Book Reviews

Logos Software Series X - Scholar’s biblical reference books to their tra- one should note that some publish- Library (Bellingham, WA: Logos), ditional print format, there is only ers, such as , have their $599.95; and BibleWorks 6.0 (Norfolk, one program for you—the Libronix own proprietary format for electronic VA: BibleWorks, LLC), $295.00. Digital Library System (formerly the publishing. Similarly, Ages software Logos Library System). The Libronix offers numerous titles in PDF format. This is a comparative review of the system can be purchased at several While Libronix is an obvious leader in two most widely used Bible software levels. As one goes up the tiers, the digital publishing, it does not have a programs in use today. Because of my price increases, but so does the level monopoly. interest in biblical language software, of access to resources and tools. In One thing that Scholar’s Library I regularly have both professors and this review, I will focus on the top-of- and similar programs cannot provide students ask my advice about which the-line product, Logos Bible Software the user, however, is the wisdom to program to purchase. Persons take Series X - Scholar’s Library. know which reference works are such care in their decisions because The base program comes with worth accessing. Thus, while a user of of the expensive price tag on such more than 230 and Bible ref- Scholar’s Library may simply type in a programs (anywhere from $100 to erence titles, which, if purchased Scripture reference or topic and have more than $600). For a person with in equivalent print editions would at his immediate disposal dozens of a PC who intends to work in the cost more than $5,000. In addition digital books turned to just the right original Greek and Hebrew texts, to many Christian classics, popu- page (similar to a Google Internet I think there are only two options: lar works, and standard reference search), the more difficult task is Logos (www.logos.com) or BibleWorks titles (e.g., Calvin’s Institutes, War- having the experience and wisdom to (www.bibleworks.com). ren Wiersbe’s “Be” Series, Harper’s evaluate critically these voices. For a Before discussing Logos and Bible- Bible Dictionary), the Scholar’s Library pastor who does not know the titles Works, one other program must be comes with a solid collection of origi- or authors of many of these books, mentioned. The non-profi t organi- nal language texts (Nestle-Aland’s his uncritical use of everything the zation Gramcord produces a power- 27th edition Greek , library search engine pulls up will ful and inexpensive program (see the Hebrew Old Testament [BHS], result in a sermon of unpredictable www.gramcord.org). Yet, I do not Rahlf’s edition of the Septuagint, the accuracy. With digital books, like think Gramcord’s user-interface is as Biblia Sacra Vulgata, and others). print books, comes the responsibility intuitively-based as Logos or Bible- Depending on the size of one’s of critical thought. Unfortunately, the Works. A perusal of Gramcord’s print hard drive and how much money one ease of accessing digital works can and Internet advertising literature is willing to spend, the Libronix Digi- sometimes produce an intoxicating will demonstrate a similar plethora tal Library can be expanded almost and unrefl ective imbibing of data. of information without adequate endlessly. Many theological books Even with this caveat, for a theolo- organization. Ultimately, a software and journals that are currently being gian or minister, there is no other program is only valuable if one actu- published are available for purchase digital library system worth purchas- ally uses it. I prefer programs that in digital format for access through ing, in my opinion. Libronix is the “raise the valleys up and bring the Libronix. For a missionary, a person standard by which all other digital mountains and hills low”—thus my with limited shelf space, or a person library programs will be judged. focus on Logos and BibleWorks in this of limited mobility, there is little For persons who intend to use review. doubt that this program would prove the program primarily for access to If you prefer digital versions of especially useful. At the same time, original language texts and language 98 reference works, my endorsement are unfounded. It is true that searches ous versions of the biblical text can is more guarded. Admittedly, the in the original language texts are be placed alongside each other for program is good and powerful. As only as reliable as the morphologi- comparison and original language in other excellent biblical software cal taggings in the databases that helps appear in a small box at the programs, one can search quickly on underlie them. In other words, if the bottom of the screen as the cursor is words, display lexicon entries, and computer programmers that created placed over the Greek and Hebrew view parsing information as the cur- the database missed tagging a few texts. Statistics and word lists are sor moves over words in the text. As of the infi nitive forms of the Greek displayed on the upper right and a a Greek teacher, I was pleasantly sur- verb luō, then your search for all of digital notepad is found on the bot- prised to discover that the Scholar’s these forms of the verb will turn up tom right. Screen formatting, along Library employs Gramcord’s morpho- inaccurate results. While Scholar’s with most other options, can be logical tagging system and that the Library and BibleWorks both rely on changed. One thing I especially like unabridged Theological Dictionary of very reputable databases, some per- about BibleWorks is the detailed print the New Testament (TDNT or Kittel) sons have claimed that the Gramcord instruction manual and free demon- comes as standard. The educated database is the most reliable (and stration videos that come with the pastor or ministerial student who the Libronix system now comes with program. Whatever others say, in my uses the Scholars’ Library for work the Gramcord database). BibleWorks, opinion, “help functions” simply do in the original Greek and Hebrew however, contests this claim —offer- not compare to a hard copy manual. texts will not be disappointed. Yet, ing both the Friberg database and And, I personally do not want to take after spending some time with