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Short Studies in Biblical Theology
Return from Exile and the Renewal of God's People
Accessible Guide Explores Humanity’s Exile and the Hope of Atonement
God’s people, once resting in his divine presence, now toil in exile. The theme of humanity’s expulsion and wandering begins with Adam and Eve, but echoes in events throughout the Bible. Emphasizing the pain of separation from God, exile stories also highlight the hope of resurrection and creation’s imminent restoration back to the Edenic state.
In this addition to the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series, Nicholas G. Piotrowski traces the theme of exile throughout Scripture, giving readers a renewed appreciation for redemptive history and atonement in Christ. Sharing from his 15 years of study, Piotrowski connects the journeys of Abraham, Joseph, and Jesus with tabernacle imagery and other types to illustrate recurring themes of exile from Genesis until the new creation. This accessible volume helps believers understand their own exile and rejoice with the hope that they will one day worship in God’s holy presence.
Brief and Easy to Understand: Piotrowski’s clear style makes this theologically rich guide accessible for students and teachers as well as new Christians
Comprehensive: Asserting that the return from exile is the Bible’s principle drama, Piotrowski examines stories from the Garden of Eden to Mount Sinai, the Land of Canaan, and the new creation
Part of the Short Studies in Biblical Theology Series: Other volumes include Resurrection Hope and the Death of Death; The Sabbath as Rest and Hope for the People of God; and Sanctification as Set Apart and Growing in Christ
God’s people, once resting in his divine presence, now toil in exile. The theme of humanity’s expulsion and wandering begins with Adam and Eve, but echoes in events throughout the Bible. Emphasizing the pain of separation from God, exile stories also highlight the hope of resurrection and creation’s imminent restoration back to the Edenic state.
In this addition to the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series, Nicholas G. Piotrowski traces the theme of exile throughout Scripture, giving readers a renewed appreciation for redemptive history and atonement in Christ. Sharing from his 15 years of study, Piotrowski connects the journeys of Abraham, Joseph, and Jesus with tabernacle imagery and other types to illustrate recurring themes of exile from Genesis until the new creation. This accessible volume helps believers understand their own exile and rejoice with the hope that they will one day worship in God’s holy presence.
Brief and Easy to Understand: Piotrowski’s clear style makes this theologically rich guide accessible for students and teachers as well as new Christians
Comprehensive: Asserting that the return from exile is the Bible’s principle drama, Piotrowski examines stories from the Garden of Eden to Mount Sinai, the Land of Canaan, and the new creation
Part of the Short Studies in Biblical Theology Series: Other volumes include Resurrection Hope and the Death of Death; The Sabbath as Rest and Hope for the People of God; and Sanctification as Set Apart and Growing in Christ
224 pages, Paperback
Published March 18, 2025
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48 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas G. Piotrowski
6 books1 followerNicholas G. Piotrowski (PhD, Wheaton College) is the president and academic dean at Indianapolis Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he also teaches hermeneutics and New Testament studies. Piotrowski is the author of Matthew's New David at the End of Exile.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
April 22, 2025
I’m deeply aware, and deeply thankful, that I get to do theology during what feels like a renaissance for Reformed and Biblical Theology. The Young, Restless, and Reformed (YRR) movement, the tireless efforts of institutions like Westminster Theological Seminary and RTS, and the ministries of faithful servants like Dr. R. C. Sproul, Meredith Kline, and Tim Keller have handed my generation a robust, richly catholic church to step into.
It’s not lost on me that I don't have to fight the battles of the fundamentalist-modernist controversy, nor do I have to wage war against theological liberalism in the same way my predecessors did. Instead, I step into a church in cultural exile, a church that, by God’s grace, continues to faithfully preach the Word and administer the sacraments. Our fight now is not against a liberal church, but against a secular culture.
All that to say, I’m incredibly grateful for the resurgence of interest in Biblical Theology and the speed with which it’s being made accessible to the layperson. Not long ago, IVP’s "New Studies in Biblical Theology" was one of the few substantial offerings in the field, and I wouldn't have dared recommend Beale’s "Temple and the Church’s Mission" to a general audience. But today, nearly every Christian publisher is producing some sort of Biblical Theology series aimed at lay readers. Even CSB is working on a Biblical Theology Study Bible.
Nicholas Piotrowski’s "Return from Exile" is a welcome addition to Crossway’s "Short Studies in Biblical Theology" series. As usual, Crossway delivers with attractive typesetting and a sturdy paper weight, though I’ll lodge my usual complaint: more margin space for notes, please!
