William Barclay (theologian)
William Barclay (5 December 1907 – 24 January 1978) was a Scottish theologian, Church of Scotland minister, and academic. He was a prolific writer and broadcaster, best known for his accessible and widely read commentaries on the New Testament.
Barclay was born in Wick, Caithness, Scotland and educated at Trinity College, Glasgow University, where he gained a Triple First in Classics, Divinity, and Biblical Criticism. He was ordained in 1933 and served as a parish minister at Trinity Church, Renfrew. In 1946, he became Professor of Divinity and Biblical Criticism at the University of Glasgow, a position he held until his retirement in 1974.
Barclay's major contribution was his series of daily study Bible commentaries, The Daily Study Bible, which covered the entire New Testament. These commentaries were immensely popular, providing clear and engaging explanations of the biblical text for a wide audience. He also wrote numerous other books on biblical themes, Christian ethics, and devotional topics.
His writing style was characterized by its clarity, simplicity, and engaging illustrations, making complex theological concepts understandable to the lay reader. He drew upon his knowledge of Greek language and culture to illuminate the original context of the New Testament writings.
Barclay's work was not without its critics. Some scholars questioned his scholarship and his simplified approach to complex theological issues. He was sometimes accused of downplaying certain theological doctrines, particularly regarding the nature of hell and the doctrine of original sin. Nevertheless, his commentaries remain widely read and appreciated for their accessibility and devotional value.
His legacy lies in his ability to make the Bible accessible to a vast audience, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Christian faith. He is remembered as a dedicated teacher, a gifted communicator, and a popular author who contributed significantly to biblical literacy in the 20th century.