this their own BibleWorks NT morphology. several hours to print out a manual program and a few others, it seems According to the owner of BibleWorks, on my ink jet printer. to me that BibleWorks still has the Mike Bushnell, he cannot remember A salesman at Logos Research Sys- advantage. BibleWorks has a more the last time an error was reported in tems admitted to me that BibleWorks is intuitively-based interface. In other the BibleWorks NT morphology. And, better than the base Scholar’s Library words, when one wants to do some- there is also a companion BibleWorks at detailed and complex searches in thing in the program and does not LXX morphology, which makes the original language, which is why, know how, one can fi gure it out more searching the LXX and NT together he said, Logos just came out with the quickly and naturally without refer- easier. Biblical Languages Supplement (BLS – ence to “help” functions or manuals. The new Version 6.0 of BibleWorks www.logos.com/bls). However, after Also, BibleWorks is amazingly faster comes with some nice additional buying the Scholar’s Library for $599, in searches. (This speed comparison features. I will list the ones I fi nd few people want to pay an additional is well-documented in a September, most useful, both personally and as $159.95 to upgrade the original lan- 2003 article of the Journal of the Evan- a professor: a diagramming program, guage functions. Admittedly, the BLS gelical Theological Society.) an interactive Hebrew tutorial, Greek comes with some helpful tools—for From my interaction with Bible- texts of the Apostolic Fathers, a mor- example, a fantastic diagramming Works employees, I have to admit phologically-tagged Greek version of program, but the extra cost is hard that I have a bias for their “small Josephus, the Peshitta, the Targums, to justify when the BibleWorks pack- company” feel. In addition, I know morphologically-tagged Qumran age is only $299. Of course, with the they are active in providing their sectarian documents (with unlock Scholar’s Library, one has access to software at low or no costs to pastors code), customized Hebrew and Greek many books and reference works in impoverished countries. vocabulary fl ashcards, and expanded with are not available with other pro- I have heard criticisms of Bible- “mouse right click” options to lexical grams (e.g., TDNT or—for additional Works’ morphological databases, but and grammatical resources. As with purchase—the entire Word Biblical it seems to me that those criticisms older versions of BibleWorks, numer- Commentary series). 99 The breadth of resources avail- scholars); you can add the Biblical distinctive Christian understanding able in digital format can begin to Languages Supplement if you fi nd the of Jesus emerged as a result of intra- cloud one’s vision—similar to “new additional need for complex original Jewish polemics and over against car fever”—if one is not careful. You language searches. Greco-Roman paganism. must honestly ask yourself some In the heart of the book Hurtado questions: Do I use digital versions Robert L. Plummer surveys the historical evidence to of books now? If not, would you verify his thesis, and he considers fi nd it enjoyable or even preferable Lord Jesus Christ: Devotion to Jesus in order: early Pauline Christianity, to begin reading your books from the in Earliest Christianity. By Larry W. Judean Jewish Christianity, Q and computer screen? What will happen Hurtado. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, early devotion to Jesus, Jesus books to your expensive digital collection 2003, xxii + 746 pp., $55.00. (by which he means the Synoptic of books if future technology makes Gospels), Johannine Christianity, their current format obsolete? At Larry Hurtado remarks in the preface other Jesus books outside the canon your death, will a hard drive rather that his work is not a NT Christology (including the Gospel of Peter, infancy than shelves of books be passed along but represents an attempt to analyze gospels, and the Gospel of Thomas), to your children? “the beliefs and religious practices second century evidence (though he If price were no issue, I would that constituted devotion to Jesus includes here some infl uences from recommend owning a copy of the as a divine fi gure in earliest Chris- the fi rst century including Hebrews Scholar’s Library to access digital tianity” (p. xiii). In this monumental and later Pauline texts), the contribu- books, journals, and commentaries study Hurtado challenges the view tion of Valentinus and Marcion, and and a copy of BibleWorks for original that has enjoyed signifi cant infl uence the proto-orthodox view. language work. Also, if I owned both in NT studies since the publication It seems to me that the main thesis programs, I would occasionally run of Bousset’s Kyrios Christos (1913). propounded by Hurtado is correct, an original language search on both, Hurtado defends three theses in the and hence his work functions as a since they use different morpho- book: (1) devotion to Jesus emerged much-needed corrective to Bousset’s logical tagging. I would also possibly remarkably early among Jesus’ fol- view, though many others, of course, employ some of the graphical fea- lowers; (2) such devotion with all its have registered disagreement with tures in the Scholar’s Library. Version intensity and diversity was unparal- Bousset before Hurtado. For the 6.0 of BibleWorks has a diagramming leled in the religious milieu of the remainder of the review, I will make feature, but it does not have the fl ex- Greco-Roman world; and (3) Jesus a few comments (since the size of the ibility of the Scholar’s Library—where was reverenced as divine by his early book precludes detailed interaction) Greek, English, and blank diagrams followers and yet such worship of beginning with his section on Paul, can be interchanged at the click of a Jesus occurred within a monotheistic which is one of the most helpful sec- button. framework. tions in the book. Hurtado demon- In the end, the question is—do you Hurtado sketches in the context in strates from Paul’s letters that Paul’s want a digital library or do you want which devotion to Christ blossomed, Christology finds its roots in the a software tool to access the original ably defending the notion that the earliest Jewish