Being a master of its methods, but very cautious in accepting assertions about its results, he secured attention early in the Free Church for scientific criticism, and yet threw the whole weight of his learning and his caustic wit into the argument against critical extravagance. He had thought himself into the ideas and points of view of the Hebrews, and his work in Old Testament theology is unrivalled.
Being a expert in its approaches, but extremely cautious in accepting claims about its results, he drew attention early on in the Free Church for scientific scrutiny, and yet employed the full weight of his learning and sharp intellect to counter excessive criticalness. He had thought himself into the ideas and perspectives of the Hebrews, and his work in Old Testament theology is unrivaled.