Joel is a small book of deep theological reflection. It takes up themes particular to the prophetic books and general to Scripture. Some of the themes include the day of YHWH, repentance, and God’s sovereignty, compassion and justice.

Though Joel can be a formative book anytime in the church year, it is particularly instructive during Lent with the themes of repentance and God’s grace.

Though there may be numerous ways to outline Joel, I find the simplest is the most effective for teaching. The book begins with a call for the community to repent (1:1-2:17) and ends with God making several promises (2:18-3:21). God promises he will turn from judgment if Israel repents, and he will judge the nations who harm Israel.

Though there is some debate among scholars on the dating of the book, it seems it is set during the Restoration Period—the era of the Jewish people’s return from exile. This is due to the presence of a functional temple and because God is promising to judge those nations who sent Israel and Judah into exile.

Smyth & Helwys Bible Commentary: The Book of the Twelve: Hosea-Jonah by James D. Nogalski

This two-part series on all the Minor Prophets has been the most helpful resource for me in studying the Minor Prophets.

This commentary is mostly technical but provides theological reflection along the way helpful for pastors and preachers.

Nogalski is one of the most respected scholars on the topic of the Minor Prophets, especially his way of describing how the Book of the Twelve has its own narrative arc. He explains how Joel fits into that arc in this insightful, rich commentary.

Understanding the Bible Commentary Series: Minor Prophets I by Elizabeth Achtemeier

Anytime I find Elizabeth Achtemeier has written a commentary on a book of the Old Testament I am preaching from, I find a way to purchase or borrow a copy.

Achtemeier’s understanding of the literary genres and historical and social settings of the Old Testament books always helps me to understand the passages I am studying better.

Though another more technical commentary, it is also accessible for preachers and pastors studying to teach Joel to their congregations.

The Lost Letters to the Twelve Prophets: Imagining the Minor Prophets’ World by John Goldingay

This book is more imaginative than the first two but no less biblically and theologically astute. Goldingay imagines the other side of the conversation we read the prophet having: the voice of the congregation.

Goldingay introduces each chapter with an introduction to the prophet and then, in the form of a letter, he imagines questions the congregations may have had in response to the prophet preaching to them. His response to those questions summarizes the main message of that respective prophetic book.

Maddie Rosenblad is the pastor of Meadow Oaks Baptist Church in Temple. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, a Master of Divinity from Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary, and a Master of Theology by Research from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

One Thursday morning, my wife and I were watching a CNBC story on YouTube influencers using generative AI to create content.

The feature covered everything from the monetary benefits of making such video to concerns about online influencer platforms saturating the web with poorly created video and images.

The report led to a lengthy, substantive family discussion over the importance of discerning what’s real and what’s fake.

I was born in 1984, which makes me a Millennial.

As a kid, I had the great privilege of enjoying tape cassettes, VHS tapes, CDs, DVDs and CD-ROM games. I still recall during my teen years how adults were scrambling to figure out the fast-changing pace of tech and the growing, reasonable concern of whether you were talking online to another kid or to an adult with dangerous intentions.

Growing up, Proverbs 3:5-6 was a theme in my household: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct your paths.”

I heard those Scriptures repeatedly at church and home. This typically led to ongoing conversations with adults about how important it was to hear from the Lord and to trust in the Lord rather than my own eyes or ears. That wisdom served me well as I entered adulthood.

Going into journalism and later ministry, I found myself checking the factuality of things written and reported. This wasn’t because of a lack of faith. Instead, it was to learn how to practice discernment throughout my day to day life.

The world today needs more people, particularly Christians, to practice discernment in a culture challenged with the blurring lines of reality and fiction.

How the Bible defines discernment

Merriam-Webster defines “discernment” as “the quality of being able to comprehend what is obscure,” or indistinct. Biblically, the term is closely related to having insight and understanding.

What better place to gain and grow godly insight and decision making than through God’s word?

In 1 Kings 3:9, Solomon asked the Lord for an “understanding heart.” Other translations may render that statement as a “discerning mind.” He asked to rightly “discern between good and evil.”

In Philippians 1:9-10, Paul prays that “your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.”

We need the Holy Spirit to be able to discern even that which is of the Spirit of God.

1 Corinthians 2:14 tells us, “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”

Fortunately, we can ask the Lord to teach us good judgment and knowledge (Psalm 119:66).

Practical steps toward daily discernment

Discernment can start with Jesus. We can ask the Lord to give us the right thoughts, guide us in making the right decisions, and trust him to give us the right solutions and directions that are within his will.

We grow our relationship with Christ by spending time in God’s word and in prayer and in fellowship with other believers. When we do this, we can grow our understanding of what it means to discern things spiritually from God, as well as discern circumstances and challenges in our world.

Asking questions also can keep you out of trouble. Whether it’s a question for my boss or coworkers, or whether it’s a question for my pastor, I strive to make sure I have a proper understanding on matters I must face.

When we humble ourselves and seek the Lord, we reap the benefits of living a life full of wisdom and understanding that keep us from operating in a place of pride and self-reliance.

When we pray and ask the Lord for understanding and wisdom on a matter, we should trust the Lord will give it to us. Not only will such an answered prayer benefit you, but it will benefit others around you.

Imagine being able to give insight and direction that helps others see what’s true and what’s false. And even better, to be able to see Jesus for who he is and who he can be in their lives.

A couple of years ago, our church spent about nine months walking through Paul’s letter to the Philippians. As I prepared sermons through that series, I routinely utilized the resources below as my companions in study.

I offer these resources not necessarily because they are the best of the best, but because they served me well during my journey through Philippians.

Missing from my list are a host of wonderful resources, including two I dare not fail to mention: David Garland’s Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon commentary in the revised edition of The Expositor’s Bible Commentary and Gordon Fee’s Paul’s Letter to the Philippians in the New International Commentary on the New Testament series.

Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament: Philippians by George H. Guthrie

The Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament series offers a commendable approach to the Scriptures.

As any decent commentary does, the introduction of each volume addresses the background matters of authorship, audience and other foundational matters, but the series offers its distinguishing features in the discussion of the particular biblical passages.

For each passage under discussion, the author provides the literary context of the passage in narrative and outline forms, the main idea, a translation, the structure of the passage (the flow of thought), an outline, and a thorough but not overly technical explanation of the entire passage in verse-by-verse fashion.

Each chapter concludes with a survey of theological principles derived from the passage for application to contemporary life. The approach not only yields helpful insights into the text at both granular and macro levels, but also invites the reader into the process of interpretation rather than offering only conclusions.

Guthrie’s volume on Philippians exemplifies the best of this approach. His discussions in the “Explanation of the Text” sections are thorough, engage substantively with other scholars, and reflect a strong command of the Greek text and the historical context behind Philippians.

Guthrie also includes diagrams and charts to aid his explanations and excurses on critical topics in Pauline studies. I recommend this volume highly.