Christian churches language texts? If you do not care Jewish religion was indeed mono- and cannot be assigned to Hellenistic about books and journals in digital theistic, that Jesus’ ministry played a Christianity as Bousset argued. We format (excluding original language crucial role in the reverence given to should note in addition that the neat reference works), buy BibleWorks. him, that early Christians had pow- distinction between Palestinian and (www.bibleworks.com). If a digital erful religious experiences of Jesus Hellenistic Christianity has been library is essential, then buy the Christ, including experiences of Jesus demolished by the work of Hengel, Scholar’s Library (www.logos.com/ as the resurrected Lord, and that the with which, Hurtado, not surpris- 100 ingly, agrees. Hurtado also argues that Son of Man is not a title in the supporting the trinitarian character effectively against Dunn that Paul Synoptics or John. But Hurtado’s of early Christianity. This review taught Jesus’ pre-existence. The high view fails to convince, for he under- should not end on a negative note status of Jesus is evident in that he emphasizes the role of Daniel 7:13-14 since Hurtado’s book is an erudite and was worshiped. That Jesus was wor- by limiting the allusion to Daniel 7 mammoth study demonstrating that shiped is clear by prayers to Jesus, the at Jesus’ trial to a literary device and Jesus was worshiped as God in earliest invocation of Jesus and confession of by arguing that texts that refer to Christianity without compromising him as Lord, baptism in his name, Daniel 7:13-14 are late. He concludes, monotheism. Perhaps the views of the Lord’s supper, and hymns that therefore, that the link to Daniel 7 is Bousset and his ilk have received a celebrate Jesus Christ. The high status not central. Hurtado’s position col- death-blow from Hurtado. afforded to Jesus did not compromise lapses if the events at Jesus’ trial do monotheism, but was understood to not represent a later refl ection but Thomas R. Schreiner bring glory to God the Father. portray Jesus’ actual citation of the One of the less convincing features Danielic text at his trial. Furthermore, Ascent to Love: A Guide to Dante’s of Hurtado’s book is his tendency to the rendering of Son of Man as ho Divine Comedy. By Peter J. Leithart. accept critical orthodoxy through- huios tou anthrōpou (with the article) Moscow, ID: Canon Press, 183 pp., out. For instance, he includes his consistently in the Gospels suggests $12.00 paper. chapter on Q before consulting the that the Gospel writers view the term Synoptic Gospels. Placing Q before as a title. Having said this, readers Dante’s Divine Comedy is without the Synoptics is a rather strange pro- will profi t much from the christologi- doubt one of the great classics of cedure since the nature of Q is keenly cal discussion in both the Synoptics world literature, and is regarded by debated, and some scholars question and John provided by Hurtado. some to be the greatest Christian alle- whether it even existed. Even if Q did Hurtado’s careful discussion of gory ever written. While I disagree exist, the document (or oral tradi- writings outside the canon from the that it is the greatest Christian alle- tion) has never been unearthed, and fi rst and second centuries is also use- gory (for me, Pilgrim’s Progress takes so we do not know (contrary to the ful and informed. He considers the that honor), it is an amazing work confi dent assertions of some!) what role of Jesus in both heterodox and that is impressive on many levels. In was actually contained in the alleged what he calls proto-orthodox writ- order to fully appreciate the genius document. Therefore, it is rather spec- ings. One of the interesting features of the work, however, it will be nec- ulative to write about the Christology of Hurtado’s book is that he often essary for most twenty-fi rst century found in Q to say the least. Perhaps speaks of the binitarian character of readers to secure the assistance of a Hurtado’s purpose is to demonstrate early Christian worship. He notes guide. Peter Leithart is a fi ne guide the plausibility of his theory even if occasionally the trinitarian character and he offers his services in Ascent one adopts a Q hypothesis, since he of some texts, but does not probe how to Love. argues that even Q does not point this fi ts his emphasis on the binitar- There are fi ve chapters in Leithart’s to variant form of Christian belief ian character of early Christianity. book. The fi rst two are introduction regarding Jesus Christ. In any case, Perhaps Hurtado excludes the Spirit to Dante’s ideas and poetry, and the reading this chapter on Q reminded because his aim is to establish a last three are a brief commentary on me that biblical scholars who com- critically assured minimum relative each of the three books that make up plain that those who do systematics to Jesus. Still, he fails to qualify his the Divine Comedy. In the fi rst chapter are guilty of too much speculation study with any caveats regarding the he introduces readers to the medieval should look carefully in the mirror. Spirit, and such an oversight is rather concept of courtly love, which is one In the chapter on the Synoptic astonishing for a historical study since of the controlling motifs of the Divine Gospels Hurtado intriguingly argues there is signifi cant evidence in the NT Comedy, and which, furthermore, has 101 been highly infl uential in our own to shake us loose from the needed. Piper also gives a profound ideas on the meaning of love. The pressure to fi t into the cultural discussion of the evangelistic value expectations of professional- commentary is very helpful. Leithart ism. It is meant to sound an of laboring for the perseverance of points out a multitude of interesting alarm against the expectations the congregation (“Save the Saints”), of parity in pay and against the features and ideas that the average the need for preaching on hell (“We borrowing of paradigms from reader would be likely to miss on the professional world. Oh, for Must Feel the Truth of Hell”), and a reading Dante for the fi rst time. radically Bible-saturated, God- rebuke of the materialistic approach centered, Christ-exalting, self- I found Ascent to Love to be helpful, sacrifi cing, mission-mobilizing, we often have to