As a work, Piotrowski’s book is truly remarkable. It’s divided into two main sections: "Exile and Death" and "Return and Resurrection." He insightfully associates exile with death and return with resurrection. Rather than moving strictly book by book, the work traces these themes across major movements in the biblical canon, offering a rich narrative framework.
I’m a sucker for a good visual, and Piotrowski includes a helpful recurring graphic to trace the argument’s flow. When you're making a technical subject approachable for lay readers, these kinds of small details make all the difference.
One of the most commendable aspects of the book is Piotrowski’s catholicity. While he likely comes from a baptistic evangelical background, you wouldn't guess it from the text alone. He writes with generosity, quoting widely across traditions and avoiding narrow eschatological frameworks. That said, he doesn’t shy away from real theological concerns like the land promise, the return to the land, and the geographic presence of Christ.
The content itself is engaging and thought-provoking, both theologically rich and pastorally warm. I especially appreciated Piotrowski’s exploration of the directional movement within the biblical narrative, from the West to the East, away from God’s presence into exile, and then the return from East to West, back into His presence. This framing draws the reader’s attention to a recurring spatial and symbolic pattern that runs from Genesis to Revelation. It’s not merely a literary motif, it’s a deeply theological thread that ties the narrative together, offering a compelling vision of what it means for humanity to be separated from God and then graciously brought near again.
By grounding exile in the reality of death and associating return with resurrection, Piotrowski gives readers a lens through which to read all of Scripture as a unified story of loss and restoration, curse and blessing, death and life. This isn’t just a theological concept to ponder. It’s an eschatological hope to cling to. The exile of Adam and Eve from Eden, the exodus and wandering of Israel, the Babylonian captivity, the church’s present age of cultural exile, all of it anticipates the great return, the ultimate resurrection, and the full restoration of God’s people in Christ.
This vision gives shape not only to how we read the Bible but also to how we live our lives as exiles in a world that is not our home. It invites us to long for the New Jerusalem, to see our Christian journey as one of return, back into the presence of the Lord. Piotrowski’s work, then, isn’t just a theological study. It’s an invitation to pilgrimage, to hope, and to joy in the God who brings His people home.
In a time when many Christians feel disoriented, caught between cultural decline and a longing for something ancient and true, "Return from Exile" offers more than academic insight. It offers hope. Piotrowski reminds us that exile is not the end of the story. Whether we are weary from the weight of the world, burdened by sin, or simply longing for home, the promise of return is written into the very fabric of Scripture. God is not distant. He is drawing near. And in Christ, the ultimate exile-bearer, we find both the path and the power to journey back into the presence of God.
For pastors, teachers, and everyday disciples, this book is a reminder that we are not wandering aimlessly. We are pilgrims with a purpose, headed toward a resurrection horizon. As we preach, teach, counsel, and care, may we do so with this narrative in our hearts, one of exile, yes, but also of return. One of death, but ultimately of resurrection. And may we shepherd others with the quiet confidence that the God who cast His people out of Eden is the same God who now, through Christ, flings the gates of the New Jerusalem wide open and says, "Come home."
It’s not lost on me that I don't have to fight the battles of the fundamentalist-modernist controversy, nor do I have to wage war against theological liberalism in the same way my predecessors did. Instead, I step into a church in cultural exile, a church that, by God’s grace, continues to faithfully preach the Word and administer the sacraments. Our fight now is not against a liberal church, but against a secular culture.
All that to say, I’m incredibly grateful for the resurgence of interest in Biblical Theology and the speed with which it’s being made accessible to the layperson. Not long ago, IVP’s "New Studies in Biblical Theology" was one of the few substantial offerings in the field, and I wouldn't have dared recommend Beale’s "Temple and the Church’s Mission" to a general audience. But today, nearly every Christian publisher is producing some sort of Biblical Theology series aimed at lay readers. Even CSB is working on a Biblical Theology Study Bible.
Nicholas Piotrowski’s "Return from Exile" is a welcome addition to Crossway’s "Short Studies in Biblical Theology" series. As usual, Crossway delivers with attractive typesetting and a sturdy paper weight, though I’ll lodge my usual complaint: more margin space for notes, please!
As a work, Piotrowski’s book is truly remarkable. It’s divided into two main sections: "Exile and Death" and "Return and Resurrection." He insightfully associates exile with death and return with resurrection. Rather than moving strictly book by book, the work traces these themes across major movements in the biblical canon, offering a rich narrative framework.
