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What Is Biblical Theology?: A Guide to the Bible's Story, Symbolism, and Patterns
How Do You Read the Bible?
The Bible recounts a single story--one that began at creation, encompasses our lives today, and will continue till Christ's return and beyond. In What Is Biblical Theology?, Jim Hamilton introduces us to this narrative, helping us understand the worldview of the biblical writers so that we can read the Old and New Testaments as the original authors intended. Tracing the key patterns, symbols, and themes that bind the Bible together, this book will help you understand Scripture's unified message and find your place in the great story of redemption.
The Bible recounts a single story--one that began at creation, encompasses our lives today, and will continue till Christ's return and beyond. In What Is Biblical Theology?, Jim Hamilton introduces us to this narrative, helping us understand the worldview of the biblical writers so that we can read the Old and New Testaments as the original authors intended. Tracing the key patterns, symbols, and themes that bind the Bible together, this book will help you understand Scripture's unified message and find your place in the great story of redemption.
128 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 2013
167 people are currently reading
1148 people want to read
About the author
James M. Hamilton Jr.
53 books131 followersJames M. Hamilton Jr. (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is professor of biblical theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and preaching pastor at Kenwood Baptist Church. He is the author of God's Glory in Salvation through Judgment and the Revelation volume in the Preaching the Word commentary series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
August 11, 2021
Serviceable, faithful, clear, brief. A good introduction. My feeling is that this book needs to find the right readers: people who’ve read the Bible for a fairly long time, long enough to amass a lot of its details, but who haven’t yet connected its sinews into a mixed-metaphor-alert-big-picture. That’s probably college and seminary students, but it could certainly also be lay readers—and it should be. I hope this book has had and will have a lot of success helping real people in real churches.
Where Vaughan Roberts in his somewhat similar book had me feeling as if I grasped the *story* of the Bible, Hamilton’s strength (for me on my reading) was his discussions of types and patterns. I felt he was careful and cogent. He was also warm-hearted and—here I go psychologizing him—more interested in the truths of Scripture than in himself or his reactions to those truths. There is very little first-person narrative here, comparatively little illustration. The Bible furnishes its own illustrations. I got the sense that Hamilton was sincerely pointing readers toward Christ. I’m grateful for that spirit.
Where Vaughan Roberts in his somewhat similar book had me feeling as if I grasped the *story* of the Bible, Hamilton’s strength (for me on my reading) was his discussions of types and patterns. I felt he was careful and cogent. He was also warm-hearted and—here I go psychologizing him—more interested in the truths of Scripture than in himself or his reactions to those truths. There is very little first-person narrative here, comparatively little illustration. The Bible furnishes its own illustrations. I got the sense that Hamilton was sincerely pointing readers toward Christ. I’m grateful for that spirit.
March 6, 2023
Really love this book!
Hamilton identifies how biblical theology is looking at the interpretative perspective of the biblical authors as you examine the Bible’s story, it’s symbolism, and the implications for the church within that story.
I read it for an assignment, it encouraged me in more ways than one. Being reminded of the big story of the Bible always humbles me and reminds me that I am small. Examining the symbolism of the biblical authors such as imagery, (dare I say Dr. Hamilton’s passion…) typology, and patterns allows Christians to see who we are and how we ought to live as we wait for the return of King Jesus!
This book made me want to pick up Greg Gilbert’s Epic Story of the Bible and not put it down until it’s finished! Maybe that’ll be my first after midterms!
Hamilton identifies how biblical theology is looking at the interpretative perspective of the biblical authors as you examine the Bible’s story, it’s symbolism, and the implications for the church within that story.
I read it for an assignment, it encouraged me in more ways than one. Being reminded of the big story of the Bible always humbles me and reminds me that I am small. Examining the symbolism of the biblical authors such as imagery, (dare I say Dr. Hamilton’s passion…) typology, and patterns allows Christians to see who we are and how we ought to live as we wait for the return of King Jesus!
This book made me want to pick up Greg Gilbert’s Epic Story of the Bible and not put it down until it’s finished! Maybe that’ll be my first after midterms!
September 13, 2023
What Is Biblical Theology?: A Guide to the Bible's Story, Symbolism, and Patterns by Dr. James M. Hamilton Jr. was decent to good. I was recommended by many peers that this was the “to-go-book” for a brief introduction to biblical theology. In some ways I think Hamilton accomplishes this. The greatest issue with Hamilton’s book is seen in how infused his premillenial outlook is with his biblical theology, it seems like it comes out on almost every page of the book. In some ways, I can’t blame him, it shows how much eschatology matters, as Dr. Sandlin says “Eschatology (last things) presupposes protology (first things). Eschatology doesn’t begin in Revelation but in Genesis. God’s victory in history before the Second Advent begins at the beginning.”
The study of biblical theology encompasses all of the Bible and Hamilton’s premillennialism encompasses the way he reads the text. For that matter, I would not recommend this as a first read for those who are getting into biblical theology. I do appreciate his work on shadows, types, patterns, etc. I also enjoyed the sections that discuss the temple motif.
The study of biblical theology encompasses all of the Bible and Hamilton’s premillennialism encompasses the way he reads the text. For that matter, I would not recommend this as a first read for those who are getting into biblical theology. I do appreciate his work on shadows, types, patterns, etc. I also enjoyed the sections that discuss the temple motif.
March 13, 2014
Very fine work.
September 28, 2021
Excellent introduction to the big picture of the Bible. Helpful overview of types and patterns in the Bible.
April 12, 2025
Super encouraged reading this book! Jim Hamilton not only describes the beauty of scripture and how it’s one big story but he navigates how to carefully utilize types and symbols when reading. It makes me even more excited to open my Bible and study more! Really fun reading his book while also listening to the Bible Talk podcast by 9 marks.
January 2, 2024
Solid intro to Biblical Theology. Some of the patterns/typologies were left short because of his eschatology but still enjoyable. Can’t wait to dive into more Biblical Theology!
July 2, 2023
If you are new to biblical theology or have been studying biblical theology for years, this book is a wonderful introduction and refresher to the biblical metanarrative. Hamilton not only gives a helpful framework in understanding how to read and interpret Scripture, with all its symbols and patterns, in light of the larger story of redemptive history, but he also helps us understand who we are and what our role is in God’s story of redemption. Excellent and short read.
May 12, 2021
Very useful little book on understanding the Bible by reading the story. Encouragement to read our Bibles by searching for how the parts fit into the whole.
March 28, 2014
In the summer of 2011, I took up a post as a counselor at Pine Cove Christian camps. Going into the summer, I didn't know what the Lord would have for me, but I knew that whatever it was it would be a good gift from Him. So, I packed up some things -- a mandolin, some clothes -- but most importantly, a stack of books. On my off days, I planned to work through the stack. On the top of the list was a book that struck me the first time I saw it, both from the title and the superb book cover. The book was James M. Hamilton's "God's Glory in Salvation Through Judgment: A Biblical Theology." I knew that God was going to teach me that summer. What I didn't know was that one of the things He was going to do, in particular, was teach me to truly delight in His Word. And Hamilton's book was going to play a crucial role in that formation.
To this day, GGSTJ is one of the most impactful books I have read in my entire life. It reshaped the way that I look at the Bible, think about the canon, and understand the deep intertexuality and typology in Scripture. It has opened up worlds of exploration in the glorious depths of what's called biblical theology and given me a deeper love for the Lord Jesus. Hamilton would be delighted by all of these things, for that is the goal of GGSTJ.
Unfortunately, GGSTJ can be a little too "heady" for some. For me, it happened to be a highlight since it was through footnotes and otherwise "dry" academic excursuses that I learned more and more. Yet, I know many people that have no interest in diving into some of those explorations because of that reason alone. Thus, my recommendation often fell on deaf ears.
Which is why I am delighted about Hamilton's "What Is Biblical Theology?" There is no question that this is a book written to students, not scholars. There are no footnotes, the style is often anecdotal, and Hamilton is able to really shine in his gift of writing, uncommon amongst many academics. His goal is to give the reader an exalted imagination for Scripture -- the type of imagination I walked away with from GGSTJ. Yet, while the bar has been lowered significantly, the content is still as high as the highest heaven.