The Story of God Bible Commentary: Philippians by Lynn H. Cohick

I received some wise counsel a few years ago: “If all of the authors of the resources in your library are like you, your library is deficient.”

No doubt this counsel could be misapplied to introduce into one’s study of the biblical text diverse authors for diversity’s sake alone. More problematically, diversity for diversity’s sake risks a corresponding diversity of approaches to Scripture.

As someone who regards the Scripture highly and pastors a church who regards the Scripture highly, I rarely have either the time or the inclination in a typical week to engage with sources that undermine the Scripture as God’s word. This is why I appreciate Cohick’s contribution to the Story of God series.

The series reflects the evangelical disposition toward the Scripture that Zondervan is known for. That is, authors in the series regard Scripture highly.

Along with these evangelical commitments, as a top-shelf scholar, Cohick brings to the table her expertise in New Testament studies and her extensive knowledge of the first-century world. As a result, she delivers accessible but rich content in the “Explain the Story” sections in her discussions of the Philippian letter.

In the “Live the Story” sections, though, Cohick offers what the wise counsel I referenced above seeks to impart. In these sections, Cohick brings the passage to bear on the modern audience in compelling ways that occasionally employ examples and illustrations from her lived experience as a woman, such as lessons from pregnancy.

Lest one mistakenly characterize this commentary as sort of a “women’s Bible study,” however, one should remember Cohick’s impeccable credentials, and the fact that half the congregants in the typical church service are female.

A preacher would be wise to listen carefully to someone not necessarily like oneself. If one desires to expand one’s library in this direction, this commentary is a sound choice.

B&H Exegetical Guide to the Greek New Testament: Philippians by Joseph H. Hellerman

This resource includes a brief treatment of the matters typical to the introduction of a commentary, but the real merits of this volume come in the discussion of the various passages.

Hellerman begins the discussion of each passage with a structural outline of the passage in which he writes out the Greek text phrase by phrase, left-justifying the subject/main-verb clauses and aligning subsequent phrases in positions relative to what they modify.

Though this structural outline offers no labels or explanations, a cursory scan of this outline reveals the key assertions and exhortations of the passage along with the supporting points, all based on the Greek text of Philippians.

The subsequent discussion of the passage explains in detail the grammar and syntax of the various words and phrases in the text. Herein lies the downside to this resource—the technical language—but an upside as well.

For someone interested in maintaining and even improving Greek proficiency, this resource paired with a second-year grammar and some language tools can sustain, as well as develop, one’s capacity to engage the Greek text of Philippians meaningfully—and Paul’s other letters, for that matter.

Hellerman’s discussion is not limited only to overly technical aspects of the Greek text, though. Similar to other strong commentaries, he offers keen insights into the text accessible to anyone.

He concludes the chapter with “Homiletical Suggestions,” some sample outlines for one preaching the text, and a bibliographic list of resources for further study.

This resource may not be open to everyone, but it invites those willing to stretch themselves into the study of Philippians in the original language.

Jeremy Greer has a Ph.D. in New Testament from B.H. Carroll Theological Seminary. He was associate professor of Christian ministry at East Texas Baptist University before becoming associate professor and dean of the Pruet School of Christian Studies at Ouachita Baptist University. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

The so-called “Minor Prophets” typically are neglected by preachers and teachers in churches today. And yet even compared to many of the other Minor Prophets, the books of Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah really get the short shrift.

In one of my undergraduate preaching classes, our professor offered extra credit to anyone who preached a sermon from the book of Nahum. No one took him up on that offer. When I preached through the book of Habakkuk at my previous church, none of my congregants ever had heard a sermon from Habakkuk before. And poor Zephaniah is so often confused with Zechariah.

These three prophets all ministered in roughly the same place and period of time: the kingdom of Judah during the mid-to-late 600s B.C. The Northern Tribes had been conquered and dispersed by Assyria roughly a century earlier in 722 B.C. The Babylonian conquest and exile of Judah was still years in the future. King Josiah would temporarily stymie—but not ultimately stop—the kingdom’s descent into idolatry and apostasy.

Nahum is a word of God’s judgment against the city of Nineveh, whose repentance at the preaching of Jonah apparently didn’t stick for more than a generation or two. Habakkuk bemoans the increasing wickedness of Judah and Jerusalem in a profound, passionate dialogue between the prophet and God. And Zephaniah predicts the great, future “day of the Lord.”

Despite their very different contents, Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah often are covered together in a single volume by commentary writers because of these prophets’ short length and general contemporaneity. And there are some excellent commentaries out there on these books. Here are a few of my favorites.

Tyndale Old Testament Commentary by S.D. Snyman

For those seeking a short, accessible work on Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah still informed by careful scholarship, S.D. Snyman’s 2020 volume in the Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries is the place to go.

Snyman’s work replaces the older Tyndale volume by David Baker from 1988, which is an excellent resource in its own right. The Tyndale series is well-known for synthesizing and summarizing the best of evangelical biblical scholarship and distilling it down into volumes preachers, Sunday school teachers and regular readers can understand easily.

Snyman was my “first off the shelf” choice when I preached through Habakkuk. Despite its relatively short length, this commentary was still incredibly helpful. Above all else, Snyman helped me get “the lay of the land” and figure out which questions needed more in-depth research.

If you are an academically trained preacher or Bible teacher working through one or more of these prophetic books, or you are writing a research paper, you obviously will need more than just Snyman’s Tyndale commentary. But it is an excellent place to begin and probably will be sufficient for most Sunday school teachers and general Bible readers.

Eerdmans Classic Biblical Commentary by O. Palmer Robertson

This volume by O. Palmer Robertson originally was published as part of the New International Commentary on the Old Testament in 1990, and used copies of that printing still are available. However, with the major revisions to the New International Commentary in recent years, many older volumes from that series no longer are in print.

Thankfully, some particularly esteemed and beloved volumes from the New International Commentary on the Old Testament and other series have been preserved and reprinted in the new Eerdmans Classic Biblical Commentaries. And there is a reason Robertson’s work has received that special reprinting.

Robertson’s analysis of Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah is much more in-depth and academic than Snyman’s, but not to a ridiculous degree. Readers with some academic training in biblical studies will be able to make good use of Robertson’s work even if they lack a firm grasp on Hebrew. This volume is the best “next step up” from Snyman’s commentary.

In addition to in-depth analysis of the text itself and its historical context, Robertson provides thoughtful theological reflection on these three prophets. He highlights various New Testament connections that will be invaluable for those wanting to understand how we can interpret Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah as Christian scripture.

Even though it’s a bit older, Robertson’s work on these three prophets has been reprinted in the Eerdmans ClassicBiblical Commentaries for very good reason. This volume is indeed a classic and well worth consulting for those wanting to dive deeply into Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah.

New International Commentary on the Old Testament by Thomas Renz

I nearly fell out of my chair when I saw the page count for this commentary back when its publication first was announced. Snyman’s Tyndale volume is just more than 160 pages. Robertson’s commentary is just more than 360 pages. But Thomas Renz’s work on Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah is 743 pages long.

