Book Review:
CHARTS ON THE BOOK OF HEBREWS Herbert W. Bateman IV Kregel, Grand
Rapids , 2012. 
I am not a fan of chart books. I have found many of them
confusing, lacking clear explanation with the charts, and very general in scope.
This type of book appeals more for the
academic or seminary students, more than the Pastor. However, I was interested
in this book of charts because I plan to do a series of studies on Hebrews.
With that said, I must say I was somewhat surprised by this
book. It’s comprehensive on the subject of the book of Hebrews, and much better
than most books of charts. It is a very good place to begin research, as
Bateman gives good resource information in many of the charts. The charts are
understandable and will aid anyone in the study of Hebrews. I suspect that this
comes from its specialization on one book of the Bible—a great idea. It does
not have to take the broad approach that many chart books take. Bateman divides
the charts into four areas: Introductory Considerations, Old Testament and
Second Temple Influences, Theology in Hebrews, and Exegetical Matters in
Hebrews. There are numerous charts in each section. My overall impression is
very good. I also appreciate the section of Chart Comments, which gives insight
into the charts and is helpful. Plus there is an excellent Bibliography at the
end.
There are some things I consider as weaknesses however.
First, some charts seem balky and the information could have been condensed;
this is especially true of some of the introductory charts where the
information is repetitive. Second, some of the charts start in the middle of
the page, for example is I was using the Words Unique to Hebrews chart (104) I
would prefer each chapter of Hebrews to have its own individual chart, rather
than the whole book in one chart. It would make it easier to reproduce in one
page, rather than two, if I was using the part of the chart just for Hebrews 3.
I would like to see more variation of design in the charts. Third, it would
have been nice if the publisher would had added a Power-point CD of the charts
to be used in the classroom.
These weaknesses do not discount the value of this book. The
book consists of treasures for students of Hebrews. It will be helpful to the
Bible teacher and Pastor for basic research. It puts information right at hand
that might otherwise take several books. It is a gold mine of information. The
charts will greatly aid the Bible teacher and will be useful in teaching this
great book of Hebrews. Anyone doing a study of Hebrews will find it insightful
and helpful. It would be a worthwhile addition to your library.
Kregel Academic was kind enough to provide me a review copy
of this book for my unbiased opinion.
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