Biblical Commentaries

 

 

 

 

BIBLICAL COMMENTARIES

Commentaries explain scripture of the Bible verse-by-verse or section-by-section in detail. There are dozens of Biblical commentaries available that vary greatly in detail of coverage, analysis and intended audience. Commentaries can consist of only one volume or multiple volume sets. 

It is important to keep in mind that commentaries vary in affiliation or perspective. As in all theological scholarship, authors of commentaries typically reflect distinct theological orientations, shaped by their denominational identities, current place of employment, and other factors. When selecting commentaries, it is therefore advisable to pay attention both to relevant biographical factors for the author as disclosed in the blurb for a given commentary, and also to the publisher (asking, for example, whether it is affiliated with a particular denomination, a university press, etc.). Being aware of the author’s and/or press’s theological or ideological biases can help the user of the commentary to be more a more discerning reader.

Below are the general types of commentaries that can be found in the E.M. White library.

ADVANCED COMMENTARIES

Critical, Technical or Exegetical commentaries are scholarly works that examine passages in great detail. Varying viewpoints, fine technical points, literary styles, or critical theories may be discussed in these commentaries. Critical commentaries are based on the Greek, Hebrew or Aramaic text, which may require an understanding of the original languages. These titles are typically written by Biblical scholars and theologians.

Examples include:

• Anchor Bible Commentary REF BS 192.2 .A1 1964 G3
• Hermeneia REF BS 491.2 .H47
• New Testament Library REF BS 2341.2 .N49
• Word Biblical Commentary REF BS 491.2 .W67
• International Critical Commentary REF BS 491 .I6

    

INTERMEDIATE COMMENTARIES

Semi-technical commentaries are somewhat less technical than the commentaries described above. However these still go into great detail, and the authors do not assume readers know the original languages.

Examples include:

• Abingdon OT/NT Commentary
• New International Commentary on the New Testament REF BS 2341.2 .N45
• New International Commentary on the Old Testament REF BS 1151.2 .N48
• The New Interpreter’s Bible REF BS 491.2 .N484
• Old Testament Library REF BS 1151.2 .O4

HOMILETICAL, EXPOSITIONAL OR PASTORAL COMMENTARIES

These commentaries are intended to be a resource in sermon preparation or pastoral care. Working ministers are the targeted audience for these titles.

Examples include:

• Belief: a Theological Commentary on the Bible REF BS 491.53 .B45
• Connections REF BV 4235 .L43 C66
• Feasting on the Word REF BS 2341.52 .G67 .F43
• Interpretation REF BS 491.2 .I53

DEVOTIONAL COMMENTARIES

Devotional or Applicational commentaries are designed for laity or general readers, which focus on the meaning of the text and life applications. These titles are often used to aid in Bible study groups.

Examples include (not owned by library):

• The 365 Day Devotional Commentary
• BE Series Commentary
• Opening Up the Bible