I’m a sucker for a good visual, and Piotrowski includes a helpful recurring graphic to trace the argument’s flow. When you're making a technical subject approachable for lay readers, these kinds of small details make all the difference.
One of the most commendable aspects of the book is Piotrowski’s catholicity. While he likely comes from a baptistic evangelical background, you wouldn't guess it from the text alone. He writes with generosity, quoting widely across traditions and avoiding narrow eschatological frameworks. That said, he doesn’t shy away from real theological concerns like the land promise, the return to the land, and the geographic presence of Christ.
The content itself is engaging and thought-provoking, both theologically rich and pastorally warm. I especially appreciated Piotrowski’s exploration of the directional movement within the biblical narrative, from the West to the East, away from God’s presence into exile, and then the return from East to West, back into His presence. This framing draws the reader’s attention to a recurring spatial and symbolic pattern that runs from Genesis to Revelation. It’s not merely a literary motif, it’s a deeply theological thread that ties the narrative together, offering a compelling vision of what it means for humanity to be separated from God and then graciously brought near again.
By grounding exile in the reality of death and associating return with resurrection, Piotrowski gives readers a lens through which to read all of Scripture as a unified story of loss and restoration, curse and blessing, death and life. This isn’t just a theological concept to ponder. It’s an eschatological hope to cling to. The exile of Adam and Eve from Eden, the exodus and wandering of Israel, the Babylonian captivity, the church’s present age of cultural exile, all of it anticipates the great return, the ultimate resurrection, and the full restoration of God’s people in Christ.
This vision gives shape not only to how we read the Bible but also to how we live our lives as exiles in a world that is not our home. It invites us to long for the New Jerusalem, to see our Christian journey as one of return, back into the presence of the Lord. Piotrowski’s work, then, isn’t just a theological study. It’s an invitation to pilgrimage, to hope, and to joy in the God who brings His people home.
In a time when many Christians feel disoriented, caught between cultural decline and a longing for something ancient and true, "Return from Exile" offers more than academic insight. It offers hope. Piotrowski reminds us that exile is not the end of the story. Whether we are weary from the weight of the world, burdened by sin, or simply longing for home, the promise of return is written into the very fabric of Scripture. God is not distant. He is drawing near. And in Christ, the ultimate exile-bearer, we find both the path and the power to journey back into the presence of God.
For pastors, teachers, and everyday disciples, this book is a reminder that we are not wandering aimlessly. We are pilgrims with a purpose, headed toward a resurrection horizon. As we preach, teach, counsel, and care, may we do so with this narrative in our hearts, one of exile, yes, but also of return. One of death, but ultimately of resurrection. And may we shepherd others with the quiet confidence that the God who cast His people out of Eden is the same God who now, through Christ, flings the gates of the New Jerusalem wide open and says, "Come home."
August 14, 2025
Dr. Piotrowski has given to the church a beautiful gift in this book!
This book is such a solid, understandable, and thorough walk through the theme of exile and return that underlies and frames the entire story of Scripture. Dr. Piotrowski does such a masterful job of explaining and drawing out the macro-theme of exile and return across the whole canon as well as the specific instances of typological exiles and returns throughout.
Praise God for the way He has so purposefully and intentionally framed His Word, the life, death, and resurrection of His Son, and the Christian life in such a way that as we look backward at redemptive history, we can do nothing other than look forward to the final return from exile yet to come!
This book is such a solid, understandable, and thorough walk through the theme of exile and return that underlies and frames the entire story of Scripture. Dr. Piotrowski does such a masterful job of explaining and drawing out the macro-theme of exile and return across the whole canon as well as the specific instances of typological exiles and returns throughout.
Praise God for the way He has so purposefully and intentionally framed His Word, the life, death, and resurrection of His Son, and the Christian life in such a way that as we look backward at redemptive history, we can do nothing other than look forward to the final return from exile yet to come!
May 12, 2025
So good! We badly need more biblical theology in the church. I fear an overemphasis on systematic theology has created a generation of believers strong in logic and argument, but weak in knowledge of the biblical storyline. Piotrowski makes a compelling case that the entire Bible can be summarized using the theme of exile. From start to finish, Genesis to Revelation, the goal of human history is a return to the Garden from which Adam and Eve were banished and the last pages of the Bible promise a future return that is even greater than what was experienced in Eden. Read this book and be hopeful about our future.
February 18, 2025
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S RETURN FROM EXILE AND THE RENEWAL OF GOD'S PEOPLE ABOUT?