church (“Tell Them and I would advise a fi rst time reader soul-saving, culture-confront- Copper Will Do”). of Dante to read Ascent to Love prior ing pastors! . . . For every sick There is much more worthy of shepherd who offends unneces- to starting on the Divine Comedy. It sarily, a hundred are so fright- comment than there is space to com- will enrich the experience. ened to offend that the sword ment. This book deserves wide circu- of the Spirit has become rubber lation among our churches—among in their mouths and the mighty Jim Orrick biblical mingling of severity pastors, so they will be challenged and kindness has vanished to fulfi ll their calling; among laity, from their ministry. (xii) Brothers, We Are Not Professionals: A so they will see what the calling of Plea to Pastors for Radical Ministry. By their pastors really is. Buy a copy for This sort of exhortation needs to John Piper. Nashville: Broadman & yourself. Buy a copy for your pastor be heard widely if we are to return to Holman Publishers, 2002, 286 pp., or a seminary student. Donate some New Testament church vitality. $14.99 paper. copies to others in your area. And Among the essays a few stood out may God grant us a revival of pastors as particularly good to me. In “Broth- In this book Piper turns his pas- such as are described here. ers, Fight for Your Life” Piper issues sionate voice to address pastoral a moving, strong and encouraging ministry, an area desperately need- Ray Van Neste exhortation to good reading, sug- ing reappraisal today. This book is a Union University gesting that it is essential for min- collection of thirty brief (typically six isterial vitality in a hurried culture. pages) exhortations originally writ- The Septuagint as Christian Scripture: “Brothers, Let Us Query the Text” ten to his fellow elders at Bethlehem Its Prehistory and the Problem of Its and “Brothers, Bitzer Was a Banker” Baptist Church or for his denomina- Canon. By Martin Hengel. Translated (both available on the website of tional magazine. The essays are not by Mark E. Biddle. Grand Rapids: Union University’s Center for Biblical intended to develop in any certain Baker, 2004, xvi + 153 pp., $24.99 Studies, www.uu.edu/centers/bibli- order and the book is not intended as paper. cal) are stirring calls on the value and a comprehensive introduction to pas- necessity of diligent biblical study. toral ministry. Rather, it is a collection The renowned Tübingen scholar “Query the Text” calls for “headache of bold meditations and exhortations Martin Hengel asks the question, causing” wrestling with the biblical on various facets of pastoral minis- “how did it come about that the text rather than the superfi cial fl uff try and Christian living. The title, collection of Jewish writings in the which usually passes muster today. “Brothers, We Are Not Profession- Greek language, signifi cantly larger The essay on Bitzer is a clarion call als,” comes from the lead essay but than the scope of the Hebrew Bible, on the value of knowing the biblical does also establish the viewpoint of become, under the designation ‘the languages. In a day when pastors ministry found throughout the rest Seventy,’ the authoritative ‘Holy and seminaries alike devalue the of the essays. In his preface, Piper Scriptures’ of the Old Testament in study of biblical languages (e.g., explains his choice of title: the Christian church?” (22). “you won’t really have time for them The assumption behind this ques- The title of this book is meant in real ministry”), this call is sorely 102 tion—that the early church accepted Christian ‘Septuagint Canon.’” Here Christians regarded books that were the LXX along with its apocryphal Hengel discusses the books included outside the Hebrew canon. documents—is what Hengel sets out in “the three great codices of the Having indicated throughout the to prove in chapter two, “The LXX fourth and fi fth centuries: Vaticanus, book that he sees little evidence for as a Collection of Writings Claimed Sinaiticus and Alexandrinus,” noting the closure of the OT canon, Hengel by Christians.” In this discussion that “All exceeded the scope of the concludes with a shocking question. Hengel investigates the way that the Hebrew Bible by including Judith, He writes, “As a New Testament “translation legend” arising from Tobit, Sirach and Wisdom, as well scholar and Christian theologian, I the Letter of Aristeas was apparently as the expanded books of Daniel, would like to pose a question in view embellished by Philo and then the Esther and Psalm 151” (57). He then of the problem emerging here. Does early Christian apologists. While treats the earliest lists of canonical the church still need a clearly demar- the Letter of Aristeas recounts the books. It is unclear to me why Hengel cated, strictly closed Old Testament way that seventy-two elders from suggests that Melito of Sardis (c. AD canon, since the New Testament is, Israel translated the law of Moses 170) is the fi rst to use the term “Old after all, the ‘conclusion,’ the goal and in seventy-two days, Philo indicates Testament” when Paul used the same the fulfi llment of the Old?” (125–26). that the translation was inspired Greek phrase in 2 Corinthians 3:14. The slim volume then concludes on and suggests that the translators, The “‘second class’ character of the page 127, followed by some twenty working as individuals, all arrived writings not contained in the Hebrew pages of handy indexes. independently at the same transla- canon” (66) is then discussed, as are Perhaps because of the brevity tion (25–26). In Justin’s attempts to the apocryphal documents that were of the book, it is prefaced by a sev- persuade his Jewish contemporaries, rejected altogether (70–74). enteen-page “Introduction” written Hengel argues that he expanded the Hengel comes to “The Origin by Robert Hanhart. The inclusion work of the seventy to the whole of of the Jewish LXX” in chapter 4. of this essay on the “Problems in the OT—not just the Pentateuch (27). In this chapter he treats the initial the History of the LXX Text from Its Hengel then shows how Irenaeus translation of the Torah, followed Beginnings to Origen” is a testimony used the notion that the seventy by a discussion of what is known to Hengel’s intellectual generosity, translators had individually arrived about how the rest