Everyman's Bible Commentary Series (43 vols.)

Most Christians do not have a clear understanding of the pattern, unity, or progression of the Old Testament. They can tell stories of Moses, Noah, and David but aren’t sure how all these events fit together. And they don’t fully appreciate the doctrines found in the thirty-nine books between Genesis and Malachi.

But the Old Testament does not have to be mysterious or confusing. In this newly revised edition, Dr. Benware offers a chronological approach to give you a bird’s-eye view of the historic value of the Old Testament, while his book-by-book analysis reveals important details and emphases.

If you want a better understanding of the whole Bible, Survey of the Old Testament is the place to start.

Jesus Christ is the only answer to those questions. He is the key to God’s New Covenant, the central theme of the New Testament.

In order to fully appreciate that New Covenant, you must explore the lives and times of Christ and the New Testament writers. Survey of the New Testament organizes this essential information around the anticipation, institution, and fulfillment of the New Covenant. Dr. Benware, along with his book-by-book study of twenty seven New Testament books, includes a chronological study of the life of Christ, a look at political forces and ideologies of the first century Roman world, and a glimpse into the intertestamental period. To clarify the order and pattern of the New Testament, Dr. Benware links each epistle to its historical base, the book of Acts. Thirty helpful charts have been included as well.

How did we get here? Why are we here? What is our future? The book of Genesis gives the loving answers of God, told in the powerful stories of Abraham, Jacob, Isaac and Joseph. These are men who pursued and fought God, disobeyed Him and praised Him. Howard Vos explains how the stories of Genesis can answer our big questions while investing our lives with more meaning and purpose.

Have you ever resolved to read through the entire Bible, only to abandon your resolution when you reached the long, detailed passages of Leviticus? Or wondered why God included all those lists of ceremonial laws and instructions in His inspired Word? What can those dictates possibly mean to Christians today? Schultz's clear, step-by-step study of this Old Testament book will convince you that, among those complicated instructions to the people of Israel, God does have a message for you. Take a closer look at those rituals and rules. The study of Leviticus can give you a deeper, richer understanding of the holiness of God and His desire and provision for fellowship with His people. Nothing could be more relevant to your life.

The books of Numbers includes a comprehensive census, an account of the events after Sinai, and the story of the hardships the Israelites encountered on their journey to the Promised Land. In this volume, Irving L. Jenson explores and explains the complexities of this important book of the Pentateuch.

Despite the common opinion of church-age Christians, Dr. Schultz maintains that the book of Deuteronomy is not the narrative of a never-smiling God and a frightened, timid nation. Rather, the love of Jehovah for his people is the heart of this Old Testament book.

Deuteronomy: The Gospel of Love offers a simple but thorough exposition of this important though frequently overlooked divine record. Bringing rewarding insights from the original Hebrew text, it puts heavy stress on the love relationship between God and His specially chosen people.

This commentary reflects a rare grasp of the Hebrew language and the Old Testament Scriptures. It will aid any student or layman in his personal investigation of the character of God as seen in His patient working with Israel.

Joshua is a book of endings and beginnings. It marks the end of a forty-year journey through the wilderness—a time when God led His people from bondage, gave them the law—and the conclusion of Moses’ leadership. But Joshua also looks forward, telling the story of the new leader of the Israelites, the journey across the Jordan, and the conquest of the Canaanites. Irving L. Jensen’s commentary on Joshua explains the book of Joshua to modern readers, and tells the story of one of Israel’s most important historical moments in accessible language.

The book of Judges presents challenges to the reader. In Judges we encounter ruthless warfare, savage sin, and wanton disobedience. Judges, at first glance, appears to be a calculated attempt by the Israelites to reject God. Yet in the stories of Deborah, Gideon, Samson, and Ruth—for whom an entire book is devoted—we see God at work among his people. Arthur Lewis shows us how Judges offers glimpses of salvation amidst Israel’s descent into sin.

Beginning with the calling of Samuel, the creation of a monarchy, and the anointing of Saul, the books of Samuel culminate in David’s ascendancy to the throne over a strong and united kingdom of Israel. Yet trouble continues to brood beneath the surface: adultery and murder, violence, and early evidence for a rift which would result in a divided kingdom only two generations later. J. Carl Laney helps us put the pieces of 1 & 2 Samuel together, explains their significance in the Bible, and reveals the continued hand of Yahweh at work in His people.

