Messianic Revelation in the Old Testament

Book excerpt: Books by evangelical scholars on messianism in the Old Testament are either outdated, too brief, or lack balance,Ó observes the author. Messianic Revelation in the Old Testament represents the most thorough, conservative analysis of the century. Van Groningen traces the messianic expectation as it is progressively revealed in the Hebrew Scriptures. He first introduces the messianic concept, defining its terms and uncovering its source. He finds these messianic presentations rooted in, and shaped by, divine revelation. The major part of this volume explores messianism's philological, historical, and theological aspects. The result of this study,Ó writes the author, reveals that the messianic concept refers to a royal-priestly-prophetic person...and his work.Ó Passages that deal with these messianic motifs have been selected for close scrutiny and evaluation.Ó The author believes that a correct understanding of messianism in the Old Testament requires a balanced hermeneutical approach - from exegeting the relevant texts and studying their historical context to interpreting prophecy and organizing its theological truths. In the words of the author, To omit one [element] is to do injustice to the Old Testament.Ó Van Groningen has included an extensive bibliography of both books and articles for those wishing to pursue additional study. A Scripture index helps one to locate the author's exegetical insights on various passages. An index of persons concludes the work.