Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 25:70 (Spring 2021)
Article: Book Reviews
Author: Anonymous

JODT 25:70 (Spring 2021) p. 89

Book Reviews

The Words of King Lemuel: The Virtuous Woman of Proverbs 31 by James Daughtry. Bridgeview, IL: Abidan, 2021. 1207 pp., paper, $12.99.

The Words of King Lemuel is a short practical commentary on Proverbs 31. The author claimed that the keys to understanding this chapter are the careful examination of the Hebrew words and the study of the lifestyle of the people (p. 8). Using these keys, James Daughtry unlocked the meaning of King Lemuel’s instruction, and specifically the description of the virtuous woman, which encompasses most of the book. Realizing that many have distorted and/or misunderstood this woman, Daughtry systematically worked through the description given her in twenty-two short chapters, plus an introduction and an initial chapter.

The design of the book is to offer helpful insight and appropriate application drawn from the life of this excellent Old Testament woman, which relates to that of modern women. In each chapter the reader is given discussion questions, which would aid small group Bible studies as well as personal engagement with the text. Ancient cultural features are explained and important words defined. Perhaps Daughtry’s definition of the word virtuous (meaning “force,” “physical, financial, and inner strength”), is the most helpful as it sets the tone for one’s understanding of this celebrated woman. She was a warrior, the author suggested, in her love and passion for life and others (p. 17).

A good example of how understanding Old Testament cultural times may influence the exegesis of the text is the often misused phrase, “Her candle goeth not out by night” (v. 18). Grasping what these words meant in ancient times will help women avoid both workaholism and guilt trips, because they do not think they can compare to the virtuous woman’s standard. The Words of King Lemuel is a brief and useful guide through Proverbs 31, with its most significant value perhaps being in a woman’s Bible study context; however, men will appreciate and benefit for the content of this volume as well.

— Gary E. Gilley
Southern View Chapel (Springfield, IL)

JODT 25:70 (Spring 2021) p. 90

The American Puritans by Dustin Benge and Nate Pickowicz. Grand Rapids: Reformation Heritage Books, 2020. 208 pp. + xvi, paper, $18.00.

For anyone who enjoys reading American church history, or has an interest in the Puritans, The American Puritans is a delight. Dustin Benge and Nate Pickowicz have showcased the lives of nine Puritans who were greatly i...