In many ways, this Hamilton's version of T.D. Alexander's "From Eden to New Jerusalem," an intro to biblical theology that aims to whet the readers appetite for more. While there are plenty of stout biblical theologies available (one thinks of Beale or Gentry & Wellum), readership often cries out for a light pilsner or kolsch. But Hamilton is a Baptist, so lets' move away from beer analogies: green tea, not Early Grey? I don't know -- I don't drink tea.
By overviewing the Bible's story, symbolism, and patterns, the reader is able to have a toolkit for whole Bible consumption and will be healthier because of it. This will be my new book I recommend to folks who are wanting to learn more about how to think biblically about the Bible, but secretly I'll be praying more that it captures their imaginations and beckons them to spend their life drinking from the deep pools of Scripture.
To this day, GGSTJ is one of the most impactful books I have read in my entire life. It reshaped the way that I look at the Bible, think about the canon, and understand the deep intertexuality and typology in Scripture. It has opened up worlds of exploration in the glorious depths of what's called biblical theology and given me a deeper love for the Lord Jesus. Hamilton would be delighted by all of these things, for that is the goal of GGSTJ.
Unfortunately, GGSTJ can be a little too "heady" for some. For me, it happened to be a highlight since it was through footnotes and otherwise "dry" academic excursuses that I learned more and more. Yet, I know many people that have no interest in diving into some of those explorations because of that reason alone. Thus, my recommendation often fell on deaf ears.
Which is why I am delighted about Hamilton's "What Is Biblical Theology?" There is no question that this is a book written to students, not scholars. There are no footnotes, the style is often anecdotal, and Hamilton is able to really shine in his gift of writing, uncommon amongst many academics. His goal is to give the reader an exalted imagination for Scripture -- the type of imagination I walked away with from GGSTJ. Yet, while the bar has been lowered significantly, the content is still as high as the highest heaven.
In many ways, this Hamilton's version of T.D. Alexander's "From Eden to New Jerusalem," an intro to biblical theology that aims to whet the readers appetite for more. While there are plenty of stout biblical theologies available (one thinks of Beale or Gentry & Wellum), readership often cries out for a light pilsner or kolsch. But Hamilton is a Baptist, so lets' move away from beer analogies: green tea, not Early Grey? I don't know -- I don't drink tea.
By overviewing the Bible's story, symbolism, and patterns, the reader is able to have a toolkit for whole Bible consumption and will be healthier because of it. This will be my new book I recommend to folks who are wanting to learn more about how to think biblically about the Bible, but secretly I'll be praying more that it captures their imaginations and beckons them to spend their life drinking from the deep pools of Scripture.
December 20, 2013
As a new year quickly approaches, many will begin the year with all of the best intentions of making it all the way through the Bible next year even if that means crawling their way through Leviticus and Deuteronomy. Unfortunately, as it goes with a lot of New Year’s resolutions, when March hits or the first confusing element of Scripture is engaged, the journey through Scripture stops. I often wonder if more people had access to a resource that would provide them insight into those areas that are so often deemed difficult to understand or those sections of Scripture that are such a roadblock for someone to make it all the way through Scripture in a year, if more people would become more excited about reading the Bible. As one who has attended Bible College and Seminary, I have been exposed to a plethora of resources, those so-called “nerdy” books that elaborate on any number of theological, historical, linguistic or other issues. Many view such books as being solely in the realm of the theologian, full of discussions that are beyond the comprehension or purview of the layman making the study of theology something of a pipedream for many. To address this type of issue, Professor James Hamilton has penned a helpful book called What is Biblical Theology: A Guide to the Bible’s Story, Symbolism, and Patterns
Unlike many of the more lengthy theological texts that address matters of theology, books replete with every Hebrew or Greek word imaginable and discussions of every imaginable position on any issue that has ever been contrived, Hamilton focuses on the basics of biblical theology in a truly accessible manner. He divides this book into three sections, that of “The Bible’s Big Story”, “The Bible’s Symbolic Universe”, and “The Bible’s Love Story”. As Hamilton rightly notes, “To do biblical theology is to think about the whole story of the Bible…One of the primary aims of biblical theology is to understand and embrace the worldview of the biblical authors.” He further comments, “The Bible’s big story, this overarching narrative, is also built out of smaller stories.” Thus, understanding the overarching message of Scripture is essential before engaging the elements that support that larger theme.
For many, reading the Bible centers on the question of “what does this passage mean to me?” While application of Scripture to daily life is of course vital, the more important question is that of asking what is the author’s intended message and how did the biblical authors view a certain issue in light of the greater drama of Scripture. Hamilton does an excellent job of establishing that Scripture, being a book albeit a divinely inspired book, provides the reader with a narrative. The events that are recorded in Scripture took place in real history and are not fabricated fairy tales to simply provide a good moral message in the vein of Aesop’s Fables. As with any story, knowing the main characters and the protagonist (the main character) is also vital when reading and understanding Scripture. The Bible is all about God and the entire biblical drama focuses on Him, what He has done, is doing, and will do in the future.
Since stories contain a plot, Hamilton rightly engages how this plays out in biblical theology. The big story of Scripture begins with God who creates a perfect universe that is soon marred by sin with the rest of the plot moving towards the promise of redemption. Furthermore, the conflict in Scripture is between God and Satan with humanity forming essentially two camps, those who belong to God and those who do not. As Hamilton saliently points out, each episode in Scripture follows this big storyline with the movement always being towards the final act of redemption and God dealing with the sin and death problem once and for all. I truly appreciated the manner in which Hamilton discussed what he called the “gold coins”, namely those elements of the plot that move the biblical drama along. Noting those “gold coins” helps the reader to make those essential connections between the various episodes that relate to the plot and the big story of Scripture. This was a very apt way of presenting the concept of the consistency of the biblical message.
One of the most difficult elements of Scripture even for the most seasoned and astute theologian is often the symbolism found throughout Scripture. Some symbols are quite clear, easily recognizable, and more easily interpreted. Other symbols, such as seemingly every number or description found for example in the Book of Revelation, present a great amount of difficulty. Hamilton notes an important point and that is “The symbols are used to summarize big ideas in pictures that the biblical authors intend their audiences to understand.” For many, the use of symbols obfuscates rather than clarifies the biblical message. In response to such an understanding, Hamilton rightly states “This use of symbolism and imagery adds texture to the story the Bible tells, reinforcing it and making it concrete.” Certainly there will still remain some level of debate and discussion over what certainly symbols represent, however, such debate does not equate to the big story of Scripture suddenly becoming unclear when such symbols are noted.
Many symbols weave their way through the tapestry of the big story such as the symbols of tree, roots, and branches. Such images provide the reader with an understanding of things such as who true Israel is and more importantly perhaps for New Testament believers, the importance of how we are grafted into that root. Hamilton notes that another reoccurring theme is that of a flood of water. We have the judgment of the entire world during Noah’s day through a global flood. He also points out the importance of water as a symbol of death and resurrection through the act of baptism. These are important images to notice and grasp when doing biblical theology.
Imagery and typology further provide pieces to the biblical theology puzzle. Many are likely aware that King David is often presented as a type of Christ. Hamilton brilliantly discusses the similarity in imagery between Pharaoh trying to kill the baby Moses and the attempt by Herod to kill the baby Jesus. The exodus from Egypt is a typology of our exodus from bondage to sin. Throughout Hamilton’s discussion of such topics, he expertly assists the reader in grasping the importance of such typology, imagery, and symbolism without getting weighed down in the mire of details. While many details are important, he focuses instead and rightly so on simply presenting to the reader that such issues exist and they exist to support the big story.
Another element of this book I greatly appreciated was the discussion of patterns in Scripture, something I firmly believe is far too often overlooked by believers when they read God’s Word. One such pattern that is found throughout Scripture is that of the Feasts of the Lord. These feasts serve as eschatological mile markers if you will of how God has and will act in history. Having recently completed a study of these feasts, I was pleased to see Hamilton’s excellent treatment of this subject, to include noting the importance of these feasts to the original readers and why they continue to be of importance for us today.
Hamilton concludes his book with a look at the Bible’s love story. This is yet another important aspect of biblical theology given Scripture describes God’s people as being His bride. Just as the bride was set aside by the father in days of old, God set apart a people to be the bride for His Son who is our bridegroom. One can rightly submit that the big story of Scripture is a redemptive love story with the Father setting aside the bride for His Son and the Son wooing that bride to Him to one day spend eternity with the bridegroom when all is finally redeemed. Hamilton saliently declares “We are to think of ourselves in bridal terms. We are not to commit adultery against the Lord Jesus. We are to save ourselves for the Bridegroom, as a bride saves herself for her husband.” Such a concept, if properly understood, will help believers walk in faithfulness to their bridegroom, keeping themselves holy and chaste for the day when He returns to bring to conclusion the big story of Scripture.
