Ezra & Nehemiah (Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching)
Overview
Studies in the books of Ezra–Nehemiah have tended to become bogged down with such questions as, Who came first, Ezra or Nehemiah, and were they contemporaries? When did Ezra make his journey to Jerusalem, how many trips did he make, and which route did he take? In this commentary, the author undertakes a theological reading which emphasizes its character as narrative and story. He avoids rearranging the text and, with the exception of chapter five of Nehemiah, he seeks to understand the narrative as it was received. In general, Mark Throntveit avoids an overly historical approach to the text and presents a clear picture of Ezra and Nehemiah.
- Detailed introduction
- Bibliography
Top Highlights
“Understood from Nehemiah’s point of view, the prayer simply calls upon God, in language sanctioned by the conventions of the day, after extreme provocation, to deal justly with those who have aligned themselves against the divine purpose. The prayer thus provides yet another testimony to Nehemiah’s seemingly unshakable confidence that he was pursuing God’s will in the project.” (Pages 81–82)
“Second, whether by historical coincidence or literary artistry, it is appropriate that the first feast to be celebrated by the community should be the Feast of Booths, which, according to Leviticus 23:42–43, served to commemorate God’s gracious deliverance of their forebears from Egypt.” (Page 23)
“Nehemiah’s turning to God as the source of strength in all aspects of life is one of his most attractive qualities.” (Page 68)
“What is required from the people is not strength of arms or superiority of numbers but a firm trust in the presence of God and the divine ability to deliver.” (Page 82)
“Ezra-Nehemiah provides an excellent example of the way in which Israel retold old stories to address new situations in the life of God’s people. The disastrous events of 587 b.c., which included the destruction of the temple, the end of the Davidic monarchy and Israel as a political entity, not to mention the deportation of the fruit and flower of the population to exile in Babylon, had necessitated a radical reassessment of Israel’s identity and relationship to God. How should they understand what had happened to them? Had God sent them into exile, or had the gods of Babylon been victorious? Were they still the chosen people, or had God abandoned them? What had gone wrong? Was God able to deliver them? Was God willing to deliver them? Would God remember the promises to Abraham and David?” (Page 10)
The Interpretation series from Westminster John Knox Press is clearly established as a rich source for teaching and preaching. They have tapped the talents of a varied and esteemed group of contributors, resulting in what is clearly the essential comprehensive commentary series on the Bible.
—W. Eugene March, A.B. Rhodes Professor of Old Testament Emeritus at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
The Interpretation series is an invaluable resource for any leader or scholar interested in interpreting the biblical text to the broader church. Its works are essential for pastors, educators, and church libraries.
—Brian K. Blount, President and Professor of New Testament at Union Theological Seminary
- Title: Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching Ezra & Nehemiah
- Author: Mark A. Throntveit
- Publisher: John Knox Press
- Publication Date: 1992
- Pages: 129
