John Walton is a distinguished scholar renowned for his expertise in Old Testament theology and the ancient Near Eastern context of the Bible. His work bridges the gap between the ancient world and contemporary understanding of scripture, making complex academic concepts accessible to a wide audience. As a passionate educator and prolific author, John Walton has dedicated his career to fostering a deeper appreciation for the Old Testament and its enduring relevance.
Raised in a Christian home, John Walton’s early fascination with the Old Testament laid the foundation for his academic pursuits. Initially drawn to business studies in college, a pivotal encounter with Joseph Free’s “Archaeology and Bible History” during his junior year sparked a transformative shift. This book illuminated the profound impact of archaeology and cultural context on interpreting the Old Testament, inspiring John Walton to dedicate his vocational path to Old Testament studies. Rather than archaeology itself, his focus became the comparative analysis of biblical culture and literature within the broader ancient Near East. This captivating field continues to fuel his intellectual endeavors.
Professor Walton’s passion extends beyond academic research to a deep concern for biblical literacy. He observes a prevalent lack of Old Testament understanding among Christians and is driven to address this “spiritual and theological loss.” Whether teaching high school students, leading adult education classes, or introducing biblical doctrine to young learners, John Walton strives to make God’s Word more accessible and understandable, fostering confidence in God’s self-revelation within its pages.
Before joining Wheaton College, John Walton spent two decades shaping future ministers at Moody Bible Institute. He cherishes the opportunity to engage with students, finding that both teaching and writing are reciprocal learning experiences. The material he presents challenges him personally, enriching his understanding alongside his students and readers. This academic immersion permeates his family life. His wife, Kim, a biochemist, contributes to stimulating dinner conversations, particularly during his work on the Book of Genesis. His three adult children, all academically inclined, further enhance this intellectually vibrant environment.
Education
Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Ph.D., Hebrew and Cognate Studies, 1981
Wheaton Graduate School, M.A., Biblical Studies: Old Testament, 1975
Muhlenberg College, A.B., Economics/Accounting, 1974
Areas of Expertise
John Walton’s scholarly expertise encompasses several key areas within biblical studies and related fields:
- The Old Testament and the Ancient Near East: His foundational area of specialization, focusing on the cultural, historical, and literary connections between the Old Testament and the ancient Near Eastern world.
- Old Testament Theology: Exploring the theological themes and messages within the Old Testament scriptures.
- Science and Faith: Addressing the intersection of scientific understanding and Christian faith, particularly concerning the Old Testament narratives.
- Genesis: In-depth study of the Book of Genesis, its literary structure, theological significance, and ancient Near Eastern context.
- Job: Extensive research on the Book of Job, grappling with its wisdom literature, the problem of suffering, and theological implications.
- Daniel: Current research focus on the Book of Daniel, contributing to scholarly understanding of its apocalyptic genre, historical context, and prophetic messages.
Professional Affiliations
Professor John Walton maintains active involvement in leading academic societies:
- Society of Biblical Literature
- Evangelical Theological Society
- Institute for Biblical Research
Research
John Walton’s recent research centers on comparative studies between the Old Testament and the ancient Near East, a consistent thread throughout his career. His particular passion within biblical studies lies in the Book of Genesis. Currently, he is engaged in writing a commentary on the Book of Daniel for the prestigious New International Commentary on the Old Testament series (Eerdmans), a significant contribution to Daniel scholarship.
Courses Taught
John Walton’s commitment to education is evident in the breadth of courses he has taught, covering a wide spectrum of Old Testament and related subjects:
- Old Testament Literature and Interpretation
- OT Book Studies: Genesis, Deuteronomy, Psalms, Isaiah, Daniel, Jeremiah, Ezekiel
- Minor Prophets
- Pentateuch
- OT Historical Literature I, II, III
- Old Testament Wisdom Literature
- Hebrew Grammar
- Hebrew Exegesis
- Introduction to Biblical Archaeology
- Introduction to Old Testament Exegesis
- History of the Ancient Near East
- Ancient Near Eastern Backgrounds
- Old Testament Criticism
- Bible Introduction
- Senior Seminar (Capstone course)
- Theories of Origins
Awards
John Walton’s scholarly contributions and teaching excellence have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards:
- Who’s Who in Biblical Studies and Archaeology
- Moody Alumni Faculty Citation Award (1996)
- Wheaton College Senior Scholarship Achievement Award (2005)
- Hebrew Union College Founders Medallion for Distinguished Alumnus
- Hebrew Union College Alumnus-in-Residence (2007-8)
- ECPA Book Award for Bible Reference, Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary (2011)
- Readers’ Choice Honorable Mention, IVP, Lost World of Scripture (2014)
- Christianity Today Award of Merit, Biblical Studies, Lost World of Adam and Eve (2016)
- ECPA Book of the Year in Bibles category, NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible (2017)
- International Book of the Year in “Religion-Christianity” category, NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible (2017)
Editorial Boards
John Walton’s influence extends to the editorial realm, shaping significant publications in biblical studies:
- The New International Dictionary of Old Testament Theology and Exegesis (Zondervan)
- The NIV Application Commentary (Zondervan)
- Teach the Text Commentary Series (Baker) General Editor, Old Testament; 19 volumes
- Advisory Board, BioLogos Foundation
- BioLogos Speakers Bureau Panel (2015-Present)
Translations Projects
John Walton has contributed his expertise to several influential Bible translation projects:
- The New Living Translation, Isaiah Revision Team (Tyndale House)
- The New Century Version, 1 & 2 Samuel (Word)
- The Message, 1 & 2 Samuel (NavPress)