I'm not going to do better, or be more succinct, than the Publisher's Description:
PART 1: EXILE AND DEATH
The first part of the book traces the theme of Exile—beginning in Adam and Eve being exiled from the presence of God and the mountain garden/temple of Eden. Then several expulsions/exiles (with returns) are looked at as recapitulations of these themes, over and over up to the Babylonian exile.
In the last chapter of this section, "Chapter 5: Israel out of the Land," there's an extended discussion of the Psalms' discussion of Exile/Return, seeing it even in the structure of the Psalter. This section (and the footnotes that accompany it for follow-up) is one of the highlights of Part 1 (actually, of the whole book, as I think about it).
Piotrowski does a fantastic job of drawing out the Redemptive-Historical threads running through this part of the canon and tracing their development.
PART 2: RETURN AND RESURRECTION
For reasons that are generally obvious, the tone and manner of discussion shift a bit—as does the focus—here in the second part, which focuses on the pivotal, epoch-making event in this narrative—the Death/Resurrection/Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ.
He begins with the Gospel accounts of Christ's life—he applies the metaphor of "foreshocks" to these—his life, his teachings, and his miracles, how they point to the fulfillment of the Old Testament in the "mainshock" of his Death/Resurrection/Ascension. This is followed by the "aftershocks" of the returns from exile experienced by His people in the inter-advental period, leading to the ultimate "ultrashock" of the New Heavens and the New Earth, where the Return to the Garden Temple is complete.
It's hopeful, it's encouraging, it keeps the reader focused on the assurance we can gain from the Gospel events while we anticipate the Last Day and Return of Christ.
It's easy to take John 3 for granted—or to avoid it due to "overuse" (or a perception of it) in contemporary Evangelical writings. But Piotrowski's discussion in this part of the book was excellent—as was the final chapter on the close of the narrative arc.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT RETURN FROM EXILE AND THE RENEWAL OF GOD'S PEOPLE?
Am I wholly convinced by the thesis that the principal drama of Scripture is best understood in the Exile because of Adam's sin and the Return due to Christ terms? No. But I'm not going to argue against it. And even if I were to do that, it'd be half-hearted at best, because it's a fantastic way to frame things, and any alternative I could suggest is easily compatible with it. I only mention this because I think some of Piotrowski's insistence on it being "the" way to read Scripture is a bit too strong.
I do appreciate his use (and frequent footnoting) of some titles from the Essential Studies in Biblical Theology series (particularly, and unsurprisingly, Harmon's Rebels and Exiles ), if only because I couldn't help thinking of that series as I read this (a common occurrence for books in this series). At the same time, I do admit to preferring this to Harmon's book. I can't put my finger on why, but Piotrowski's discussion better resonated with me (this might also be my favorite book in this series).
My main complaint—and this is not one that most readers will have to put up with—is that the eARC doesn't come with any of the figures/tables that will be in the published versions. It would've been so helpful to see them—or at least it would satisfy my curiosity. That's such a niche (and self-centered) complaint that you should probably disregard this—I just wanted to whinge about it a bit. Just know if you buy a copy, you're going to have a fuller experience than I did.
Like the other books in this series, there's an emphasis in Piotrowski's work to be accessible—and he really succeeds with that. But that shouldn't be read as saying that there's no depth, no challenge to the reading. There is, but the little bit of effort is greatly rewarded and it'll carry you through the book. There's plenty to chew on, but plenty of help to do that.
I took more notes that I expected to while going through this book—even now as I look over them, I'm surprised at the ratio of notes to pages. It's higher than usual for a book of this depth and length. I got a lot out of reading this (and think a re-read would be equally rewarding), and I fully expect I won't be alone in that.
I strongly recommend this for your personal study and encouragement.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Crossway via NetGalley in exchange for this post which contains my honest opinion—thanks to both for this.
---
WHAT'S RETURN FROM EXILE AND THE RENEWAL OF GOD'S PEOPLE ABOUT?
I'm not going to do better, or be more succinct, than the Publisher's Description:
God's people, once resting in his divine presence, now toil in exile. The theme of humanity's expulsion and wandering begins with Adam and Eve, but echoes in events throughout the Bible. Emphasizing the pain of separation from God, exile stories also highlight the hope of resurrection and creation's imminent restoration back to the Edenic state.
In this addition to the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series, Nicholas G. Piotrowski traces the theme of exile throughout Scripture, giving readers a renewed appreciation for redemptive history and atonement in Christ. Sharing from his 15 years of study, Piotrowski connects the journeys of Abraham, Joseph, and Jesus with tabernacle imagery and other types to illustrate recurring themes of exile from Genesis until the new creation. This accessible volume helps believers understand their own exile and rejoice with the hope that they will one day worship in God's holy presence.
