The Pentateuch: Life in the Presence of God

Scripture Connections

by J. Daniel Hays, Gary Edward Schnittjer (Editor), Mark Strauss (Editor)

In The Pentateuch , J. Daniel Hays surveys the narrative history of the Pentateuch—the first five books of Scripture and invites readers to know the God who covenanted with Israel to rescue them and live in his presence. This book will encourage and equip pastors, students, and laypersons as they encounter the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

256 pages, Paperback

Published February 1, 2024

About the author

J. Daniel Hays (ThM, Dallas Theological Seminary; PhD, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary) is dean of the Pruet School of Christian Studies and professor of Old Testament at Ouachita Baptist University. He is the author of From Every People and Nation, and he has coauthored Grasping God's Word; Preaching God's Word; Journey into God’s Word; The Story of Israel: A Biblical Theology; Iraq: Babylon of the End Times?; Apocalypse; and The Dictionary of Biblical Prophecy. He teaches adult Sunday school at his local church in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, and preaches frequently throughout the nation.

Reviews

[Jennifer Squire]

A really helpful overview and summary of the Pentateuch. There are lots of interesting and helpful historical and cultural anecdotes. I found the appendix discussing the Traditional Classification Approach and the Principled Approach to interpreting and applying Old Testament Law interesting and worth more study.

[Brian Pate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good overview of the Pentateuch (probably designed to be an undergrad-level textbook). Really helpful connections with the rest of the OT, the NT, and Christ. The appendix on "how to interpret and apply the OT law" was especially good.

I read this as I was teaching a Sunday School course on the Pentateuch at my church in Brazil.

[Spencer R · Rating 4 out of 5]

You can read the longer review at SpoiledMilks (7.22.24).

In his volume The Pentateuch, J. Daniel Hays offers a clear and concise introduction to the Pentateuch, presenting it as a unified five-book collection centered on God’s redemptive work. Hays surveys each book’s structure, authorship, and key themes—drawing connections to the rest of the Old Testament, the gospel, and practical life application.

He highlights significant topics such as creation parallels, God’s relational presence, justification by faith, and the eschatological implications of the Year of Jubilee. The book also includes an appendix on how to interpret and apply Old Testament law responsibly. Though brief at times, this work is especially suited for students or readers seeking a straightforward, accessible overview that situates the Pentateuch within the broader biblical narrative.

The interactive questions and recommended resources deepen engagement and encourage further study. Pentateuch Scripture Connections is a helpful resource for those wanting to grasp how these foundational books connect throughout Scripture + impact Christian living today.

Review Disclosure: I received this book free from B&H Academic for an honest review.

[Joseph R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal work on the five books of Moses. I have gleaned much from it when I read it during my theological education. It is eye-opening with wonderful perspectives.