Rating:2/5 The book focuses on the way media has shaped our members and caused a drought of biblical knowledge. It has some worthwile quotes and addresses some needed areas, but contains more personal feelings than biblical bases. It also contains some Calvinism as it is written by a Reformed author. Top Recommendation - Rating: 5/5 Probably my favorite book on the subject of the Holy Spirit. Written by a Restoration preacher, this work deals with important aspects of the Holy Spirit and His work while providing straightforward commentary. It was my fifth reading of this book, yet I learned from it again and found it as refreshing as always. Simple and powerful. Rating: 2/5 For a book dealing with Church discipline written by a denominational author, this is not a terrible book. I am actually surprised the author came down on some issues as strongly as he did. However, if you are looking for a great book on this subject, your time would be better spent with either A Clean Church, Caring Enough To Correct, or Chruch Discipline. Rating: 4/5 A good introduction to the topics of Theistic Evolution and the Day Age Theory. Clear, concise, and convincing. Written for the lay person. A good book for high school and college students to read and familiarize themselves with. Matthew, Structure, Christology, Kingdom by Jack Kingsburry Rating: 2/5 I read this book because it is referenced and interacted with by most modern commentaries on the Gospel of Matthew. Jack Kingsbury is no man's fool, though he is somewhat dry in his writing style and in my opinion tends to make mountains out of molehills. Kingsburry definitely draws out some important points and helps to understand some of the difficult structure of the first Gospel, yet in my opinion misses the overall structure and purpose of the book while also minimalizing some key aspects. Top Recommendation - Rating: 5/5 D. A. Carson does a masterful job telling the story of Matthew, picking out the main themes, nailing the transitions, and giving the big picture view. This is my top recommendation for a general overview of the Gospel of Matthew. Carson is a Calvinist, and this does surface on a couple of occasions, and he does get Matthew 24 partially wrong, but overall provides an enjoyable and preachable introduction to the first Gospel. Rating:3.5/5 Allison does a great job capturing typical themes and parallels throughout the gospel with a strong emphasis on Jesus as the New Lawgiver and Redeemer like unto Moses. Underscored throughout the book are parallels to the exodus of Israel and the giving of the Law at Sinai. The weakness of the book is that Allison believes in "Q" and wastes time dealing with higher criticism. Even with these pitfalls, there is much to be gained and appreciated in this work for the advanced Bible student. Top Recommendation - Rating: 5/5 The title is quite ambiguous, but accurately portrays the inward struggles of Jeremiah the prophets. Written as a biography of Jeremiah, this book highlights the the context, themes, and transitions within the life of one of the Old Testament's greatest prophets. If you ever feel discouraged and all alone in you Christian walk, you need to read this book and appreciate everything Jeremiah went through in his service to God and Israel. Having read this book I have a greater admiration for a courageous man tasked with a lifetime of difficult work. Rating: 4/5 I am currently working through this book and decided to go ahead and include it. Tannehill has done his reaserch and provides a wealth of accumulated knowledge regarding the overall structure and harmony of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. Tannehill's greatest strength is his recognition of Luke's usage of Old Testament themes and passages. Though often unappreciated and overlooked, Luke's use of the Old Testament is second to none, save maybe Matthew. I have been constantly wowed by what I have learned from this book and humbled in reconizing the shallowness of my understanding of both these great books of the Bible. My greatest failure has been in disconnecting my studies of both Luke and Acts from one another rather than seeing them as two parts of the same story. For mid to advanced level Bible students, I recommend this book with the assurance that you will be challenged to grow in both your appreciation and knowledge of the book. Top Recommendation - Rating 4/5 I have read through this book three times in the past two years and plan on making it a yearly read. I have also begun utilizing it in studies with young men and congregational teachers. Jack Meyer, a digressive preacher from the 1960, provides wise counsel to young church leaders and evangelists. He clearly lays out the purpose and duties of an evangelist, gives consel on how to deal with difficult circumstances that will face all leadership, and challenges young men to take a stand for truth. Though he is wrong on the topics of Sunday-School and Missionary Societies, his work is worthwhile and highly beneficial. For a full review of this book, click HERE. Top Recommendation - Rating: 5/5 Quarles highlights several of the main themes of the Gospel of Matthew and then traces those themes throughout the entire book. The New Moses, New David, New Exodus, New Abraham, and other themese are