Redemptive Reversals and the Ironic Overturning of Human Wisdom by G.K. Beale is the latest installment in the Crossway series, Short Studies in Biblical Theology. Thus far, the books in this series stand on their own merits and make a unique contribution to the field of biblical theology. Dr. Beale’s book is no exception.
Redemptive Reversals marvels at the ironic overturning of human wisdom in seven short chapters that touch on sin, idolatry, salvation, the Christian life, faith, and eschatology.
For me, the chapter addressing idolatry was the most significant. Beale says, “What you revere, you resemble, either for restoration or ruin.” Hence, the idol worshipper finds ultimate misery in what felt like pleasure in the short term. Conversely, the one who worships God finds fulfillment and satisfies the reason for his creation.
Redemptive Reversals caught me by surprise as it takes a bit of a different approach to biblical theology. In the end, this volume is both useful and encouraging. I encourage readers to interact critically and thoughtfully with this excellent material and add it to the growing list of solid resources that bolster the discipline of biblical theology.
Dr. David Steele has been in pastoral ministry since 1991. He holds BS and MA degrees from Multnomah University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary and a D. Min from Bakke Graduate University. Following graduation from Multnomah University, he served eight years as Pastor to Students at Lacey Chapel. In 2000, he became the Pastor of Theology at First Baptist Church in La Grande, Oregon where he served for over eleven years. In 2012, he became the Senior Pastor at Christ Fellowship in Everson, Washington.
He is the author of Bold Reformer: Celebrating the Gospel-Centered Convictions of Martin Luther, A Godward Gaze: The Holy Pursuit of John Calvin, and The White Flag: When Compromise Cripples the Church.
At Christ Fellowship he leads the staff, serves as the Pastor for preaching and vision casting, and oversees Veritas (adult theological education) and Iron Men (men’s leadership development).
His personal mission is to positively influence people, impact the world one person at a time and to glorify God by enjoying him forever. His passion in ministry is preaching, teaching, and leadership development. Specifically, his aim is to educate the mind, engage the affections, equip the whole person, and encourage God-centered living that treasures Christ above all things.
He and his wife, Gerrene were married in 1991 and they have two children.
