The 40 Questions series, published by Kregel Academic, seeks to discuss complex topics in a popular style. Like all entries in the series, each chapter includes a number of discussion questions at the end, showing that it is intended for a group study.
Quarles and Kellum, dealing with questions of textual criticism and the New Testament canon respectively, present their material clearly, although they are wrestling with heavy topics. Quarles, for example, defends the integrity of the text against scholars like Bart Ehrman who allege that scribes and councils made fundamental changes. He also strives to make the case for reasoned eclecticism in reproducing the New Testament text in opposition to others like Maurice Robinson who argues for Byzantine priority. Many of the questions defend specific positions, especially against critical attacks, which may be of interest to Christians troubled by such claims.
Kellum, for his part, discusses canonical questions in the second half of the book. He does not shy away from presenting other positions regarding these questions, such as the argument that the Church establishes the canon or that the canon is a political tool designed to suppress opposition. Like Quarles, however, he does argue for a specific answer, namely that the canon is self-authenticating and that it has been closed. His discussion about works such as the Gospel of Thomas, why the Shepherd of Hermas was excluded, and Revelation’s troubled history in the canon may be especially helpful to readers.
Pastors may not always agree with their argument or conclusions, and the subject matter, though presented well, can be quite heavy, especially for a general study which includes laity. Nevertheless, the authors do a fine job explaining what can be a rather difficult subject, even if the book is only used for personal study.
Zelwyn Heide
Pastor, St. Peter Lutheran Church, Hannover, North Dakota
Pastor, Zion Lutheran Church, New Salem, North Dakota