Best Biblical/Theological books of 2009

December 23, 2009 by: Roger Bain | The Bain Journal Leave a reply

Andreas Köstenberger on his blog listed the “Best of 2009,” his opinion of the most significant works in the area of biblical and theological studies. He stated in a disclaimer: “best” means significant and potentially influential; I do not necessarily endorse the views represented in these books, not have I as of yet read all of their contents.”

I think that these particular works are worth a look for those inclined. Some of which I’ve been anticipating, such as the Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary on Old Testament. I use their commentary on the New Testament quite frequently. I look forward to getting my hands on these titles and I believe that many of you Bible Scholars out there will benefit from Köstenberger’s list.

Köstenberger’s Best of 2009 in Biblical/Theological Studies

1. Bruce Ware, Big Truths for Young Hearts: Teaching and Learning the Greatness of God (Crossway): a theological treasure for training the next generation.

2. Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary Set: Old Testament (ed. John Walton; Zondervan): the equivalent to the New Testament 4-volume set edited by Clint Arnold, now complete.

3. N. T. Wright, Justification: God’s Plan & Paul’s Vision (IVP): like him or not, an important contribution to the ongoing debate.

4. Gary Burge, Lynn Cohick, and Gene Green, The New Testament in Antiquity: A Survey of the New Testament within Its Cultural Context (Zondervan): a helpful resource on the background of the New Testament.

5. The Zondervan Encyclopedia of the Bible (Zondervan): the updated version of the time-honored Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible.

6. John Sailhamer, The Meaning of the Pentateuch: Revelation, Composition and Interpretation (IVP): just out, a significant new book on the Pentateuch.

7. Dennis Hollinger, Meaning of Sex, The: Christian Ethics and the Moral Life (Baker): a very useful, thorough discussion, generally very sane and solid.

8. Michael Austin, Wise Stewards: Philosophical Foundations of Christian Parenting (Kregel): an excellent contribution on a biblical philosophy of parenting, an often neglected but vital topic.

9. Russell Moore, Adopted for Life: The Priority of Adoption for Christian Families & Churches: the new standard treatment of adoption, passionately presented.

10. Harry Poe, The Inklings of Oxford: C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, and Their Friends (Zondervan): a beautifully produced treatment of C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, and their friends.

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