Far from being a dry and boring subject, knowing what biblical theology is and how to do it forms a locus for how we are to read and apply the truth of Scripture. Those who have for too long stayed away from a serious study of Scripture feeling that is the job of the pastor or the theologian, will find themselves energized to engage every page of Scripture with renewed vigor after reading Hamilton’s timely and helpful book. I highly recommend it for laymen and scholars alike as it rightly presents the big story of Scripture, it provides a helpful analysis of the plot and characters, and it wades through some of the more difficult and thornier issues of theology in a manner that will help the reader grasp what God has revealed to us in His Word.
I received this book for free from Crossway Books for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Unlike many of the more lengthy theological texts that address matters of theology, books replete with every Hebrew or Greek word imaginable and discussions of every imaginable position on any issue that has ever been contrived, Hamilton focuses on the basics of biblical theology in a truly accessible manner. He divides this book into three sections, that of “The Bible’s Big Story”, “The Bible’s Symbolic Universe”, and “The Bible’s Love Story”. As Hamilton rightly notes, “To do biblical theology is to think about the whole story of the Bible…One of the primary aims of biblical theology is to understand and embrace the worldview of the biblical authors.” He further comments, “The Bible’s big story, this overarching narrative, is also built out of smaller stories.” Thus, understanding the overarching message of Scripture is essential before engaging the elements that support that larger theme.
For many, reading the Bible centers on the question of “what does this passage mean to me?” While application of Scripture to daily life is of course vital, the more important question is that of asking what is the author’s intended message and how did the biblical authors view a certain issue in light of the greater drama of Scripture. Hamilton does an excellent job of establishing that Scripture, being a book albeit a divinely inspired book, provides the reader with a narrative. The events that are recorded in Scripture took place in real history and are not fabricated fairy tales to simply provide a good moral message in the vein of Aesop’s Fables. As with any story, knowing the main characters and the protagonist (the main character) is also vital when reading and understanding Scripture. The Bible is all about God and the entire biblical drama focuses on Him, what He has done, is doing, and will do in the future.
Since stories contain a plot, Hamilton rightly engages how this plays out in biblical theology. The big story of Scripture begins with God who creates a perfect universe that is soon marred by sin with the rest of the plot moving towards the promise of redemption. Furthermore, the conflict in Scripture is between God and Satan with humanity forming essentially two camps, those who belong to God and those who do not. As Hamilton saliently points out, each episode in Scripture follows this big storyline with the movement always being towards the final act of redemption and God dealing with the sin and death problem once and for all. I truly appreciated the manner in which Hamilton discussed what he called the “gold coins”, namely those elements of the plot that move the biblical drama along. Noting those “gold coins” helps the reader to make those essential connections between the various episodes that relate to the plot and the big story of Scripture. This was a very apt way of presenting the concept of the consistency of the biblical message.
One of the most difficult elements of Scripture even for the most seasoned and astute theologian is often the symbolism found throughout Scripture. Some symbols are quite clear, easily recognizable, and more easily interpreted. Other symbols, such as seemingly every number or description found for example in the Book of Revelation, present a great amount of difficulty. Hamilton notes an important point and that is “The symbols are used to summarize big ideas in pictures that the biblical authors intend their audiences to understand.” For many, the use of symbols obfuscates rather than clarifies the biblical message. In response to such an understanding, Hamilton rightly states “This use of symbolism and imagery adds texture to the story the Bible tells, reinforcing it and making it concrete.” Certainly there will still remain some level of debate and discussion over what certainly symbols represent, however, such debate does not equate to the big story of Scripture suddenly becoming unclear when such symbols are noted.
Many symbols weave their way through the tapestry of the big story such as the symbols of tree, roots, and branches. Such images provide the reader with an understanding of things such as who true Israel is and more importantly perhaps for New Testament believers, the importance of how we are grafted into that root. Hamilton notes that another reoccurring theme is that of a flood of water. We have the judgment of the entire world during Noah’s day through a global flood. He also points out the importance of water as a symbol of death and resurrection through the act of baptism. These are important images to notice and grasp when doing biblical theology.
Imagery and typology further provide pieces to the biblical theology puzzle. Many are likely aware that King David is often presented as a type of Christ. Hamilton brilliantly discusses the similarity in imagery between Pharaoh trying to kill the baby Moses and the attempt by Herod to kill the baby Jesus. The exodus from Egypt is a typology of our exodus from bondage to sin. Throughout Hamilton’s discussion of such topics, he expertly assists the reader in grasping the importance of such typology, imagery, and symbolism without getting weighed down in the mire of details. While many details are important, he focuses instead and rightly so on simply presenting to the reader that such issues exist and they exist to support the big story.
Another element of this book I greatly appreciated was the discussion of patterns in Scripture, something I firmly believe is far too often overlooked by believers when they read God’s Word. One such pattern that is found throughout Scripture is that of the Feasts of the Lord. These feasts serve as eschatological mile markers if you will of how God has and will act in history. Having recently completed a study of these feasts, I was pleased to see Hamilton’s excellent treatment of this subject, to include noting the importance of these feasts to the original readers and why they continue to be of importance for us today.
Hamilton concludes his book with a look at the Bible’s love story. This is yet another important aspect of biblical theology given Scripture describes God’s people as being His bride. Just as the bride was set aside by the father in days of old, God set apart a people to be the bride for His Son who is our bridegroom. One can rightly submit that the big story of Scripture is a redemptive love story with the Father setting aside the bride for His Son and the Son wooing that bride to Him to one day spend eternity with the bridegroom when all is finally redeemed. Hamilton saliently declares “We are to think of ourselves in bridal terms. We are not to commit adultery against the Lord Jesus. We are to save ourselves for the Bridegroom, as a bride saves herself for her husband.” Such a concept, if properly understood, will help believers walk in faithfulness to their bridegroom, keeping themselves holy and chaste for the day when He returns to bring to conclusion the big story of Scripture.
Far from being a dry and boring subject, knowing what biblical theology is and how to do it forms a locus for how we are to read and apply the truth of Scripture. Those who have for too long stayed away from a serious study of Scripture feeling that is the job of the pastor or the theologian, will find themselves energized to engage every page of Scripture with renewed vigor after reading Hamilton’s timely and helpful book. I highly recommend it for laymen and scholars alike as it rightly presents the big story of Scripture, it provides a helpful analysis of the plot and characters, and it wades through some of the more difficult and thornier issues of theology in a manner that will help the reader grasp what God has revealed to us in His Word.
I received this book for free from Crossway Books for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 12, 2020
"Biblical theology is an attempt to get out of this world into another. We might call it a bridge; we might call it a rocket. The point is that we're trying to get our minds and hearts out of worldliness and into the Bible's symbolic universe... The best way to learn biblical theology, the best way to get yourself out of the world's way of thinking and into the Bible's is to study the Bible itself."
This was so intriguing. I cannot wait to dive into my other biblical theology books now. I gained a new understanding of the Bible's big story and the way patterns and symbols can be interpreted in the context of the metanarrative. I wish I had heard of this way of studying the bible sooner!
The section on the flood and the idea of judgment as a kind of de-creation and redemption as a kind of new creation were especially interesting to me. I really had to fight with myself not to highlight everything!
This was so intriguing. I cannot wait to dive into my other biblical theology books now. I gained a new understanding of the Bible's big story and the way patterns and symbols can be interpreted in the context of the metanarrative. I wish I had heard of this way of studying the bible sooner!
The section on the flood and the idea of judgment as a kind of de-creation and redemption as a kind of new creation were especially interesting to me. I really had to fight with myself not to highlight everything!
November 14, 2023
"How should a follower of Jesus read the Bible? The way Jesus did. Jesus of Nazareth did not write any of the books in the Bible, but he taught the writers of the New Testament how to interpret earlier Scripture, redemptive history, and the events they were narrating and addressing."
A concise, easy-to-read introduction to the biblical theology--the terms, themes, etc. I'm always thankful for a book I can wrap my struggling brain around! Read for seminary.
A concise, easy-to-read introduction to the biblical theology--the terms, themes, etc. I'm always thankful for a book I can wrap my struggling brain around! Read for seminary.
