Bible Doctrinal And Theological Reference Tools
All The Rest: Bible Doctrinal And Theological Reference Tools
Bible doctrinal and theological reference tools are a lot like Bible commentaries, at least in one respect: unlike Bible dictionaries, or Bible encyclopedias or Bible Atlases -- which strive (at their best) to give you the facts and allow you to come to your own conclusions -- Bible doctrinal and theological reference tools are often written from a particular theological or doctrinal or denominational perspective, and much of the time argue for the superiority of one theological interpretation over another, much the same as some Bible commentaries champion a particular interpretative position over others.
For this reason, I would recommend that the purchase of Bible doctrinal and theological reference tools do not need to be the first things that you acquire for your home bible study library -- a good Bible dictionary or Bible atlas or encyclopedia -- even a good study Bible -- should be a higher priority (especially if money is tight!). Books on Bible doctrine or theology can always be purchased later!
Having said that, however, it would be incorrect to say that theological and Bible doctrine books are of no importance, just that their purchase and use needs to be put into proper perspective. Often, beginning students of the Bible immediately purchase doctrine-pushing books right off the bat, and are unduly influenced by them. As with the use of Bible commentaries, if one -BEGINS- one's Bible study with doctrinal books, we will see in the Scriptures only the theological meanings/interpretations put forth by those writers; it is much better to learn for ourselves what the Bible says before considering the opinions/interpretations of others (no matter how well-intentioned).
Some Recommended Theological and Doctrinal Reference Tools
Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (10 volumes). ISBN: 0802823246. First among the mighty, this reference set was first published (in English) in 1964, and it is hard to imagine it will ever become out-of-date. It provides a complete discussion of the meanings and background on the most important theological words and concepts in the New Testament. Most who have used this set would agree that a knowledge of New Testament (Koine) Greek is necessary in order to get the full benefit from this source. Where other sources might have a few paragraphs of discussion on a word, this set will give you pages and pages. Individual volumes can be purchased separately, and it is also available as an add-in for several Bible software applications (see our website article for more information).
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (2nd Ed.) ISBN: 1574551094. For Catholics (and those interested in Cross-communion theological understanding) in this century, this is an essential resource. Beautifully written and accessible to any thoughtful reader, regardless of theological orientation. It is generally available in hardback, paperback, and digital editions (from Harmony Media).
New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology (4 volumes) ISBN: 0310332389. Overall, much more accessible to the non-specialist than the Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, it is not quite as comprehensive in scope (as it's much smaller size would indicate) and does not demand the same level of facility with the original language of the New Testament. If you cannot afford TDNT and have little or no background in NT Greek, this set would probably be more helpful.
Obviously, we have just scratched the surface here -- there are in fact a multitude of Biblical theological and reference works, most of them allied with a particular point of view, so take these as a starting point, a foundation for your library, and branch out from there as you desire.