Israel asked for a king, and the books of 1 & 2 Kings provide a history of the monarchy of Israel. 1 Kings begins with Solomon. He asks for wisdom, and God blesses him—not only with wisdom, but also riches, success, and international renown. He builds a temple, and acquires stability for Israel. But the peace does not last. Beginning with Rehoboam and Jeroboam, Israel descends into two separate kingdoms. As the divisions within Israel accelerate, so does the division between Yahweh and His people. 2 Kings concludes with the disintegration of both kingdoms—Israel to the Assyrians, and Judah to the Babylonians. Yet amid the spiral, God provides good kings, prophets, and glimpses of redemption and salvation.

Although the books of Chronicles have been viewed as supplementary or alternative to the books of Kings, they contain important details in their own right. The book of 1 Chronicles is devoted to David’s life, and 2 Chronicles offers an account of King Solomon, and the succession of kings which followed. The story ends with a proclamation from Cyrus, freeing the kingdom of Judah from captivity. In this commentary, the history of the Chronicler is explained in accessible and easy-to-understand language.

Rebuilding and returning are common experiences in Christianity. From building Jerusalem after decades of abandonment, to recommitting to the law of God, the books of Ezra and Nehemiah contain important insight for today’s church. In this commentary, J. Carl Laney makes the story in these important books of the Bible relevant to the pressing needs and common experiences in the church today.

The book of Job deals with the problem of suffering, and introduces complex questions about the nature of God and the presence and effects of evil in the world. Throughout the book, Job refuses to take the advice of his friends—to curse God. Job ends with a firm reminder that God’s ways are higher than our ways.

The Psalms contain beautiful poetry, ardent praise, deep confession, and honest lament. In his commentary on the first fifty Psalms, Robert L. Alden examines the background of each Psalm, explains the message the Psalmist was attempting to convey then, and relates it in a meaningful way for today.

The Psalmist tells how the Lord has proved faithful to him, helping him in his distress. He voices desperate petitions, recalls what the Lord has done in the past, praises Him for His goodness and greatness, and testifies to His mercy in the many extremities of life. Dr. Alden says, "Here, more than any other place in the Bible, the heart-throb of the saint is heard. Here are the most exalted expressions of God’s greatness. Here are the most bitter groans of the sinful sick. Here is something for everyone in every mood."

The last portion of the book of Psalms begins with Psalm 100 and culminates in the unrestrained praise found in Psalm 150. In between are Psalms of confession, lament, and the lengthy acrostic on the law found in Psalm 119. In the final volume of his 3-volume commentary on the Psalms, Robert L. Alden explains the significance and relevance of these Psalms for today.

The book of Proverbs is more than just practical advice—it contains true wisdom for Christian living. That makes it vital for all Christians. Irving L. Jensen’s commentary on Proverbs unifies and applies the book. From engaging exposition, to an emphasis on practical application, this commentary helps readers discover and apply true Wisdom.

In one sentence Ecclesiastes tells us to enjoy the gifts of God, but in another, he tells us that everything is meaningless. How do we make sense of this? Fear God, and keep the commandments—this is the conclusion of the matter. In this commentary, Walter C. Kaiser helps us make sense of this vexing and confusing book in simple, easy-to-understand language.

From displays of God’s holiness to Isaiah, to repeated prophecy against all nations who do not follow God—Judah included—Isaiah contains harsh and poignant language about God’s ways and expectations. Yet it also contains illustrative prophecy of a Messiah and a moving account of the Suffering Servant. Ultimately, Isaiah promises a restoration of God’s covenant.

God on a sinful people. For this, Jeremiah was persecuted, ostracized, and mocked. Yet his message was as important then as it is now. The books of Jeremiah and Lamentation call us back to God—to repentance and restoration.

After the Babylonians sacked the city of Jerusalem and carried nearly everyone into captivity, God called Ezekiel to address the captives. He prophesied to a people far from home, searching for the presence of God. Ralph H. Alexander connects Ezekiel’s prophecy to the modern search for the meaning and presence of God.

