Deep Dive into The Moody Handbook of Theology, Revised and Expanded by Paul Enns - Introduction to Old Testament Theology

The study of Old Testament theology is a complex task due to a lack of scholarly consensus on the proper methodology. While some approaches categorize material systematically under doctrines like sin or salvation, others emphasize historical development or a single unifying theme.

The discipline developed significantly in the 19th century, starting with John Philip Gabler, who viewed biblical theology as an examination of religious ideas as historical facts. This was followed by schools such as the History of Religions, which applied Darwin’s evolutionary theory to faith, seeing Hebrew religion as non-unique and often denying the unity of the Old Testament text. A reaction came from the Salvation-History (Heilsgeschichte) school, which stressed God’s activity in history and the progressive development of salvation. Following World War I, Neoorthodoxy emerged, emphasizing revelation and reacting against scientific humanism, though it often introduced subjectivity and accepted aspects of higher criticism.

Diverse methodologies continue today, including the Dogmatic-Didactic approach, which organizes material systematically; the Genetic-Progressive method, which traces revelation through historical covenants (Noah, Abraham, Moses); and the Cross-Section method, which seeks a central principle like the covenant or promise.

It is most insightful to study the Old Testament by focusing on the unfolding of God’s revelation and drawing the study together around the central theme of the theocratic kingdom. This theme is foundational to the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings. God has always dispensed His kingdom rule through mediators—from Adam to the Prophets—all of whom anticipated the final, ultimate form: the millennial kingdom governed by Jesus Christ.

The unconditional covenants, including the Abrahamic, Palestinian, Davidic, and New covenants, define the foundation and nature of this future kingdom, promising land, a special posterity, an everlasting dynasty, and spiritual blessing. God’s overarching purpose throughout the Old Testament’s narrative of human sin and divine grace is to redeem people and restore them to fellowship, ultimately bringing glory to His holiness in a future, perfected kingdom.

Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian

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