William J. Larkin
Seminary & School of Missions(Resident Faculty)Bible
Greek
New Testament
William Larkin joined the faculty of Columbia in 1975 after a year of pastoral ministry in Philadelphia and the completion of graduate study in England. His passion is preparing pastors and missionaries, through the study of the Greek New Testament, to communicate God’s Word accurately and effectively as a “missions document.” He has had opportunities to teach in Germany, Portugal, Zimbabwe, and Korea.
Dr. Larkin is a member of the Evangelical Missiological Society, the Evangelical Theological Society, the Institute for Biblical Research, and the Society of Biblical Literature. He has written articles and reviews for various periodicals including Bulletin of Biblical Research, Evangelical Missions Quarterly, Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, New Testament Studies, Themelios, and Decision Magazine. He has contributed to The Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, The Dictionary of the Later New Testament and its Developments, and The Evangelical Dictionary of World Missions and has been a translation editor for “Acts” in the New Living Translation. He has authored five books and co-edited a sixth.
An ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church in America, Dr. Larkin has an active ministry in adult Christian education, particularly Bible teaching. He and his wife Edna have two grown children. Please visit his faculty page at http://www.ciu.edu/seminary/faculty/bio.php?id=95
Education and Experience:
B.A., 1967, Wheaton College; B.D., 1970, Princeton Theological Seminary; Ph.D., 1975, University of Durham, England; associate pastor, 1970-71, First Presbyterian Church of Olney, Philadelphia, PA; 1999-2001 part-time Assistant Pastor of Teaching, Northeast Presbyterian Church, Columbia, SC; visiting lecturer, Evangelical Bible College, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe, June 1982; Portuguese Bible Institute, Lisbon, Portugal, March 1986; Freie Hochschule fur Mission, June 1988 and 1998, January 2004, 2008; Canadian Institute of Biblical Studies (Campus Crusade for Christ), Langley, B.C., July 1988; Center for Intercultural Training, Union Mills, NC, July 2001, 2003, 2004, 2006. Theological Education by Extension, Seoul, Korea, June 1990; workshop speaker, Lausanne II in Manila, Philippines, July 1989. Columbia International University Seminary and School of Missions, 1975 .
In this volume, William Larkin provides students with a reliable guide through the intricacies of the Greek text of Ephesians, introducing them to consensus views on matters of syntax, semantics, and textual criticism. In addition, the annotations contain references to current debates relating to the language of Ephesians. Larkins annotations demonstrate that linguistically informed analyses which have appeared in the last couple of decades frequently shed light on old questions.
This volume presents to students and pastors as exegetical method with a rigor worthy of Scripture and a practicality suitable for weekly use. Resources cited in the book (WJLFP) are:
These accessible commentaries are for anyone who wants to enter a serious study of Gods Word. Each volume helps the reader think through the literary and theological issues in the text and provides correlation to multiple numbering systems for word study. It is an excellent resource for teachers, Bible study leaders, pastors, and growing Christians. Includes the entire NLT text of Luke and Acts, translation notes, and fresh expository commentary.
Mission in the New Testament articulates Scriptural teachings on mission from a contemporary American Evangelical standpoint, contributing a fresh statement of the biblical foundations of mission and serving as a catalyst for completion of the church's universal mission in this generation. After investigating the historical background of the idea of mission in the Hebrew Scriptures, inter-testamental Judaism, the life of Jesus and the beginnings of the church, the book proceeds in a roughly canonical order through the New Testament. Essays analyze the works of Paul, the Synoptic Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, the General Epistles, and Revelation. While well-versed in the historical-critical method of biblical interpretation, editors and contributors alike offer a cogent argument for recovering the "missional horizon" of the New Testament.
