What do you think?
Rate this book
God's Glory Revealed in Christ: Essays on Biblical Theology in Honor of Thomas R. Schreiner
Over his decades in Christian academia, Thomas R. Schreiner has created a diverse body of work in New Testament studies, biblical theology, and pastoral ministry. In honor of Schreiner’s ongoing work and commitment to faithful, winsome conversations about the central issues of our faith, editors Denny Burk, James M. Hamilton Jr. and Brain Vickers compiled nineteen essays addressing different aspects of biblical theology. These essays fall into four categories: Whole Bible Approaches to Biblical Theology as well as Major Themes and Issues, Background Issues, and Applications in Biblical Theology. Contributors discuss important topics, such as: dispensationalism, covenant theology, sanctification, and the kingdom of God and the public square. Readers of God’s Glory Revealed in Christ will deepen their understanding of biblical theology, learning, as Tom Schreiner has consistently modeled, how to apply biblical theology to life.
Contributors:
Clinton E. Arnold, Ardel Caneday, Denny Burk, D. A. Carson, Simon Gathercole, Joshua Greever, Donald A. Hagner, James M. Hamilton Jr., Barry Joslin, John Kimbell, Jason Meyer, Russell D. Moore, John Piper, Rob Plummer, Patrick Schreiner, Mark A. Seifrid, Ray Van Neste, Brian Vickers, Bruce Ware, Jarvis J. Williams, Shawn D. Wright, Robert W. Yarbrough
Contributors:
Clinton E. Arnold, Ardel Caneday, Denny Burk, D. A. Carson, Simon Gathercole, Joshua Greever, Donald A. Hagner, James M. Hamilton Jr., Barry Joslin, John Kimbell, Jason Meyer, Russell D. Moore, John Piper, Rob Plummer, Patrick Schreiner, Mark A. Seifrid, Ray Van Neste, Brian Vickers, Bruce Ware, Jarvis J. Williams, Shawn D. Wright, Robert W. Yarbrough
- GenresTheology
320 pages, Hardcover
Published November 29, 2019
15 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Denny Burk
22 books14 followersDenny Burk (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is professor of biblical studies at Boyce College, the undergraduate arm of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also serves as associate pastor at Kenwood Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Burk edits The Journal for Biblical Manhood & Womanhood and speaks and writes extensively about gender and sexuality. He keeps a popular blog at DennyBurk.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
January 20, 2020
I recently set myself to the task of reviewing books once again. Prior to seminary, I had started this practice as a means to both quench my thirst for reading books that far surpassed my means of income, but also, find helpful resources for the church. There are many books written each year from an Evangelical persuasion that are unhelpful, unbiblical, or simply just poorly written. My hope with reviewing books was to be able to wade through these materials for others who have less time, and as a result, don’t wish to waste it on material that won’t be particularly edifying. Fast-forward to full-time seminary, whilst my family was continuing to grow and I continued to work full-time, and this practice was abandoned in favor of retaining my sanity (and grades). However, now that I have graduated and don’t have required reading to do, I wanted to leap headlong back into the process because I truthfully enjoy it and hope to return to a more consistent practice of pointing people towards good resources.
The first review copy I requested this year is a festschrift from B & H Academic titled, God’s Glory Revealed in Christ: Essays on Biblical Theology in Honor of Thomas R. Schreiner. The book itself is broken up into four majors that obviously all pertain to the field of Biblical Theology from various, distinguished authors. The first 5 chapters fall under the framework of how various hermeneutical principles and systems play into one’s understanding of biblical-theological themes. The next six surround major themes and issues in the field of Biblical Theology (i.e. is the book of Hebrews explicitly Trinitarian?). The third major section of the book brings to the forefront various background issues at hand when studying certain books (i.e. is it entirely necessary to reconstruct the background of Colossians in order to comprehend what the theological message of the book is?). The final section of the book then focuses on modern, practical applications of biblical theology (such as Denny Burk’s section on transgenderism).
