Biblical Theology: Past, Present, and Future (I)
Southwestern Journal of Theology
Volume 55, No. 2 – Spring 2013
Managing Editor: Terry L. Wilder
By Kathleen D. Billman and Bruce C. Birch, eds. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Eerdmans, 2011. Pp. xii, 399. Paperback. $38.
This collection of essays published by members of the Association of Theological Schools’ Chief Academic Officers Society (CAOS) is appropriately titled C(H)AOS Theory as it represents the reflections and experiences of those serving in position commiserate only perhaps with the air traffic controller. In 33 chapters organized in three broad headings, “Reading Institutional Context,” “Nurturing Commitments,” and “Developing Compentencies,” this volume addresses a variety of issues facing those serving as Chief Academic Officers in the specific venue of theological education. Many of the authors cite Jeanne P. McLean’s Leading from the Center (1999) as one of the more helpful interpretations of how the role of the CAO had grown in importance for theological schools in the late twentieth century. C(H)AOS Theory provides a up-to-date reference handbook for the student, the faculty member, the newly appointed dean, the veteran CAO, presidents, and board members. Particularly concise and worth reading are the chapters by Willie James Jennings of Duke Divinity School, “Leading from the Middle,” on relating to the CEO, Dale R. Stoffer of Ashland Theological Seminary, “Lessons from the Anabaptist-Pietist Tradition,” on faculty leadership and development, and Robin J. Steinke of Gettysburg Theological Seminary, “The Budget as a Mission Tool: Vision, Principles, and Strategies.” Rare is it that compilation volumes offering reflections and instruction from a diverse group of people provide a finished product with a majority of recommendable chapters. C(H)AOS Theory has chaotic chapters worth skimming to be sure, but overall the interested reader will find help and wisdom here for the task.
