by Samuel Emadi
Book Review
The resurgence of biblical theology has been one of the greatest blessings to contemporary evangelical scholarship, and at the center of this movement stands D. A. Carson. As one of the leading voices in the recovery of biblical theology, Carson has also served as the editor of a highly influential series that has produced many valuable volumes. The latest addition to this series is Samuel Emadi’s From Prisoner to Prince: The Joseph Story in Biblical Theology.
One of the defining characteristics of modern biblical theology is its effort to trace particular themes throughout the entire canon of Scripture. Emadi approaches Joseph not merely as a historical figure but as a theological theme that runs through the Bible’s overarching story. He demonstrates how the Joseph narrative reveals both the gospel of Christ and God’s redemptive plan. Preachers who read this book will discover that the story of Joseph, though familiar, contains far deeper theological significance than they may have previously realized.
Emadi defines biblical theology as “a faithful effort to understand the redemptive-historical and literary unity of Scripture according to the Bible’s own language and context.” He reads the Joseph narrative through the lens of the original author’s intent, the interpretations of later biblical writers, and the covenantal structure of Scripture. In doing so, he guides readers toward a richer understanding of the gospel of Christ and the glory of the Triune God. As a result, this book offers preachers not only theological insight but also practical help for faithful preaching.
The author notes that, for many Christians, the historical books of the Old Testament remain difficult territory to navigate. His goal is to help the church rediscover the biblical-theological richness embedded in the story of Joseph, while demonstrating interpretive principles that can be applied to other Old Testament narratives as well. Such an approach makes an important contribution to the development of a healthier and more biblically grounded theology within the church.
Good books lead readers to other good books. For this reason, serious preachers are always readers, and they may find that the number of books left unread will always exceed the number they have finished. Yet this ongoing commitment to learning and study is itself a blessed calling—one that continually enriches and deepens the ministry of the preacher.
