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The Old Testament explained and appliedA breath of fresh airTHE OLD TESTAMENT EXPLAINED AND APPLIED The OT Explained and Applied is a 'guide' to understanding what the Old Testament is about. It is not meant to be a thorough and comprehensive treatment, but, as the author writes, primarily 'To present a "glimpse" of the contents of each Old Testament book so that the overall plan and purpose of God might be clearly perceived' (p.15). Written in clear, user-friendly language, it is warm and educational throughout and where technical terms are dealt with, explanations are invariably given. Each of the OT books is covered, giving its author, historical setting, outline, Christ and his church, application and conclusion. They are dealt with in chapters of varying lengths and yet a thorough overview is given of the 'main points'. The pleasing thing to me as I read this book is that it is best used alongside an 'open' Bible to grasp the 'big picture' of God's workings in the OT period brought about in real history. Prophecies are not dealt with in great depth, yet there is sufficient help given to whet the appetite. There are no fanciful interpretations as one finds in some works, but sober, well thought out and eventually good interpretations that are faithful to the whole counsel of God. The author continually shows the New Testament writers' reading and application of OT prophecies that are 'spiritually fulfilled in Christ and His Church' (p.668). Of particular delight are the applications that conclude each chapter. They are thought-provoking and challenging. The writer has obviously read widely and gives an impressive array of follow-up references throughout for any who are interested to 'dig deeper'. It is always a breath of spiritual fresh air to have a book written from a Reformed evangelical persuasion, and here is one for the library of any Christian desiring to grasp just what the plans and purposes of God are in the Old Testament, and how these come together in his Son Jesus Christ. In this the author does fulfil his purpose in writing. This work will no doubt prove most helpful to every student of the Word of God and to every Christian worker. It deserves wide readership, but I couldn't help thinking that the sheer volume of the book might prove an initial problem for the average reader - I trust not! Brian Moody, pastor, © Evangelicals Now - July 2003 |