At first glance one might think this seems somewhat disjointed, especially as they look over the various chapters designated to particular fields within Biblical Theology—yet that is, in a nutshell, what joins them together. These are all various issues at play within our understanding of how a particular theme or topic arises within the Scriptures and gets developed. For example, Robert Yarbrough focuses on the role of the narrative of salvation history, as it relates to various positions biblical-theologians hold. In this, he traces out particular distinctions between those who seek to unfold the text as real history and those who seek to explain it away. In closing, he relates one’s understanding of salvation history to an individual’s understanding of personal piety. In other words: he is highlighting the need to trace the over-arching storyline of Scripture in this grand, metanarrative of God’s history—with a keen eye on drawing attention to the fact that such a study is equally as important as a devotional understanding or pragmatic application, because it unfolds God’s dealings with humanity. Salvation, though an objective reality with objective facts, is something that plays out over a period of time as further revelation is given, and further actions of God take place in space and time.
Another, such as Simone Gathercole, is asking the question: how do the non-canonical Gnostic and Valentinian “gospels” treat the Old Testament, and how does this relate to how the apostles treated the Old Testament? In other words, he is tracing out a historical background in order to demonstrate how some of the ways these “gospels” did treat the Old Testament is tantamount to modern-day, liberal theology, which bases their understanding of the text on personal presuppositions rather than apostolic authority and Divine revelation. Additionally, he draws out in what ways this affects one’s understanding of the Old Testament as it relates to Christ’s life, death, and resurrection to show that this “ditching” of the Old Testament drastically alters one’s understanding of the nature and work of Christ Himself. Yet at the same time, he highlights what can only be stated as various Pagan ideals that crept into these “gospels,” which sets itself in stark contrast to the teaching of the apostles. As we study these things in greater detail, we can begin to understand some of the issues the apostles might have been dealing with in the early church, especially as it relates to a pure conception of Christ and the authority given to those chosen by Him to proclaim the gospel. The really neat thing in this, which isn’t drawn out in the book (but shouldn’t be too much of an issue for the reader to tease out) are the ways this relates to various, heresies and cults present in our own day and age (i.e. Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormonism).
There are some chapters in the book that are more difficult to interact with if you do not have an understanding of some of the issues they are writing towards, or scholars they are interacting with (I think of D.A. Carson’s chapter in particular). Invariably though, I don’t see this as a large enough issue to detract from reading the book; there are a number of chapters which I found would be worth the price of the book alone. While at times I found myself disagreeing with conclusions of some of the contributors, or perhaps an overstatement of the importance of some particularly nuanced issue, it was nonetheless an enjoyable read. In example, James M. Hamilton Jr. wrote an essay on the importance of the order of the Old Testament books, especially as it relates to Luke 24:44. While he raises some valid criticisms of how the books, as arranged in our current printings might cause readers to miss some inter-textual cues, I am not fully convinced that this proves as large a detriment as he suggests, such that we need to amend how we currently print Bibles so as to match the original ordering. Regardless of one’s convictions here, it presents the reader with the implications of some things one might not normally consider; if we are interested in how biblical themes and teaching are developed as they are revealed, this is an important issue.
At the heart of all of this though is the theme that arises within the festschrift for Dr. Thomas Schreiner: there is a correct way of understanding the text and there are various issues present for us to study diligently in order to do so. As is the nature of Biblical Theology, the interest is in studying how these things developed over the corpus of the Bible’s teaching. In much the same way one’s understanding of the Bible’s teaching as a whole on any particular topic (Systematic Theology) is beneficial, so is understanding how these teachings were progressively revealed and the various background issues at play in their formulation. Overall, I sense this is a festschrift that will provoke much thought in the careful reader as they consider the contributions of the various authors.
It ought to be said thought that due to the nature of the book in applying various categories of biblical-theological themes/issues—this is in many ways an intermediate level book on biblical theology. It wades deeply enough to whet one’s appetite and prompt further study of the particular emphases, and it is quite a useful reference work, but it is by no means an exhaustive treatment of any particular emphasis. However, I regard that as a strength, as it introduces the reader to some issues they might not currently be aware of, or, perhaps they have not fully thought-through some of the implications of a particular understanding of a beloved passage (I think of Ray Van Neste’s thoughtful and delightfully pastoral contribution on Acts. 6:4). I was equally impressed with John Piper’s contribution on sanctification and glorification, which given the recent trend amongst many within the confessionally Reformed camp to accuse Piper of “popery,” ought to serve as an example of just how silly such an accusation is.