This volume grapples with what the author calls "the challenge that historical and cultural relativism poses to the hermeneutical process when applied to the authoritative Scripture." The author addresses this 'challenge' by analyzing both the roots and the current state of biblical hermeneutics and by developing a biblical theology of hermeneutics and culture. Larkin begins his historical analysis by uncovering the origin of the major thought forms and patterns that have shaped contemporary hermeneutical discussion. He then focuses on evangelical and nonevangelical contributions to the debate. Culling the writings of biblical scholars and missiologists, he outlines how they have addressed such issues as the nature and authority of Scripture, the interpreter's preunderstanding, and contextualization.
In Acts, the sequel to his Gospel, Luke tells how the Holy Spirit transformed a ragtag band of believers into a unified, world-engaging church. And as William Larkin explores this narrative of the early church, he offers inspiration and insight for readers who wonder how the gospel may be advanced in the increasingly divided and skeptical culture of the early twenty-first century.
In this clear, incisive commentary, readers will find an introduction with background material concerning authorship, date and purpose, as well as a summary of important theological themes. A passage-by-passage exposition follows that focuses on understanding what significance Acts had for its original readers in order to see its relevance for the church today. Students, pastors, Bible teachers and everyone who wants to understand the message of Acts for the church will benefit from this excellent resource.
Articles and Other Resources
- Addresses
- "A Ministry Context Based Approach to Exegetical Method," a paper to the New Testament Greek Language and Exegesis Consultation, annual meeting of the Evangelical Theological Society, Providence, RI, November 2008
- "Mission of the Twelve and Disciples at Large: A Conversation with Eckhard Schnabel's Early Christian Mission" a paper to the Synoptic Gospels/Life of Christ Study Group, annual meeting of the Evangelical Theological Society, Washington, DC, November 2006;
- "Syncretism: An Unintended but Unavoidable Consequence of Early Christian Witness -- Case Study from Acts 8:4-25," paper to the north central regional of the Evangelical Missiological Society, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Deerfield, IL, March 2004;
- "History and Theology in the Synoptic Resurrection Narratives," paper to the Synoptic Gospels/Life of Christ Study Group, annual meeting of the Evangelical Theological Society, Colorado Springs, CO. November 2001
- "Breaking in on the Conversation about Jesus: An Evangelical Response to Marcus Borg's 'An Appreciative Disagreement' with N. T. Wright," paper to the Synoptic Gospels/Life of Christ Study Group, annual meeting of the Evangelical Theological Society, Nashville, TN, November 2000.
-
Adult Sunday School Class
Here you will find the website for Biblical Foundations SS class which Dr. Larkin teaches on a consistent basis. The site contains uploaded mp3s of his lessons for each week. And there is an archive of lessons for the last two to three years. There are also electronic handouts as well and other information about the teaching series presented in class. The class is on a five year cycle of courses: four OT; four NT book or theme studies; five doctrine and two electives.
- Articles
- "In Defense of Christianity's Exclusivity," guest column, The State Newspaper, August 8, 2009.
- "How Shall We Think About Worship?" Reach Out Columbia! vol. 2, issue 4 (April 2006): 27.
- "Perspective on Worship," Reach Out Columbia! vol. 2, issue 3 (March 2006): 27.
- "The 'Bright Line' in the Right Place: Building a Culture of Life." It has been said that the ethical battleground for the next 20 years will be in the field of biology. Dr. Bill Larkin provides a clear biblical framework from 2 Corinthians to help us hold on to truth in this area of ethical confusion. 2005
- "How Shall We Think About Worship?" Dr. William Larkin expounds upon the place, posture, perspective, and preparation for Christ-honoring worship. 2005
- "Lessons from a Preacher who Finished Well -- Reflections on George Whitefield." Dr. Larkin reflects on the lasting effects of the life and ministry of George Whitefield (1714-1770). 2004
- Working Smart, part 2 By Dr. William Larkin - This installment of the Working Smart series discusses the role Life Long Learning in a leaders life.
- "Why Should I Vote?" Dr. William Larkin presents the reasons why a Christian should vote--it's an opportunity, a privilege, and a responsibility. (2004)
- "Refreshing Biblical Studies." Great resources for enhancing your study of the Bible 2003.