This commentary, published in 2021 as the replacement for Robertson’s volume in the New International Commentary on the Old Testament series, is a behemoth. Renz probably has given us the most thorough and up-to-date scholarly commentary on these three prophets currently available, and Renz’s work likely will be a standard for years to come.

As you probably can guess, this work is not for the faint of heart and would not be my first recommendation for anyone except those doing academic research. However, Renz’s commentary still provides incredible value for the preachers and Bible teachers tenacious enough to work through it.

Renz has extensive pastoral ministry and preaching experience in addition to his academic credentials, and much of his commentary’s length comes from the theological and practical reflections he includes throughout. Yes, this volume is enormous, but that’s because it is absolutely full of excellent material.

Honorable mentions

For those seeking a more devotional and application-focused commentary on these books, the late James Montgomery Boice has an excellent two-volume set on all twelve of the Minor Prophets. Also, The Gospel Coalition has published very brief but helpful commentaries for free online.

Although Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah often are covered together in a single volume, a few commentary series have done individual volumes on each book.

Daniel Timmer’s Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on Nahum is fantastic. Heath Thomas has written a profound volume on Habakkuk for the Two Horizons Old Testament Commentary. And Jason DeRouchie’s forthcoming Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on Zephaniah likely will be excellent.

Joshua Sharp is the pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Orange, and a graduate of Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Mo., and Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary in Waco. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

We love a good story. Streaming services hook us in with a series, and we wait for the next episode. I look at Acts as a “Season Two” of Luke’s Gospel. As the Gospels—Luke’s and the other three—cover the three decades of Jesus’ incarnate ministry, Acts reports on the first three decades of the church.

Acts is a continuation of the good news story of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ through his followers and his church as they are filled by the Holy Spirit and sent on the mission defined by Acts 1:8.

Acts 1:8 is a de facto outline for the book of Acts as the witness begins in Jerusalem on Pentecost and moves through Judea and Samaria, Paul’s arrival in Rome—an “end of the earth”—and the unloosed proclamation of the gospel.

Acts vitally explains the mission and motivation of the church from inception to the present. We often say, “It’s a small world,” but Luke’s narrative of the church in Acts teaches us God has a big reach.

Preaching through Acts was an inspiring, humbling joy. Here is a selection of some of the resources I found useful in preparation and recommended to my congregants who wanted further study. While I found several books and commentaries helpful, this limited selection of resources is a starter from which to prepare good studies and sermons.

Acts for Everyone, Part 1 & 2 by N.T. Wright

Wright had me from the introduction: “The Book of Acts … is full of the energy and excitement of the early Christians as they found God doing new things all over the place and learned to take the good news of Jesus around the world.”

Simple truth works as we communicate the simple good news.

Wright’s translation and application of the text makes this a resource for preaching and/or teaching through Acts and makes for a companion book one can recommend for members of a study group who want to dig deeper into the text.

The greatest value of Acts for Everyone is the way it connects Acts as a continuation of Luke’s Gospel in the life and work of the apostles and the church. Wright’s storytelling is based in his United Kingdom context, but if you can convert metric units, you’ve got this.

The application of each message is globally relevant. I found his ability to reveal the wind of God moving in each story and each person great and small inspiring as I prepared to preach through the episodes of Acts from Peter’s Pentecost to Paul’s prison.

If you’ve ever attended or watched a lecture by N.T. Wright, you’ll hear his relatable voice and scholarly insight as you read.

The Bible Speaks Today Series: The Message of Acts: The Spirit, the Church and the World by John Stott

This staple of the shelf gives the ingredients for study through Acts.

Stott emphasizes the attachment of Acts to Luke’s Gospel in form and flow. His outline of each passage and exposition frames preparation and delivery. Copious annotations and references provide links to other resources.

This is more than a resource, however. It is an inspirational work. As an evangelist, Stott’s gift of writing and delivery focus on the call to salvation preached by the filling of the Holy Spirit and what it cost the lives of the obedient.

Stott places the narrative of Acts within its first-century context, while connecting it to contemporary issues facing the church today.

Acts is more than an episodic narrative. It includes direct and practical guidance for the formulation of the church and how it should be governed, and Stott draws out the birth of roles for elders, deacons and pastors.

The various examples of salvation experience in Acts are expounded, revealing that even in different contexts there are distinct shared moments in the salvation of a believer.

Even more emphasis is placed on the mission imperative of the gospel and the church. Stott clarifies the context of each church plant and how it is part of the greater mission to reach the world with the good news.

IVP New Testament Commentary: Acts by William J. Larkin

Preaching Acts requires study of the historical context in which each encounter occurs. Larkin defines the environment in which the church was birthed. It can be hard for the Western church of the 21st century to grasp how antagonistic a world surrounded the early church.

The theme of this resource flows around the establishment of churches through the mission of the apostles. Larkin couches the significance of each unique location clearly. It is a help to me as I teach and preach Acts to explain how the Holy Spirit leads us to make the message plain without diluting truth and power unto salvation.

Larkin’s outline is a helpful study and teaching tool, especially if you’re wanting some help to segment your study on Acts. His annotated footnotes provide solid language study with some guidance to other resources in the bibliography.

The historical study of Larkin’s work reveals modern culture is replicating more of the attitudes exemplified in the first century. The church needs to revisit the message of Acts as we seek the Holy Spirit to fill our proclamation and mission wherever we are placed.

Acts: A Handbook on the Greek Text by Martin Culy and Mikeal Parsons

A final recommendation is Culy and Parsons’ helpful reference on the Greek. Even though plenty of online tools abound, this work expands on simple parsing to deeper context. If you want to keep your language tools sharp, add this to your study stack for Acts.

Jay Abernathy is pastor of First Baptist Church in Woodville and a graduate of Baylor University. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

The title “Ecclesiastes” is a translation of the Hebrew word Qoholet, meaning “gatherer” or “collector.” The author collected his varied life lessons, reflected on them, then gathered a crowd to hear his conclusions.

Qoholet addresses readers with a disturbing opening statement: “Meaningless! Meaningless! Everything is meaningless!”

Although his assertion may cause some to avoid the book entirely, curious readers will want to understand Qoholet’s opinion.

“Meaningless” is a translation of the Hebrew word hebel, which can be translated at least four other ways: “frail,” “futile,” “brief” and “deceitful.” Throughout the book, the author weaves these meanings of the term into varied topics: wealth, wisdom and life, to name but a few.

Qoholet, then, is not saying life is meaningless. Instead, he reminds readers that life is undependable. Things in life can change dramatically in a relatively short time. Throughout the book, Qoholet shows God is the one upon whom readers should depend.

I first learned the joys of Ecclesiastes in 1993, and I was fascinated by the “time” poem in chapter 3. When teaching my Old Testament Survey and Wisdom Literature courses, I always look forward to sharing Ecclesiastes, as I find it one of the most relevant books in the Old Testament.