While there are many admirable chapters within the book, perhaps it was the final chapter written by Thomas Schreiner’s son that I found the most enjoyable. I steadily gained a new appreciation for a man whose ministry I’ve benefitted from in many ways, but not so much as I did in reading Patrick Schreiner’s reflection on his father’s life and ministry. The reason for this is simple: I am a father with high hopes that my own son would speak so positively of me later in life; that he would see not only a love theology, but for people. Ultimately, my hope is that like Tom’s son, my own son would find a wonderful and harmonious union between orthodoxy and orthopraxy. Though it is the smallest chapter of the festschrift for Dr. Thomas Schreiner, I sense that it will leave the reader with a feeling of a simple fondness for the character of the man due to the small window one gets into his life.
Most remarkably, the sense I gathered was that in spite of his many accolades and academic experience, he is a humble man with an earnest desire to submit himself wholly to the Word of God. One experience I recall was that while preaching through the book of Revelation, Dr. Thomas Schreiner changed his view on the millennium from Amillennialism to Premillennialism, based largely on his exegesis of Rev. 20:1-15 (which is no doubt, a key passage that informs one’s eschatological outlook). While this took many in the Reformed blogosphere aback, the one thing that cannot be said of Dr. Thomas Schreiner is that he is a sloppy exegete, nor that he is so entrenched within a particular system that he is unwilling to reconsider his understanding of the text if an exegesis of it lends itself to such a cause.
It is here then that I give my final commendation of this book. On the whole, there are several chapters that piqued my interest to go deeper—not simply into a particular branch of theology represented in the festschrift, but in my own areas of interest. Any book that leaves the reader hungering for more is, in my estimation, one worth purchasing and reading. Couple this with the glowing words of his friends, colleagues, and son, and I believe any reader will grow in appreciation for the man behind the books. I have always appreciated the work of Thomas Schreiner and as a result of this book in his honor, came away with a new appreciation for the man himself. I would consider it especially worth your time if you have an interest in Biblical Theology, but would also recommend this book to those looking to gain a better understanding of the issues at hand within the field of Biblical Theology. Any way you stretch it, I believe you’ll walk away from the book better for it.
Disclosure: I received this book free from B & H Academic through the media reviewer program. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
If you are interested in reading any other book reviews we have to offer, check out our blog on the Patheos Evangelical channel: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/chorusi...
The first review copy I requested this year is a festschrift from B & H Academic titled, God’s Glory Revealed in Christ: Essays on Biblical Theology in Honor of Thomas R. Schreiner. The book itself is broken up into four majors that obviously all pertain to the field of Biblical Theology from various, distinguished authors. The first 5 chapters fall under the framework of how various hermeneutical principles and systems play into one’s understanding of biblical-theological themes. The next six surround major themes and issues in the field of Biblical Theology (i.e. is the book of Hebrews explicitly Trinitarian?). The third major section of the book brings to the forefront various background issues at hand when studying certain books (i.e. is it entirely necessary to reconstruct the background of Colossians in order to comprehend what the theological message of the book is?). The final section of the book then focuses on modern, practical applications of biblical theology (such as Denny Burk’s section on transgenderism).
At first glance one might think this seems somewhat disjointed, especially as they look over the various chapters designated to particular fields within Biblical Theology—yet that is, in a nutshell, what joins them together. These are all various issues at play within our understanding of how a particular theme or topic arises within the Scriptures and gets developed. For example, Robert Yarbrough focuses on the role of the narrative of salvation history, as it relates to various positions biblical-theologians hold. In this, he traces out particular distinctions between those who seek to unfold the text as real history and those who seek to explain it away. In closing, he relates one’s understanding of salvation history to an individual’s understanding of personal piety. In other words: he is highlighting the need to trace the over-arching storyline of Scripture in this grand, metanarrative of God’s history—with a keen eye on drawing attention to the fact that such a study is equally as important as a devotional understanding or pragmatic application, because it unfolds God’s dealings with humanity. Salvation, though an objective reality with objective facts, is something that plays out over a period of time as further revelation is given, and further actions of God take place in space and time.
