Select Works of Simon J. Kistemaker (6 vols.)

This volume, edited by Simon J. Kistemaker, compiles the voices of seven scholars—including Kistemaker—speaking on the challenging subject of interpreting Scripture in a contemporary context. Kistemaker calls this work a symposium which aims to “give guidance and direction in the reading, understanding, and interpretation of the living Word of God.” These writers “consistently opposed the concept of discontinuity—to break with the past. They view current interpretations in the light of explanations formerly held in order to achieve a continuity which is relevant today.” Scholars include George Van Groningen, Marten H. Woudstra, James C. DeYoung, Marinus J. Arntzen, Louis Praamsma, and Morton H. Smith. They discuss topics such as the formation and interpretation of Genesis and of the Gospels, the inspiration and trustworthiness of Scripture, interpretation and the defense of the faith, and authority and interpretation of confessional standards.

Originally published in 1972 and updated in 1980, The Gospels in Current Study provides a valuable survey of studies on the Gospels going on in the mid- to late-twentieth century. Writing a work that is both scholarly and popular, Kistemaker seeks to provide a helpful summary of Gospel studies, acknowledging that while we would like to keep up on studies, we simply don’t have time to do so. In the preface, Kistemaker notes, “It has not been my aim to present an exhaustive and complete compendium; rather this book intends to be a readable and informative survey of recent Gospel studies. . . . this survey gives the reader a nodding acquaintance with and an ability to speak intelligently about these studies.”

The Parables is a clearly written introduction to the parables of Jesus. After introducing the various forms of parables found in the Synoptic Gospels and the principles of interpretation, Simon Kistemaker examines the parables individually, including the entire text of each parable, followed by his commentary. Kistemaker gives careful attention to the historical and cultural setting of each story, offering practical insight into Jesus’ words and their implications for the Christian life.

Most Christians know the stories of Jesus healing people, calming storms, and turning water into wine, but many are less sure why Jesus did these things or how they relate to their lives today. In The Miracles, Simon J. Kistemaker carefully examines each of Jesus’ miracles. He lays out the cultural background, explains symbolism and Old Testament connections, and fleshes out the details of each story. Each chapter also includes a section focused on how the miracle relates to the life of the modern follower of Jesus. Kistemaker’s scholarly attention to detail coupled with accessible explanations and application will make this book valuable to everyone from lay readers to pastors looking for sermon material.

In The Conversations of Jesus, Simon Kistemaker offers a glimpse into the lives of those who were touched by encounters with Jesus Christ. Focusing on the encounters Jesus had with people during his ministry, he demonstrates how those who seek Christ now differ little from those whose stories we learn about in the Gospels: Peter, Nicodemus, Mary, the Samaritan leper, even Judas. Through his discussion in this text, Kistemaker helps readers find much in common with these first-century people, including their feelings of inadequacy, confusion, and joy at meeting the Savior. Ideal for both laypeople and pastors, Kistemaker’s insights help readers strengthen their walk with Christ as they learn about others who have walked this path before.

In this compact volume, Simon Kistemaker gives a scholarly yet highly accessible introduction and overview of Calvin’s life and thought, stating that “Calvinsim has a message from the past for the present and the future because it is a dynamic movement which recognizes God’s Word in every domain of life. . . . the message of Calvinism must be interpreted in every age again.” Kistemaker offers “a concise history of Calvin and Calvinism” in the first portion, and presents “its principles and perspectives” in the second part. This text makes a great introduction to Calvinsim for students, or a handy manual for anyone looking for a concise, yet thorough look at this important historical and theological figure.