January 27, 2025
Solid intro to biblical theology! Very readable on the themes of the Bible and how to interpret it
May 20, 2025
I really enjoyed the final third of this book but if I hadn't had to read it for class I wouldn't have made it that far into it. The first part of the book was a bit too wordy, and while I appreciated how short the book was, it felt almost as if Hamilton was trying to keep it so short it lost its substance. Overall, still full of some solid points and biblical reminders but required some discipline to actually read. 2.5 ⭐
November 26, 2020
This little book provides a helpful primer to the realm of Biblical Theology. Hamilton is a decent author and writes an easy read. The first few chapters are helpful. Hamilton makes some good observations, but also has some areas of argument that aren’t fully supported in Scripture from this reader’s study. Hamilton seems to make much more of Biblical Theology than needed. Overall, this book is worth reading—maybe not a “return to” on the shelf.
September 1, 2015
This is probably the best introduction to biblical theology available-especially for those new to the idea. If you have never read anything in the field of biblical theology, this book is full of insight into Scripture that will help you read the Bible in a richer, fuller way. I just finished reading this for the second time (for school this time). I read it for the first time in November of 2013. My original review is below:
Many people attend church and even Bible studies for decades without really grasping the Bible's overall story. They learn certain doctrines and do's and don'ts, but they still feel lost in many parts of the Bible. How does it all fit together? That's what biblical theology is about.
What is Biblical Theology? is a book for Christians who want to understand the Bible better. Its three sections provide practical help in understanding what the Bible says, how it all fits together, and what difference it should make in our lives.
The first section unfolds the Bible's big story in three chapters, giving an overview of the story the Bible is telling from Genesis to Revelation.
The second section focuses on some key elements of the story that are used and reused to help tell the story. For example, understanding how the Bible uses the symbol of the tree, the events of the exile and the exodus, and the pattern of the righteous sufferer open our eyes to see things we have often missed.
The final section focuses on how biblical theology helps us understand the church's role in the world. This is theology for life! Here Hamilton helps us see how we as the church fit into the Bible's story and how it should effect our lives here and now.
This book not only tells us what biblical theology is, it also shows us what it is for: it's for understanding the Bible better and for living in light of what the Bible has said. What more could we ask for?
Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of providing a review.
Many people attend church and even Bible studies for decades without really grasping the Bible's overall story. They learn certain doctrines and do's and don'ts, but they still feel lost in many parts of the Bible. How does it all fit together? That's what biblical theology is about.
What is Biblical Theology? is a book for Christians who want to understand the Bible better. Its three sections provide practical help in understanding what the Bible says, how it all fits together, and what difference it should make in our lives.
The first section unfolds the Bible's big story in three chapters, giving an overview of the story the Bible is telling from Genesis to Revelation.
The second section focuses on some key elements of the story that are used and reused to help tell the story. For example, understanding how the Bible uses the symbol of the tree, the events of the exile and the exodus, and the pattern of the righteous sufferer open our eyes to see things we have often missed.
The final section focuses on how biblical theology helps us understand the church's role in the world. This is theology for life! Here Hamilton helps us see how we as the church fit into the Bible's story and how it should effect our lives here and now.
This book not only tells us what biblical theology is, it also shows us what it is for: it's for understanding the Bible better and for living in light of what the Bible has said. What more could we ask for?
Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of providing a review.
March 16, 2017
Taken for what this is, this is a very good book. So what is it? It is a short introduction to Biblical Theology--the theology of the biblical authors. Hamilton describes the Bible's 'big story,' its symbolic universe, and the place of the Church within the biblical story.
My favorite part of the book was part two, which focus on the 'symbolic universe.' Discussing the Bible's symbols, Hamilton gives a brief overview of some important biblical imagery (i.e. trees, roots, floods, etc). He also talks about the nature of typology in the Old Testament, where an archetype is paired with an 'escalation.' Patterns (like annual feasts or the righteous sufferer) illuminate various biblical themes.
I think this would be a good undergrad intro to biblical theology. However, I caution that it is overly simple. He synthesizes the theology of scripture but does not discuss the theologies (or theological emphases) in various books. He also doesn't explore every major theme in scripture but keeps his focus on how the biblical narrative tells the story of our redemption through Christ. I agree that this of central importance but I wished that he said something about economic justice which is a major stream running through both Testaments. He also seems to be fairly supersessionist in regard to Israel.
My favorite part of the book was part two, which focus on the 'symbolic universe.' Discussing the Bible's symbols, Hamilton gives a brief overview of some important biblical imagery (i.e. trees, roots, floods, etc). He also talks about the nature of typology in the Old Testament, where an archetype is paired with an 'escalation.' Patterns (like annual feasts or the righteous sufferer) illuminate various biblical themes.
I think this would be a good undergrad intro to biblical theology. However, I caution that it is overly simple. He synthesizes the theology of scripture but does not discuss the theologies (or theological emphases) in various books. He also doesn't explore every major theme in scripture but keeps his focus on how the biblical narrative tells the story of our redemption through Christ. I agree that this of central importance but I wished that he said something about economic justice which is a major stream running through both Testaments. He also seems to be fairly supersessionist in regard to Israel.
August 8, 2016
I had the privilege of taking Dr. Hamilton for an Old Testament class in seminary, and it was one of my favorite classes so far. This book is a fantastic summary of much of what I learned from him in that setting. His skill in showing the connections between OT authors that are picked up in the NT is astounding at times. He really shows you how to read your Bible the way the Biblical authors read it, seeing the big themes and symbols that make up the worldview of the Bible. Simply fantastic, and I would recommend this book to every Christian. Might also be a good introduction to the faith for non-believers.
January 7, 2014
This is an excellent, convincing, and easy-to-read book describing the Bible’s over arching story. Hamilton says that the stories in the Old Testament hint at a mystery resolved in Christ. The Bible from beginning to end is one story. He outlines key patterns, symbols and themes that unite the Bible into One Story. Finally he delineates the part the Church plays in the Bible’s story. This is an excellent reference that can and must be read over and over again.
September 13, 2019
Phenomenal! Dr. Hamilton's intro to Biblical Theology is concise, helpful, informative, and transformative. It excellently communicates the basic tenants of tracing redemptive history through Scripture, understanding narrative, themes, and patterns. A wonderful book I will definitely recommend to others!
July 29, 2017
Loved this little book! "... the best way to get yourself out of the world's way of thinking and into the Bible's is to study the Bible itself. Don't make this harder than it needs to be. Read the Bible. A lot." (P.115)
December 30, 2013
Such an enjoyable read. I am ready to read more from this author. I highly recommend this book.
April 9, 2014
This is a great introduction to biblical theology. I would highly recommend it to anyone.
April 26, 2014
It's good, but it read like some seminary student's term paper.
June 17, 2014
Title: What is Biblical Theology?
Author: James M. Hamilton, jr.
Publisher: Crossway
Year: 2014
Pages: 130 (e-book)
Additional: For His Renown
[Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Crossway Publishers in exchange for my fair and honest review of the the book What is Biblical Theology? I hope this clears up any confusion.]
Happily, this book was a quick and not terribly difficult read. I took me all of an evening at home to read it on my Nook. The Nook format is very nicely finished. The cover is in nice color and the pages are a nice soft yellowish color which makes it easy on the eyes. The paragraphs are nicely space and the font face is easy to read. I am grateful to Crossway for making this volume available on their available books list.
Unfortunately for authors, the content of a book review cannot rest on the aesthetic value of the book. If that were the case, anyone with a copy of a nice publishing software could write a book. So we must press on an examine the content of the book and see how our author handled his material.
I will note first of all that what I appreciated most about this book is that I hear echoes of other authors/theologians/preachers I have listened to in the past. For example, I have listened to a number of lectures on the Old Testament by Dr John Currid (a lecturer with Reformed Theological Seminary among other things) and I found that Hamiliton's thoughts often align very nicely with what Currid has taught about such things as typology and seeing the 'big' picture in Scripture. Other times I thought I was reading something written by NT Wright. His 'five episodes in the Bible's plot' (p 28) sound very much like Wright's '5-Act hermeneutic' (I think Wright's is superior, but Hamilton's is not without considerable value; see Scripture and the Authority of God, p 124-125; also his reliance upon Isaiah 11:9 as kind of an overarching theme in the book echoes Wright.) And finally, his idea about the world being a 'cosmic temple' sounds very much like John Sailhamer (Genesis) and John Walton (Lost World of Genesis 1.)
