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Hobbs College Library
The Story of Scripture: An Introduction to Biblical Theology
Although the Bible contains sixty-six books, written by forty authors, it is one book written by one author, the Holy Spirit, with one Jesus Christ. How do these books, from Genesis to Revelation, fit together? The Story of Scripture guides the reader through the four major themes of the Bible—Creation, Fall, Redemption, New Creation—showing how each individual book of the Bible tells a cohesive story centered on Jesus.
112 pages, Paperback
Published April 15, 2024
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About the author
Matthew Y. Emerson
10 books21 followersMatthew Y. Emerson (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is associate professor of religion at Oklahoma Baptist University. He is the author of The Story of Scripture: An Introduction to Biblical Theology, Between the Cross and the Throne: The Book of Revelation, and Christ and the New Creation: A Canonical Approach to the Theology of the New Testament.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 4, 2021
I can't commend this resource enough. Though seemingly more academic than the previous biblical theology book I reviewed ("The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses), this one is actually shorter and better written. Emerson masterfully and economically traces the story of the Bible in the middle chapters, demonstrating the Bible's beauty and unity. The beginning chapter's introduction on biblical theology will be helpful for any who are new to the subject. And finally, the last couple of chapters are filled with practical and insightful applications. His section on "Exploring Biblical Terrains" helps the reader to see some of the key motifs of the storyline of the Bible as well as the tools for better understanding it (i.e. covenants). This book will certainly become one of my go-to recommendations for helping others to understand the storyline of the Bible and why it matters.
December 17, 2022
If you wanna understand your whole bible better with a short read. This is your book!
April 4, 2023
Great short introduction into biblical theology. Would recommend for almost anyone new to the topic. Believe this book would help the average Bible reader immensely by giving them a “map” to reading the Bible to use the authors language. The last chapter is on the practical applications of biblical theology, if you are unsure if you should read it maybe start there to get convinced. Once the book gets moving it tells the whole story of scripture succinctly using biblical theology in a new way for those unfamiliar with this discipline.
January 23, 2023
I honestly do not understand how this book has so many stars. While it does have a few good points scattered here and there, the repetitiveness of the writing made it almost unbearable to read. If I didn't have to read this for a class, I would have quit after chapter one.
September 9, 2023
One of the best books I’ve read that so clearly explains the cohesiveness of Scripture. Easy to understand and uses straight Scripture to back up points. Everyone seeking a clearer understanding of theology should read this book.
July 3, 2025
Pretty good, entices you with only being 87 pages but is very dense and really makes you think. My first book on biblical theology and I like it a lot. Can’t wait to read more in depth books on it.
February 4, 2022
A wonderful, short introduction to Biblical Theology that covers the whole biblical story (albeit briefly), and connects the importance of our engagement in Biblical Theology to the every day Christian life.
March 17, 2018
This book is the first of 21 volumes in the promising Hobbs College Library series published by B&H Publishing. Matthew Emerson provides what could be called either a broad overview of the Bible or an introduction to biblical theology. That’s a perfect place to begin any series aimed at those in ministry. We need the big picture before we dive into the details. I see this volume as the scholarly presentation of what many old-time preachers called “the Scarlet Thread that runs through the Bible”.
Chapter 1 explains what biblical theology is. It gives an overview of the difficulty that some have found in defining it. He even explains the Dallas School, the Chicago School, and the Philadelphia School, which represents the main viewpoints. The point for us is learning how a passage fits into the grand narrative of Scripture. He also argues for the Bible’s theological unity.
Chapters 2, 3, and 4 tell the story of the Bible in a way that honors that unity and develops biblical theology. Chapter 2 devotes itself to an explanation of Creation, the Fall, and redemption as seen in the foundational Book of Genesis. Chapter 3 traces redemption from Exodus through the end of the Old Testament in beautiful fashion. Chapter 3 carries the story to its completion in the New Testament.
Chapter 5 entitled “Exploring Biblical Terrains” looks at the primary themes of the story that covers the entire Bible. The author sees those themes as covenant and kingdom, with the additional themes of creation and wisdom, God’s servant, mission, and salvation through faith. The final chapter gives practical applications for using biblical theology in our preaching and teaching.
The book is less than 100 pages, easy-to-read, attractive, and filled with scholarly footnotes for those who seek additional study. If this first volume is any indication, I believe this series will be particularly successful.
I received this book free from the publisher. 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.
Chapter 1 explains what biblical theology is. It gives an overview of the difficulty that some have found in defining it. He even explains the Dallas School, the Chicago School, and the Philadelphia School, which represents the main viewpoints. The point for us is learning how a passage fits into the grand narrative of Scripture. He also argues for the Bible’s theological unity.
Chapters 2, 3, and 4 tell the story of the Bible in a way that honors that unity and develops biblical theology. Chapter 2 devotes itself to an explanation of Creation, the Fall, and redemption as seen in the foundational Book of Genesis. Chapter 3 traces redemption from Exodus through the end of the Old Testament in beautiful fashion. Chapter 3 carries the story to its completion in the New Testament.
