BOOK REVIEW: BEHOLD AND BECOME - JEREMY M. KIMBLE

 

Behold and Become: 

Reading Scripture for Transformation

Jeremy M. Kimble (2023)

Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 224pp.

Available at: Amazon.com and CBD.com

The title and subtitle of Kimble’s work in taken from 2 Corinthians 3:18:

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. (ESV)

This is a study designed for the serious student of God’s Word. The first three chapters examine the fundamental theological characteristics of God’s Word: inspiration, inerrancy, infallibility, clarity, necessity, sufficiency and authoritative.

The pivotal middle chapter augments the theology of the first three chapters and provides the believer with the essentials needed to understand the context of the final three chapters. The focus is on the efficacy of Scripture—the power it has to save and of transforming the life of the believer. This is the core of the thesis of this book: that Scripture in conjunction with the work of the Holy Spirit enables the believer in a meaningful way of beholding God’s glory and transforming their life. To insure that the reader understands the efficacy of Scripture the author offers numerous Biblical examples from God’s Word.

The final chapters place the proper emphasis upon the individual believers’ relationship and response to God’s Word; what the central role of Scripture in the local church; and the faithful preaching and leadership of the pastor of the local church.

It should be noted that this book tends to be highly technical, especially the middle chapter. Many without seminary degrees would be unable to comprehend the facets of theology related to Scripture or be able to possess the tools needed for the interpretation skills outlined. However, Behold and Become would be perfect for seminary undergraduates for their advancement in the ministry. The only regret is the lack of a complete bibliography and indices of Scripture and subject references.

 

© 2023 David M. Rossi

 

Note: Many thanks to Kregel Academic for the complimentary book for which I was able to provide this impartial review.