When I was just a freshman in college, I was called in for an interview for a position I hoped to fill when I returned for my sophomore year. The man who interviewed me was Tim Leaman. I had heard of Tim, but had never before had the privilege of being introduced to him. My first impression of him was marked by books. As I entered his office in the dormitory I could not help but notice the many books that he owned. His office was made up of an unused dormitory room so he had all of the book cases filled and was using the beds (less the mattresses) as bookshelves. At that time, I could only fill up one book shelf with the books that I owned and had brought with me to college. So, I was immediately impressed with the fact that this man was a serious student of no less than the Word of God.Although Tim had interviewed me for this position, he was not going to be my supervisor. He was finished and getting ready to move on. Because of this I had no further contact with him during my college years. I next came into contact with him in a round-about way. One of my pastors, Robert Vincent, gave me a copy of recommended commentaries that he had acquired from his good friend Tim Leaman. This treasure catapulted me into the project I now call TheoSource. Thank you Tim!
Well, this summer at the Whetstone Conference, Tim Ashcraft introduced me to Tim Leaman, and I shared with him a copy of my book recommendation lists. Tim seemed to be thrilled with the work and told me a bit about other annotated bibliographies that he has been writing as he has continued to study, preach, and teach the Scriptures. I asked if he would forward these bibliographies to me so that I could add them to my lists, and he has been faithful to do this in small increments over the past few weeks.
Tim has given me permission to share these lists with my readers and I would like to do this beginning with a list of some of the books he has found particularly helpful on Psalm 23.
Tim is the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Taylorsville, MD.
Tim Leaman invited me to his office around 1992 to see his library. This was when we served in a church in Spartanburg, SC. I was amazed at all the books he had lined up everywhere. I doubt that little dorm room would hold his collection now. He helped me with my book-buying so I could build a more muscular library. I had some good books, but I also had some that were fluff, not very solid. My book collecting was sometimes hit-and-miss, but Tim gave me a lot of guidance about finding the best theological books. I've tried to pass on that wisdom whenever I could. So, I thank you too, Tim. It was good to see you at Whetstone again.
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