exponded with clarity and simplicity. Writen on a moderate level, this book is accessable to and geared towards challenging the average bible student. A true treasure and delight. Rating: 5/5 It has pictures! What more need I say? Haha. A great introduction to and survey of the life of Paul. Quarles's writing stile is engaging and one of the most appealing to me personally of most any writer. My main purpose in reading is to learn, yet to learn and enjoy at the same time is a double blessing. If you like books by D. A. Carson, James E. Smith, or Wayne Jackson, you'll enjoy this one too. Rating: 3/5 The lengthy introduction to this book is worth more than the heart of the book. The authors emphasize the need to use proper rules of interpretation and to grasp the central theme of Bible narratives, yet when it comes down to application they flounder a bit. Designed to help you tell Bible stories just as they are found in Scripture, without embellishing upon them is a nobel task, yet one which the authors do not quite live up to. In their zeal to abide within Scripture, they fail to utilize the implicit teaching of a passage or Scripture as a whole as it relates to a particular narrative. Highly Recommend - Rating 5/5 A great introduction to the topics of Jihad and Islam written by a former Muslim. The author shockingly takes a pacificst position on warfare (I cannot recall the last time I read such from a denominational writer). If you have a Muslim friend or co-worker, this is a must read. For a full review of this book click HERE. Rating: 2/5 Mixed bag is the only phrase that describes this book. The first six chapters or so, along with the last two chapters are outstanding and present some of the best material I have ever read refuting Dispensationalism. However, the middle five chapter argue that Dispensationalists are not true Calvinists (who cares other than Calvinists apparently) and provide a hardcore, five point Calvinist defense of Calvinism. I therefore cannot reccommend this book due to the extreme Calvinism taught in the central portion. Rating: 3.5/5 I am currently about a third of the way through this massive volume. In an expounded version of his previous work "Reading Backwards" Richard Hays tackles the subjects of intertextuality and the New Testament's use of the Old Testament. I find this area of study higly fascinating and Mr. Hay's work is both inciteful and helpful. It is written on a high-moderate to advanced level and is not an introductory sort of work (you need to come to the table with a background in the field already established). I have found Hays' methodology and hermeneutics very helpful though I feel James E. Smtih does a better job interpreting a couple of the prophecies from Matthew 1&2 in his book The Promised Messiah. All-in-all it has been a worthwhile read and one that anyone involved in the study of intertextuality must engage with. Rating: 4/5 Written in the vein of J. W. McGarvey, this survey of the first half of Acts (the title is a little deceptive) provides a pretty good overview with helpful insights. Though I do not agree with Smith's assessment of the Gift of the Holy Spirit (or with J. W. McGarvey's for that matter), I do find the book to be helpful, especially when it comes to telling the story of the book. Smith nails most of the big points and gets the Scriptural concept of the process salvation as being a combination of faith, repentance, and baptism. Rating: 3/5 Peterson traces the theme of the New Covenant through the Old Testament to its fulfillment in the New using Jeremiah as a primary basis for the study. Peterson comes from a Reformed background, yet does not seem to hold to Covenant theology. I believe Peterson is presenting an alternative to Covenant Theology that is essentially in line with what Churches of Christ have always held, while at the same time opposing Dispensationalism. It is always interesting to find a writer outside of the Churches of Christ background that shares our same views. As with any book from a Reformed background, Peterson does have some Calvinism in him that surfaces occasionally. If you are interested in the New Covenant theme of the Old Testament and its fulfillment in the New (Acts in particular) you will find this book helpful. Rating: 4/5 A fascinating read. Written by someone who used to be involved in the Christian Music Movement, it provides first hand eye-witness testimony to the problems and divisions caused by the use of instrumental music and contemporary music. Though many would find some of his points a bit radical (such as his distaste for modern praise songs, the rhythm of modern praise songs, and his hatred of secular music in general) I feel he raises some points that are at least worth considering. Lucarini's assessment of the Christian Music Movement parallels in many ways the divisions taking place within Churches of Christ caused by progressive liberals. One point that stuck out in my mind was how thankful I am for the Bible pattern of singing without the use of instruments in worship to God (Eph. 5:19 and Col. 3:16). The innovations of man always bring untold and unforeseen problems. If you enjoy listening to Instrumental Contemporary Christian Music for pleasure, or would like to see it brought into the church, I