PART 1: EXILE AND DEATH
The first part of the book traces the theme of Exile—beginning in Adam and Eve being exiled from the presence of God and the mountain garden/temple of Eden. Then several expulsions/exiles (with returns) are looked at as recapitulations of these themes, over and over up to the Babylonian exile.
In the last chapter of this section, "Chapter 5: Israel out of the Land," there's an extended discussion of the Psalms' discussion of Exile/Return, seeing it even in the structure of the Psalter. This section (and the footnotes that accompany it for follow-up) is one of the highlights of Part 1 (actually, of the whole book, as I think about it).
Piotrowski does a fantastic job of drawing out the Redemptive-Historical threads running through this part of the canon and tracing their development.
PART 2: RETURN AND RESURRECTION
For reasons that are generally obvious, the tone and manner of discussion shift a bit—as does the focus—here in the second part, which focuses on the pivotal, epoch-making event in this narrative—the Death/Resurrection/Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ.
He begins with the Gospel accounts of Christ's life—he applies the metaphor of "foreshocks" to these—his life, his teachings, and his miracles, how they point to the fulfillment of the Old Testament in the "mainshock" of his Death/Resurrection/Ascension. This is followed by the "aftershocks" of the returns from exile experienced by His people in the inter-advental period, leading to the ultimate "ultrashock" of the New Heavens and the New Earth, where the Return to the Garden Temple is complete.
It's hopeful, it's encouraging, it keeps the reader focused on the assurance we can gain from the Gospel events while we anticipate the Last Day and Return of Christ.
It's easy to take John 3 for granted—or to avoid it due to "overuse" (or a perception of it) in contemporary Evangelical writings. But Piotrowski's discussion in this part of the book was excellent—as was the final chapter on the close of the narrative arc.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT RETURN FROM EXILE AND THE RENEWAL OF GOD'S PEOPLE?
Am I wholly convinced by the thesis that the principal drama of Scripture is best understood in the Exile because of Adam's sin and the Return due to Christ terms? No. But I'm not going to argue against it. And even if I were to do that, it'd be half-hearted at best, because it's a fantastic way to frame things, and any alternative I could suggest is easily compatible with it. I only mention this because I think some of Piotrowski's insistence on it being "the" way to read Scripture is a bit too strong.
I do appreciate his use (and frequent footnoting) of some titles from the Essential Studies in Biblical Theology series (particularly, and unsurprisingly, Harmon's Rebels and Exiles ), if only because I couldn't help thinking of that series as I read this (a common occurrence for books in this series). At the same time, I do admit to preferring this to Harmon's book. I can't put my finger on why, but Piotrowski's discussion better resonated with me (this might also be my favorite book in this series).
My main complaint—and this is not one that most readers will have to put up with—is that the eARC doesn't come with any of the figures/tables that will be in the published versions. It would've been so helpful to see them—or at least it would satisfy my curiosity. That's such a niche (and self-centered) complaint that you should probably disregard this—I just wanted to whinge about it a bit. Just know if you buy a copy, you're going to have a fuller experience than I did.
Like the other books in this series, there's an emphasis in Piotrowski's work to be accessible—and he really succeeds with that. But that shouldn't be read as saying that there's no depth, no challenge to the reading. There is, but the little bit of effort is greatly rewarded and it'll carry you through the book. There's plenty to chew on, but plenty of help to do that.
I took more notes that I expected to while going through this book—even now as I look over them, I'm surprised at the ratio of notes to pages. It's higher than usual for a book of this depth and length. I got a lot out of reading this (and think a re-read would be equally rewarding), and I fully expect I won't be alone in that.
I strongly recommend this for your personal study and encouragement.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Crossway via NetGalley in exchange for this post which contains my honest opinion—thanks to both for this.
November 29, 2025
This is another volume from the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series that Crossway publishes. I have read nearly all of the titles in this series and this one is among the top ones from this series. Author Nicholas Piotrowski explores the topic of “Return from Exile and the Renewal of God’s people” (title and subtitle of the book). Marching from Genesis to Revelation here the topic of separation from God and return and resurrection are explored.
