©2006, Crossway Books,  959 pages including indices.

In our post-modern age we find an alarming lack of biblical knowledge.  I have  counseled people who do not even own a Bible.  This is a logical step from a generation ago when the Bible was in the home, but often remained unopened.

How does one successfully face the challenge of better equipping Christians and teaching non-Christians the truths of scripture?  Ultimately, the understanding of scripture within one’s heart is the work of the Holy Spirit.  However, Mark Dever has provided officers and laymen with a fine tool to explore the basic teachings of the Old Testament.

This book opens with two chapters devoted to broad themes found throughout God’s Word.  Each subsequent chapter is devoted to one of the thirty-seven Old Testament books.

Mr. Dever captures each book’s theme in a word or phrase.  He provides a succinct outline of that book.  He then guides the reader through a discussion of  the stated theme.  After his summary, a number of questions are included.  These allow individuals  or study groups to reflect on the material and its applications.

Throughout the volume there is an emphasis on God’s sovereignty, God’s grace, and man’s sinfulness.  We continually see that  the Old Testament points to Christ.

Each chapter is a sermon that was originally preached by Pastor Dever at Capital Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D. C.  These sermons are basic and helpful.  A number of scriptures are referenced in each chapter.  Generally, the passage is quoted in its entirety.  This makes the book more valuable to readers with little knowledge or access to the Bible.

This volume will prove equally useful for Christians who yearn for a better grasp of scripture.  Each chapter has applications that are pointed and penetrating.  Although it is not written from a Presbyterian perspective of the covenant, it does provide a well-written, Christ-centered summary of the Old Testament books.

The Messages of the New Testament: Promises Kept was earlier published by Crossway Books.  In it the author applies his summary format to the books of the New Testament.  This volume is marked by the same commitment to inspiration and unity of the scriptures, Christ-centeredness, and evangelistic zeal that is found in his work on the Old Testament.

Review ©2006 Byron Snapp, Hampton, Virginia