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Dominion & Dynasty - A Theology of the Hebrew Bible

Author:	Stephen G Dempster
Published By:	IVP and Apollos (Leicester)
Pages:	272
Price:	£12.99
ISBN:	0 85111 783 X

Reviewed by Ian Stackhouse.

Once in a while you come across a book that is so full of insights and gems that soon enough almost very page is underlined in pencil and the book itself starts to fall apart. Dominion and Dynasty is such a book. It is an outstanding overview of the Old Testament narrative from a literary and theological perspective. But to say it is an overview is something of an understatement, because within this overview Dempster focuses very specifically on some key Old Testament texts, and through use of literary devices and linguistic skills uncovers some fascinating perspectives on some familiar Old Testament texts.

This is an invaluable resource for preachers who want to engage with the Old Testament - something that is increasingly neglected in Christian circles. It is not so much that he brings the text alive, because, of course, the text is alive. Rather it is simply that he uncovers the sheer artistry of the Old Testament narrative, letting the story speak for itself and deliver its own message rather than imposing some bland or simple application to the text. This is theology at its best and it is one of those books that every preacher of the gospel ought to have in his or her library.