- "The Contribution of Luke-Acts to Missionary Moves of the Christian Religion." Luke-Acts has much guidance for the "missionary moves" of the Christian religion in the twenty-first century. The"Good News to the Poor" of Luke-spiritual at the core, but holistic in scope is well suited for mission with and to the poor. His approach to other religions-respectful integrity, a metanarrative embracing global and local, a call to face questions of ultimate destiny--addresses well those issues which reveal both the threat and the promise that globalization is for religion. 2003
- "The Role of Biblical-Theological Methods in Missiological Research." Evangelical Missiological Society Occasional Bulletin vol. 16, no. 1 (Winter 2003): 1-5; republished in e-journal, www.globalmissiology.net, vol. 1, no. 1, October 2003.
- Working Smart. Perspectives on Time and Our Capacities. 2003
- "Speaking the Truth in Love in a Hostile Religious Environment," Reach Out Columbia! vol. 1, issue 2 (October 2005): 14
- "The Recovery of Luke-Acts as 'Grand Narrative' for the Church's Evangelistic and Edification Tasks", Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 43 (2000): 405-416.
- "Approaches to and Images of Biblical Authority for the Postmodern Mind." Bulletin for Biblical Research 8 (1998): 129-138.
- "On a Literal or Definite Sense in Biblical Interpretation," Center on Religion in the South Newsletter No. 15 (Spring 1998): 2-3.
- "Ascension' in Dictionary of the Later New Testament and its Developments, edited by Ralph P. Martin and Peter H. Davids (InterVarsity, 1997): 95-102.
- "Evangelism, Evangelize" and "Mission" in Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, edited by Walter A. Elwell (Baker, 1996): 2 16-220; 534-53 8.
- Church Planting in the Book of Acts," Church Planter's Link vol. 4, no. 2 (1993): 10-11.
- "Culture, Scripture's Meaning, and Biblical Authority: Critical Hermeneutics for the 90's," Bulletin for Biblical Research 2 (1992): 171-178.
- "Lessons 3 and 4: Confidence." In Building Blocks for Life: Bible Studies from the Editors of Decision Magazine, compiled and edited by P. J. Stokes (Minneapolis, MN: 1988): 10-17.
- "The New Testament Teaching on Racial/Ethnic Prejudice and Harmony,"
Presbyterian Journal 43, no. 46 (March 13, 1985): 9-11. - "Bible Study: Confidence," Decision (January 1984).
- "The Ethics of Inflation," Grace Theological Journal 3 (1982): 89-105.
- "The 0. T. Background of Luke 22:43-44," NTS25 (1979): 250-253.
- "Luke's Use of the 0. T. as a Key to his Soteriology," JETS 20 (1977): 325-33 5.
- Book Reviews
- Lincoln B. Galloway, Freedom in the Gospel: Paul's Exemplum in 1 Car 9 in Conversation with the Discourses of Epictetus and Philo, BBR 19.1(2009): 135-36.
- Eckhard J. Schnabel, Early Christian Mission, with Joel F. Williams, BBR 18.1(2008): 174-76.
- Dean Flemming, Contextualization in the New Testament: Patterns for Theology and Mission, JETS 49 (2006): 862-865.
- Beverly Roberts Gaventa, Acts (AbingtonNTC), JETS 48 (2005): 146-147.
- Arthur F. Glasser with Charles C. Van Engen, Dean S. Gilliland and Shawn B. Redford. Announcing the Kingdom. The Story of God's Mission in the Bible, Evangelical Missions Quarterly 40 (2004): 392, 394.
- C. K. Barrett, Acts XV-XXWIII (ICCr), Ashland Theological Journal 32 (2000): 139-141.
- C. E. Arnold, Three Crucial Questions about Spiritual Warfare, review essay, Trinity Journal20 (1999): 247-252.
- I. H. Marshall and D. Peterson, eds., Witness to the Gospel: The Theology of' Acts, Themelios vol. 25 no. 2 (2000): 82-83.
- H. C. Kee, To Every Nation under Heaven, JETS 43 (2000): 146-148.
- C. B. Arnold, The Colossian Syncretism, EMQ 34 (1998): 104, 106.
- C. K. Barrett, Acts I-XIV(ICCr), JETS 41 (1998): 136-139.
- D. J. Hesseigrave and E. Rommen, Contextualization: Meaning, Methods, and Models; D. S. Gilliland, ed., The Word Among Us, EMQ 26 (1990): 227-229.
- F. J. Matera, Passion Narratives and Gospel Theologies: Interpreting the Synoptics Through Their Passion Narratives, JETS 31(1988): 345.
- J. MacArthur, The MacArthur New Testament Commentary: Matthew 1-7, JETS 30(1987): 83.
- R. J. Karris, Luke: Artist and Theologian, JETS 30 (1987): 84.
- D. J. Moo, The Old Testament in the Gospel Passion Narratives, JETS 27 (1984): 35 1-3 52.
- D. Guthrie, N T. Theology, East Africa Journal of Evangelical Theology 2 (1983).
- R. B. Sloan, The Favorable Year of the Lord: A Study of Jubilary Theology in the Gospel of Luke, JETS 25 (1982): 37 1-373.
- S. G. Wilson, Luke and the Pastoral Epistles, Trinity Journal 2 (1981): 91-94.
- J. MacArthur, Kingdom Living: Here and Now, JETS 23 (1980): 373.
- J. Borland, Christ in the O.T., JETS 23 (1980): 162.
- Chapel Messages
- "Evangelical Unity: 'In All Things Love'," CIU Chapel, October 2008
- "What in the Bible is the World," Thornwell Lecture, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, SC, June 2008
- "A Case for the First Day of the Week as the Christian Day of Worship," CIU Chapel, April 2006
- "Kingdom of God in Acts through Revelation," CIU Chapel, April 2006
- Contributing Writer
- "A Biblical Theology of Music" published in an e-book, Justin St. Vincent, ed. The Spiritual Significance of Music: Authors Edition (Xtrememusic, 2009)
- "The Relevance of Jesus as the Source of Salvation and Mission for the Twenty-first Century Global Community" in The Centrality of Christ in Contemporary Missions, edited by Mike Barnett and Michael Pocock (William Carey Library, 2005): 101-120.
- The Spirit and Jesus 'on Mission' in the Post-resurrection and Post-Ascension Stages of Salvation History in New Testament Greek and Exegesis: Essays in Honor of Gerald F. Hawthorne, edited by Amy M. Donaldson and Timothy B. Sailors (Eerdmans, 2003): 121-140.
- "A Strategy for Evangelizing the Postmodern," Equip for Ministry (PCA Christian Education and Publications Committee; September/October 2001): 6-11, 14, 20.
- "Fall of Humankind, The" and "Humankind, Doctrine of (including Biblical Anthropology and Soul" in Evangelical Dictionary of World Missions, edited by A. Scott Moreau (Baker, 2000): 354-355; 463-465.
- "Introduction," "Mission in the Gospel of Luke," and "Mission in Acts" in Mission in the New Testament: An Evangelical Approach. co-editor with Joel F. Williams (Orbis Books, 1998): 1-10, 152-188.
- The Current Mission of the Triune God according to Acts. in Theologie--MissionC Verkündigung: Festschrift zum 60. Geburtstag von Helmuth Egelkraut. edited by Jürgen Steinbach und Klaus W. Müller (Bonn: Verlag für Kultur und Wissenschaft [Dr. Thomas Schirrmacher], 1998): 20-22.
- "An Integrated View of Victory and Covenant Theology." In Free and Fulfilled: Victorious Christian Living in the Twenty-first Century, edited by Robertson McQuilkin (Thomas Nelson, 1997): 224-239.
- "The Contribution of the Gospels and Acts to a Biblical Theology of Religions" In Christianity and the Religions: A Biblical Theology of World Religions, edited by Edward Rommen and Harold Netland (William Carey Library, 1995): 72-92.
