I have begun reading The Elder by Cornelis Van Dam (Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R Publishing, 2009). It is 283 pgs including the index. It is one of five (more to come) volumes in the Explorations in Biblical Theology series.

My professor, mentor, and friend, Robert A. Peterson, is the editor of the series, and I am thankful that he gave the book to me. I am sure that I will make some more comments about the book after I complete it, but I am excited about how the book will strengthen my walk with the Lord and service to his church.

Also, if the book is as I expect it to be, then I will use it for elder training in the future. The book covers the OT and the NT teaching about the biblical office of elder. It comes with study questions (243-251) and an excellent bibliography for further reading about the office (253-255). Please check back soon for my evaluation of the book.