I recommend the following sources.

Tyndale Old Testament Commentary: Ecclesiastes by Michael Eaton

When my students begin their research, I tell them to “start small, then move big.” The Tyndale Old Testament Commentary series often is my first commentary to consult.

The series was created for ministers who want to study the Old Testament but may be intimidated by it. It is concise, yet it contains the most important aspects of a commentary: introduction to the book, outline and verse-by-verse comments.

Eaton’s contribution to the series is very good, and it provides a helpful primer to Ecclesiastes. I used Eaton’s commentary in the classroom for many years, and students found it worthwhile.

In his introduction, Eaton notes the book of Ecclesiastes avoids discussion of Old Testament covenant or Mosaic law. It is as if Qoholet’s audience had little to no knowledge of Israelite religion.

Comparing the book to Paul’s speech in Athens (Acts 17), Eaton shows Qoholet shared about life and God without using the normal arguments for faith.

Eaton constructs Ecclesiastes into a simple four-part outline.

New International Commentary on the Old Testament: Ecclesiastes by Tremper Longman

The New International Commentary on the Old Testament is a good commentary to continue where the Tyndale Old Testament Commentary leaves off.

As one would expect from a larger commentary, the work gives more time to authorship, outline and dramatic flow than the Tyndale Old Testament Commentary does, yet it does so without using too many technical terms. The Hebrew is transliterated, allowing the commentary to be accessible to anyone.

Tremper Longman is one of the most widely read and respected conservative Old Testament scholars living today. His various lectures, articles and books cover a wide variety of topics, yet they reveal a profound attention to detail and a great love of the literature. Readers always will receive something worthwhile by reading Longman’s works.

The strength of Longman’s Ecclesiastes commentary is in its introduction, particularly regarding authorship. He disagrees with the tradition of Solomon as its writer, and he gives solid evidence within the book of Ecclesiastes to support his claim. His commentary has paved the way for others to follow his lead and to consider varied alternatives to authorship.

The rest of the commentary is equally solid in its research and views, yet Longman allows a spectrum of opinion.

Word Biblical Commentary by Roland Murphy

The Word Biblical Commentary was my first choice when I was in seminary in the 1990s, and it often is found on ministers’ bookshelves. The series has stood up well, and it is well worth the time to read. Yet, it is not consulted as often as others, as it is one of the more technical commentaries.

Roland Murphy, a Carmelite priest, was for many years professor of Old Testament at Duke University. An evangelical Catholic with a keen interest in wisdom literature, Murphy’s commentary provides helpful comments to some of the most difficult of Qoholet’s passages.

As readers work through the commentary, it becomes clear Murphy takes great joy in deciphering this book. He appreciates what Qoholet’s message was, and he hopes readers will share in his joy.

Other Noteworthy Volumes

Exploring the Old Testament, Volume 3: A Guide to the Psalms and Wisdom Literature by Ernest Lucas

This small volume is a great asset for anyone starting to study Hebrew poetry. In Chapter 6, Lucas briefly walks through the various parts of Ecclesiastes, including authorship, construction and commentary. Although concise, he provides a helpful bibliography, assisting readers in further research.

The Tree of Life by Roland Murphy

This was my first encounter with Murphy’s love of wisdom literature. Murphy provides a wonderful introduction into the world of wisdom literature and shares how the genre complements the rest of the Old Testament. His chapter on Ecclesiastes is well done.

Wisdom in Israel by Gerhard von Rad

Before this book was released in 1971, few scholars spent much time in the wisdom books. Von Rad’s work, however, allowed wisdom to become its own genre. While it is not easy to read, it is consulted by everyone in the field.

Qoholet may have opened the book by uttering, “Meaningless,” but the book is anything but irrelevant. May readers find the relevancy of his words in today’s world.

Ken Gore is professor of biblical studies at Dallas Baptist University. He is a graduate of Hannibal-La Grange College and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians stands as a living example of applying the message of the gospel in a non-Christian culture to everyday life.

While addressed to a first-century, cosmopolitan Roman colony, the issues that arose by converts from paganism and Judaism and who sought to live out their new commitment to follow Jesus, the Christ, still challenge followers of Jesus today.

Unlike Paul’s letter to the Colossians and similar letters, his first letter to the Corinthians was penned in response to daily life questions brought to the apostle after he left the city where he lived and ministered.

Understanding the historical and cultural setting behind the issues and Paul’s response to them are essential to apply the biblical message to our lives today.

The following commentaries and background resource are helpful tools to understand both the text and background of this correspondence between Paul and those he loved but with whom he had conflict and misunderstanding regarding how to live as a follower of Jesus.

New International Commentary on the New Testament: The First Epistle to the Corinthians by Gordon D. Fee

I had the privilege of sitting in a summer course with Gordon Fee at Regent College in British Columbia in 2007. His commentary on Paul’s letter at the time had established itself as a seminal work on the biblical text since its initial publication in 1987.

As he taught, Fee noted his frustration with some of the translation in the NIV, which was the English text for his commentary. He later joined the Committee on Biblical Translation that produced the 2011 Today’s New International Version. Upon its publication, Fee then updated his acclaimed commentary in 2014.

He admits in the preface to the revised edition of his commentary that some of the original translation [of the NIV (1978)] appeared to be incorrect, and he wanted to address those in his revised commentary. He also removed chapter and verse divisions traditionally included in the text to gain the true sense of the apostle’s rhetoric and reasoning in the text.

Fee’s commentary remains a must for study of this important New Testament letter born out of real-life questions regarding how to live the new life found in trusting and following Jesus, the Christ.

1 Corinthians: A Shorter Exegetical and Pastoral Commentary by Anthony C. Thiselton

Anthony Thiselton’s volume on 1 Corinthians is, as titled, “a shorter … commentary” than his initial magisterial commentary on the letter in the New International Greek Testament Commentary series, published in 2000 and nearly 1,400 pages in length.

Like Fee’s commentary, Thiselton’s work is a standard commentary for those serious about investigating the exegetical and background issues of the text.

In the abridged volume, the author sought to highlight his own views rather than comprehensively addressing alternative interpretations of the text. He does site other commentators and translations to support his views.

Secondly, the author sought to provide “how this epistle engages with pastoral and practical issues in the church and the world today.” He accomplished his second desired outcome at the end of each exegetical section with “Suggestions For Possible Reflection on [a stated passage].”

For example, reflections on 1 Corinthians 12:7-31 include “On the self-depravation of the ‘loner’ Christian (vv. 29-30)” and “On the non-competitive, complementary character of God’s gifts,” followed by questions for discussion.

The strength of Thiselton’s exegetical work in the original volume bolsters his insights and applications of the text for pastors and Bible teachers.

Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament: 1 Corinthians by David E. Garland

David Garland has provided a thorough yet practical commentary on this letter of Paul. Garland offers his own translation of the text and opens each major section of thought with background and contextual insights.

