Christian Focus

Creation, Fall, Restoration: A Biblical Theology of Creation provides a refreshingly thorough yet eminently readable treatment of Genesis 1-3. Kulikovsky rightly argues that allowing the conclusions of modern science to determine our understanding of creation is basically a denial of the evangelical doctrine of sola scriptura. Sadly, many otherwise excellent evangelical scholars provide a confused or inconsistent hermeneutic in their treatment of the early chapters of Genesis, allowing the current conclusions of modern science to trump normative exegesis of the biblical text. Kulikovsky's work consistently exposes the faulty logic of such an approach. He discusses the role of science in biblical hermeneutics; the view of the Genesis creation account throughout church history; the overall purpose and function of the Genesis account; the days of creation; and the creation of mankind, the garden of Eden and the fall of man and its consequences. While not shying away from controversy, Kulikovsky ably interacts with relevant works representing diverse points of view. Even for those who do not share his conclusions, Kulikovsky's work is comprehensive and thought-provoking. In my thinking, his basic approach and treatment of the creation account is right on target!

Todd S. Beall, Chairman, Department of Old Testament Literature and Exegesis, Capital Bible Seminary, Lanham, Maryland

Since Scripture alone reports the details of divine creation, Kulikovsky directs readers back to the biblical record itself. Debates pitting science against creationism too often ignore the biblical revelation. Creationist conferences and consultations primarily explain observable phenomena that support the scientific accuracy of biblical creationism and banish biblical authority to the footnotes. Kulikovsky, however, proves that a young earth springs from a no-nonsense reading of the biblical text. Creation, Fall, Restoration dissolves the old earth fog that envelopes inadequate arguments for a young earth.

William D. Barrick, Professor of Old Testament; The Master?s Seminary, Sun Valley, California