Chapter 5 entitled “Exploring Biblical Terrains” looks at the primary themes of the story that covers the entire Bible. The author sees those themes as covenant and kingdom, with the additional themes of creation and wisdom, God’s servant, mission, and salvation through faith. The final chapter gives practical applications for using biblical theology in our preaching and teaching.
The book is less than 100 pages, easy-to-read, attractive, and filled with scholarly footnotes for those who seek additional study. If this first volume is any indication, I believe this series will be particularly successful.
I received this book free from the publisher. 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.
May 17, 2022
This short book is great resource for anyone who is curious about the consistency and narrative of the Bible as a whole. It is a helpful guide to see how the Bible ultimately points to the saving work of Christ in events prior to His incarnation. Emerson gives great application points at the end of the book and emphasizes the importance of using biblical theology in the Christian life.
My favorite part of the whole book was Emerson’s description of the end times. He provided a great analogy and then followed it with these words, “Jesus has stormed the forces of Satan in his life, death, resurrection, ascension, and gift of the Spirit; he has crushed the serpent’s head; he has put all God’s enemies under his feet. And yet, we are still waiting for the final consummation of that already-won victory…It is in this period, between the times, that the church waits in hope for Christ’s second coming.” (Emerson, pg.62) I won’t spoil the analogy he used, but these words in light of this analogy brought me great encouragement for what is to come. There is hope in our waiting and what a joy it is to be able to wait with His church for His coming!!
Great book. I think every Christian (fresh or veteran) could benefit from this read.
My favorite part of the whole book was Emerson’s description of the end times. He provided a great analogy and then followed it with these words, “Jesus has stormed the forces of Satan in his life, death, resurrection, ascension, and gift of the Spirit; he has crushed the serpent’s head; he has put all God’s enemies under his feet. And yet, we are still waiting for the final consummation of that already-won victory…It is in this period, between the times, that the church waits in hope for Christ’s second coming.” (Emerson, pg.62) I won’t spoil the analogy he used, but these words in light of this analogy brought me great encouragement for what is to come. There is hope in our waiting and what a joy it is to be able to wait with His church for His coming!!
Great book. I think every Christian (fresh or veteran) could benefit from this read.
August 21, 2020
Great introduction to the discipline of biblical theology. Wonderful blend of accuracy, insight, and accessibility. Very helpful overall.
February 19, 2025
I read this book two times in order to further ingrain the structure of the work and Emerson’s view of the flow of the biblical storyline. On the second read, I further appreciated his emphasis on the cosmic effects of sin and the cosmic implications of Jesus’s redemptive work as revealed in the Scriptures.
A great work that introduces readers to key components of biblical theology, the story of Scripture, key themes of biblical theology, and the practical uses of biblical theology. Emerson explores the subject of biblical theology from a storyline and multiplex thematic approach to the discipline. He examines the story through the categories of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. He ultimately traces how God seeks to restore his kingdom and redeem the cosmos through the various covenants he makes with people that culminates in the life and ministry of Jesus. I did dock one star because in his discussion of the storyline of Scripture, there is no discussion on the role of the OT Writings in this storyline—a common issue of the storyline approach to biblical theology. The book is helpfully repetitive, but Emerson does make certain claims or assumptions at times without defending said arguments. Great work overall for understanding the big Christo-centric picture and key themes of the Bible!
A great work that introduces readers to key components of biblical theology, the story of Scripture, key themes of biblical theology, and the practical uses of biblical theology. Emerson explores the subject of biblical theology from a storyline and multiplex thematic approach to the discipline. He examines the story through the categories of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. He ultimately traces how God seeks to restore his kingdom and redeem the cosmos through the various covenants he makes with people that culminates in the life and ministry of Jesus. I did dock one star because in his discussion of the storyline of Scripture, there is no discussion on the role of the OT Writings in this storyline—a common issue of the storyline approach to biblical theology. The book is helpfully repetitive, but Emerson does make certain claims or assumptions at times without defending said arguments. Great work overall for understanding the big Christo-centric picture and key themes of the Bible!
January 16, 2022
There are a lot of good points about this book. It is short and direct in bringing out the aspects of Biblical Theology. It brings out the practical uses of Biblical Theology in the life of a Christian. I think the concluding paragraph is a little too strong and seems to make Biblical Theology the ultimate in discipleship. That felt a little too strong. If you are a lay person looking to learn what Biblical Theology is about and where to begin, I think this is the best book to start with.
December 29, 2023
This is a wonderful introduction to the topic of biblical theology. Emerson clearly lays out his argument, showing readers that the Bible has one point (Jesus) and one story (creation, fall, redemption, new creation). With this framework in place, the dominant themes of covenant and kingdom fall into place, as do other smaller themes like wisdom, God's Servant, faith and justification, and mission.