After the Series Preface and the introduction there are ten chapters and a conclusion in this book. The ten chapters are group together into two parts, with five chapters each. Part one is on “Exile and Death” and part two on “Return and Resurrection.” The first chapter is on Adam and Eve out of Eden, second chapter is on “Abram into Canaan” and next is on the priests entering the Tabernacle. Chapter four is on Israel into the land, then a chapter of Israel out of land. In part two it opens up with a chapter looking at Old Testament prophets looking into the future of truths that would be fulfilled in the New Testament followed by four chapters looking into the New Testament. Two chapters are on Jesus, with “Jesus on the Way” and “Jesus into and out of the Tomb.” Then there’s a chapter of the church into the world and the final chapter looks into Revelation with “The Lamb’s Followers into the Garden-City.”
There were so many good insights into the Scripture. I have been conscious of an “Exodus” motif throughout the Bible but looking at the Scripture through the lens of Exile seems to be a theme that is more all-encompassing. Some insights from this book:
- The departure to the East and returning from the exile by coming from the West repeats again and again and the book documents it well. One such insight related to “coming from the East” is also Jesus entrance into Jerusalem is from the East according to Mark 11:1 (121).
- Genesis 49 does use rhetoric from Genesis 3:15. Genesis 49:8 record the words to Judah that he will be on the neck of his enemies that recall the wound to the enemy’s head in Genesis 3:15 and then in Genesis 49:10 we see people will obey Judah (37).
- According to Deuteronomy 23:14 the Lord walk in the midst of the Tabernacle that echoes Genesis 3:8 where God is walking in Eden (47).
- Elijah and Elish’s ministry began and end with resurrection stories as seen in 1 Kings 17:8-24, 2 Kings 13:20-21 (75).
- Book four of the Psalms is a book of exile, starting with Psalm 90 as a psalm by Moses then Psalm 91:11-13 echoing Genesis 3:15 (83).
- 1 Chronicles begin with David’s genealogy (1 Chronicles 1-9) and then 2 Chronciles end with Cyrus’ authority over all the kingdom of earth (2 Chronicles 36:23); this parallels the book of Matthew beginning with the genealogies of Jesus and then ending with the authority of Jesus sending the disciples to the nations to the ends of the earth (119).
- Mark 1:1-3 have always intrigued me with why three different Old Testament passages is cited: Isaiah 40:3, Exodus 23:20 and Malachi 3:1-4. The book notes the three passages are tied to “the way” of the Lord in the wilderness and both Isaiah and Malachi is seeing a second exodus that will lead to the new Temple (121). Mark sees Jesus fulfilling this prophetic script (121).
So many good stuff, I recommend this book.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by Crossway without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
After the Series Preface and the introduction there are ten chapters and a conclusion in this book. The ten chapters are group together into two parts, with five chapters each. Part one is on “Exile and Death” and part two on “Return and Resurrection.” The first chapter is on Adam and Eve out of Eden, second chapter is on “Abram into Canaan” and next is on the priests entering the Tabernacle. Chapter four is on Israel into the land, then a chapter of Israel out of land. In part two it opens up with a chapter looking at Old Testament prophets looking into the future of truths that would be fulfilled in the New Testament followed by four chapters looking into the New Testament. Two chapters are on Jesus, with “Jesus on the Way” and “Jesus into and out of the Tomb.” Then there’s a chapter of the church into the world and the final chapter looks into Revelation with “The Lamb’s Followers into the Garden-City.”
There were so many good insights into the Scripture. I have been conscious of an “Exodus” motif throughout the Bible but looking at the Scripture through the lens of Exile seems to be a theme that is more all-encompassing. Some insights from this book:
- The departure to the East and returning from the exile by coming from the West repeats again and again and the book documents it well. One such insight related to “coming from the East” is also Jesus entrance into Jerusalem is from the East according to Mark 11:1 (121).
- Genesis 49 does use rhetoric from Genesis 3:15. Genesis 49:8 record the words to Judah that he will be on the neck of his enemies that recall the wound to the enemy’s head in Genesis 3:15 and then in Genesis 49:10 we see people will obey Judah (37).
- According to Deuteronomy 23:14 the Lord walk in the midst of the Tabernacle that echoes Genesis 3:8 where God is walking in Eden (47).
- Elijah and Elish’s ministry began and end with resurrection stories as seen in 1 Kings 17:8-24, 2 Kings 13:20-21 (75).
- Book four of the Psalms is a book of exile, starting with Psalm 90 as a psalm by Moses then Psalm 91:11-13 echoing Genesis 3:15 (83).
- 1 Chronicles begin with David’s genealogy (1 Chronicles 1-9) and then 2 Chronciles end with Cyrus’ authority over all the kingdom of earth (2 Chronicles 36:23); this parallels the book of Matthew beginning with the genealogies of Jesus and then ending with the authority of Jesus sending the disciples to the nations to the ends of the earth (119).
