An Invitation to an Encounter with the Living God
We are pleased to announce the publication of The Character of God, edited by our College lecturers Dr Julian Thompson, Lecturer in Biblical and Pastoral Studies, and Dr Jan Barna, Head of Research and Principal Lecturer in Systematic Theology.
This volume, inspired by the 2023 Newbold Bible Conference of the same name, features contributions from Adventist theologians, pastors, and practitioners from the Trans-European Division and beyond, including Dr John Peckham, Research Professor of Theology and Christian Philosophy at Andrews University, and Dr Laurence Turner, Principal Lecturer Emeritus here at Newbold.
Blending wisdom from the ancient pages of Scripture, contemporary thought, and reflections from pastoral practice, these diverse voices unite to provide fresh perspectives on who God is and why it matters today.
This isn’t just another book about theology—it’s an invitation to an encounter with the living God.
A Glimpse Inside: Explore the Conference Presentations
The chapters in this book originated as presentations from the Newbold Bible Conference. For those who wish to get a taste of the book's rich content or dive more deeply into specific topics, we invite you to explore the chapter summaries below. Click on any title to expand and reveal the full description. Chapters featuring a red play button (▶) also include the original video presentation!
In this foundational presentation, Dr. Barna sets the stage for the entire volume by asking the crucial question: How do we talk about God? He masterfully unpacks the complex history of Christian theology, revealing how ancient Greek philosophy has profoundly shaped our modern understanding of God's attributes like immutability and omniscience. Dr. Barna challenges us to unlearn certain concepts and return to a more biblically-grounded narrative, offering a fresh lens through which to view the very character of the God we worship.
The Old Testament forms the vast majority of the Bible, yet its portrayal of God can seem complex and sometimes contradictory. Dr. Laurence Turner delves into this richness by examining three key literary types: narratives, psalms, and creedal statements. He explores how OT narratives reveal God's character implicitly through actions and interactions, how the Psalms offer subjective insights into God's involvement, and how creedal statements provide explicit summaries. This chapter offers valuable insights into understanding the multifaceted yet consistent character of God throughout the Hebrew Scriptures.
How do ancient biblical texts resonate in contemporary culture? Dr. Julian Thompson explores the fascinating "reception" of the ancient Aaronic Blessing (Numbers 6:24-26) within the modern worship song, "The UK Blessing." This chapter analyzes the biblical roots of the blessing itself, highlighting God's desire to bestow favor, grace, and peace. It then examines how the song, which went viral during the COVID-19 pandemic, reinterprets this ancient text, revealing how perceptions of God's character are shaped through music and contemporary worship.
In a world grappling with suffering, how can ancient rituals speak to the character of God and offer answers to the problem of evil (theodicy)? Dr. Gerald Klingbeil explores the profound connection between the biblical sanctuary service and these critical questions. By examining key sanctuary rituals, particularly the Day of Atonement, Dr. Klingbeil reveals how these structured, symbolic actions provided a tangible framework for understanding God's presence, His solution to sin, His commitment to justice, and the restoration of relationship, fostering trust even amidst life's painful realities.
Ivan Milanov confronts one of the most challenging topics for people of faith: the passages of genocide and divine violence in the Old Testament. Far from providing simple answers, this presentation critically engages with atheistic critiques and scholarly responses. It explores the historical and cultural context of "herem" (utter destruction), the hyperbolic nature of ancient warfare texts, and God's consistent application of justice to all nations, including Israel. This session provides an essential framework for understanding these difficult texts without sacrificing a belief in God's ultimate goodness.
Is God a "harsh despot" in the book of Revelation? Laszlo Gallusz tackles this common criticism head-on by immersing us in the symbolic world of apocalyptic literature. He demonstrates that the violent imagery in Revelation is not a literal depiction of a vengeful God but a powerful, symbolic unveiling of evil's true nature. The central figure is not a warrior God but the "slaughtered lamb," who conquers evil through self-sacrificial love, completely reframing our understanding of divine power and victory.
How do we learn about God's character? Eike Mueller argues for the power of "showing" over "telling." Instead of relying on declarative statements, this presentation analyzes the actions of the Holy Spirit in the book of Acts. Through a brilliant narrative analysis, it reveals the Spirit's divine character by drawing rich parallels to God's work in the Exodus, showcasing a God who leads His people into new eras of salvation and covenant.
