8 Questions for the new NSBT Co-editor - Dr. Benjamin L. Gladd

Hi, who are you and what do you do day to day?

Hi! I teach New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi. I spend my days teaching, crafting lectures, and working on exciting publications.

What do you ‘hear’ or think about when you see the acronym ‘NSBT’?

The best! The NSBT is, hands down, the best series on biblical theology and perhaps one of the finest series in biblical and theological studies—it’s deeply exegetical and comprehensive. Don Carson and Inter-Varsity Press should be congratulated.

How do you feel about being named as the new NSBT series editor, alongside Don Carson?

I’m thrilled to join Don for this venture. I can’t say that this is a dream come true, because, never in my wildest dreams, did I anticipate this role. Don is one of the most preeminent New Testament scholars in the world, so working with him is a true joy.

How does your academic experience play in to your work in Biblical theology?

My dissertation was on Paul’s use of “mystery” in 1 Corinthians. The term “mystery” derives from the book of Daniel and refers to God’s hidden-but-now-revealed wisdom. That study gets at the heart of biblical theology—how the New Testament relates to the Old in unique and surprising ways. I’ve spent the last fifteen years fleshing out this dynamic relationship. 

How does your pastoral/personal experience play in to your work in Biblical theology?

Biblical theology is not simply a study of the Bible’s storyline; it relates to all of life. My Christian and pastoral experience affect how to read the Bible. To know the story of the Bible is to know its author.

What are your hopes for the NSBT series as it goes forwards with two editors?

The series is, I believe, on volume #62 [Yes - the 62nd is the first to be co-edited by Gladd and Carson]. That’s tremendous, but I’d like to double that number. Scripture is so rich, so interconnected, and there is still much work to be done. For example, I’d love to see more biblical-theological, thematic exploration (e.g., Israel’s conquest) and more discussion on how Old Testament authors use antecedent revelation (e.g., the use of Genesis in Isaiah).

You are formally trained as a New Testament scholar – why is Biblical Theology so appealing?

There are over three hundred and fifty Old Testament quotations and thousands of allusions. So, to study the New Testament is to study the whole of Scripture. I love biblical theology because it works within the trenches of the text yet with an eye on the entire canon.

How can IVP readers be praying for you?

Balancing family, church, teaching, and writing is a tricky thing. Every day is different and often more difficult than the previous day. I treasure prayer for strength, humility, and insight.

Read the full announcement here on our blog.

Check out the full list of NSBT volumes here.