Now my point is not that Hamilton is unoriginal or anything of that sort. Rather, it is to demonstrate that the points he makes in his text are solidly grounded in scholarship and have been echoed by others. For me, as a reader and a theologian, I love this. I love when I am reading an author and I see him/her develop the ideas of others and incorporate shadows of that work in their own. This was my first experience with Hamilton so to know that I have seen/heard his ideas elsewhere by scholars with whom I have far more experience, is a sign of security: I can trust this author's ideas even if they do not perfectly align with my own or others. He's on the right track and that matters.
Another thing this tells me is that the author is not afraid to interact with the ideas of others and to allow them to seep into his own work. I appreciate that there are certain aspects of this book where the author demonstrates his humility toward his understanding and application of the Scripture. That being said, I did not appreciate the author's (almost) continuous use of words like 'apparently,' 'appears,' and 'it seems.' Frankly the over-abundance of such qualifiers was a huge distraction and disrupted the flow of the author's thoughts. I have no problem with an author saying flat out what he or she thinks about a text, but just say it and let be what will be. I'd rather a little more authority in the book than less. If I disagree with the author, I disagree. The attempt to mitigate disagreement by using qualifiers is frustrating (see especially chapter 5) and annoying.
I have a couple other minor complaints about the book and, to be sure, these are probably merely stylistic preferences. First, I'm not really sure this book is about Biblical Theology in the strictest sense of the meaning. The author defines the purpose of biblical theology as the aim to 'understand and embrace the worldview of the biblical authors' (13). He then tells us he will use the phrase 'biblical theology' to 'refer to the interpretive perspective of the biblical authors' (15). He elaborates:
...by the phrase biblical theology I mean the interpretive perspective reflected in the way the biblical authors have presented their understanding of earlier Scripture, redemptive history, and the events they are describing, recounting, celebrating, or addressing in narratives, poems, proverbs, letters, and apocalypses. (14-15)
So my point is this: I think the book might be a little mis-titled. I think what Hamilton is describing in the book are the clues, hints, literary techniques, and things that might be used to develop a biblical theology. Don't get me wrong. There are hints of what might be described as theology proper--such as the last four chapters where he writes about the church. From what I can tell, however, the book is not giving us a drive to a theology proper, but rather a scenic drive through the country where he points us to various landmarks and signposts that will help us develop a proper biblical theology. To that end, I think the book is absolutely outstanding.
And he's correct: typology is an important signpost; patterns are important signposts; the 'big plot' is of major importance; symbols are important; imagery is important; understanding the narrative flow of the Bible is important. Nevertheless, these are the signposts we look for along the way which help us develop a biblical theology. (I know, he gives away his intentions in the sub-title of the book: A Guide to the Bible's Story, Symbolism, and Patterns. Again, I don't think there is any intention of misleading readers, I just think he answers the question in the first chapter.
Second, I thought the book was a little too full of cliched language. I'm not going to dwell on this point except to say that even for a popular level reading there was too much 'christianese'. In order for the book to have more appeal to a wider audience, I think some of this could stand to be cleaned up a bit. Again this might be a matter of stylistic preference.
In conclusion, I will note a couple of the book's more salient and outstanding points to ponder.
First, Hamilton makes this statement on page 30: "Israel's prophets used the paradigm of Israel's past to predict Israel's future" (30). This is a significant feature of the Bible's story and it can be traced over and over again through the Scripture. Hamilton does well to highlight this for his readers. Seeing this pattern repeat itself time and time again in the Scripture allows the reader to have a glimpse at what God's plans are for this world and for what we might call the future. Creation. Sin. Exile. Redemption. Re-creation. The pattern continues to repeat itself and so we might ask where we are now and what God has planned for us, the church? (Hint: Revelation 21-22 gives important clues. Hamilton writes about this in Chapter 5: The Mystery.) Furthermore, it's not only in the narrative sections where we find this pattern being exposed: "We are not the first to attempt to read these promises in light of the patterns. The biblical authors of the Psalms and the Prophets have blazed this trail for us" (33). I agree.
Second, Hamilton writes, "Don't make this harder than it needs to be. Read the Bible. A lot (81).* I happen to think this is one of the better things he writes in the book. It comes up every so often, the idea of 'biblical illiteracy' among Christians. One author recently went so far as to say we are facing a 'crisis' of biblical illiteracy. It's probably too true. So I am pleased with the way that Hamilton ended his tome. Sometimes I have this sneaking suspicion that we take the Bible for granted here in America. If we are ever going to solve the problems the church currently faces we are going to have to find a way to get people more involved in the Word--and it starts with those in the pulpit.
This is a helpful book for newer believers. I don't agree with all of his teachings (his thoughts about all 'living Jews' seeing, believing, etc., p 41). I didn't quite get all of his anecdotes (the way he told the story of Gene and Phineas (ch 6). Nevertheless, this is a short, helpful volume that will help newer believers work their way through some of the more challenging ideas in Scripture and lay a good foundation for future, more in depth Bible studies. Understanding the big picture, seeing patterns, and understanding how literary devices like typology and imagery work within a Biblical text will provide useful to the new reader of Scripture. Thinking about how the church fits into these patterns will also prove useful and may provide a wake-up call for churches stuck in the mire of mediocrity.
I give this book 4/5 stars.
*My page numbers may not be exact. For some reason the Nook does page numbers in a strange way. Check your own volume for exact references.
Author: James M. Hamilton, jr.
Publisher: Crossway
Year: 2014
Pages: 130 (e-book)
Additional: For His Renown
[Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Crossway Publishers in exchange for my fair and honest review of the the book What is Biblical Theology? I hope this clears up any confusion.]
Happily, this book was a quick and not terribly difficult read. I took me all of an evening at home to read it on my Nook. The Nook format is very nicely finished. The cover is in nice color and the pages are a nice soft yellowish color which makes it easy on the eyes. The paragraphs are nicely space and the font face is easy to read. I am grateful to Crossway for making this volume available on their available books list.
Unfortunately for authors, the content of a book review cannot rest on the aesthetic value of the book. If that were the case, anyone with a copy of a nice publishing software could write a book. So we must press on an examine the content of the book and see how our author handled his material.
I will note first of all that what I appreciated most about this book is that I hear echoes of other authors/theologians/preachers I have listened to in the past. For example, I have listened to a number of lectures on the Old Testament by Dr John Currid (a lecturer with Reformed Theological Seminary among other things) and I found that Hamiliton's thoughts often align very nicely with what Currid has taught about such things as typology and seeing the 'big' picture in Scripture. Other times I thought I was reading something written by NT Wright. His 'five episodes in the Bible's plot' (p 28) sound very much like Wright's '5-Act hermeneutic' (I think Wright's is superior, but Hamilton's is not without considerable value; see Scripture and the Authority of God, p 124-125; also his reliance upon Isaiah 11:9 as kind of an overarching theme in the book echoes Wright.) And finally, his idea about the world being a 'cosmic temple' sounds very much like John Sailhamer (Genesis) and John Walton (Lost World of Genesis 1.)
Now my point is not that Hamilton is unoriginal or anything of that sort. Rather, it is to demonstrate that the points he makes in his text are solidly grounded in scholarship and have been echoed by others. For me, as a reader and a theologian, I love this. I love when I am reading an author and I see him/her develop the ideas of others and incorporate shadows of that work in their own. This was my first experience with Hamilton so to know that I have seen/heard his ideas elsewhere by scholars with whom I have far more experience, is a sign of security: I can trust this author's ideas even if they do not perfectly align with my own or others. He's on the right track and that matters.
Another thing this tells me is that the author is not afraid to interact with the ideas of others and to allow them to seep into his own work. I appreciate that there are certain aspects of this book where the author demonstrates his humility toward his understanding and application of the Scripture. That being said, I did not appreciate the author's (almost) continuous use of words like 'apparently,' 'appears,' and 'it seems.' Frankly the over-abundance of such qualifiers was a huge distraction and disrupted the flow of the author's thoughts. I have no problem with an author saying flat out what he or she thinks about a text, but just say it and let be what will be. I'd rather a little more authority in the book than less. If I disagree with the author, I disagree. The attempt to mitigate disagreement by using qualifiers is frustrating (see especially chapter 5) and annoying.