This session unveils the profound depth behind the titles "Lion of Judah" and "Root of David" in Revelation. Kayle de Waal guides us through the Old Testament stories of Judah's personal transformation in Genesis and the promised creational transformation in Isaiah. By understanding this rich background, the transition from the conquering Lion to the slain Lamb in Revelation becomes a powerful testament to God's consistent, self-sacrificial character and His ultimate plan for redemption.
At the heart of Christian theology lies the profound declaration: "God is love." But what does this truly mean? Dr. John Peckham embarks on an inductive investigation, seeking to understand God's love not by assumption but by exploring how Scripture actually describes it. This chapter examines crucial aspects: Is God's love freely given or essential? Is it general or specific? Does God experience emotions? Is His love truly unconditional? Dr. Peckham reveals the beautiful, complex, and sometimes surprising nature of God's unfathomable love.
What does it mean "to be"? Pilira Zapita proposes a compelling answer: to be is to be in communion. This presentation explores this profound concept, seeing it reflected in the relationship within the Trinity and in God's design for humanity. By participating in God's life, we are shaped by His values and join His cosmic mission of life, resisting death in all its forms. This is a call to a relationship-centered spirituality that is both deeply personal and universally significant.
Tihomir Lazić offers a powerful framework for addressing the "Achilles' heel" of Christianity: the problem of evil. He presents a "theodicy of love" viewed through the grand narrative of the cosmic conflict. This session provides a coherent and biblically sound way to face suffering by understanding the necessity of freedom, the "rules of engagement" in a universe at war, and the ultimate triumph of a God who stands in solidarity with His suffering creation.
Why is Tamar, a woman with a scandalous story, included in the genealogy of Jesus? Ivana Mendez delves into this puzzling narrative from Genesis to explore how God's character is revealed in the messiness of human lives. This sermonic reflection moves beyond simple moral lessons to find profound themes of justice, vindication, and God's sovereign ability to work through flawed people, assuring us that even the most difficult stories can reveal His true nature.
How does the community of faith reflect the character of God to the world around it? Adrian Peck uses a neighbour's observation—"Ah, you're the church who has a wedding every week!"—as a starting point to explore the perceptions and realities of the church's collective witness. This chapter delves into the gap between internal church life and external perception, examining how communal practices and expressions of love (or lack thereof) shape the way others see God, challenging congregations to consciously embody God's love as Jesus mandated.
Pastoral care is fundamentally rooted in the very character of God Himself—the God who cares intimately for us. Karen Holford explores this vital connection, showing how our ability to care for others flows directly from receiving God's unfathomable love. This chapter examines God's multifaceted care: His detailed attention, comfort, grace, and forgiveness, exemplified through Jesus and the parable of the Prodigal Son's father. It affirms that true pastoral care is an extension of participating in the loving, healing character of God.
With a refreshingly honest and humorous approach, Ian Sweeney uses the story of the reluctant prophet Jonah to put God's character on full display. Jonah's complaints against God's compassion for Nineveh ironically become the very sermon that highlights God's most profound attributes: He is loving, merciful, patient, and sovereignly in control. This message challenges us to align our hearts with God's, embracing His concern for everyone, even those we might consider our enemies.
Patrick Johnson dismantles the common misconception of God's law as a set of arbitrary, restrictive rules. Instead, he presents the law as a direct and beautiful reflection of God's character of love. This presentation distinguishes between prescriptive and descriptive laws, arguing that God’s commandments are not imposed penalties but are descriptions of the very fabric of reality—the principles by which life is designed to flourish in harmony with its Creator.
Available from The Stanborough Press Ltd., other major booksellers, and at the Newbold College reception desk.
About the Editors & Contributors
The Character of God is edited by our College lecturers Dr Julian Thompson, Lecturer in Biblical and Pastoral Studies, and Dr Jan Barna, Head of Research and Principal Lecturer in Systematic Theology. Their expertise and passion have been instrumental in bringing this vital collection to publication. The volume also features contributions from esteemed scholars like Dr John Peckham, Research Professor of Theology and Christian Philosophy at Andrews University, and Dr Laurence Turner, Principal Lecturer Emeritus here at Newbold.