of the OT came for as Hanhart relates, Hengel fi rst independently at the same transla- to be translated into Greek. Hengel’s suggested that he write the piece tion to argue for the inspiration of handling of the historical evidence because “you see many things dif- the LXX (38–39). Having pointed to is fascinating, characterized by his ferently” (1). Indeed. Before Hengel similar statements in Clement and usual erudition. The chapter includes presents his argument, Hanhart Tertullian, Hengel suggests that a section on the writings included argues in the introduction against Origen and Jerome are exceptions in the LXX which are not found in a central prong of Hengel’s thesis, in making recourse to the Hebrew the Hebrew canon, followed by a namely, the claim that the OT canon canon, a decision that excludes the section on what Hengel thinks the was not closed. Against this Hanhart apocrypha and looks to the Hebrew Prologue of Jesus ben Sirach, Philo, writes, “We can see that Hellenistic as the inspired text (41). Augustine and Josephus tell us about the extent Judaism had a relatively well defi ned attempted to regard both the Greek of the OT canon. canon of ‘Holy Scripture’ already in and the Hebrew OT as inspired, Hengel’s fifth and concluding the second century BC” (2). Hanhart but eventually “Jerome’s new Latin chapter is on “The Origin of the discusses much of the same evidence translation found acceptance in the ‘Christian Septuagint’ and Its Addi- Hengel will treat later in the volume church” (53). tional Writings” (105). Here the focus (and some Hengel does not treat) Chapter three is a consideration is fi rst on the way that the NT refers from the perspective that these are of “The Later Consolidation of the to the OT, and then on how early indications that the OT canon was 103 recognizably closed, which lays bare Christologies, thus making the sub- tives that Karl Barth, Rudolf Bult- the fact that Hengel’s conclusion that ject notoriously diffi cult to master. mann, and Paul Tillich formulated the OT canon was not closed—and Yet one recent work that does a in response to their German prede- might not need to be (!)—is not the commendable job of surveying the cessors and then offers summaries only legitimate conclusion afforded complex landscape of this doctrine is of proposals that have been made by the evidence. by associate professor of systematic regarding Christology by prominent This is not a book for beginners. theology at Fuller Theological Semi- thinkers in diverse Christian tradi- At points Latin and Greek texts nary, Veli-Matti Kärkkäinen. The tions including John Zizioulas, Karl are not translated; more signifi- book, which is entitled Christology: A Rahner, Jürgen Moltmann, Wolfhart cantly, a considerable familiarity with Global Introduction, provides a concise Pannenberg, Norman Kraus, Stanley the broader scholarly discussion is overview of christological thought Grenz, and John Hick. assumed. Further, Hengel’s choice by discussing four major segments Finally, the fourth section analyzes to build his argument into the order of inquiry. several contemporary approaches to of the material—beginning with the The fi rst section begins with an Christology that do not necessarily church fathers rather than moving assessment of the most common titles refl ect signifi cant continuity with any chronologically from the formation that Scripture frequently attributes orthodox traditions such as Process of the LXX to its appropriation by to Christ and then gives subsequent Theism, Feminism, Black theology, the church—adds somewhat to the attention to the rudimentary christo- Postmodern thought, and third world demand on the reader. Scholars and logical emphases found in the works perspectives as represented in Latin, Ph.D. students, however, will benefi t of the gospel writers and the apostle African, and Asian theology. from this thorough interaction with Paul. Moreover, in summary, Kärk- the OT in Greek, second temple Juda- The second section then interacts käinen offers judicious summaries ism, and the early church into the with two segments of time that and successfully covers an enormous fathers. Hengel’s facility with this Kärkkäinen deems most germane amount of material with a reader- massive body of material is astound- to the historical development of friendly style. However, some will ing. Those seeking an introduction to Christology; namely, the first five be cautious when reading occasional the LXX would do well to fi rst consult centuries of the early church and the comments that could potentially cast a volume such as Jobes and Silva’s Enlightenment as it evolved during doubts on biblical inerrancy and oth- Invitation to the Septuagint. the eighteenth century. The former ers may possibly be left wondering is highlighted because the initial at the end if evangelicals can only James M. Hamilton Jr. ontological questions regarding the describe how Christologies are being Southwestern Baptist Theological humanity and deity of Jesus estab- done as opposed to prescribing a way Seminary, Houston lished the preliminary foundations Christology should be done. for orthodox Christology while the Christology: A Global Introduction; An latter is emphasized because of the Everett Berry Ecumenical, International, and Contex- impact that Classical Liberalism and Criswell College tual Perspective. By Veli-Matti Kärk- the related quests for the historical käinen. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2000, Jesus had on the future of christologi- Faith in the Medieval World. By G. R. 300 pp., $19.95 paper. cal studies. Evans. Downers Grove: InterVarsity From here, the third section deals Press, 2002, 160 pp., $14.95 paper. Due to the current postmodern with how Christology developed in climate, systemic approaches to a western thought during the twenti- InterVarsity Press continues its series holistic Christology continue to be eth century. Kärkkäinen begins by of short, readable and visually stimu- exchanged for a collage of cultural examining the theological alterna- lating volumes on various aspects of 104 church history with this excellent agery in the British Isles, as thieves ment with a pagan culture in ways little book by G. R. Evans. This is a and slave-traders were unhinged that are strikingly contemporary period of church history with which from the restraining power of Cae- to evangelicals seeking to engage many students are unfamiliar, so it sar’s sword. Patrick’s ministry was a post-Christian America. Patrick’s is a good thing to have an affordable shaped by this new world, not least context was a Celtic culture deeply volume to recommend to students of which by Patrick’s capture and entrenched in paganism, led by the who are needing to fl esh out their escape from slavery. native earth religion of the Druid knowledge of the growth of the Freeman helpfully retells Patrick’s priests. This is especially relevant in university system, the development conversion story, one of a mocking an era when pseudo-Celtic paganism of medieval monastic orders, or the young hedonist to a repentant evan- is increasingly en vogue in American nature of the laity in the church of gelist. The story sounds remarkably and European pagan movements. this time. Filled with photos, maps, similar to that of Augustine—and, Freeman sweeps away the revision- and charts, this book truly fits a in the most signifi cant of ways, both ist historical claims of the Druid niche. mirror the fi rst-century conversion revivalists: there was no “golden age” of Saul of Tarsus. Freeman helpfully of equality among the sexes within Chad Owen Brand reconstructs the context of local reli- the Druid cult, for example. Instead, gion as a “business relationship” in Freeman shows that Patrick’s Chris- St. Patrick of Ireland: A Biography, by which sacrifi ce to pagan gods was tianity actually brought harmony Philip Freeman. New York: Simon seen as a transaction for the mate- among the genders with his teaching and Schuster, 2004, 216 pp, $23.00. rial prosperity of the worshippers. that women were joint-heirs with Against this, Patrick’s conversion Christ. To our shame, most evangelical Prot- to Christianity was noticed quickly, Any evangelical seeking to kindle estants tend to think of Saint Patrick when his prayers of devotion—then a love for missions among the people as a leprechaun. As we watch the almost always articulated out loud— of God will benefi t from this volume’s annual drunken parades and pop- were overheard by his neighbors. demonstration that the Great Com- culture consumerism of the March The rest of the narrative demon- mission did not lie dormant between holiday, no one could seem more strates the ways in which Patrick the apostle Paul and William Carey. removed from biblical Christianity carried the Christian mission into Patrick’s love and zeal for the Irish than Patrick. And yet, as this biog- the frontiers of the British Isles—con- may also inspire American evan- raphy shows in vivid detail, Patrick’s fronting a hostile culture and insti- gelicals to repent of our hopelessness life was closer to a Southern Baptist tutionalized heresy along the way. for the conversion of, say, the radical revival meeting than to a shamrock- With this the case, the life of Patrick Islamic world—which is, after all, decorated drinking party named in is a testimony to Great Commission no more “hopeless” than the Irish his honor. fervor, not to the Irish nationalism barbarians of Patrick’s era. In this volume, Philip Freeman, a most often associated with the saint. professor of classics at Washington As a matter of fact, Freeman points Russell D. Moore University in St. Louis, lays out a out that Patrick’s love for the Irish compelling portrait of Patrick, the was an act of obedience to Jesus’ com- God on Sex: The Creator’s Ideas About theologian-evangelist. In accomplish- mand to love enemies and to pray for Love, Intimacy and Marriage. By Daniel ing this, Freeman attempts to recon- persecutors. Akin. Nashville: Broadman & Hol- struct Patrick’s cultural milieu—that This biography gives contem- man Publishers, 2003, 291 pp., $17.99 of a world that had “ended” with the porary evangelicals more than a paper. fall of Rome in A.D. 410. This collapse pious evangelist to emulate. It also of Roman power had unleashed sav- reconstructs a Christian engage- 105 Many today believe that the Christian Song of Solomon to provide spiritual Backgrounds of Early Christianity. view of sex is not only antiquated, but insight and to talk about what it takes Third edition. By Everett Ferguson. that Christians think that it is not to make marriage work, including Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2003, xxii something we should talk about, practical application. He offers stories + 648, $36.00 paper. that it is shameful, and so on. What and statistics that he has collected is more, Christians are pitied for a over the years, including humorous Among the minimum of books on the view of sexual purity and abstinence anecdotes and refl ections on the rela- New Testament that each student of outside of marriage that makes sex tionship between men and women, theology should have I would count boring. Daniel Akin is intent on and ideas on what to do (and what not (in addition to a scholarly edition of changing such misconceptions. to do) to make a successful marriage. the text—preferably a God on Sex is a provocative title Readers will want to share many of edition—and a concordance) a Bible for an engaging book on the Song of these, though some of them misfi re dictionary, a one volume commen- Solomon, written by the president (e.g., 231). tary on the NT or the whole Bible, a of Southeastern Baptist Theological This book is not meant to be a solid NT introduction, and a theol- Seminary. Like the biblical book scholarly commentary. Yet it provides ogy of the New Testament. I would that it explicates, it is a celebration insight into the Song of Solomon, definitely also include one good of marriage and sexual intimacy explaining and simplifying some of survey of the background of the NT, within marriage. It is something of a its strange phrases and references, because so much in interpretation popular commentary on the Song of and therefore it will be useful for depends on the background against Solomon, including exposition of the personal study and for sermon prepa- which certain statements are made text, as well as plenty of illustrations ration. Further, it will be a helpful and are to be understood and because and application to contemporary resource for pastors and others who many students (and scholars alike!) marriages. provide