Hosea and Amos are provocative books. Hosea marries a prostitute, who leaves him for another—and the compares this incident to God’s relationship with Israel. Amos, too, prophesied to Israel, speaking of God’s wrath toward those who disobeyed him. These two prophets provided highly illuminating accounts of God’s revulsion toward evil, and predict the catastrophic events which later befell Israel.

Habakkuk and Zephaniah are important minor prophets. Habakkuk examines wickedness, punishment, and justice in an era before Babylonian captivity. Zephaniah was written to warn of the coming “day of the Lord,” and inspire his listeners to live holy lives. Cyril J. Barber’s commentary on these two important books contains exposition on their dire warnings, their eschatology, and their importance for today.

Zechariah prophesied during the period following Babylonian captivity. His book contains eight visions, a history of Israel, and prophecies of the coming Messiah. He also addresses issues surrounding the rebuilding of the temple and the destruction of Jerusalem. J. Carl Laney’s commentary on Zechariah explains this complex book for modern readers.

Although the book of Haggai is short—only two chapters long—its mandate is far-reaching: rebuild the house of the Lord. This short book recalls God’s important message to Zerubbabel through the words of Haggai. Malachi, however, speaks to the post-exilic community, calling them to holy living. He addresses divorce, faithlessness, and acceptable sacrifices.

The Gospel of Jesus is for everyone, and the Gospel of Matthew tells the story of Jesus’ life and ministry for a uniquely Jewish audience. From references to Israelite history, to references to the kingdom of God, Matthew contains key elements of the Gospel message. Arthur Robertson’s detailed commentary on Matthew explains and outlines the central themes of Matthew’s Gospel.

Mark is a Gospel on the move. Jesus travels quickly, conversations happen abruptly, and the narrative is snappy. The shortest and most concise of the Gospels, Mark contains confusing parables, and repeated demands by Jesus for secrecy. The Gospel ends with the perplexing scene of the women fleeing in fear.

Ralph Earle’s commentary on the Gospel of Mark helps explains the confusing elements of this important Gospel. From Jesus’ early ministry, Earle shows us that what Mark lacks in length it makes up in depth.

Models for church government, guidelines for evangelism and mission work, the challenge to triumphant faith in the face of opposition and persecution—this is the book of Acts. The book of Acts is critical for our understanding of the church—its origins, mission, and purpose, both in its early days and into the present. Acts explains God’s new ways of revealing himself. We see this most vividly in the Spirit’s presence at Pentecost, but also in the calling of Paul, and in the spread of the Gospel to the ends of the earth. As a renowned scholar of both the Bible and the church, Charles Ryrie explores the message and mandate of the book of Acts.

The book of Romans is often referred to as the “freedom letter.” The epistle which has been called “the gospel according to Paul” centers on the important doctrinal themes of salvation, freedom from sin, freedom from the wrath of God, and freedom from the law. While written in a scholarly, competent manner, frequently referring to the original Greek of the text to establish crucial points of interpretation, this commentary’s easy style and presentation make it an excellent resource for the layman and student as well as the scholar.

Designed for laypeople, this commentary deal seriously with the biblical text without being overly technical. Introductory information, doctrinal themes, problem passages, and practical applications are examined.

In Second Corinthians, Paul continues his correspondence with the Corinthian church. He writes about his ministry, and defends himself against false accusations. In the final chapters, he contrasts his ministry with that of the false apostles, showing the Corinthians the genuineness of his spirit and the truth of his message. This detailed commentary helps modern readers make sense of Paul’s letter.

Galatians contains some of Paul’s harshest language. The Galatians have reverted to a Gospel which incorporates the law, diminishes grace, and confuses Paul’s message. In his epistle to the Galatians, Paul writes not out of anger, but of concern. He explains in detail the nature of grace, and ends with an explanation of the freedom which comes from knowing Christ.

The book of Ephesians portrays a God so great that Paul can hardly contain himself. From the opening greetings to the church in Ephesus, Paul’s words of the greatness of Christ gush forth. All things are fulfilled in Christ, and through Christ, we are made alive with God and one with each other. In this commentary, Homer A. Kent, Jr. brings his years of experience as a pastor and New Testament scholar to bear on the book of Ephesians. This commentary introduces readers to one of the clearest statements of Pauline theology in the New Testament.

