Charles H. H. Scobie

The author of this book, Charles H. H. Scobie, develops a comprehensive biblical theology using the canonical approach. The historical-critical approach does not figure significantly in his development. In his preface, he reflects on two worlds: 1) the academic approach; and, 2) the world of the church and community (p. ix). While many biblical theologies were written to the former, Scobie wants to address the latter.

In his "Prolegomena," he defines biblical theology and develops the history and methodology of biblical theology very well. The structure of biblical theology unfolds as follows: OT Proclamation; OT Promise; NT Fulfillment, and NT Consummation. Thus, the discussion of each subject (or chapters) unfolds with the above four-fold pattern. Each chapter concludes with a section entitled "Theological Reflections" which extends the subject into leading thoughts in the area of practical or dogmatic theology.

Scobie usually avoids controversial topics with a clear presentation of the raw data on what the Scriptures actually say. His work is so comprehensive that some might complain that the work is too voluminous.

Overall, Scobie respects the methodology of his work. Occasionally, there are forays into systematic theology or citations from the Apocrypha (non-canonical sources) or other diversions from his task. However, Scobie has given us a very solid biblical theology! I recommend his work as a wonderful resource for a work which integrates into one whole both the OT and the NT. I recommend it very highly!… (more)