One in a series of twelve New Testament verse-by-verse commentary books edited by Max Anders. Includes discussion starters, teaching plan, and more. Great for lay teachers and pastors alike.
The letters of 1 and 2 Peter and of Jude come from a time in Christian history about which we know little; thus they represent rare voices from a crucial time in Christianity's development. And the picture of early Christianity suggested by these letters is a fascinating one.
Begun by William Hendriksen, Baker's New Testament Commentary has earned the acclaim and respect of Reformed and evangelical scholars and pastors. Since Hendriksen's death in 1982, the series has been continued by Simon J. Kistemaker. Four of the volumes compiled by Kistemaker earned the Gold Medallion Award (Hebrews, James and 1-3 John, Acts, and 1 Corinthians). The series was completed in 2001 with the publication of Revelation. This award-winning series from Baker Academic is currently the only available commentary from a Reformed perspective that covers the entire New Testament.
Through a detailed examination of the historical shaping and final canonical shape of seven oft-neglected New Testament letters, Reading the Epistles of James, Peter, John, and Jude as Scripture introduces readers to the historical, literary, and theological integrity of this indispensable apostolic witness. While most scholars today interpret biblical texts in terms of their individual historical points of composition, David Nienhuis and Robert Wall argue that a theological approach to this part of Scripture is better served by attending to these texts' historical point of canonization -- those key moments in the ancient church's life when apostolic writings were grouped together to maximize the Spirit's communication of the apostolic rule of faith to believers everywhere. Reading the Epistles of James, Peter, John, and Jude as Scripture is the only treatment of the Catholic Epistles that approaches these seven letters as an intentionally designed and theologically coherent canonical collection.
With this groundbreaking commentary, Frey rightly draws our attention back to these texts' important role within the canon and early Christianity.--Rob Wall, Paul T. Walls Professor of Scripture and Wesleyan Studies, Seattle Pacific University and Seminary
The Understanding the Bible Commentary Series helps readers navigate the strange and sometimes intimidating literary terrain of the Bible. These accessible volumes break down the barriers between the ancient and modern worlds so that the power and meaning of the biblical texts become transparent to contemporary readers. The contributors tackle the task of interpretation using the full range of critical methodologies and practices, yet they do so as people of faith who hold the text in the highest regard. Pastors, teachers, and lay people alike will cherish the truth found in this commentary series.
Long recognized as significant theological document and one from which the Christian church gains life and direction, the book of Ephesians focuses on Jesus Christ's amazing work in redemption and reconciliation. It invites, and requires, our participation in it. Jointly written by a theological seminary professor and an active pastor, this commentary emerges from an adult Sunday school class on Ephesians they taught together, as well as their own studies and experiences. The result is a fascinating work that focuses on the gospel of Jesus Christ and the ways it is to be lived out in the church and by Christians in their own lives.
Bible study notes and commentary on the New Testament books of 1&2 Peter, 1,2,3, John, and Jude. Emphasizes understanding the text with practical applications. Intended to be helpful to all Christians, including teachers and preachers, while avoiding an emphasis on technical issues. Written from the conservative viewpoint of faith in the Bible as the absolute, inerrant, verbally inspired word of God. Comments include discussion of these topics: * Faithfulness in time of suffering * Qualities needed in a Christian's character * Second coming of Jesus * The Deity and humanity of Jesus * Conditions for fellowship with God * Love for God and others * Importance of obedience to truth
The Knowing the Bible series is a resource designed to help Bible readers better understand and apply God’s Word. These 12-week studies lead participants through books of the Bible and are made up of four basic components: (1) reflection questions that help readers engage the text at a deeper level; (2) “Gospel Glimpses” that highlight the gospel of grace throughout the book; (3) “Whole-Bible Connections” that show how any given passage connects to the Bible’s overarching story of redemption, culminating in Christ; and (4) “Theological Soundings” that identify how historic orthodox doctrines are taught or reinforced throughout Scripture. With contributions from an array of influential pastors and church leaders, these gospel-centered studies will help Christians see and cherish the message of God’s grace on every page of the Bible. 1–2 Peter and Jude are letters written to churches experiencing various kinds of trials—false teachers, distorted views of the gospel, and harsh persecution. If 1 Peter exults, “Jesus will return!” and 2 Peter rebuffs the claim, “Jesus won’t return,” then Jude exhorts, “Jesus is just about here!” Together, these letters form a kind of manifesto of hope for living faithfully no matter how dark the times. This study highlights the importance of holding fast to the true gospel, living distinct, holy lives, and looking ahead to the return of Christ. Part of the Knowing the Bible series.