Another, such as Simone Gathercole, is asking the question: how do the non-canonical Gnostic and Valentinian “gospels” treat the Old Testament, and how does this relate to how the apostles treated the Old Testament? In other words, he is tracing out a historical background in order to demonstrate how some of the ways these “gospels” did treat the Old Testament is tantamount to modern-day, liberal theology, which bases their understanding of the text on personal presuppositions rather than apostolic authority and Divine revelation. Additionally, he draws out in what ways this affects one’s understanding of the Old Testament as it relates to Christ’s life, death, and resurrection to show that this “ditching” of the Old Testament drastically alters one’s understanding of the nature and work of Christ Himself. Yet at the same time, he highlights what can only be stated as various Pagan ideals that crept into these “gospels,” which sets itself in stark contrast to the teaching of the apostles. As we study these things in greater detail, we can begin to understand some of the issues the apostles might have been dealing with in the early church, especially as it relates to a pure conception of Christ and the authority given to those chosen by Him to proclaim the gospel. The really neat thing in this, which isn’t drawn out in the book (but shouldn’t be too much of an issue for the reader to tease out) are the ways this relates to various, heresies and cults present in our own day and age (i.e. Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormonism).
There are some chapters in the book that are more difficult to interact with if you do not have an understanding of some of the issues they are writing towards, or scholars they are interacting with (I think of D.A. Carson’s chapter in particular). Invariably though, I don’t see this as a large enough issue to detract from reading the book; there are a number of chapters which I found would be worth the price of the book alone. While at times I found myself disagreeing with conclusions of some of the contributors, or perhaps an overstatement of the importance of some particularly nuanced issue, it was nonetheless an enjoyable read. In example, James M. Hamilton Jr. wrote an essay on the importance of the order of the Old Testament books, especially as it relates to Luke 24:44. While he raises some valid criticisms of how the books, as arranged in our current printings might cause readers to miss some inter-textual cues, I am not fully convinced that this proves as large a detriment as he suggests, such that we need to amend how we currently print Bibles so as to match the original ordering. Regardless of one’s convictions here, it presents the reader with the implications of some things one might not normally consider; if we are interested in how biblical themes and teaching are developed as they are revealed, this is an important issue.
At the heart of all of this though is the theme that arises within the festschrift for Dr. Thomas Schreiner: there is a correct way of understanding the text and there are various issues present for us to study diligently in order to do so. As is the nature of Biblical Theology, the interest is in studying how these things developed over the corpus of the Bible’s teaching. In much the same way one’s understanding of the Bible’s teaching as a whole on any particular topic (Systematic Theology) is beneficial, so is understanding how these teachings were progressively revealed and the various background issues at play in their formulation. Overall, I sense this is a festschrift that will provoke much thought in the careful reader as they consider the contributions of the various authors.
It ought to be said thought that due to the nature of the book in applying various categories of biblical-theological themes/issues—this is in many ways an intermediate level book on biblical theology. It wades deeply enough to whet one’s appetite and prompt further study of the particular emphases, and it is quite a useful reference work, but it is by no means an exhaustive treatment of any particular emphasis. However, I regard that as a strength, as it introduces the reader to some issues they might not currently be aware of, or, perhaps they have not fully thought-through some of the implications of a particular understanding of a beloved passage (I think of Ray Van Neste’s thoughtful and delightfully pastoral contribution on Acts. 6:4). I was equally impressed with John Piper’s contribution on sanctification and glorification, which given the recent trend amongst many within the confessionally Reformed camp to accuse Piper of “popery,” ought to serve as an example of just how silly such an accusation is.
While there are many admirable chapters within the book, perhaps it was the final chapter written by Thomas Schreiner’s son that I found the most enjoyable. I steadily gained a new appreciation for a man whose ministry I’ve benefitted from in many ways, but not so much as I did in reading Patrick Schreiner’s reflection on his father’s life and ministry. The reason for this is simple: I am a father with high hopes that my own son would speak so positively of me later in life; that he would see not only a love theology, but for people. Ultimately, my hope is that like Tom’s son, my own son would find a wonderful and harmonious union between orthodoxy and orthopraxy. Though it is the smallest chapter of the festschrift for Dr. Thomas Schreiner, I sense that it will leave the reader with a feeling of a simple fondness for the character of the man due to the small window one gets into his life.
Most remarkably, the sense I gathered was that in spite of his many accolades and academic experience, he is a humble man with an earnest desire to submit himself wholly to the Word of God. One experience I recall was that while preaching through the book of Revelation, Dr. Thomas Schreiner changed his view on the millennium from Amillennialism to Premillennialism, based largely on his exegesis of Rev. 20:1-15 (which is no doubt, a key passage that informs one’s eschatological outlook). While this took many in the Reformed blogosphere aback, the one thing that cannot be said of Dr. Thomas Schreiner is that he is a sloppy exegete, nor that he is so entrenched within a particular system that he is unwilling to reconsider his understanding of the text if an exegesis of it lends itself to such a cause.
It is here then that I give my final commendation of this book. On the whole, there are several chapters that piqued my interest to go deeper—not simply into a particular branch of theology represented in the festschrift, but in my own areas of interest. Any book that leaves the reader hungering for more is, in my estimation, one worth purchasing and reading. Couple this with the glowing words of his friends, colleagues, and son, and I believe any reader will grow in appreciation for the man behind the books. I have always appreciated the work of Thomas Schreiner and as a result of this book in his honor, came away with a new appreciation for the man himself. I would consider it especially worth your time if you have an interest in Biblical Theology, but would also recommend this book to those looking to gain a better understanding of the issues at hand within the field of Biblical Theology. Any way you stretch it, I believe you’ll walk away from the book better for it.
Disclosure: I received this book free from B & H Academic through the media reviewer program. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
If you are interested in reading any other book reviews we have to offer, check out our blog on the Patheos Evangelical channel: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/chorusi...
May 7, 2020
God's Glory Revealed in Christ: Essays on Biblical Theology in Honor of Thomas R. Schreiner is not for the faint of heart. I say that jokingly because there is plenty of Greek and Hebrew in this book. However, if you are a pastor or a student of biblical theology, this will be a great addition to your library. The contributors include scholars and pastors like Albert Mohler, Jr., D.A. Carson, James Hamilton, John Piper, Robert Plummer, and more. To say this volume is meaty is an understatement.
God's Glory Revealed in Christ is divided into 4 helpful categories:
1. Whole Bible approaches to biblical theology: This section is packed with helpful information, especially for those considering the various approaches to biblical theology and how they interpret the scripture to form their theology. These chapters provide overviews of the various forms of and systems of biblical theology such progressive dispensationalism, new covenant theology, etc.
2. Major themes and issues in biblical theology: These chapters help understand some of the broader themes in Schreiner’s work. The essays also expand on some of the issues and qualms facing biblical theology today. It was helpful to see how biblical theology helps interpretive challenges in the Bible, especially in the New Testament as it relates to the Old Testament and complex doctrines such as the Trinity. The chapter on pastoral ministry was golden. It definitely changed my perspective on pastoral visitation and the importance of ministering the word beyond just the pulpit.
3. Background issues and biblical theology: This was probably the most technical section of the book. It Is valuable in teaching the importance of background information with regard to biblical theology and New Testament interpretation. For most lay level readers, much of this will be outside of our scope at first. However, it is beneficial to be acquainted with these issues as we read and study theology. Jarvis William’s chapter on second temple Judaism was brilliant (though jam-packed with Greek!). It was great to see some of the connections he made, I certainly look forward to reading that chapter again!
4. Applications: Of course, this section is very practical and accessible even to those who don’t have a strong grasp of previous technical material. This section addressed transgenderism , the great commission, pastors as theologians, academic ministry, and the kingdom in today’s public square. I was further reminded that pastors and church leaders need to be well-equipped to teach the Word in season and out. We must never fail to see how our biblical theology will shape the preaching and practical ministry of our churches.
While all of this valuable information lies in the first 268 pages, my favorite chapter was on Schreiner as a father. His son's word echo those stated by his students and colleagues in previous chapters. Throughout the book, it is made clear that he is a scholar of scholars, and yet he is often described as humble, approachable, loving, and pastoral. Tom Schreiner is a family man who is sinner who has flaws just like everyone else, but he has an admirable life worthy of his work as a pastor theologian.
If biblical theology is your niche (like it is mine!), I heartily recommend this book. I especially recommend it to pastors who are seeking to grow theologically and become pastor theologians. God's Glory Revealed in Christ has given me a strong desire to check out more of Tom Schreiner's writings, especially on biblical theology.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review.
God's Glory Revealed in Christ is divided into 4 helpful categories:
1. Whole Bible approaches to biblical theology: This section is packed with helpful information, especially for those considering the various approaches to biblical theology and how they interpret the scripture to form their theology. These chapters provide overviews of the various forms of and systems of biblical theology such progressive dispensationalism, new covenant theology, etc.
2. Major themes and issues in biblical theology: These chapters help understand some of the broader themes in Schreiner’s work. The essays also expand on some of the issues and qualms facing biblical theology today. It was helpful to see how biblical theology helps interpretive challenges in the Bible, especially in the New Testament as it relates to the Old Testament and complex doctrines such as the Trinity. The chapter on pastoral ministry was golden. It definitely changed my perspective on pastoral visitation and the importance of ministering the word beyond just the pulpit.
3. Background issues and biblical theology: This was probably the most technical section of the book. It Is valuable in teaching the importance of background information with regard to biblical theology and New Testament interpretation. For most lay level readers, much of this will be outside of our scope at first. However, it is beneficial to be acquainted with these issues as we read and study theology. Jarvis William’s chapter on second temple Judaism was brilliant (though jam-packed with Greek!). It was great to see some of the connections he made, I certainly look forward to reading that chapter again!
4. Applications: Of course, this section is very practical and accessible even to those who don’t have a strong grasp of previous technical material. This section addressed transgenderism , the great commission, pastors as theologians, academic ministry, and the kingdom in today’s public square. I was further reminded that pastors and church leaders need to be well-equipped to teach the Word in season and out. We must never fail to see how our biblical theology will shape the preaching and practical ministry of our churches.
While all of this valuable information lies in the first 268 pages, my favorite chapter was on Schreiner as a father. His son's word echo those stated by his students and colleagues in previous chapters. Throughout the book, it is made clear that he is a scholar of scholars, and yet he is often described as humble, approachable, loving, and pastoral. Tom Schreiner is a family man who is sinner who has flaws just like everyone else, but he has an admirable life worthy of his work as a pastor theologian.
If biblical theology is your niche (like it is mine!), I heartily recommend this book. I especially recommend it to pastors who are seeking to grow theologically and become pastor theologians. God's Glory Revealed in Christ has given me a strong desire to check out more of Tom Schreiner's writings, especially on biblical theology.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review.
May 1, 2020
If you read anything in the realm of theology and doctrine, you have undoubtedly heard of Thomas R. Schreiner and his work in biblical theology. Highly respected by his peers, he has been a blessing to many even outside of the academic world. Edited by Denny Burk, James M. Hamilton Jr., and Brian Vickers, God’s Glory Revealed in Christ is a Festschrift to Thomas R. Schreiner, with essays on Biblical Theology in honor of him and his work.
About Thomas R. Schreiner
Schreiner is the James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and Professor of Biblical Theology, as well as the Associate Dean of the School of Theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has taught as a pastor, in the classroom, and as a writer. A prominent Pauline scholar, he is a respected author and editor of many books, journals, and Bible translations.
After a foreword by Albert Mohler, 19 chapters are presented at the highest level of scholarship to discuss biblical theology. The book is broken up into four sections. First, whole Bible approaches to biblical theology are examined. Second, major themes and issues in biblical theology are discussed. Third, background issues and biblical theology are explained. Fourth, applications of biblical theology are presented.
Favorite Chapters
The book is filled with contributors of the most excellent caliber. Ware, Carson, and Piper might be familiar to many readers. The essays are thorough, yet digestible for a book that is just less than 300 pages. They are rich in content and will definitely lead you through many levels of thinking. But it is clear that these scholars are well-versed, and their mastery of the subject at hand is impressive.