He follows each opening excursus with verse-by-verse exegesis and exposition of the passage. Additional notes at the end of each section provide comments on the language, text and other ancient material of the passage.

While scholarly, the stated purpose of the series is for pastors and those involved in the preaching and exposition of the Scriptures as “the uniquely inspired Word of God.” Garland achieves this purpose and presents an academically strong and practically applied text for the reader.

The thoroughness of Garland’s work is exemplified in a passage such as 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. Addressing the statement, “All things are permissible for me, but not all things are beneficial,” Garland provides four alternative interpretations for Paul’s inclusion of the statement in the first part of verse 12 alone.

Citing ancient and contemporary sources to guide the reader through the possible inferences behind the statement, the Garland concluded, “Paul’s [use of the statement] seeks to clarify … that Christian freedom does not allow one to pursue pleasure wherever it leads” (p. 229).

Pastors and professors alike will benefit from Garland’s careful exegesis and practical application of the text.

After Paul Left Corinth: The Influence of Secular Ethics and Social Change by Bruce W. Winter

While not an exegetical or expositional commentary, Winters provides a cultural, religious and political framework for understanding the specific inquiries made by the Corinthian Christians to their spiritual father, Paul, the Apostle.

Winter divides his study into two major parts—“Part 1: The Influence of Secular Ethics” and “Part 2: The Influence of Social Change.”

Winter identifies in the text of the letter issues affected by cultural, religious and political values held by the Corinthians. For example, in Part 1, he notes the Corinthian Christians’ questions regarding the obligation to wear or not to wear a veil by men and women (1 Corinthians 11:7, 10).

He explains the issues of “Men of Status Covering Their Heads” and “‘New’ Wives and the Sign of Marital Status” as examples to provide the possible impetus behind the church’s questions and Paul’s instructions.

Without such background material, the interpreter is left to apply the text as his or her denominational tradition has applied it.

In Part 2, Winter illuminates the picture behind the issue of “Sitting at Meat in an Idol’s Temple” (1 Corinthians 8:10) with background material explaining “The Federal Imperial Cult and the Games in Corinth,” and the impact of both the worship of the emperor and the relocation of the Isthmian Games upon the Christians’ understanding of how they should behave in such settings.

Winter delivered the colloquy lectures at B.H. Carroll Theological Institute in the winter of 2008, soon after the seminary was launched in 2004.

Gene Wilkes is dean of East Texas Baptist University’s B.H. Carroll Theological Seminary. He was the longtime pastor of Legacy Church in Plano and is the author of Jesus on Leadership. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

In Genesis 12, God promises Abram he will have a vast number of descendants who will possess the land of Canaan as their home.

As the book of Exodus opens, the reader learns that while the first of these promises has been realized, the promise of land faces a seemingly insurmountable obstacle as the multitude of Israelites are enslaved in Egypt by a pharaoh who did not know the story of Joseph.

What follows is one of the most well-known stories of the ancient world as the God of Israel orchestrates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery and establishes a covenant with them at Mount Sinai. These two events form the foundation for all of Israel’s religious thought and cultural identity for centuries.

Indeed, Exodus has maintained a place of prominence in the minds of Jews and Christians over the centuries due to the ways in which its theological message inspires and challenges readers in relation to ideas of liberation, covenant and the nature of the God of the Bible.

Summary of Exodus

Exodus begins with the origin story of one of Israel’s central heroes, Moses. Through a series of often miraculous events, Moses is introduced as both prophet and leader.

His pivotal encounter with God at the burning bush establishes a paradigm that becomes central throughout the rest of the biblical story: the interplay between God’s purposes and human agency with the agent’s freedom to accept or reject the divine commission.

In the case of Moses, it is somewhat ironic that his bold challenging of God’s calling him to confront pharaoh may reveal the personal trait that made him right for the job.

While much of the second half of Exodus is filled with legal pronouncements and details concerning the construction of sacred space, it is important to recognize Israel’s law was given within the context of a larger story of liberation and God’s provision and patience. It was not simply handed down as an impersonal list of prohibitions and regulations.

There is significant interplay between law and story. The story provides the stage for the giving of the law, and the law illuminates the story. Obedience to the law, therefore, is not a fearful adherence to a legal code but a reverent and grateful response to a God who the people know as liberator before they know as king.

This emphasis on the relationship between a people and their God is continued in the construction of the tabernacle, which underscores the importance of sacrifice and ritual purity in approaching God, but also affirms God’s presence among people and the invitation to enter that presence.

Word Biblical Commentary: Exodus by John Durham

The Word Biblical Commentary series remains a primary go-to resource due to its deep engagement with the Hebrew language and sensitivity to the literary form and structure of the biblical text. Durham’s Exodus volume is one of the best in the series.

Durham’s ability to balance technical philology with theological reflection, along with his extensive textual notes, provide insight into the nuances of Hebrew vocabulary and syntax and offer his readers a more precise understanding of the text. Additionally, his structure-focused approach reveals underlying literary patterns that help shape the narrative’s theological message.

Durham’s treatment of key theological themes—covenant, divine presence and liberation—offers rich insights for both scholars and faith communities. His discussion of Yahweh’s self-revelation in Exodus 3:14 is particularly noteworthy, as he navigates between traditional and modern interpretations of the divine name.

Overall, Durham’s Exodus is a valuable resource for students, pastors and scholars seeking a text-sensitive and theologically engaged commentary. While it may not satisfy those seeking exhaustive historical-critical engagement, its careful attention to the Hebrew text, along with its combination of linguistic, theological and literary analysis make it a significant contribution to Exodus studies.

Interpretation: Exodus by Terence E. Fretheim

For those looking for a more pastorally oriented reading of the biblical texts, the Interpretation series offers an excellent resource.

Fretheim’s Exodus volume is clear and engaging and makes complex theological and ethical ideas accessible to both scholars and clergy.

A key strength of Fretheim’s approach is his emphasis on the dynamic relationship between God and Israel. He highlights the participatory nature of divine-human interactions, arguing God is not a distant sovereign but one who invites human agency.

This is particularly evident in his discussion of Moses’ intercessory role (Exodus 32–34), where he underscores the responsiveness of God to human appeals. Additionally, his treatment of creation theology in Exodus—especially the interconnections between divine deliverance, law and the shaping of a just community—adds depth to his interpretation.

In line with the goals of the Interpretation series, Fretheim’s emphasis on theology, however, comes at the expense of sustained engagement with historical-critical issues. While he acknowledges scholarly debates on the composition and dating of Exodus, he does not explore them in detail, instead prioritizing the canonical form of the text. Despite this limitation, Fretheim’s ability to connect the text’s ancient concerns with contemporary ethical and theological issues ensures its enduring relevance.

Smyth & Helwys Bible Commentary: Exodus (2 volumes) by William Johnstone

Johnstone’s Exodus commentary is richly informed by intertextual connections, canonical theology and an awareness of the broader biblical tradition.

