Journal: Central Bible Quarterly
Volume: CENQ 11:3 (Fall 1968)
Article: Book Reviews
Author: Anonymous

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Book Reviews

Josephus the Man and the Historian, by H. St. John Thackeray (KTAV Publishing House, New York, 1968, 160 pages, $6.95), first presented in the Strook Lectures in 1928, provides an introduction and words of caution to any scholar who must consult Josephus. These six lectures evaluate Josephus himself, his writing, the Jewish War, and the Jewish Antiquities as well as Josephus’ relation to Judaism and the Old Testament, the Hellenism of his day, and Christianity. Thackeray writes in a scholarly and thorough manner throughout. He maintains that the Jewish War was written primarily to deter further revolt by Eastern Jews against Rome. Josephus is viewed as pro-Roman in outlook, though in the main trustworthy in this his earlier work. The Jewish Antiquities are written in the style of the contemporary pagan historian to inform the world at large of the history of the Jewish people. Many helpful remarks are provided by Thackeray, though all are not necessarily correct. His assertions of the value of the Septuagint and Josephus’ use of it must be re-evaluated in the light of more recent Old Testament textual criticism. Josephus seems to have been weak in theology, and apparently in Hebrew. This would account for certain peculiar notations in his works. Those who would study Josephus in a serious manner must consult this volume for an understanding of Josephus and his writings. Though costly, it appears important for the scholar in Old Testament and early Christian history.

—Gordon H. Lovik

Studies in; the Life of Christ: The Middle Period, by R. C. Foster (Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, 1968, 596 pages, $7.95), is the last in a series of three books in the life of Christ, written by the professor of New Testament at Cincinnati Bible Seminary. The author has been a Church of Christ pastor. The earlier volumes deal with Introduction and Early Ministry, and

(This second half was originally found on page 32. We have moved it here in order to keep the book reviews under one contiguous article.)

with The Final Week. This volume attempts to consider the content of all the Gospel narratives from the Sermon on the Mount to the Triumphal Entry. Exegesis, discussion of critical problems and practical application are to be found. There are 53 chapters, plus a chronological chart of the life of Christ. The book is carefully written, attractively organized, with many interesting details concerning the events treated. The author considers Jesus to be the Son of God, accepts the miracles, opposes liberal interpretation. The book is not written from the dispen-sational point of view.

—Charles R. MacDonald

The New Testament from 26 Translations, by Ed Curtis Vaughan (Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Mich., 1967, 1237 pages, $12.50), will surely ...

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