What Is Biblical Theology?

Shorter definition: Biblical theology studies how the whole Bible progresses, integrates, and climaxes in Christ.

Longer definition: Biblical theology is a way of analyzing and synthesizing the Bible that makes organic, salvation-historical connections with the whole canon on its own terms, especially regarding how the Old and New Testaments integrate and climax in Christ.

What are some significant themes that biblical theology should trace from Genesis to Revelation?

• The glory of God
• Creation
• Sin
• Covenant
• Law
• Temple
• Priest
• Sacrifice
• Exile and exodus
• The kingdom of God
• Sonship
• The city of God
• Prophets and prophecy
• Death and resurrection
• The People of God
• Wisdom
• Holiness
• Justice
• Wrath
• Love and grace
• The gospel
• Worship
• Mission
• Shalom
• The consummation

What are the ways in which a good grasp of biblical theology is likely to enrich a pastor’s preaching?

• Biblical theology directly addresses the massive biblical illiteracy in our culture and churches.
• Biblical Theology considers the major turning points in the Bible, not just the raw chronological story.
• Biblical theology encourages various kinds of inner-text tendon development.

How to become a healthy church member by becoming a biblical theologian.

• Read a good book on biblical theology.
• Study the scriptures thematically.
• Adopt the NT’s attitude toward the OT.
• Study the OT with Jesus and the NT in view.

This lesson owes a debt to materials found in Andrew David Naselli’s book, How to Understand and Apply the New Testament.