pre-marital and marriage are all too prone to presume that the Much conventional “wisdom” counseling. world they know is also the world presumes that marriage, given time, God on Sex should be read not only of the NT. will remove romance, excitement, by pastors and counselors, however, One of these good surveys in sexual desire, and delight from but by all who desire to understand English is the present volume by even the best of relationships. To the the purpose for which God gave us Everett Ferguson in its third edi- contrary, Akin shows both biblical marriage and sexual intimacy. Akin tion (1st ed. in 1987; 2nd ed. in 1993). and sociological evidence that sup- dispels any notion that the Bible pres- Ferguson writes in the preface, “A ports what so many happily married ents a negative perspective on sexual comprehensive guide will help the people already know: married people desire and intimacy. Indeed, within student to attain a grasp of the fi eld are the ones who actually enjoy more marriage these things are celebrated more quickly than would be possible frequent and satisfying sex and joy- as wonderful gifts of a gracious Cre- without an introduction. The intro- ful intimacy. That satisfaction and ator. Through his study on the Song ductory nature of the presentation excitement can only be heightened of Solomon, Akin makes it clear that often calls for generalizations to be as we begin to realize God’s plan for God intends for us to delight in our made: it is hoped that these will aid marriage. spouse and in the intimacy that is students; specialists can make the The material in this book comes provided for in marriage. necessary adjustments” (xvi). He from experience that Akin has had notes further, on the arrangement of giving seminars and family life con- K. T. Magnuson the material, “The reader should not ferences for many years. He is pas- confuse the analytical approach in sionate about what God has designed the presentation with the reality of marriage to be, and he draws on the time. The approach adopted may give 106 a false sense of compartmentaliza- and social relationships (including religion (Greek and Roman), civic tion—for example between Hellen- patron-client relationships, friend- cults (priesthood, ritual perceptions, ism and Judaism—when in fact there ship, social networks and aspects of sacrifi ce, votive offerings, prayers and was much interaction between the honour and shame). Ferguson moves hymns, festivals, other features and infl uences discussed separately in on to “Social Morality” (marriage and a sample of a civic cult: Ephesus and this book.” Ferguson attempts not the family, the place of women and Artemis), ruler cult (antecedents and only to provide the background to the children; this is not what I would presuppositions, historical develop- NT but also to the early centuries of have expected under that heading ment and forms of the Imperial cult), Christianity when it moved further or where I would have searched personal religion (oracles, dreams away from its Jewish roots to the for this information), the economic and divination, healing cults, magic wider Hellenistic-Roman world. life (trade and travel, coinage and and maledictions, imprecations and After a preface and a balanced gen- taxation), clothing and appearance, oaths, demons and superstition, eral bibliography (xx-xxii), Ferguson entertainment (theatres, athletics, astrology, astral religion and fate, starts with a short introductory essay arenas, circuses, gymnasia and death and afterlife), Greek mysteries entitled “Perspectives on Parallels” baths, banquets, music), education, and Eastern religions (Egyptian dei- (1-4) which provides helpful guide- literature and language (authors, ties: Isis, Osiris, and Sarapis, Phoe- lines in dealing with the differences rhetoric, literary forms and gen- nician deities: Astarte and Adonis, and similarities between Christian- res—biographies, histories and nov- Syrian Deities: Atargatis and oth- ity and its background. In view of els, letters, making of books, reading ers, Phrygian deities: Cybele and the overall length of the volume this and studying books, inscriptions Attis, Mithras, a Persian deity, and introductory essay could have been and papyri, language; in view of refl ections of mystery religions and longer (e.g., guidelines on when and the signifi cance of ancient rhetoric Christianity), Gnosticism (sources how to employ background knowl- in current NT scholarship the treat- for study and origin of Gnosticism, edge in NT studies). ment on one good page is very brief characteristic features, Gnosticism Ferguson’s first part paints in indeed!), art and architecture and in the NT), Hermetic literature and broad strokes the political history of clubs and associations (Greek clubs, Chaldean oracles and a fi nal section the Eastern Mediterranean from the “Roman colleges”—while refl ecting on later developments (monotheism Near East before Alexander the Great the Latin collegia I wonder whether and sun worship). to the Later Roman Empire (5-40). this the best word for undergraduate With this fi eld covered Ferguson This is followed by a section on the students - Egyptian associations and moves in the fourth part on to Hel- administration of the Empire (cities, the status of associations). lenistic-Roman philosophies (319-95). provinces and client kingdoms) and Part three presents Hellenistic- The introductory chapter discusses reference to the political connections Roman religions (148-318), starting the nature of this philosophy as of the NT (46f). with ancient Greek religion (the religion and as ethics, popular phi- The second part is devoted to epic age: Homer, Hesiod, the archaic losophy, the relationship between society and culture (48-147) and cov- period, signs of dissolution in the philosophy and individualism and ers the Roman military (the legions, Classical age) and ancient Roman sketches ancient philosophy in its emblems, weapons and dress, aux- religion (deities, religious personnel social setting. This is followed by iliaries, Praetorian guard and other and observances, soul and the dead, a survey of the various schools units), social classes (the senatorial characteristics of Roman religion). (Sophists and Socrates, Plato and the order, the equestrian order, munici- A short section sketches