January 10, 2025
A solid, short overview of biblical theology and the metanarrative of scripture. It traces main themes and serves as a very good introduction for anyone new to the topic, explaining in brief the differences and overlap between this approach and systematic theology.
I’d recommend for anyone who wants to be brought up to speed with the story of scripture and how it all works together, but it’s probably a bit shallow for those looking for a deeper dive.
I’d recommend for anyone who wants to be brought up to speed with the story of scripture and how it all works together, but it’s probably a bit shallow for those looking for a deeper dive.
November 30, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book! Emerson did a great job tying together the books of the Bible and showing how they each connect to the big story in a way that was easy to read; definitely want to read this more than once. Praise God for his faithfulness and wisdom in how all of scripture works together to show us more about him and our purpose!
February 20, 2025
I really liked this book! I’ve never read a summary of Scripture, and I enjoyed how Emerson outlined its themes and commonalities.
“Biblical theology, then, helps us to see the end goal of the biblical narrative-Jesus—as well as how its different parts fit into that one main Christological pathway of Scripture.”
“Biblical theology, then, helps us to see the end goal of the biblical narrative-Jesus—as well as how its different parts fit into that one main Christological pathway of Scripture.”
August 6, 2025
Brilliant book!! It conveys deep holistic understanding of scripture in language that you can understand without diluting the theology in a short condensed book. Highly recommend, it taught me tonnes!
August 18, 2019
A small yet powerful little book. A solid work of scholarship and perhaps the finest, briefest introduction to the greater world of Christian theology that I’ve come across.
March 9, 2022
This book does a fine job of doing just as it claims: being an intro to biblical theology. It is mercifully concise for any church member to pick up and see the beauty of the Scriptures.
October 3, 2022
Need an easy to read intro to biblical theology? Here it is!
December 11, 2023
9/10
Physical
Physical
March 6, 2024
What Emerson accomplishes here in 87 pages really is incredible. This is such a great intro to biblical theology.
December 13, 2025
Simple, straightforward, well organized.
November 30, 2021
Matthew Emerson has packed a wealth of insights and resources in a very brief book (95 pages). It is another of the growing number of short books on biblical theology and the storyline of the Bible.
Like most of the recent ones, Emerson takes an amillennial approach to eschatology and sees the church as the “remaking” of Israel (57, 60), the “renewed Israel” (64, 68), the “new Israel,” the “Israel of God,” and the “true Israel” (67). Yet, no one millennial view has an exclusive claim to the kingdom, the covenants, or the unifying theme(s) of the Bible. There are benefits from reading a variety of authors to see the diversity within the unity of the one Book by the one Author to tell the one Story.
Also like most authors, Emerson has his own distinctive take on how to summarize and trace the story of the Bible with his greatest emphasis on Christ as the New Adam who restores all that was lost by the first Adam, specifically: (1) to multiply image-bearers; (2) to rule over creation; (3) to cultivate and keep the land; and (4) to obey the law. [My take: Glory-Spreaders, Servant-Rulers, Worship-Nurturers, and God-Lovers]. Emerson repeatedly reviews these but in a variety of combinations that at times can be confusing.
As one of the leaders in the Center for Baptist Renewal, Emerson includes brief sections on the Bible’s Trinitarian shape as well as biblical theology and the early church.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and gleaned several new insights into the storyline of the Scriptures. Emerson writes in a succinct and economical style. He thankfully uses footnotes(!) to point to helpful resources along the way. Regardless of how you trace the storyline of the Bible, Emerson has written a compact read that will help you sharpen your own distinctive approach.
Like most of the recent ones, Emerson takes an amillennial approach to eschatology and sees the church as the “remaking” of Israel (57, 60), the “renewed Israel” (64, 68), the “new Israel,” the “Israel of God,” and the “true Israel” (67). Yet, no one millennial view has an exclusive claim to the kingdom, the covenants, or the unifying theme(s) of the Bible. There are benefits from reading a variety of authors to see the diversity within the unity of the one Book by the one Author to tell the one Story.
Also like most authors, Emerson has his own distinctive take on how to summarize and trace the story of the Bible with his greatest emphasis on Christ as the New Adam who restores all that was lost by the first Adam, specifically: (1) to multiply image-bearers; (2) to rule over creation; (3) to cultivate and keep the land; and (4) to obey the law. [My take: Glory-Spreaders, Servant-Rulers, Worship-Nurturers, and God-Lovers]. Emerson repeatedly reviews these but in a variety of combinations that at times can be confusing.
As one of the leaders in the Center for Baptist Renewal, Emerson includes brief sections on the Bible’s Trinitarian shape as well as biblical theology and the early church.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and gleaned several new insights into the storyline of the Scriptures. Emerson writes in a succinct and economical style. He thankfully uses footnotes(!) to point to helpful resources along the way. Regardless of how you trace the storyline of the Bible, Emerson has written a compact read that will help you sharpen your own distinctive approach.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews