read for anyone who has recently been bit by the biblical-studies gadfly. Enjoy, and may God bless you in this endeavor!
-Nate
March 17, 2012
This is a great book. As the subtitle reveals, this book is about what it takes to become a Bible scholar. It is a very easy read that "simple" lay people can read, even if they have no desire to be a Bible scholar. Witherington makes it clear that a lot of studying/research is required to know and teach the Bible; yet he is also clear that what is most important is for one to have a godly character. The Bible is not simply a work of literature; it is the Holy, inspired Word of God which transforms and sanctifies lives. Throughout this book Witherington balances the seriousness of research & growth as a scholar with the seriousness of growth in grace and Christ-like character. He is also humorous at times, and ends each chapter with a sweet poem related to the study. Over all, I really liked this book.
February 27, 2015
I read this book near the end of my undergrad and while I was trying to decide how much schooling I was going to pursue. When I read the book and considered the advice Witherington gives on what it means to be a scholar, I initially thought he was overstating the requirements. Now that I'm actually working through advanced degrees I see that he was dead on in terms of what it takes to truly be a scholar in the field of Biblical Studies. This book convinced me to go all in, and I wouldn't change a thing except that I wish I had heeded his advice a bit more closely.
The book is short, and yet still gets a bit too tedious at times. I thought his section on introductory interpretation was unnecessary, as that space could have been used more wisely to go into even further details of the actual process of academia and what one should expect. Overall, the book was very helpful.
The book is short, and yet still gets a bit too tedious at times. I thought his section on introductory interpretation was unnecessary, as that space could have been used more wisely to go into even further details of the actual process of academia and what one should expect. Overall, the book was very helpful.
November 24, 2014
I have been going back and forth about pursuing my doctorate for the last two years. I have had multiple meetings with one of my professors from my Masters program in which he helped me talk through what it would take to get into a respected program, and which schools I may want to consider. Because I kept wavering on whether or not I should go for my doctorate at this point in my life, my professor recently gave me this book to read. He told me that after reading this book, I would have clarity on whether or not now is the right time for me to pursue my doctorate. He was right. This book did help me with my decision process, so I am now recommending this book to anyone trying to make the same decision that I was trying to make.
February 17, 2015
I wanted to love this book. I certainly did love the sheer Christianness of it's approach which was very refreshing. I loved his continued advocacy for biblical scholars to be generalists not just specialists — amen to that! And I loved the chapters on the character of a Bible scholar — much needed. But I was disappointed both with the size of the book (just 150 pages), but more importantly, it simply felt rushed. It was as if Witherington had simply sat down on half-a-dozen evenings and written a chapter each night. The writing style was average, and the content rarely gripped. It's a shame, because there's certainly wisdom here. Nevertheless, it's well worth a read for aspiring Biblical scholars.
January 21, 2014
I enjoyed the book for its personal anecdotes from the world of biblical scholarship and its sober words of challenge. It could have been better edited for grammar, and at times it was unclear who was his intended audience. I imagine some of the stories about famous scholars would have been uninteresting to someone who needed the lessons in theology or hermeneutics provided in the later chapters. His testimony is encouraging: "If you were to ask me today whether it was worth it...my answer would be a resounding yes. There is nothing better in life than doing what God has called you to do...If this little guide has helped you toward having your doctoral degree, I am content" (pp. 148-49).
February 24, 2012
I hope to begin PhD studies in the fall and so I picked up this book to help prepare me for what lies ahead. Witherington does a great job instructing his readers that doctoral studies, in the Christian realm, will require perseverance, sacrifice, and, most of all, character. Along the way he provides personal anecdotes from his own life that I found to be very encouraging and helpful (not to mention sometimes humorous).
A quick read that is beneficial.
A quick read that is beneficial.
November 27, 2011
This was great book by a renowned professor in biblical studies. It has loads of practical advice for students considering work towards the doctorate, and lots of autobiographical detail about the author's life to make it very interesting. I recommend it!
December 11, 2011
Excellent book! Anyone desiring to pursue an advanced degree should read this book. Anyone desiring to practice good Biblical scholarship in any fashion should read this book. I am even more motivated to mastering the biblical languages after reading this!
November 18, 2012
Some parts encouraging, and many parts disheartening, this was a pleasant read about renowned scholar Ben Witherington's journey to being a biblical scholar. Helpful as I consider graduate studies and further discern what direction that will take.
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January 15, 2013Wonderful book that gives you insider info on how to become a Biblical Scholar from a seasoned veteran of Biblical Scholarship. Should be required reading for all the christians who are called to be a Scholar
June 22, 2012
Wish this book had been available about 40 years ago.
August 26, 2015
Perfect for those wondering if they should pursue a degree in Religion.
April 14, 2015
Interesting and enjoyable.
December 8, 2022
Loved this book. gave me a clearer vision for my studies.. not sure I'll get to Ph.D but will be fun trying.
April 1, 2016
A great little book for those considering doctoral work... I found it to be insightful, honest, and at times even humorous...
May 3, 2016
Outstanding! I'll will revisit this again and again.
November 13, 2011
Helpful advice, interesting anecdotes, quick and fun to read.
May 18, 2013
Good advice for anyone serious about becoming a bbilical scholar.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews