Biblical Theology: A Canonical, Thematic, and Ethical Approach

What are the Bible’s biggest themes? In Biblical Theology: A Canonical, Thematic, and Ethical Approach, Andreas J. Köstenberger and Gregory Goswell present an outstanding textbook to help Bible students interpret Scripture.

Detailed and Comprehensive

At nearly 1000 pages, this book is a monument and a masterpiece. It opens with the first 60 pages addressing the nature, practice, and significance of biblical theology. The authors use the analogy of biblical theology as a moderated family conversation. There are many voices, with some having more to say than others, but everyone should be heard.

The book then embarks on a journey through the old and New Testament, looking at each book, and discussing the themes, ethics, and storyline of scripture. This is a robust work — detailed and comprehensive. It will be exceptionally useful for preachers and teachers, while remaining helpful for serious personal study.

Beauty and Brilliance

I was most interested to consider the book ordering of the Bible, and how it impacts it’s theology. For instance, the Pentateuch is cleverly laid out, with the book of Leviticus and its theme of holiness at the center. Certainly, this is a beautiful look at the centrality of God’s holiness and its prominent place in the lives of his people. I was most moved in studying Romans, where the ethics of Romans is predicated upon the doctrine of the total depravity of humanity. Against this dark backdrop, the theme of the gospel shines.

The book ends with a 100 page conclusion, presenting a broad view of the biblical themes, ethics, and storyline of the entire Bible. It is enriching, worshipful, and enjoyable to read. Diving into this book will change how are you read, understand, interpret, and even apply the Bible. This is an incredible resource, and an unparalleled work. It is a testimony to the beauty of the Bible and the brilliance of its Author.

I received a media copy of Biblical Theology: A Canonical, Thematic, and Ethical Approach and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.