The discipline of Old Testament theology continues to be in flux as diverse approaches vie for dominance. Into the stream Paul R. House sends this student-friendly offering that should prove useful to a wide audience. Following introductory chapters on the history of the discipline and his own method, House discusses the theological emphases of each book in the order of the Hebrew canon. Readers with little prior background will find House's thematic surveys particularly helpful for coming to grips with basic biblical content as well as for probing the theological nuances of individual parts of the canon.
The book concludes by forging a set of summary statements concerning God and his character, the people of God, and links between the Old and New Testaments that suggest avenues for the exploration of a full biblical theology.
"Gerhard Hasel, a keen American advocate and analyst of biblical theology, proposed more than a decade ago that the theology of each individual biblical book be examined before synthesizing the whole. House has followed through on Hasel's program admirably. The results are impressive. His synthesis of the Old Testament, moreover, in which monotheism becomes the focal point, is clearly pertinent in a pluralistic religious world.Here is a passionate but mature exposition, crisply, often memorably, articulated. The book marches alongside recent full-blown volumes on Old Testament theology; this full-scale treatment offers a viable, compelling and evangelical alternative. It's a good read."
Elmer A. Martens, professor emeritus of Old Testament, Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminar
"Paul House employs his considerable talent and command of the literature to produce a remarkably insightful and stimulating theology of the Old Testament. His book-by-book approach is not only a contribution to scholarly discussion but also an invaluable resource for pastors and lay teachers of the Bible. I enthusiastically recommend this engagingly written and provocative volume as required reading for the serious student."
Tremper Longman III, associate professor of Old Testament, Westminster Theological Seminar