- Mark 1:1-3 have always intrigued me with why three different Old Testament passages is cited: Isaiah 40:3, Exodus 23:20 and Malachi 3:1-4. The book notes the three passages are tied to “the way” of the Lord in the wilderness and both Isaiah and Malachi is seeing a second exodus that will lead to the new Temple (121). Mark sees Jesus fulfilling this prophetic script (121).
So many good stuff, I recommend this book.
NOTE: This book was provided to me free by Crossway without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
October 24, 2025
Nicholas Piotrowski’s Return From Exile is a strong addition to Crossway's "Short Studies in Biblical Theology" series. The book's goal is to help everyday readers understand a single, major theme that runs through the entire Bible: the story of being sent away from God and being brought back to Him.
Piotrowski uses a powerful structure, dividing the book into two main parts that frame the whole biblical story. The core argument connects the entire Bible by showing how exile is like death and the return is like resurrection.
The first section, "Exile and Death," follows the theme from the beginning. It starts with Adam and Eve being forced to leave the garden/temple of Eden. The book then traces this pattern of expulsion and temporary return through Israel’s history, looking at many smaller events that repeat the first sin and punishment. This pattern continues right up to the exile in Babylon, where Israel is completely out of the promised land. A highlight of this section is the thorough look at how the Psalms, or the biblical prayer book, discuss the deep sadness and longing of being separated from God. Piotrowski successfully shows how this exile theme sets up the entire need for a Savior.
The second section, "Return and Resurrection," shifts its focus to the pivotal figure of Jesus Christ. His life, teachings, and miracles are shown as "foreshocks," which are signs that the great final change is coming. His death, resurrection, and ascension are presented as the "mainshock"—the epoch-making event that ends the cosmic exile. By fulfilling the promises made to Israel, Christ becomes the ultimate exile-bearer, making the final return possible for all God's people. This leads to the current period of the church, where we experience smaller "aftershocks" of return until the final, ultimate "ultrashock" of the New Heavens and New Earth.
The book is rich with biblical detail, but it remains remarkably accessible. The author uses language clearly and writes fairly, quoting from different Christian traditions and keeping the focus tightly on the Bible's story, not narrow theological debates. Crossway provides a well-made book with nice paper, and the included charts and figures are especially helpful for seeing the connections across centuries of scripture. It’s hard to argue that this is the only central theme of the Bible, but it is certainly one of the best ways to frame the grand narrative.
Ultimately, Return From Exile is a deeply encouraging book. It is a powerful reminder that being an exile is not the final chapter for God's people. By rooting our hope in the resurrection, Piotrowski gives shape to how we live today, reminding us that we are all on a purposeful journey back to God. He helps the reader see that the God who sent Adam away from Eden is the same God who, through Christ, flings open the gates of the New Jerusalem and says, "Come home."
Piotrowski uses a powerful structure, dividing the book into two main parts that frame the whole biblical story. The core argument connects the entire Bible by showing how exile is like death and the return is like resurrection.
The first section, "Exile and Death," follows the theme from the beginning. It starts with Adam and Eve being forced to leave the garden/temple of Eden. The book then traces this pattern of expulsion and temporary return through Israel’s history, looking at many smaller events that repeat the first sin and punishment. This pattern continues right up to the exile in Babylon, where Israel is completely out of the promised land. A highlight of this section is the thorough look at how the Psalms, or the biblical prayer book, discuss the deep sadness and longing of being separated from God. Piotrowski successfully shows how this exile theme sets up the entire need for a Savior.
The second section, "Return and Resurrection," shifts its focus to the pivotal figure of Jesus Christ. His life, teachings, and miracles are shown as "foreshocks," which are signs that the great final change is coming. His death, resurrection, and ascension are presented as the "mainshock"—the epoch-making event that ends the cosmic exile. By fulfilling the promises made to Israel, Christ becomes the ultimate exile-bearer, making the final return possible for all God's people. This leads to the current period of the church, where we experience smaller "aftershocks" of return until the final, ultimate "ultrashock" of the New Heavens and New Earth.
The book is rich with biblical detail, but it remains remarkably accessible. The author uses language clearly and writes fairly, quoting from different Christian traditions and keeping the focus tightly on the Bible's story, not narrow theological debates. Crossway provides a well-made book with nice paper, and the included charts and figures are especially helpful for seeing the connections across centuries of scripture. It’s hard to argue that this is the only central theme of the Bible, but it is certainly one of the best ways to frame the grand narrative.