I have a couple other minor complaints about the book and, to be sure, these are probably merely stylistic preferences. First, I'm not really sure this book is about Biblical Theology in the strictest sense of the meaning. The author defines the purpose of biblical theology as the aim to 'understand and embrace the worldview of the biblical authors' (13). He then tells us he will use the phrase 'biblical theology' to 'refer to the interpretive perspective of the biblical authors' (15). He elaborates:
...by the phrase biblical theology I mean the interpretive perspective reflected in the way the biblical authors have presented their understanding of earlier Scripture, redemptive history, and the events they are describing, recounting, celebrating, or addressing in narratives, poems, proverbs, letters, and apocalypses. (14-15)
So my point is this: I think the book might be a little mis-titled. I think what Hamilton is describing in the book are the clues, hints, literary techniques, and things that might be used to develop a biblical theology. Don't get me wrong. There are hints of what might be described as theology proper--such as the last four chapters where he writes about the church. From what I can tell, however, the book is not giving us a drive to a theology proper, but rather a scenic drive through the country where he points us to various landmarks and signposts that will help us develop a proper biblical theology. To that end, I think the book is absolutely outstanding.
And he's correct: typology is an important signpost; patterns are important signposts; the 'big plot' is of major importance; symbols are important; imagery is important; understanding the narrative flow of the Bible is important. Nevertheless, these are the signposts we look for along the way which help us develop a biblical theology. (I know, he gives away his intentions in the sub-title of the book: A Guide to the Bible's Story, Symbolism, and Patterns. Again, I don't think there is any intention of misleading readers, I just think he answers the question in the first chapter.
Second, I thought the book was a little too full of cliched language. I'm not going to dwell on this point except to say that even for a popular level reading there was too much 'christianese'. In order for the book to have more appeal to a wider audience, I think some of this could stand to be cleaned up a bit. Again this might be a matter of stylistic preference.
In conclusion, I will note a couple of the book's more salient and outstanding points to ponder.
First, Hamilton makes this statement on page 30: "Israel's prophets used the paradigm of Israel's past to predict Israel's future" (30). This is a significant feature of the Bible's story and it can be traced over and over again through the Scripture. Hamilton does well to highlight this for his readers. Seeing this pattern repeat itself time and time again in the Scripture allows the reader to have a glimpse at what God's plans are for this world and for what we might call the future. Creation. Sin. Exile. Redemption. Re-creation. The pattern continues to repeat itself and so we might ask where we are now and what God has planned for us, the church? (Hint: Revelation 21-22 gives important clues. Hamilton writes about this in Chapter 5: The Mystery.) Furthermore, it's not only in the narrative sections where we find this pattern being exposed: "We are not the first to attempt to read these promises in light of the patterns. The biblical authors of the Psalms and the Prophets have blazed this trail for us" (33). I agree.
Second, Hamilton writes, "Don't make this harder than it needs to be. Read the Bible. A lot (81).* I happen to think this is one of the better things he writes in the book. It comes up every so often, the idea of 'biblical illiteracy' among Christians. One author recently went so far as to say we are facing a 'crisis' of biblical illiteracy. It's probably too true. So I am pleased with the way that Hamilton ended his tome. Sometimes I have this sneaking suspicion that we take the Bible for granted here in America. If we are ever going to solve the problems the church currently faces we are going to have to find a way to get people more involved in the Word--and it starts with those in the pulpit.
This is a helpful book for newer believers. I don't agree with all of his teachings (his thoughts about all 'living Jews' seeing, believing, etc., p 41). I didn't quite get all of his anecdotes (the way he told the story of Gene and Phineas (ch 6). Nevertheless, this is a short, helpful volume that will help newer believers work their way through some of the more challenging ideas in Scripture and lay a good foundation for future, more in depth Bible studies. Understanding the big picture, seeing patterns, and understanding how literary devices like typology and imagery work within a Biblical text will provide useful to the new reader of Scripture. Thinking about how the church fits into these patterns will also prove useful and may provide a wake-up call for churches stuck in the mire of mediocrity.
I give this book 4/5 stars.
*My page numbers may not be exact. For some reason the Nook does page numbers in a strange way. Check your own volume for exact references.
October 18, 2013
This review, by Dr. Nicholson, has been provided courtesy of Desert Bible Institute (www.desertbibleinstitute.com).
What Is Biblical Theology is an excellent book not only for an introduction into biblical theology, but also for understanding the literary elements of the Bible. A combination of James Hamilton’s writing style, his examination of symbolism, and clear application of literary devices makes this book easily accessible and immediately applicable to those people wanting to start to have a greater understanding of the Bible.
Hamilton has a smooth, natural voice to his writing that is easy to understand. While he does use some technical language, he clarifies and explains all of the terms he uses. He also provides both general and biblical examples to help the reader follow along with what he is saying. Hamilton regularly cites specific biblical examples that not only support but also clarify his points. While his ideas are extraordinarily well written, his overall organization can be a bit confusing. Readers should focus on the points that he is making in individual sections rather than trying to tie them together as chapters or (moreover) as a book as a whole. This is the only real failing of the book however, and it can be easily overcome if the reader is aware of it in advance.
It is refreshing to read a work that speaks so intelligently on symbolism and typology in the Bible. There has been a movement over the last several years to be hyper-literal in the analysis of the Bible. Indeed, some people are resistant to see symbol, metaphor, or simile in the Bible even when Christ himself states that they are such. (See Matt. 11:6, 13:31, 33, 44, 45, 47, 52, and 20:1) Hamilton does an excellent job of showing these forms of figurative language and giving the basic principles for interpreting them. He treats these topics respectfully and accurately so that Christians can get the most out of their Bibles.
Hamilton does not limit himself to just these few elements however. During the course of his book, he talks about narrative structure, plot line, conflict, theme, patterns and much more. He then ties all of these ideas together to help his readers understand and analyze a few, select areas of the Bible. These are effective practice sessions before the readers goes out and applies the principles that they have learned in earnest. Across the board, What Is Biblical Theology is a good book that would be a helpful tool for the beginning seminary student or for the person wishing to enrich their understand of the Word.
Dr. Nicholson reviews academic, Christian living, and fiction books for a variety of publishers in an array of formats. He is never paid for any of his reviews. He writes these strictly as a courtesy to his students at Desert bible Institute and for any other readers that might find his insights valuable. For more reviews or information, visit Dr. Nicholson’s blog at drtnicholson.wordpress.com.
Ready, Set, Grow is a thoughtful, well-structured book about how to not only to help increase the size of your church, but more importantly about how to create interconnectivity among your church leaders. The book has a number of strengths to it: its narrative style, the layout of the book, and the additional resources provided both in and after the book proper.
Too many books on leadership read either like and instruction manual on how to assemble your son’s new bicycle or like one of those endless, droning sermons that you keep checking your watch to see how much there is left. Scott Wilson largely avoids this problem by presenting information that he found useful in developing his church in a story format rather than a process paper or a moral lesson. One added benefit to this format is that it develops a sense of suspense. As readers get to know the people involved in Wilson’s 3-year journey, they want to know how the various trials and confrontations worked out. You find yourself cheering for the person that you connect with and frustrated with the one that just cannot get with the program. Another advantage to the narrative structure is that it made the reading of the text smooth. Rather than the start-and-stop feel that is common to type of book, Wilson is able to maintain coherence through his use of this alternative genre.
The structure to this book was also unique. While Wilson does maintain a narrative style, he frequently has recursive chapters where he goes back and looks at how certain events turned out or examines them from a different perspective. While this adds a strong element of clarity to his writing, it also made a few parts a little repetitive. This was not an overwhelming issue, but it could be a mild point of frustration for the reader. The upside to it was that the reader is extraordinarily clear on Wilson’s main points. Usually after one of these recursive chapters, he had a short input for one of his team members in which they offered their take on what Wilson had just talked about. After these short interludes, they offered a few reflective questions for readers to think about. These short breaks are refreshing and help refocus the reader on the topic at had while at the same time reviewing the previous couple of chapters.
Something this book has, that other less scholarly books often seem to leave out, is references to the books and materials that the team found useful. Wilson actually finishes the book not only with a list of first-rate materials but also a link to a website filled with information that could be used by a team wanting to use the model he purposes. While the book is good and offers a number of strategies and approaches that would be beneficial to any church wanting to improve their leadership, it is this list of resources and plans that will be most useful to the pastor that plans to move forward with this strategy.
Trent Nicholson, Ph.D., D.Min.