One of the key strengths of Johnstone’s work is his attention to the narrative structure of Exodus. He carefully traces thematic developments, such as divine presence, covenant and the transformation of Israel from an enslaved people into a priestly nation.

His literary analysis is particularly effective in highlighting the rhetorical strategies of the text, including repetition, parallelism and contrast. Additionally, his engagement with theological themes provides valuable insights for Christian readers, particularly in his discussions of divine revelation and worship.

Another significant feature of this series is the section titled “Connections,” which follows the commentary on each textual unit. Here, the author suggests helpful themes and approaches for teaching and sermon preparation, and it is here that many of Johnstone’s most valuable contributions are found.

Don Raney is the graduate academic adviser and adjunct professor of biblical studies at the Lubbock campus of Wayland Baptist University. He has a Ph.D. in Old Testament and has served as a pastor and hospice chaplain. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

The epistle of 1 Peter has stood throughout church history as one of the most significant works—although always within the shadow of the Pauline corpus.

Peter—Jesus’ chosen leader of the apostles, the spokesperson on Pentecost and always a leading figure in the early church, including in the “Gentile Pentecost” of Acts 10 with Cornelius’ conversion—stands at the forefront of the Christian movement, and his first letter is an ideal text for pastors and churches to study.

The overall theme of 1 Peter is most relevant in our culture, because it touches on the idea of how to live within a non-Christian environment—even one in opposition to Christianity itself.

Peter gives timeless insight into how Christians should live in such times. He does this by focusing on the core message of the gospel—how Jesus’ resurrection gives us eternal hope and assured inheritance—but also how Jesus wants us to live as a purified people.

Since Jesus suffered well, he serves as an example for Christians who live under unjust opposition, and he models the appropriate behavior for us today—especially how to walk this Christian life while being (or feeling) marginalized and without a platform of influence.

Resources by me

I wrote the premium commentary on 1 Peter for BaptistWay Press, now GC2 Press.

I also have preached a series on 1 Peter at First Baptist Church in Waxahachie titled “Thrive.”

Additionally, I have taught a seminary course on the New Testament that includes 1 Peter—both at B.H. Carroll Theological Seminary and in the Graduate School of Ministry at Dallas Baptist University.

Along the way, I have found the following resources to be helpful.

The IVP Bible Background Commentary by Craig Keener

My “go to” commentary is always this volume by Craig Keener. It covers the entire New Testament, which is extremely helpful. It also is brief, while alerting the reader to the most important interpretive questions and helpful suggestions on how to handle them.

Keener’s knowledge of the Greco-Roman background of the New Testament is virtually without equal, and his insights are consistently helpful.

The IVP New Testament Commentary: 1 Peter by Howard Marshall

Howard Marshall was a tremendous scholar who had the ability to make complicated topics readable. He does precisely that in this slim but helpful volume in an important commentary series.

While you may not always agree with every conclusion Marshall provides, he does a great job of explaining the most important alternative interpretations of the passage in a way that is accessible and extremely helpful.

While Craig Keener’s background commentary is a volume I typically pick up first, my next step would be to pick up a smaller but accessible volume like this one.

The NIV Application Commentary: 1 Peter by Scot McKnight

The entire NIV Application Commentary series is excellent, and I would recommend all the volumes, which is not necessarily something I could say about every biblical commentary series.

Scot McKnight is a gifted writer, a major New Testament scholar whose works are well-known and highly regarded, and this volume does not disappoint.

In typical McKnight fashion, he takes on the various tough interpretative passages and shows a clear path to explain their original meaning. Then, he goes beyond that.

One of the unique things about this series is its three-level structure—where the original meaning is explained, the hermeneutical bridge between the ancient text and the modern reader is traversed, and then various examples of modern application are given.

This commentary is extremely helpful, not only in understanding 1 Peter, but applying it in modern life.

Honorable mentions

There are a number of excellent commentaries on 1 Peter that tend to be more technical in nature but are deserving of an “honorable mention.”

1 Peter: A Commentary by Craig Keener

Although more technical than the ones above, a person who takes the time to work through Craig Keener’s 1 Peter: A Commentary will discover hidden gems throughout.

For example, Keener explains the passage that says, “Cast your cares on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7), in the light of the modern epidemic of anxiety in our culture today by suggesting Peter was not prescribing prayer over-and-against taking anxiety medication—a point I think could benefit a number of people who struggle on whether to listen to their doctor’s or their pastor’s recommendation.

Baker Exegetical Commentary: 1 Peter by Karen H. Jobes

A second volume I have tremendous appreciation for is Karen H. Jobes’ 1 Peter in the Baker Exegetical Commentaryseries. Although written for a more advanced reader, this volume is truly one of the best on 1 Peter. Jobes is a skilled expert on the Greek New Testament, and a pastor or scholar truly can benefit from her brilliant exegetical insights, which are unsurpassed.

1 Peter: A Handbook on the Greek Text by Mark Dubis

One final volume I would mention only for the person who has a technical knowledge of the Greek New Testament is Mark Dubis’s in the excellent series Baylor Handbook on the Greek New Testament.

I got to know Dubis when I was a student at Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary. I greatly value his robust knowledge of the technical matters of Greek syntax and grammar. If you are dealing with a thorny issue in 1 Peter, I would suggest you look at what Dubis says.

David Ritsema is the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Waxahachie. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Christian ministry from East Texas Baptist University, a Master of Divinity from Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminaryand a Ph.D. in New Testament from B.H. Carroll Theological Seminary. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

Proverbs are everywhere, as Alyce M. McKenzie points out in her book Preaching Proverbs: Wisdom for the Pulpit. They are, she explains, on “billboards, T-shirts, coffee mugs, cartoons, magazine ads, bumper stickers and posters.”

They are found in songs, commercials and conversations. I’m sure both you and I already have scrolled past a proverb or two this morning on Instagram or Facebook.

“About the only place proverbs do not seem to be found today,” McKenzie laments in her introduction, “is the pulpit.”

Why aren’t preachers preaching proverbs? Why aren’t Sunday school teachers teaching them?

I remember the first time I was asked to preach a proverb. I was assigned the text in a seminary class. It was Proverbs 25:11: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.”

I was completely baffled. How on earth was I meant to preach that? A single verse, for 20 minutes? Where was Jesus, where was God in these words? What did it even mean?

If you, like I, are daunted by the task of filling an entire sermon or lesson with only a few words from the Bible to build upon, if this is a book of the Bible you’ve also been neglecting, here is some help.

Don’t miss out on preaching and teaching Proverbs. As Thomas Long once wrote in Preaching and the Literary Forms of the Bible, “The question is not will people live by proverbs, but what kind of proverbs will they cherish?”

Here are a few resources to help you guide your church to cherish the proverbs that come to them from the word of God.

