Ezra & Nehemiah (Mentor Commentary | MC)
Overview
The Mentor Commentary Series combines a high view of Scripture with access to the latest academic theological research. This unique combination allows the reader to see what recent scholarly research has discovered without losing sight of the inerrancy of Scripture. Uncover the meaning of Scripture, and clarify its relevance for your life today. Grasp the significance of the Bible for our times. And discover the richness of Scripture with detailed commentary, thorough exegesis, and probing questions on literary, interpretive, and contextual issues.
Tiberius Rata, an Old Testament scholar, considers the narrative of the restoration of the Jewish people to its homeland. At the center of these two books of Ezra and Nehemiah are the decrees of two Persian kings, Cyrus and Artaxerxes. We discover a God who is in control of history and the hearts of his people. Yahweh can even work through the lives of secular kings.
In the Logos edition, this valuable volume is enhanced by amazing functionality. Scripture citations link directly to English translations, and important terms link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Perform powerful searches to find exactly what you’re looking for. Take the discussion with you using tablet and mobile apps. With Logos Bible Software, the most efficient and comprehensive research tools are in one place, so you get the most out of your study.
- Provides exposition that builds the faith of the reader
- Contains ample exegesis
- Moves verse-by-verse through these fascinating books of the Bible
Top Highlights
“Ezra introduces God as faithful to His word and a Keeper of His promises.” (Page 15)
“Nehemiah prayed. Indeed, Nehemiah stands as an example for all the godly leaders who want to do great things for God. Nehemiah only answered after he had bathed his heart and life in prayer. Nehemiah’s request was simple and with purpose: ‘Send me … that I may rebuild.’ We learn from Nehemiah’s example that piety is no substitute for preparation, but neither is preparation a substitute for piety. It seems that we, like Nehemiah, need both prayer and planning.” (Page 139)
“The Bible clearly teaches that pride is always an obstacle in doing God’s work. ‘I have too much education to do such a menial job,’ is the unfortunate cry that resounds in churches even today. Though these dissenters from Nehemiah’s time were described as nobles, they are in fact low class citizens when it comes to the Kingdom of God and His work. They could not humble themselves and would not serve.” (Page 148)
“Chapter three displays and emphasizes unity in diversity. Even though the workers come from different locations, different levels of education and different professions, they were united under the leadership of Nehemiah to accomplish the work of reconstruction.” (Page 152)
“Sometimes opposition is a sign that you’re doing something wrong, but in this case, opposition was a sign that Nehemiah was doing something right.” (Page 143)
This commentary on Ezra and Nehemiah is superbly written, beautifully illustrated and carefully documented. Dr. Rata has provided the student of Scripture with a thoughtful commentary on Ezra and Nehemiah that is holistic in approach. He skillfully weaves together matters of the Hebrew text, historical backgrounds, theology and archaeological discoveries. Also not forgotten are the practical needs of the contemporary Christian. This is a book suitable for the classroom, pastor’s office, or the scholar’s study.
—John J. Davis, president/professor emeritus, Grace College and Grace Theological Seminary
Tiberius Rata has provided the church with a clearly written, insightful synthesis of the often-neglected books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The author’s style is concise and readable; he stays on track and refuses to deviate from his primary goal of illuminating the meaning and significance of the biblical text. One of the most useful features of this volume is its attention to contemporary relevance. Without violating the meaning of the ancient text in its context, the author derives helpful practical insights that are consistent with its original intention.
—Robert B. Chisholm Jr., chair and professor of Old Testament studies, Dallas Theological Seminary
- Title: Mentor Commentary: Ezra & Nehemiah
- Author: Tiberius Rata
- Publisher: Christian Focus
- Publication Date: 2011
- Pages: 288