Book Review: Old Testament Theology: Reading the Hebrew Bible as Christian Scripture

Abstract

Old Testament Theology: Reading the Hebrew Bible as Christian Scripture. By R. W. L. Moberly. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Academic, 2013. xiv + 333 pp. $34.99 (cloth).It is no small undertaking capture the theological richness and diversity of the Hebrew Bible in a single volume. In his most recent publication, R. W. L. Moberly meets this challenge with his own distinct style and understated flair. His book is neither a thematic overview of the entire Old Testament, nor a historical-critical examination of the Israelite religion. Rather it is a collection of eight essays on selected texts that explore issues of hermeneutics and imaginative interpretive possibilities within a Christian frame of reference. Moberly's intention is for these passages be representative of Israel's Scriptures and [to] allow many of its characteristic and leading concerns (p. 1). Given that each essay reworks a study (or studies) previously published by Moberly, the reader might wonder whether these eight topics are truly representative, or simply subjects of personal interest the author. Similarly, one might question Moberly's omissions, such as creation or land theology-important subjects, not least on account of contemporary interest in ecological hermeneutics. Nevertheless, many important and at times controversial themes do emerge through the course of the work, enough make for an engaging reading experience from beginning end.Rather than Genesis 1, Moberly's starting place is Deuteronomy 6:4-9- the Shema-a passage whose foundational and focal nature can readily be demonstrated (p. 7). And indeed, a strong case follows that the issue of allegiance one God is a central Hebrew Bible concern. Moberly's wider aim is set before the Christian interpreter the task that has been taken up in rabbinic interpretations through the ages, namely, to realize in an appropriate way something of what the text envisages in other than that in which Deuteronomy originated (p. 25). This question of how texts will be embodied (and have been embodied in history) in life contexts is addressed in every essay in this collection. For instance, in his chapter A Chosen People, Moberly takes the most objectionable implication of election-namely, herem, a concept often construed as violent destruction of the non-elect-and turns it into an applicable concept: herein is a metaphor for undivided allegiance God, and a useful concept for Christians looking cast off all that hinders faithful living. Whether this particular appropriation of Moberlys is a daring success or a crass blunder may depend on the predisposition of the reader. But whatever one makes of his conclusions, one can appreciate that Moberly is not shy present his opinions on difficult subjects. …