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Summary:

In this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with Dr. Alan Thompson to unpack how the Bible fits together—and why biblical theology matters for every believer.

Alan, author of A Basic Guide to Biblical Theology, explains the difference between exegesis, biblical theology, and systematic theology, showing how each helps us understand God’s unfolding plan. They walk through the major covenants—Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, and New—highlighting how each builds toward Christ. The conversation centers on the Kingdom of God: what first-century Jews expected, what Jesus meant when He said the Kingdom was “at hand,” and how we understand the “now and not yet” tension woven throughout the New Testament.

Michael and Alan also explore themes like Exodus, temple imagery, and the new covenant fulfilled in Christ. The episode culminates in a powerful discussion of Revelation’s holy city—not merely as architecture, but as the complete transformation of God’s people in His presence.

If you’ve ever wondered how Genesis connects to Revelation, or how to read the Bible as one unified story, this episode will deepen your confidence and sharpen your theological clarity.

Takeaways:

• Exegesis is the foundation—biblical and systematic theology must flow from careful reading of the text.
• God’s Kingdom is His saving rule, inaugurated in Christ but not yet fully consummated.
• The covenants progressively reveal God’s redemptive plan culminating in Jesus.
• The “now and not yet” framework explains both present salvation and future hope.
• The Exodus and temple point forward to God dwelling permanently with His redeemed people.
• Revelation’s holy city represents the final transformation of God’s people in God’s presence.

ABOUT DR. ALAN THOMPSON

Alan J. Thompson (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School), is the head of the New Testament department at Sydney Missionary and Bible College, Australia. He is the author of A Basic Guide to Biblical Theology (Baker Academic), Colossians and Philemon (TNTC), Luke (EGGNT), The Acts of the Risen Lord Jesus (NSBT), and One Lord, One People: The Unity of the Church in Acts (LNTS).

Links Mentioned:

A Basic Guide to Biblical Theology by Alan J. Thompson

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