The Kingdom of God by John Bright Review

Critical Review of John Bright’s The Kingdom of God (5-6 pages): A very helpful synthesis of biblical theology by a critical scholar who is basically evangelical and demonstrates a concern for the church. Prior to his death in 1995 he had spent most of his academic life as an Old Testament professor at Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, VA. In the critical review of Bright’s book, you will need to identify, summarize, and evaluate the ideas and information the author has presented. In other words, you will be examining another person’s thoughts on a topic from your point of view. The review gives the reader a concise summary of the content, a line of argument through successive chapters, and a critical assessment (strengths, weaknesses, support). Your stand must go beyond your “gut reaction” to the work and be based on your knowledge (readings, lecture, and experience) of the topic as well as on factors such as criteria stated in your assignment or discussed by you and your instructor. The review should make it clear that you understand the book and its main argument coupled with your ability to use and apply the argument beyond what you have read. Make your stand clear at the beginning of your review, in your evaluations of specific parts, and in your concluding commentary. Remember that your goal should be to make a few key points about the book or article, not to discuss everything the author writes.