It’s no secret that Paul had great affection for the church in Philippi. He even says that "God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus." Yet Paul also writes of his hardships—his time “in chains”—and the ways God used his struggles to advance the Gospel. Walvoord’s commentary on Philippians explains this important epistle for modern readers, and includes background information to Paul’s beloved church. It also contains an exposition of the kenotic hymn in Philippians 2.

Paul reminds the Colossian church that Christ is the head—"the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." The church can have confidence, Paul says, because the fullness of God dwells in Christ. In his commentary on Colossians, Everett F. Harrison shows how Paul’s writings inspire modern readers toward obedience. His exposition of Colossians helps readers make sense of Paul’s important epistle, including the headship of Christ, the instructions for holy living, and Paul’s rules about husbands and wives, children and parents, and slaves and masters.

Dr. Ryrie’s admiration for these letters and for the beneficial teaching and encouragement they provide is clear: “These epistles are like finely cut gems. They reflect the depths of theological thought, especially in the area of future things,” he writes. “From every part shines forth the character and conduct of Paul’s missionary heart, and they sparkle with the brilliance of the captivating power of the Gospel of Christ.”

Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians were those of a pastor who was basically satisfied, even thrilled, with the progress of his flock. But he wanted to encourage them to go on in their faith, to be strong in persecution, wary of temptation, and watchful for the Lord’s Second Coming. In Charles Ryrie’s timeless commentary on 1 and 2 Thessalonians, the great theologian illuminates Paul’s clear teaching for his strong but not infallible church in the powerful, sensual city of Thessalonica. He shows how the apostle had to defend himself and his conduct from charges of slander, and how Paul was pleased with his recent converts and their vibrant, durable faith.

But despite Paul’s favor, he wanted to clear up some misconceptions the young church had about the Second Coming of Christ. In these two letters, he corrects confusion about when Christ would come back, and more important, he bolsters the hearts of this persecuted flock with the glorious hope of Christ’s resurrection, his return, and eternal life.

First Timothy is counted among the Pastoral Epistles, and for good reason. It is a letter from Paul to Timothy—a letter of encouragement, practical in nature, and rich in theology. First Timothy holds instructions for everything from worship to prayer to church government to finances. First Timothy is a window into a model mentorship relationship, and describes a maturing faith. D. Edmond Hiebert makes the core themes of First Timothy accessible for pastors and laypersons alike.

The book of Second Timothy continues Paul’s encouragement to his friend, telling him to persevere in his ministry and stay strong in the faith. In this commentary, D. Edmond Hiebert explains Paul’s important words to Timothy, dealing with topics concerning the End Times, rampant godlessness, and staying strong in Christ.

The book of Hebrews connects the New Testament to the Old in important ways. We read of the law and the prophets, the high priests, and a new covenant in Christ. Hebrews also contains a history of faith—the faith of the patriarchs, and the benefits of a life of faith. Charles F. Pfeiffer helps readers navigate the complicated terrain of the book of Hebrews, describing the imagery, and clarifying the important links between the New Testament and the Old.

The book of James has aroused controversy throughout the church’s history. On the one hand, we are saved by grace. On the other, we must do good works. How do the two fit together? Verno Doerksen traces the interpretive history of the book of James, and helps modern readers make sense of what turns out to be a false distinction: grace and works go together.

The epistles of Peter were written “to God’s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by His blood.” But First and Second Peter were written for us, too. These letters remind God’s people that they are holy and set apart. In his commentary on Peter’s epistles, Louis Barbieri connects Peter’s words to the churches in Asia to the words of God to the modern church.

Jude is a short letter—only a single chapter long. But it is rich in meaning and application. Jude urges his readers to “contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints.” He warns against false teachers and hypocritical practices—wise words for the Early Church, and important words for today.

According to Dr. Charles C. Ryrie, the book of Revelation was “designed not to mystify but to clarify.” Revelation, written by the apostle John while in exile on the island of Patmos, is one of the most important and fascinating books in the Bible, but its content has often seemed hidden and mysterious to many.

Dr. Ryrie’s straightforward interpretation of Revelation is characterized by understandable explanations and careful attention to significant features of the book.

This refreshing, concise new edition, with helpful charts and graphs, is written especially for those who want to understand what lies ahead in God’s plan. The more one learns about that plan, the greater the confidence that God’s victory over Satan, death, and sin is only a matter of time.