Toward an Old Testament theology

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Recognizing a major crisis in biblical theology—its struggle to reaffirm the authority of the Bible—Walter Kaiser proposes a solution to the ongoing issues of definition and methodology in Old Testament theology. He asserts that a proper understanding reveals an inner center of plan, to which each biblical writer contributed intentionally. This unity, often avoided by theologians fearing to impose their own interpretations, is instead confirmed inductively by Scripture itself, centered on the promise of God. In the first part, Kaiser addresses the challenges in defining the nature, method, scope, and motivation behind Old Testament theology. The second part applies his solutions through a chronological exploration of Old Testament eras, from the Prepatriarchical (Prolegomena to the Promise) to the Postexilic (Triumph of the Promise). A special section highlights the connections between Old and New Testament theology. Kaiser emphasizes that his approach is unique, as it aligns with the Bible's own organizational system to address the most perplexing issues, while adhering to the historical sequence of divine revelation. The work also includes an annotated bibliography and indexes for topics, Scriptures, and names.