Abstract
When I began reading Pieter J. Lalleman’s Enduring Treasure: The Lasting Value of the Old Testament for Christians, I was apprehensive. Having already encountered other Christian studies of the Old Testament, where the Old Testament is interpreted solely on the basis of its connection to Jesus or the New Testament, I expected Lalleman to approach the Old Testament in the same way. However, while Lalleman speaks about both Jesus and the New Testament, he allows the Old Testament to take centre stage and he clearly elucidates its various meanings in a way that is honest to the texts.
Lalleman’s study is comprised of 12 chapters and also includes an introduction, conclusion, and a collection of ‘Questions for Group Meetings’. In each of his chapters, Lalleman refers to a range of biblical texts, organising his discussion around themes such as ‘Sexuality’, ‘Laments,’ ‘Contradictions’, ‘Mixed Mistakes’. Throughout his work Lalleman demonstrates how the Old Testament sheds light on common concerns that Christians might have in today’s world; thereby, demonstrating its value. For example, Lalleman refers to doubt, arguing, ‘[w]ith the God of Israel there is room for our human feelings. Scepticism does not need to be inconsistent with faith’ (p. 92). These words call attention to a feeling experienced by many Christians and validate how going through periods of doubt does not necessarily mean that someone lacks faith. By illustrating this theme in the context of a discussion of Ecclesiastes, Lalleman offers hope for his readers: although Christians might go through periods of doubt, ‘there will also be other, better, times and seasons in your life as a child of God’ (p. 93).
Lalleman’s work is academically grounded and there is room for his analysis to be lengthened and deepened. However, given that he is writing for a general Christian audience, the brevity of this book adds to its value. This piece is not intimidating and Lalleman’s simple writing style makes his argument accessible to those who might have only basic knowledge of the Old Testament and limited time to devote to its study. I know that, in my future parish ministry, I will eagerly use this text as I work to help others experience the lasting value of the Old Testament.