Beale produces a must-have hermeneutical tool…
Book Review: Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by G. K. Beale
The author explores in the book the basic methodology that drove his massive Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament, which he edited with D. A. Carson. Since the latter is now a classic on the subject, the publication of the Handbook is a welcome addition to an Exegete’s toolbox.
Beale tackles some interpretation issues as he seeks to clarify for the reader what hermeneutical foundations may assist one in dealing with how the New Testament writers handled the Old Testament. Although, traditionally, Bible commentators faced with a difficult passage would shield themselves behind a not so convincing stance like, “Well, the Old Testament passage does not really say that, but it was a new meaning that the Holy Ghost inspired in the New Testament writer; therefore, it is valid and is still the Word of God.” With a more informed methodology such passages can be seen in all their richness, without worrying that what the New Testament writer saw in them was not really there (because, as it turns out, it actually was).
The reader will have to pace him or herself in order to absorb the principles outlined in the book and think through some of the issues, and certainly will not agree with the author throughout, but no serious interpreter of the Scripture should do without this resource or without Carson and Beale’s Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament.
[Kindle version only: Make sure the footnote links work and that the book can be read in Black mode (white text for night reading) before purchasing. My version didn't and it was a hassle.]
Disclosure: The book was received for free from Net Galley book review program. The program does not require a positive review, only an honest one.
4/5 Stars