How to Read Proverbs by Tremper Longman III

Begin here. Tremper Longman’s book provides an easy-to-read overview of Proverbs that will answer all the questions you have, such as: What if a proverb doesn’t always seem true? How do I handle (what looks like) a prosperity gospel in Proverbs? Where is God and Jesus in the book of Proverbs?

Not only will Longman’s book answer such questions, but its final section also offers an invaluable resource for following three themes in Proverbs: money, love and speech. The material this book includes on each of these themes easily could become the basis of a sermon or Bible study series for your church.

New International Commentary on the Old Testament: The Book of Proverbs (2 volumes) by Bruce K. Waltke

If you’re looking for a commentary to help you write sermons and lessons on Proverbs, this is the one you need. Bruce Waltke’s two-volume, semi-technical commentary is absolutely the most thorough—almost obsessively so—commentary on Proverbs you will find. Everything I’ve ever needed, I’ve found here, even an explanation of those “apples of gold.”

Other commentaries

Other notable commentaries, if you like to peruse more than one, include: Ellen F. Davis’ Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Songs; Alice Ogden Bellis’ Proverbs; and Tremper Longman’s Proverbs from the Baker Commentary on the Old Testament series.

Preaching and the Literary Forms of the Bible by Thomas Long and Preaching with Variety by Jeffrey Arthurs

Even with an understanding of Proverbs as a book of the Bible and some solid commentaries to draw upon, the question remains: How does a preacher create a sermon from what they have learned?

Long and Arthurs’ books will help you here. They are practical guides for preachers in how to preach specific kinds of texts in the Bible.

Although they cover more than just how to preach proverbs (they also provide guidance for preaching stories, psalms, parables and more), what I like about these books for this project is that they teach you how to preach proverbs briefly.Sometimes, all a pastor has time for, with respect to a resource like this, is one chapter. Either of these two books contain the one chapter you need.

How to Preach Proverbs from the Preaching Biblical Literature series by Jared Alcántara and Preaching Proverbs: Wisdom from the Pulpit by Alyce McKenzie

These two books are stuffed to the brim with resources for preaching Proverbs but are more technical than my other recommendations. They are best suited for those seeking to become experts, rather than as a quick resource for an upcoming Sunday.

However, each book has unique strengths. Alcántara’s text includes an invaluable chapter on justice in Proverbs, which again, could inspire a sermon or Sunday school series. You’ll also find an appendix on Proverbs 31 here—essential reading before preaching it, especially if tempted to preach it on Mother’s Day.

A strength of McKenzie’s text is she herself is a masterful preacher of Proverbs, and in the final section of her book you’ll find her sermons as examples, showing her approach at work. Even if you don’t read her book, watch McKenzie’s sermon on Proverbs 3:5-6: “Wise Up! The Lenten Journey from Fear to Faith.”

Also, don’t miss Haddon Robinson’s classic “Lessons from Agur” on Proverbs 30:24-28. Like learning to cook or how to tie our shoes, sometimes the best way to learn is to watch an expert at work.

‘A word fitly spoken’

Not too long after that obscure proverb was assigned to me in class, I found myself preaching a summer sermon series in the book of Proverbs at my church. Overtime, with the help of tools like those listed above, I really did learn how to preach this oft-neglected book.

But perhaps what I learned most of all that summer wasn’t just how to preach that verse—“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver”—but how true it was, that these timely words really are beautiful and valuable and precious for God’s people.

Hopefully, with the help of these resources, you’ll be able to discover the truth of that proverb, too.

Alison Gerber is a Ph.D. candidate in preaching at Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary, where she preaches, teaches and writes about preaching. Before that, she was a pastor in South Peabody, Mass. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

First and Second Timothy are pastoral epistles written by the Apostle Paul to his younger colleague Timothy, focusing on ministry leadership and church structure.

Even though they traditionally are attributed to Paul, many scholars believe they were written by someone else after his death. Regardless, these letters have been of great value to church leaders, especially in offering guidance on confronting false teachings, appointing qualified leaders and clarifying the essence of the gospel.

Paul’s letters to Timothy emphasize the importance of staying true to the gospel and modeling faithful, ethical leadership in the church.

In my ministry at First Baptist Church Kaufman en Español and elsewhere, I emphasize the importance of these letters by using 2 Timothy 2:2, where Paul says to Timothy: “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”

I believe this encapsulates Paul’s teaching to Timothy about the need for leadership training, ministry succession and church health.

Living Insights New Testament Commentary: 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus by Chuck Swindoll

Chuck Swindoll’s decades of pastoral experience and seminary leadership are poured into this commentary, combining theological analysis with practical applications for living a Christ-centered life for church leaders and members alike.

Using timetables and ancient maps, Swindoll provides an aerial view of the letters and then descends gradually with an introduction that includes cross-referenced Bible passages and historical and cultural context. He then engages the letter with a verse-by-verse and chapter-by-chapter analysis, inserting practical advice and examples for pastors and teachers.

The practical value this commentary holds for pastors and church leaders today is priceless. It is a great resource for those who love expository teaching.

Swindoll draws out the pastoral guidance and timeless principles on doctrine, character, leadership, endurance and care in ministry, and translates them into practical—even personal—advice. Through these lessons, Swindoll often sounds like a mentor to pastors and church leaders, helping them navigate Christian and church life in a different cultural context than Paul’s.

There is an intrinsic hope in this commentary that, by applying the principles of these letters, church leaders can shepherd their congregations better, stay rooted in sound doctrine and remain faithful to their calling—even through difficulties.

By the end of the commentary, Swindoll states: “To the end of my days, my major goal in life is to communicate the Word with accuracy, insight, clarity, and practicality.”

It’s easy to see that goal realized throughout the pages of this commentary.

Everyone Bible Study Guides: 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus by N.T. Wright

In my time as a New Testament instructor, I often taught and learned from N.T. Wright, one of the world’s leading New Testament scholars. Two of his books I used most are The New Testament in Its World and Surprised by Hope.

Another book I use for personal and church teachings is the 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus volume in Wright’s Everyone Bible Study Guides series. This Bible study guide is designed to help readers understand Scripture in fresh ways through thoughtful questions, prayer suggestions and helpful cultural background information, guiding individuals or groups deeper into God’s word.

The style of this Bible study resource invites students to interact with the biblical text through provocative questions that foster personal reflection and critical thinking. The structure of the study is simple yet spiritually and theologically deep.

Wright begins with a reflection on the chapter’s theme, followed by an open question to spark personal evaluation. Then comes the Bible reading, followed by specific questions, ending with a prayer.

Wright believes in these letters, Paul expresses two central concerns, which he addresses in this Bible study. The first is “everyone who professes Christian faith should allow the gospel to transform the whole of their lives, so that the outward signs of the faith express a living reality that comes from the deepest parts of the personality.”

The second is every teacher of the faith “should know how to build up the community in mutual love and support rather than, by the wrong sort of teaching or behavior, tearing it apart.”

