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.
As a specialist in its techniques, but extremely prudent in accepting assertions about its conclusions, he drew attention early on in the Free Church for scientific analysis, and yet invested the full force of his expertise and biting satire into the argument against excessive intellectualism. He had immersed himself in the ideas and viewpoints of the Hebrews, and his work in Old Testament theology is unparalleled.