Israel: Ancient Kingdom or Late Invention?
by Daniel I. Block, editor
- Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?
I grew up in a poor family in the prairies of Saskatchewan, the ninth of fifteen children. I have been teaching Old Testament in Colleges and Seminaries for the past 35 years.
2. What compelled you to write a book on this subject?
As the organizer of a conference on the Bible and Archaeology at Southern Seminary that featured a dozen world class evangelical scholars, we were convinced the quality of the papers presented needed to be made available to the public.
- What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book?
Far from negating the trustworthiness of the Old Testament, archaeological and historical discoveries of the past century have provided invaluable aid in interpreting the Old Testament within the cultural context from which it emerges. Without access to the world of ancient Israel, we often misunderstand both the nature of the Scriptures and the intended message of its authors.
4. Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book?
The Scriptures are indeed a reliable source for understanding the world of ancient Israel, and the importance of understanding that world when we are studying biblical texts.
- Do you have a favorite part of the book or a favorite chapter?
Each of the essays seeks to provide specific background information for interpreting books that deal with different periods of Israel's history. All are helpful.
- What makes your book different than any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today?
All the contributors share two qualities: (1) they are world class scholars in their areas of expertise (2) they are thoroughly evangelical in their approach to the Scriptures.
- How does the book intertwine with God¹s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him?
Although my primary focus of study has always been the texts of Scripture themselves, this book reinforces and adds to the background knowledge I need to interpret the Old Testament.
- Do you have a favorite Scripture verse? What is it and why is it important to you?
Ezra 7:10 has been the motto for my ministry. My desire is to be a scholar and minister in the tradition of Ezra, who set his heart to study the Torah intensely, to apply the teachings of the Torah to his own life, and to teach it to the people as the living word of God.
Are there any authors that either influenced you personally or influenced your style of writing? Who are they and how did they influence you?
The biblical prophet Ezekiel has probably influenced me more than any other, because of his clear understanding of his audience, his creativity in communicating his message, and his passion for the glory of God. Of modern authors, my mentor Alan Millard has probably influenced me the most. In his writing he combines rigorous research with a gentleness of style that is always modest and respectful, especially when responding to scholars with whom he disagrees.
When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies?
Our roots are Dutch, so we enjoy gardening.