This is a great resource, not only for a verse-by-verse Bible study, but also for engaging in the spiritual disciplines reflected in these epistles.

Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary: Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus by David Platt, Daniel Akin and Tony Merida

Like most things in life, to know how to build, assemble or simply do something, a manual is the best tool. That’s how 1 and 2 Timothy can be used—as a church leadership manual containing instructions Christian leaders should follow.

The editorial work in this commentary on 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus offers a different perspective from Swindoll and Wright. David Platt and Tony Merida emphasize how these letters apply to contemporary Christian life, demonstrating the guidance Timothy needed to lead his church amid strong cultural opposition is still relevant today.

Each section of this commentary highlights the chapter’s theme by exploring key passages, starting with a brief “Main Idea,” followed by an introduction, a thematic study and ending with a “Reflect & Discuss” section—making it ideal for personal devotion, small group study or sermon preparation.

The commentary underscores the importance of sound doctrine and godly character in church leadership, echoing the pastoral concerns of the Apostle Paul, as also emphasized in N.T. Wright’s guide.

A caution

One caution I would like to offer when studying Paul’s letters to Timothy is to approach controversial passages with prayer, an open mind and responsibility, recognizing each of the three commentators above may interpret them differently.

For instance, 1 Timothy 2:11–15 has stirred intense debate and division in the contemporary church due to its apparent silencing of women, leading some scholars to conclude women have been excluded from leadership roles.

In a cultural climate valuing gender equality, many faith leaders argue such interpretations fall short of the gospel’s standard, which elevates the dignity of marginalized groups, including women and slaves.

Dr. Pablo Juárez is pastor of First Baptist Church Kaufman en Español and a graduate of Baptist University of the Américas. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.

Segments of the Book of Joshua are among the most well-known passages of the Bible.

Many households have posted the challenge and proclamation of Joshua 24:15 somewhere in their home. The battle of Jericho has been turned repeatedly into movies, songs and children’s stories.

When in need of encouragement, God’s command to Joshua in Chapter 1 is a passage many turn to for strength to face the future.

But there are segments of the book overlooked for a variety of reasons. Some skip Chapters 13-21, because the listing of locations that are hard to pronounce and the struggle to understand how tribal allotments of land might apply to modern readers is too difficult to discern.

Other passages, such as Joshua 6:17, with the command to wipe out anything that breathes are hard to reconcile with a Christian ethic and have been at the center of debates about the Old Testament’s relationship to the New Testament for centuries.

Still, at the end of the day, the Book of Joshua provides some of the most engaging and exciting reading found in the Old Testament. Throughout its pages, we encounter personal and interpersonal struggles about doing what is right.

The adventure of entering a new, unknown land resonates with believers who are attempting to navigate their way through a world that feels more and more foreign to them. And even those passages that are sometimes hard to relate to have some important lessons to teach about God’s faithfulness to his promises and our need to follow him wherever he may lead us.

NIV Application Commentary: Joshua by Robert L. Hubbard Jr.

The NIV Application Commentary series is one of the most solid and useful sets available on the market today.

Robert Hubbard Jr.’s volume on Joshua follows the set pattern of the series with its treatment of each passage through the lens of “Original Meaning,” “Bridging the Contexts” between us and the original audience, and “Contemporary Significance” with great effectiveness and purpose.

The commentary starts with an in-depth introduction to Joshua and some of the questions that book creates.

Questions such as, “Why all the killing?” are addressed and a thorough treatment of the historical background of the book and major interpretive questions surrounding it—such as its relationship to archaeology—are handled with thoroughness and clarity. Hubbard treats each of these issues with both a scholarly acumen and a humble spirit about things that are debatable.

Perhaps most helpful to modern readers will be Hubbard’s commitment to bring out connections between Joshua and the New Testament. He gives an excellent comparison of Joshua’s commission in Chapter 1 and the Great Commission.

Hubbard is quite gifted at bridging the contexts between a world that sometimes seems foreign to us and one we attempt to emulate with all we are.

Tyndale Old Testament Commentary: Joshua by Richard Hess

The Tyndale Old Testament Commentary series published by InterVarsity Press is another accessible and useful set for nonspecialists. The volumes in the series tend to be a little older—written in the 1980s and 1990s—and are not as thorough or technical as other sets, but these realities make volumes available online at especially affordable prices. Additionally, these elements do not diminish the overall usefulness of each book.

Richard Hess is a gifted communicator who understands not only the content of the Scripture, but also the heart of the church. He consistently includes notes about the relevance of the text to Christians and offers many cross references to the New Testament.

Hess doesn’t spend much time on some of the more controversial content issues of Joshua, but he does give a good overview of the historical background of the book and its relationship to archaeology.

New American Commentary: Joshua by David Howard Jr.

David Howard’s volume in the New American Commentary is a standout volume in the series, both for its thoroughness and clarity.

While some volumes in this series can gloss over issues or completely ignore them, Howard is willing to tackle such issues and even go against the “traditional” reading of a passage if that is where the text leads him.

For instance, in his handling of Joshua 10:12-15, where some insist on the sun literally standing still, Howard argues the passage is best read as a poem filled with figurative expressions.

Whether one agrees with him or not, his willingness to cover the strengths and weaknesses of the various interpretations of the passage—he identifies five—shows the value of this volume for dealing with a variety of interpretative matters.

Howard is a scholar deeply entrenched in the historical books in general and Joshua in particular. But his writing style is very readable and user-friendly.

He is also responsible for Moody Publishers An Introduction to the Old Testament Historical Books—another excellent resource for nonspecialists covering the content and background of all the books covering Israel’s history in the Old Testament.

The fact his target audience often is beginning students, coupled with his translation and ministry experience, makes his reflections on Joshua both meaningful and helpful to a wide swath of readers.

Other Solid Commentaries

New International Commentary on the Old Testament: The Book of Joshua by Marten H. Woudstra

New International Commentary on the Old Testament is the gold standard of Old Testament commentaries and this volume by Woudstra is no exception.

The primary issue with the volumes in this set is they tend to be very technical and also are more expensive than many series. Still, if the reader has the expertise to take advantage of the additional language content and breadth of information, this definitely is a text that needs to be in their library.

Word Biblical Commentary: Joshua by Trent C. Butler

The 2014 update and revision of Butler’s commentary on Joshua features solid biblical scholarship and his own translation of the text.

The content and flow of the Word volumes makes it difficult to navigate, and there is a lot of extra material most readers will find useless. Still, there are some nuggets of insight in the commentary that are helpful.

Focus on the Bible: Joshua: No Falling Words by Dale Ralph Davis

Dale Davis’ commentaries on the Old Testament historical books are excellent and nontechnical works. His volume on Joshua is no exception. What it lacks in background, it makes up for in good literary contextual discussions and pastoral applications.

Tim Pierce is associate professor and dean of Wayland Baptist University’s School of Christian Studies. The views expressed in this resource article are those of the author.