Desert Bible Institute, President
Dr. Nicholson reviews academic, Christian living, and fiction books for a variety of publishers in an array of formats. He is never paid for any of his reviews. He writes these strictly as a courtesy to his students at Desert bible Institute and for any other readers that might find his insights valuable. For more reviews or information, visit Dr. Nicholson’s blog at drtnicholson.wordpress.com.
What Is Biblical Theology is an excellent book not only for an introduction into biblical theology, but also for understanding the literary elements of the Bible. A combination of James Hamilton’s writing style, his examination of symbolism, and clear application of literary devices makes this book easily accessible and immediately applicable to those people wanting to start to have a greater understanding of the Bible.
Hamilton has a smooth, natural voice to his writing that is easy to understand. While he does use some technical language, he clarifies and explains all of the terms he uses. He also provides both general and biblical examples to help the reader follow along with what he is saying. Hamilton regularly cites specific biblical examples that not only support but also clarify his points. While his ideas are extraordinarily well written, his overall organization can be a bit confusing. Readers should focus on the points that he is making in individual sections rather than trying to tie them together as chapters or (moreover) as a book as a whole. This is the only real failing of the book however, and it can be easily overcome if the reader is aware of it in advance.
It is refreshing to read a work that speaks so intelligently on symbolism and typology in the Bible. There has been a movement over the last several years to be hyper-literal in the analysis of the Bible. Indeed, some people are resistant to see symbol, metaphor, or simile in the Bible even when Christ himself states that they are such. (See Matt. 11:6, 13:31, 33, 44, 45, 47, 52, and 20:1) Hamilton does an excellent job of showing these forms of figurative language and giving the basic principles for interpreting them. He treats these topics respectfully and accurately so that Christians can get the most out of their Bibles.
Hamilton does not limit himself to just these few elements however. During the course of his book, he talks about narrative structure, plot line, conflict, theme, patterns and much more. He then ties all of these ideas together to help his readers understand and analyze a few, select areas of the Bible. These are effective practice sessions before the readers goes out and applies the principles that they have learned in earnest. Across the board, What Is Biblical Theology is a good book that would be a helpful tool for the beginning seminary student or for the person wishing to enrich their understand of the Word.
Dr. Nicholson reviews academic, Christian living, and fiction books for a variety of publishers in an array of formats. He is never paid for any of his reviews. He writes these strictly as a courtesy to his students at Desert bible Institute and for any other readers that might find his insights valuable. For more reviews or information, visit Dr. Nicholson’s blog at drtnicholson.wordpress.com.
Ready, Set, Grow is a thoughtful, well-structured book about how to not only to help increase the size of your church, but more importantly about how to create interconnectivity among your church leaders. The book has a number of strengths to it: its narrative style, the layout of the book, and the additional resources provided both in and after the book proper.
Too many books on leadership read either like and instruction manual on how to assemble your son’s new bicycle or like one of those endless, droning sermons that you keep checking your watch to see how much there is left. Scott Wilson largely avoids this problem by presenting information that he found useful in developing his church in a story format rather than a process paper or a moral lesson. One added benefit to this format is that it develops a sense of suspense. As readers get to know the people involved in Wilson’s 3-year journey, they want to know how the various trials and confrontations worked out. You find yourself cheering for the person that you connect with and frustrated with the one that just cannot get with the program. Another advantage to the narrative structure is that it made the reading of the text smooth. Rather than the start-and-stop feel that is common to type of book, Wilson is able to maintain coherence through his use of this alternative genre.
The structure to this book was also unique. While Wilson does maintain a narrative style, he frequently has recursive chapters where he goes back and looks at how certain events turned out or examines them from a different perspective. While this adds a strong element of clarity to his writing, it also made a few parts a little repetitive. This was not an overwhelming issue, but it could be a mild point of frustration for the reader. The upside to it was that the reader is extraordinarily clear on Wilson’s main points. Usually after one of these recursive chapters, he had a short input for one of his team members in which they offered their take on what Wilson had just talked about. After these short interludes, they offered a few reflective questions for readers to think about. These short breaks are refreshing and help refocus the reader on the topic at had while at the same time reviewing the previous couple of chapters.
Something this book has, that other less scholarly books often seem to leave out, is references to the books and materials that the team found useful. Wilson actually finishes the book not only with a list of first-rate materials but also a link to a website filled with information that could be used by a team wanting to use the model he purposes. While the book is good and offers a number of strategies and approaches that would be beneficial to any church wanting to improve their leadership, it is this list of resources and plans that will be most useful to the pastor that plans to move forward with this strategy.
Trent Nicholson, Ph.D., D.Min.
Desert Bible Institute, President
Dr. Nicholson reviews academic, Christian living, and fiction books for a variety of publishers in an array of formats. He is never paid for any of his reviews. He writes these strictly as a courtesy to his students at Desert bible Institute and for any other readers that might find his insights valuable. For more reviews or information, visit Dr. Nicholson’s blog at drtnicholson.wordpress.com.
June 8, 2023
A superb succinct summary of BT in a way that keeps the authority of the Bible front and centre: BT is a bridge [or rocket!] to get out of this world, into the world of the biblical authors, as we understand and embrace their worldview. Essentially, BT is simply learning to read and interpret the Bible from the biblical authors themselves.
This focus then expands, as we need to understand three things in order to get onto the bridge that leads to the other world:
1. The Bible's big story
2, The key symbols that summarize and interpret that story
3. The place of the church in that story
This helpfully draws together some of the major BT threads and shows that BT is ultimately for the good of the church; it is not just theory, but it sweeps us up to take our place in the story, so that 'the church knows who she is, what she faces, and how she should live as she longs for the coming of her king.'
Also, this book seems to unite two [possibly three] of his other major works, as part one [The Bible's big story] is essentially 'God's glory in salvation through judgment', part two is probably expanded in 'Typology' [though I haven't actually read it yet], and part 3 reads similar to parts of his Revelation commentary....if not, then the theme of the church might be the topic of his next book!
This focus then expands, as we need to understand three things in order to get onto the bridge that leads to the other world:
1. The Bible's big story
2, The key symbols that summarize and interpret that story
3. The place of the church in that story
This helpfully draws together some of the major BT threads and shows that BT is ultimately for the good of the church; it is not just theory, but it sweeps us up to take our place in the story, so that 'the church knows who she is, what she faces, and how she should live as she longs for the coming of her king.'
Also, this book seems to unite two [possibly three] of his other major works, as part one [The Bible's big story] is essentially 'God's glory in salvation through judgment', part two is probably expanded in 'Typology' [though I haven't actually read it yet], and part 3 reads similar to parts of his Revelation commentary....if not, then the theme of the church might be the topic of his next book!
December 15, 2013
When I hear the term, "biblical theology," I think of it in terms of meaning "theology that is biblical." That is doctrines which make up a person's theology being biblical, biblically sound, finding their source in the Bible, clearly for the most part with perhaps a little wiggle room here and there, or, a bit more wiggle room on the non-essentials. But. That is not how the phrase is used in this one. In fact, he seems a bit annoyed with those who interpret the phrase differently*. He interprets the phrase to mean the theology held by the authors of the Bible. That is he means the theology of Peter, Paul, John, Luke, James, Isaiah, Moses, etc.
To be precise,
The phrase biblical theology is used here to refer to the interpretive perspective of the biblical authors. What is an "interpretative perspective"? It's the framework of assumptions and presuppositions, associations and identifications, truths and symbols that are taken for granted as an author or speaker describes the world and the events that take place in it. What do the biblical authors use this perspective to interpret? First, the biblical authors have interpreted earlier Scripture, or in the case of the very first author on record (Moses), accounts of God's words and deeds that were passed down to him. Second, they interpreted world history from creation to consummation. And third, they interpreted the events and statements that they describe….
To summarize, by the phrase biblical theology I mean the interpretive perspective reflected in the way the biblical authors have presented their understanding of earlier Scripture, redemptive history, and the events they are describing, recounting, celebrating, or addressing in narratives, poems, proverbs, letters, and apocalypses. (15-16)
If we can see what the biblical authors assumed about story, symbol, and church, we will glimpse the world as they saw it. To catch a glimpse of the world as they saw it is to see the real world. (19)
I don't have a problem exactly with his definition. It's just that I think it's a bit more complicated (and by complicated I might mean merely scholarly) than absolutely necessary. I think it could simply be stated as seeking to know and understand what the text meant to the writer(s) and the original audience(s) and letting that inform and instruct your own theology. Drawing your doctrines, your "theology" from the doctrines held by the writers of the Bible. In other words: read the Bible, believe the Bible means what it says, live what you believe.
