Handbook of Basic Bible Texts

Davis, John Jefferson.  Handbook of Basic Bible Texts:  Every Key Passage for the Study of Doctrine and Theology.  Grand Rapids:  Zondervan, 1984.  ISBN:  0-310-43711-3.  158 pages.

I strongly recommend this little book as a guide to students studying Bible doctrine.  In general, the author has remained largely transparent while simply guiding the student to specific texts that apply to a particular doctrine.  In areas of major disagreement amongst Christians, he generally lists the texts that the various groups would put forward for their position.  This approach makes it easy for the student to compare the scriptural basis for the various positions.

The organization of the doctrinal material, as well as the notes does betray Davis’s doctrinal position as an evangelical Christian, but does not place him in a narrow range.  For example, the section on baptism simply makes reference to sources for the arguments for particular modes of baptism and then produces two sections, one for believer’s baptism and one for infant baptism.  Similarly, Arminian vs Calvinist issues are put in parallel, as are the various millennial views.  (Pre, mid and post tribulationist views are not dealt with.)  Churches that are very sacramental will likely find his coverage of the sacraments distinctly lacking, since he covers only a minimum set, including the Lord’s Supper (three views) and baptism (as noted above).

Despite these few weaknesses, I would not find it difficult to build a course in the basic doctrines of the church around this little book.  I would certainly add some options, and list some additional scriptures, but the majority of the work could be done just from this one publication.

This would certainly be a good addition to any pastor or Bible teacher’s library, as well as an aid to the serious lay student.