the general Academy to the fi rst century, Aristo- pal aristocracies, Plebeian and other characteristics of “Religion in Hel- tle and the Peripatetics, Skepticism, free persons, freedmen), slavery, lenistic-Roman Times” (173-77). Then Cynicism Stoicism, Epicureanism, Roman citizenship and Roman Law, Ferguson turns to domestic and rural Eclecticism, Neopythagoraeanism, 107 Middle Platonism and Plotinus and tion and institutions (temple and work—are what was unique to Chris- Neoplatonism). priesthood, Sanhedrin, community tianity,” (619f). A detailed index of The fi fth and longest part (“the organization, Rabbis and synagogue), subjects and of Scripture references principal context of early Christian- though the organization and institu- closes the volume (621-42). The map ity”, xvii), is a succinct summary of tions cannot and probably should not on the last page is basic. Second Temple Judaism (396-582). be separated from the beliefs and On each section Ferguson aims to Ferguson surveys Jewish history practices associated with them. introduce as many primary sources from 538 B.C. to A.D. 200 (the Persian, The last part, “Christianity in the as possible (“fi ve words in an origi- Greek, Maccabean or Hasmonean Ancient World” (583-620), is some- nal source are worth a thousand and the Roman period) and the Jews what surprising in a book on NT words in a secondary source,” xvi; in the Early Roman Empire (427- backgrounds, yet nevertheless very unfortunately there is no index 30). In view of the significance of useful. At the outset Ferguson gath- for non-Biblical references). He Diaspora Judaism in the NT (in Acts ers the literary references to Christi- includes references to NT texts to and many of the NT epistles) and of anity in non-Christian sources, the make evident the relevance of the the role it has played in NT studies archaeological remains bearing on material discussed (though warn- in the past two hundred years, this Early Christian history (inscriptions, ing his readers: “The student will section is all too short. In Ferguson’s papyri and coins), discusses some be in a stronger position by coming defence it must be mentioned that claimed archaeological remains of to the NT and other early Christian much of the section on the synagogue Early Christianity (the Rotas-Sator literature from a broad acquaintance would also apply to the Diaspora word square, the “cross” at Hercu- with its surrounding world than by situation (573-82), and there is a laneum, ossuaries and the alleged simply making excursions into the separate treatment of proselytes and tomb of Peter). Ferguson further non-Christian sources in search of Godfearers (546-51). treats the attitudes of pagans toward parallels to Scripture,” xvii). He also Ferguson moves on to describe Christians, the legal status of Chris- includes a good number of charts and Jewish literature and other sources tianity, the various hindrances to the black and white pictures, a general in the Hellenistic and Roman peri- acceptance of Christianity and fi nally bibliography at the beginning, and ods (LXX, the fragments of Jewish its religious rivals (Judaism, pagan references to original sources and literature in Greek, Apocrypha, religion and philosophy, Gnosticism specialised studies at the end. Pseudepigrapha, Dead Sea Scrolls, and other rival versions of Christian- It would be easy (but unfair) Apocalyptic writings, Philo, Josephus, ity and Jewish Christianity). Fergu- to point to many recent and more Rabbinic literature, Jewish mysti- son then lists the factors favorable to detailed treatments of all the indi- cism, archaeological sources and a the spread of Christianity (external vidual aspects covered by Ferguson. survey of pagan references to Jews), circumstances, Hellenistic Judaism, While one would obviously disagree the various parties and sects of Juda- and religious quest and contents) on this or that detail, on more basic ism (Pharisees, Sadducees, Qumran and raises the question of what was issues or on the amount of space Community, Essenes, Therapeutae, unique in Christianity: “That which devoted to the various aspects and Zealots, Herodians and Samaritans), is truly unique to Christianity is Jesus subdivisions, all in all Ferguson is beliefs and practices (one God, Israel, Christ. He was what was essential to be congratulated for a balanced the chosen people, Torah, tradition, to its beginning and remains central survey of a vast fi eld, that one scholar and Scripture, proselytes and God- to what it is. This is so in a histori- can hardly master these days. This fearers, Messianism and the glori- cal sense. However much of his life is a helpful no-nonsense textbook ous destiny, afterlife, festivals and and teachings might be paralleled for undergraduate students and will holy days, daily devotions). This is from one part of the ancient world also serve as a quick reference tool for followed by treatment of organiza- or another, Jesus—his person and advanced students (perhaps in com- 108 bination with one of the multi volume Bible dictionaries such as the Anchor Bible Dictionary or the International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia). Good companion volumes would be the South African volume The New Testament Milieu, which offers an excellent introductory section dealing with the function and value of studying the NT milieu and a helpful orientation entitled “Getting to know the geography, topography and archaeology of the Bible lands in NT times” (32-85). Attention should also be drawn to a new German joint project by NT scholars and ancient historians entitled Neues Testament und Antike Kultur, projected for three volumes and an index volume. The fi rst volume appeared in 2004. The fi nal words belong to Fergu- son:

The purpose of this textbook on the backgrounds of Early Christianity is to illumine the historical setting in as many of its ramifi cations as feasible so as better to understand the real world in which people lived. The student then can use the available materials to determine what Christianity was in its early days. The bet- ter one sees and knows the background, the more clearly that person can see the cutting edge of Christianity (4).

Christoph Stenschke Wiedenest Bible College, Bergneustadt, Germany

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