Ultimately, Return From Exile is a deeply encouraging book. It is a powerful reminder that being an exile is not the final chapter for God's people. By rooting our hope in the resurrection, Piotrowski gives shape to how we live today, reminding us that we are all on a purposeful journey back to God. He helps the reader see that the God who sent Adam away from Eden is the same God who, through Christ, flings open the gates of the New Jerusalem and says, "Come home."
March 21, 2025
[Thank you to @crosswaybooks for my gifted copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.]
Favorite Quotes:
“Jesus enters into our deserved experience of exile in order to lift us out of it.”
“When Christians spread the gospel, they are participating with Jesus in His end-of-exile summons to the nations.”
“All of this should motivate us to endure in faith because, by virtue of our sharing in Christ’s resurrection power, our ultimate end-of-exile homecoming is imminent.”
Analysis:
This book is split up into two main parts: Part One being “Exile and Death,” and Part Two being “Return and Resurrection.” I appreciated the author’s in-depth overview of the theme of exile and return in all of Scripture. The author points out so many helpful instances and cross-references that readers will find extremely helpful in finding these threads throughout the whole of the Bible.
I love how hopeful and encouraging this book is, as it points readers to the future and the restoration of all things at the final end of exile when believers dwell with God forever.
While this book has been made easily accessible to average readers by the editors, still be prepared to work a bit to get through it. The content of this book is worth it, I promise!
There is so much food-for-thought in this book, and I would definitely recommend it.
Favorite Quotes:
“Jesus enters into our deserved experience of exile in order to lift us out of it.”
“When Christians spread the gospel, they are participating with Jesus in His end-of-exile summons to the nations.”
“All of this should motivate us to endure in faith because, by virtue of our sharing in Christ’s resurrection power, our ultimate end-of-exile homecoming is imminent.”
Analysis:
This book is split up into two main parts: Part One being “Exile and Death,” and Part Two being “Return and Resurrection.” I appreciated the author’s in-depth overview of the theme of exile and return in all of Scripture. The author points out so many helpful instances and cross-references that readers will find extremely helpful in finding these threads throughout the whole of the Bible.
I love how hopeful and encouraging this book is, as it points readers to the future and the restoration of all things at the final end of exile when believers dwell with God forever.
While this book has been made easily accessible to average readers by the editors, still be prepared to work a bit to get through it. The content of this book is worth it, I promise!
There is so much food-for-thought in this book, and I would definitely recommend it.
March 24, 2025
This was a lot of fun. Piotrowski does a fantastic job tracing the theme of exile and return from the garden to the city, showing how this thread weaves through the grand narrative of Scripture. The book is rich with biblical-theological insight, and the charts and figures are especially helpful in visualizing the connections.
One of those “once you see it, you can’t unsee it” biblical theology works—Piotrowski makes a compelling case for the exile-return motif shaping the biblical storyline in profound ways. My only hesitation is the same one I have with most thematic biblical theology books: is this the central theme of Scripture? Probably not—but, then again, it’s hard to deny that all these themes converge at the center at some point.
One of those “once you see it, you can’t unsee it” biblical theology works—Piotrowski makes a compelling case for the exile-return motif shaping the biblical storyline in profound ways. My only hesitation is the same one I have with most thematic biblical theology books: is this the central theme of Scripture? Probably not—but, then again, it’s hard to deny that all these themes converge at the center at some point.
April 2, 2025
Excellent look at one of the Bible's most important overarching storyline. If God created man to glorify God through communion with him (and he did), then restoration of that communion is vital to understanding what's going on in the Scriptures.
In one sense this work is similar to others in the series that deal with temple, kingdom, etc., but Piotrowski pulls the threads together better than most. This is an excellent exploration--maybe even delightfully so. A great deal of good news to rejoice in, that's for sure. Well done by the president of Indianapolis Theological Seminary.
In one sense this work is similar to others in the series that deal with temple, kingdom, etc., but Piotrowski pulls the threads together better than most. This is an excellent exploration--maybe even delightfully so. A great deal of good news to rejoice in, that's for sure. Well done by the president of Indianapolis Theological Seminary.
April 30, 2025
Great entry into this series (after a few duds). Exile is a huge topic and to cover it deftly in less than 200 pages is a gift.
May 2, 2025
I don’t often give books a five star but this book is exceptional. 100% theological it shows how we should read the Bible in a coming from exile way.
January 9, 2026
Enjoyable read that helps me appreciate God’s story better.
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