BUILDING BIBLICAL THEOLOGY
STUDY GUIDE 1.2
Lesson 1: What is Biblical Theology?
Section 2: Historical Developments

OUTLINE FOR NOTES

II. Historical Developments

A. Cultural Changes

B. Theological Response

  1. Critical

  2. Evangelical


REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. Explain the historical context that gave rise to Biblical Theology. What intellectual movement was especially important in this process?

2. Explain the basic philosophical view of G. W. Hegel. What name is given to his view of history?

3. What theological address is considered to be the beginning of Biblical Theology? Who gave the address? What year?

4. Explain the particular views of each of the following theologians regarding Biblical Theology. Note also their views of the authority of Scripture.

  Johann Gabler

  G. Ernest Wright

  Charles Hodge

  Benjamin B. Warfield

  Geerhardus Vos

5. Explain the difference between "historia" and "heilsgeschichte," as understood by G. Ernest Wright.

6. What do you think Geerhardus Vos meant when he said that Systematic Theology endeavors to construct a "circle," while Biblical Theology seeks to produce a "line"?

7. According to Dr. Pratt, what theologian has had the greatest influence on the contemporary Evangelical view of Biblical Theology?


APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. Which of the theologians studied in this lesson do you like best? Why?

2. Do you think it is important to recognize the differences between the way the human authors of the Bible each present their views? Why?

3. In what way does it help to find a common thread or a common focus in the Scriptures?

4. Do you agree that the best way to describe the common thread of the Scriptures is the establishment of the kingdom of God on earth? Why?