would challenge you to read this book and consider where it all leads. Rating: 4/5 This brief 63 page booklet gives a great introduction to a crucial Bible topic few Christians have failed to consider thoughtfully. One of the oldest heresies known to the church was the rejection of the Trinity. Those who deny the Trinity (such as Oneness Pentecostals") often pose such accusations as, "If you believe in the Trinity you believe in polytheism(multiple God's) but the Bible says there is only one God." How do we reconcile the "oneness" and the "threeness" passages of Scripture. Are there three distinct persons in the godhead? Why do we use the word "Trinity" if it is not found in the Bible? Pick up a copy of Sproul's book today and find the answers to these and other difficult questions. Rating: 4/5 This book is a Biblical Theological approach to the Book of Acts. Dennis Johnson (author of Triumph of the Lamb) takes a topical approach to the Book of Acts with an emphasis on the New Testament's fulfillment of the Old Testament. A refreshing and different approach than those found in Church of Christ commentaries, yet also one firmly planted in Scripture. Johnson's strength is in fact the weakness of most commentaries with which we are most familiar. Warning: Johnson is a Calvinist, and while this is not an overriding part on the book, it does surface on occasion. Though I find some of what he writes on the Holy Spirit, he is somewhat off the mark at the end of the day. A moderate to high-moderate reading level. High Recommendation - Rating:5/5 This is without a doubt the most fascinating book I read all year. Before I go further, I must state that this is not written for the average Bible student; it is an advanced work, written on a high level, for those who are ready to feast on meat. Having said that, wow. Alexander introduces the reader to Biblical Theology and traces the theme of the temple from the Garden of Eden to the final chapters of the Book of Revelation. Strenghts: Typology, typology, more typology, some parallelism, and more typology. Alexander draws links together that leave you wondering how you've missed them, yet at the same time amazed by the insight. He gets the big picture - something that is strangely missing in much of our preaching. In the end, you are left amazed at the beauty of the Bible and dumbfounded by its undeniable inspiration. Cons: He believes in a refurbished earth (as does almost every secular author), and is a Calvinist (though this doesn't come up much). He also presents the view that the New Jerusalem is heaven rather than the church. Rating: 0/5 Bad. Very Bad. Believes guilty fornicators can remarry. For a good book on Divorce and Remmarriage consider George Battey's. High Recommendation - Rating 4/5 I've read this book twice this year. I read the first edition once, and the second edition once. The emphasis on this book is a need for critical thinking, a drive for Biblical knowledge, and an introduction to appologetics. Written intentionally on a high-moderate reading level, it is intended to provoke college students and mature Christians to do the work necessary to become better Bible students. For a full review click HERE. Rating: 3/5 Written from a Church of Christ background this book presents some generally helpful material about the differences between denominations and the Lord's church. There were not any points that I felt were unique to this particular book, and he did take an extended swipe at the "one cup" position, so I have docked it a couple points in the rating. Rating: 2/5 Though I usually enjoy D. A. Carson's books, this collection of sermons is rather weak. I can't say that any stood out to me as exceptional or that I learned anythin in particular that I had not already read in one of his other books or that of another author. This may be a case where familiarity with the author hurts the value of a particular book. Rating: 2/5 Revised Note: The author is a thorough Calvinist and stresses all points of Calvinism throughout. It is also interesting that on the one hand the author wants to take a hard nosed stand for truth, yet on the other hand hr realizes that he must soften his stance in light of practices of the Church of Englan (of which he is a member) and a desire for unity among denominations. Though Stott tries to distance himself from full-blown eccumenicalism, he is indeed a unity-in-diversity preacher and has a hard time reconciling some of the passages regarding the conflicts of Christ with his personal situation. I cannot recommend this book as the bad outweighs the good. | Rating: 4/5 A facinating read providing a brief yet thorough introduction to the history of the Reformation and its key leaders. The author is from a Reformed background, yet still manages to give a balanced view of his subjects. Superbly written. I would give it a "5" rating, but it does contain some Calvinism and Reformed Theology (as one would expect in a book regarding the Reformation). Top Recommendation - Rating: 5/5 Norman Geisler has written a thought provoking and biblically centered discussion of the bodily ressurection. Geisler challenges Christians young and old alike to reconsider the Bible's teaching on the ressurection and strengthen their faith in a world where few still