The author has arranged the book in three sections: "The Bible's Big Story," which sums up the narrative, the plot, and the mystery; "The Bible's Symbolic Universe," which may be too technical for some readers, but delightful for others--the focus is on explaining the concept of symbols, imagery, typology, and patterns; and "The Bible's Love Story," which focuses on the church. A background in literature might come in useful when reading this one. He does try to bridge the gap however for his readers. But he likes using words that might bring a bad association to some readers. I definitely didn't appreciate the discussion of A Separate Peace a book that only brings back horrid memories.
What's a narrative made of? Narratives have a setting, characterization, and plot. Plots are built out of episodes and conflict, and if successful they communicate themes. (27)
My favorite chapter was probably the first chapter, "A Better World Breaks Through."
What we think and how we live is largely determined by the larger story in which we interpret our lives. Does your story enable you to look death in the face? Does your story give you a hope that goes beyond the grave? (12)
The world does have a true story. The Bible tells it. This book is about the Bible's big story, and it's about how we become people who live in that story. To do biblical theology is to think about the whole story of the Bible. We want to understand the organic development of the Bible's teaching so that we are interpreting particular parts of the story in light of the whole. As an acorn grows into an oak tree, Genesis 3:15 grows into the good news of Jesus Christ. One of the primary aims of biblical theology is to understand and embrace the worldview of the biblical authors. In order to do this, we have to know the story they take for granted, the connections they see between the events in the story, and the ways they read later parts of the story by the light that emanates from its earlier parts. (12)
The book is certainly informative and attempts to clearly present "the big picture" of the Bible to readers. But I'm not sure the text was as clear and concise as it could have been. Has reading the Big Picture Story Bible by David Helm spoiled me for reading more messy presentations for adults? Perhaps! Maybe authors are so concerned about not coming across as condescending or childish that they don't realize that simple and basic can be good and refreshing no matter one's age. I did like that the book could be thought-provoking in places.
I think hidden beneath all the scholarly-talk, all the fancy phrases, the message is good and sound. Essentially the message of this one is: read your Bible; read it often, read it well. As I was reading this one, I couldn't help thinking about the Gospel Transformation Bible. I finished this one days ago, and it is such a wonderful Bible. The goals seem to be similar. The Gospel Transformation Bible has commentary pointing readers to see the big picture in passages and verses. The big picture, of course, being Jesus Christ.
Here is the purpose of the ESV Gospel Transformation Bible:
The goal of the Gospel Transformation Bible is twofold: 1) to enable readers to understand that the whole Bible is a unified message of the gospel of God's grace culminating in Christ Jesus 2) to help believers apply this good news to their everyday lives in a heart-transforming way. (vii)
To be precise,
The phrase biblical theology is used here to refer to the interpretive perspective of the biblical authors. What is an "interpretative perspective"? It's the framework of assumptions and presuppositions, associations and identifications, truths and symbols that are taken for granted as an author or speaker describes the world and the events that take place in it. What do the biblical authors use this perspective to interpret? First, the biblical authors have interpreted earlier Scripture, or in the case of the very first author on record (Moses), accounts of God's words and deeds that were passed down to him. Second, they interpreted world history from creation to consummation. And third, they interpreted the events and statements that they describe….
To summarize, by the phrase biblical theology I mean the interpretive perspective reflected in the way the biblical authors have presented their understanding of earlier Scripture, redemptive history, and the events they are describing, recounting, celebrating, or addressing in narratives, poems, proverbs, letters, and apocalypses. (15-16)
If we can see what the biblical authors assumed about story, symbol, and church, we will glimpse the world as they saw it. To catch a glimpse of the world as they saw it is to see the real world. (19)
I don't have a problem exactly with his definition. It's just that I think it's a bit more complicated (and by complicated I might mean merely scholarly) than absolutely necessary. I think it could simply be stated as seeking to know and understand what the text meant to the writer(s) and the original audience(s) and letting that inform and instruct your own theology. Drawing your doctrines, your "theology" from the doctrines held by the writers of the Bible. In other words: read the Bible, believe the Bible means what it says, live what you believe.
The author has arranged the book in three sections: "The Bible's Big Story," which sums up the narrative, the plot, and the mystery; "The Bible's Symbolic Universe," which may be too technical for some readers, but delightful for others--the focus is on explaining the concept of symbols, imagery, typology, and patterns; and "The Bible's Love Story," which focuses on the church. A background in literature might come in useful when reading this one. He does try to bridge the gap however for his readers. But he likes using words that might bring a bad association to some readers. I definitely didn't appreciate the discussion of A Separate Peace a book that only brings back horrid memories.
What's a narrative made of? Narratives have a setting, characterization, and plot. Plots are built out of episodes and conflict, and if successful they communicate themes. (27)
My favorite chapter was probably the first chapter, "A Better World Breaks Through."
What we think and how we live is largely determined by the larger story in which we interpret our lives. Does your story enable you to look death in the face? Does your story give you a hope that goes beyond the grave? (12)
The world does have a true story. The Bible tells it. This book is about the Bible's big story, and it's about how we become people who live in that story. To do biblical theology is to think about the whole story of the Bible. We want to understand the organic development of the Bible's teaching so that we are interpreting particular parts of the story in light of the whole. As an acorn grows into an oak tree, Genesis 3:15 grows into the good news of Jesus Christ. One of the primary aims of biblical theology is to understand and embrace the worldview of the biblical authors. In order to do this, we have to know the story they take for granted, the connections they see between the events in the story, and the ways they read later parts of the story by the light that emanates from its earlier parts. (12)
The book is certainly informative and attempts to clearly present "the big picture" of the Bible to readers. But I'm not sure the text was as clear and concise as it could have been. Has reading the Big Picture Story Bible by David Helm spoiled me for reading more messy presentations for adults? Perhaps! Maybe authors are so concerned about not coming across as condescending or childish that they don't realize that simple and basic can be good and refreshing no matter one's age. I did like that the book could be thought-provoking in places.
I think hidden beneath all the scholarly-talk, all the fancy phrases, the message is good and sound. Essentially the message of this one is: read your Bible; read it often, read it well. As I was reading this one, I couldn't help thinking about the Gospel Transformation Bible. I finished this one days ago, and it is such a wonderful Bible. The goals seem to be similar. The Gospel Transformation Bible has commentary pointing readers to see the big picture in passages and verses. The big picture, of course, being Jesus Christ.
Here is the purpose of the ESV Gospel Transformation Bible:
The goal of the Gospel Transformation Bible is twofold: 1) to enable readers to understand that the whole Bible is a unified message of the gospel of God's grace culminating in Christ Jesus 2) to help believers apply this good news to their everyday lives in a heart-transforming way. (vii)
February 21, 2025
I guess I expected more.
This book was recommended to me, and knowing the recommender, I expected a little more than I got. The book is good, but a bit non-specific, and almost cliched. I’m not sure that I understand biblical theology very much more than when I started. The author’s explanation of a biblical type and the difference between a type and a symbol was muddled at best.
“The typology introduced in the Old Testament works like literary foreshadowing, but it is more than a mere literary device. Types are not arbitrary correspondences invented by the biblical authors but genuine accounts of what really took place. The biblical authors are drawing attention to people, events, and institutions where the divine author has caused actual resemblance. To examine biblical typology is to examine the orchestration of the sovereign God.”
Huh?! So what makes something a type? Not sure.
Anyway, I wouldn’t recommend this book, since there are better ones out there.
This book was recommended to me, and knowing the recommender, I expected a little more than I got. The book is good, but a bit non-specific, and almost cliched. I’m not sure that I understand biblical theology very much more than when I started. The author’s explanation of a biblical type and the difference between a type and a symbol was muddled at best.
“The typology introduced in the Old Testament works like literary foreshadowing, but it is more than a mere literary device. Types are not arbitrary correspondences invented by the biblical authors but genuine accounts of what really took place. The biblical authors are drawing attention to people, events, and institutions where the divine author has caused actual resemblance. To examine biblical typology is to examine the orchestration of the sovereign God.”
Huh?! So what makes something a type? Not sure.
Anyway, I wouldn’t recommend this book, since there are better ones out there.
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