Where are the connection points as you read through God’s Word? In Wonders from Your Law, Kevin S. Chen explains nexus passages and the promise of an exegetical intertextual Old Testament theology.
Chen defines nexus passages as highly connected passages in the Bible. The biblical authors connect their texts with purposeful use of words, themes, imagery, plot structures, and coordination with another allusion, literary form, and/or syntax. Chen presents and examines ten nexus passages that help the reader better understand the Old Testament by seeing its internal coherence.
Subway Stations
Chen relates nexus passages to the parent discipline of biblical theology, which has influenced both the origin and development of Old Testament theology. He illustrates the concept of nexus passages with subway stations. In this way, the reader can see different nexus hubs and lines that take you across the entirety of the Bible. Chen also uses the illustration of nexus passages being put together as a three-dimensional puzzle, and putting it together will help you see the whole of Scripture.
This is an academic work, and Chen is thorough in scope and depth. He takes the reader across the Old Testament with four nexus passages from the Pentateuch, three from the Prophets, and three from the Writings. He dives deep into the Biblical Hebrew language to show different connections and nuances. This book is for serious study. I was left beholding the beauty and richness of the Old Testament.
Open Your Eyes
What I found most interesting was the high amount of nexus passages found in passages of poetry and song. This makes sense, as the Hebrew people passed down their history and traditions and would be able to make many connections through words that were easily memorable and shared.
This book is most suitable for professors and pastors who want to examine Scripture through this different framework. Ultimately, Chen paints a marvelous picture of the Messiah. Jesus is the through-line of Scripture, and he holds the text together. To miss him is to miss the point of the entire Bible. Wonders from Your Law will open your eyes to make sure you don’t miss him.
I received a media copy of Wonders From Your Law and this is my honest review.