My favorite chapters were in the section on various applications of biblical theology. Denny Burk discusses transgenderism and three biblical axioms, summarized as (1) the distinction between male and female is biological, (2) the distinction between male and female is social, and (3) the distinction between male and female is good. Brian Vickers shows how The Great Commission Story is essential for a proper understanding of biblical theology, and it is a catalyst for personal involvement in the work of missions. Jason Meyer and John Kimbell expound the importance of the pastor theologian, and how this role must be reclaimed today.
Honor and Respect
The last three essays worked up to a beautiful crescendo of respect for Schreiner. This is because they are not only about his work and accomplishments, but about his character. Robert L. Plummer showed how Schreiner’s academic ministry was exemplary and unmatched in competency, humility, church-based applications, collegiality, and Christian love. Russell Moore wrote how Schreiner knew the importance and primacy of The Kingdom of God when compared to the public square.
And in a simple afterword, Schreiner’s son, Patrick, gives a history of his life, reflects on their family dynamics, and gives a few ministry notes. It is a fitting conclusion and tribute to Schreiner. While known as a giant in theological academia, we see a man who lived a God-fearing life, striving for excellence in his work, loving his family, serving the church, and showing us Christ.
I received a media copy of God’s Glory Revealed in Christ and this is my honest review.
About Thomas R. Schreiner
Schreiner is the James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and Professor of Biblical Theology, as well as the Associate Dean of the School of Theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has taught as a pastor, in the classroom, and as a writer. A prominent Pauline scholar, he is a respected author and editor of many books, journals, and Bible translations.
After a foreword by Albert Mohler, 19 chapters are presented at the highest level of scholarship to discuss biblical theology. The book is broken up into four sections. First, whole Bible approaches to biblical theology are examined. Second, major themes and issues in biblical theology are discussed. Third, background issues and biblical theology are explained. Fourth, applications of biblical theology are presented.
Favorite Chapters
The book is filled with contributors of the most excellent caliber. Ware, Carson, and Piper might be familiar to many readers. The essays are thorough, yet digestible for a book that is just less than 300 pages. They are rich in content and will definitely lead you through many levels of thinking. But it is clear that these scholars are well-versed, and their mastery of the subject at hand is impressive.
My favorite chapters were in the section on various applications of biblical theology. Denny Burk discusses transgenderism and three biblical axioms, summarized as (1) the distinction between male and female is biological, (2) the distinction between male and female is social, and (3) the distinction between male and female is good. Brian Vickers shows how The Great Commission Story is essential for a proper understanding of biblical theology, and it is a catalyst for personal involvement in the work of missions. Jason Meyer and John Kimbell expound the importance of the pastor theologian, and how this role must be reclaimed today.
Honor and Respect
The last three essays worked up to a beautiful crescendo of respect for Schreiner. This is because they are not only about his work and accomplishments, but about his character. Robert L. Plummer showed how Schreiner’s academic ministry was exemplary and unmatched in competency, humility, church-based applications, collegiality, and Christian love. Russell Moore wrote how Schreiner knew the importance and primacy of The Kingdom of God when compared to the public square.
And in a simple afterword, Schreiner’s son, Patrick, gives a history of his life, reflects on their family dynamics, and gives a few ministry notes. It is a fitting conclusion and tribute to Schreiner. While known as a giant in theological academia, we see a man who lived a God-fearing life, striving for excellence in his work, loving his family, serving the church, and showing us Christ.
I received a media copy of God’s Glory Revealed in Christ and this is my honest review.
April 30, 2020
A great book for a great man!
September 22, 2020
A wonderful collection of essays mainly centered around issues in Biblical Theology dedicated Tom Schreiner. It is encouraging to see the effects of one mans faithful labor in the academy and the church. I found myself greatly challenged by the differing perspectives on Biblical Theology and the issues raised in the articles. It motivates me to want to read my Bible better and to understand how all of the parts relate to the whole in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
While the articles can get very technical at times. A person familiar with BT will be encouraged.
While the articles can get very technical at times. A person familiar with BT will be encouraged.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews