Jesus Is There: A Scholarly Exploration of Christ's Enduring Presence

Carl Dodrill's work stands out due to his unique combination of academic and theological expertise. Holding a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Purdue University and serving over 30 years as a Professor Emeritus at the University of Washington, Dodrill seamlessly blends rigorous academic discipline with more than four decades of teaching Bible studies, particularly focusing on the Old Testament. This distinctive background in psychological insight and theological knowledge offers him a fresh perspective when tackling complex theological questions.

In Jesus Is There, Dodrill introduces an innovative approach to a long-debated theological question: What was Jesus's role during Old Testament times? The book challenges the traditional belief that Christ's interaction with humanity began exclusively with his birth in Bethlehem. Through meticulous research, Dodrill establishes an empirically based methodology to identify Christ's presence and activity throughout the Old Testament.

The book's strength lies in its systematic approach to identifying Christ in the Old Testament, primarily using three key markers that differentiate Christ from God the Father. This methodology is particularly notable for its reliance on the Septuagint, the ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible.

Dodrill encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences of God's presence and faithfulness. This introspection allows for a deeper understanding of the theme of divine presence, as readers contemplate how God has been active in their lives, similar to the ways He was present with His people in the Old Testament.

Personal experiences play a significant role in Jesus Is There, enhancing the reader's interaction with the biblical narrative and its themes. By drawing connections between personal journeys and the stories of biblical figures, Dodrill invites readers to engage more deeply with their faith. This approach not only makes the themes more relatable but also encourages personal reflection and application, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding of God's work in both the past and the present.