uphold the New Testament hope of ressurection. Rating: 5/5 - Great Read A short introduction to the topic of family worship in the home. A much needed topic is addressed in a wise, practical, and provoking way causing the reader (especially parents) to self-reflect on the need for daily family devotion. Thoroughly enjoyable and challenging. Rating: 3.5/5 A mid to advanced level book on the structure and major themes of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. I have only read part of this book so far, but have found it very helpful in gaining a big picture view of both books and recognizing some of the important details that are oft overlooked. Raing: 3.5/5 R. T. France is a noted Mathean Bible scholar. This volume is a shortened version of his larger work and has both strengths and weaknesses. Strengths: It is readable, enjoyable, provacative, informative, provides helpful insights to Matthew's use of the Old Testament, and provides a great general overview. Cons: Misses the point of the Sermon on the Mount (as do most commentators) and does not provide as much detail as is sometimes desired on difficult passages. Rating: 3/5 This book is a mixed bag, yet the good parts are quite exceptional. Allison addresses some random topics from Matthew and takes some odd positions overall (his commentary on Matthew is much more helpful in this area). His overall structure of the Gospel of Matthew and his detailed structure of the Sermon on the Mount are a gold mine (second to none) and well warrant the price of the book. Written for those with a background in Matthew and a moderate to high level of reading comprehension. Rating: 4/5 Thus far I have only read about a third of this book. I was conducting a study through 1 Timothy with a group of young men and found Jackson's material quite helpful. Jackson's comments are not written in a verse-by-verse format; he rather chooses to deal with small sections at a time (much like James E. Smith). While not as in depth as some may be looking for, he does have helpful material from a Church of Christ background, is easy to read, and will edify the reader. Rating 4/5 Having already read Iron Pillar / Broken Reed, I decided to do a more in-depth study of Jeremiah. Jame's E. Smith's full commentary is a pleasant read and full of gems. Like Wayne Jackson, Smith opperates more on a section-by-section basis rather than a verse-by-verse. This style of writing keeps the reader engaged and focused on the main points rather than getting lost in some of the details and technicalities. I greatly appreaciate the accessability of Smith's writing and always learn something from him. Rating: 4/5 John Mauck presents a strong case for the purpose of the Book of Acts (and the Gospel of Luke by default) being a legal defense for Paul's upcoming trial in Rome. It is argued that the material contained within Acts provides the type of evidence needed in a Roman criminal trial and centers around the accusations brought against the apostle. A fascinating read, full of apologetical insights, and provacative material surrounding the background and purpose of Acts. Recommended for moderate to advanced Bible students. Top Recommendation - Rating: 5/5 A chapter-by-chapter survey introduction to the Book of Hebrews. This book is simply the best introduction to Hebrews there is. Even though it is merely an introduction, you will learn much about the book and benefit more from it than probably any single commentary on the book. If you want to learn about the Book of Hebrew, this book along with Robert Milligan's is a must. Rating: 5/5 Though highly technical in nature, and not written for the layman, Coxon's work provides critical material for understanding and appreciation the intertextuality of the Bible and John's use of the Old Testament in particular. The New Exodus theme in John 5-10 is severely underappreciated, if recognized at all by most preachers. Prepare to be challenged, to learn, and to be wowed. Rating: 4/5 Recommended to me several years ago by Brother Smith Bibbens, I finally got around to reading this survey of the life of Paul. Written as an introductory course for freshmen at the university level it is both studious and accessable. Though not as thorough as Coneybear and Howson's classic work, this is more enjoyable and practical in its style. The only book on the life of Paul that I might have enjoyed more to this point is Charle's Quarrels book that has been previously mentioned. Rating: 3.5/5 Though not the most profound and in-depth book that was ever written on the birth narratives of Christ, Kostenberger's piece is well written and enjoyable. I recall learning several things along the way, yet also recall disagreeing with his explanation of the virgin birth prophecy found in Matthew 1. Overall good but not exceptional. Rating: 3/5 Written to help church leaders become better equipped to deal with beggars or people in need of assistance who seek out the church. This book provides some helpful material, though not without faults. The strength of this book is the checklists provided for use in conducting background interviews with needy people to assist in determining if they are truly seeking help rather than seeking enablers. The weakness of the book is the author's Social Gospel approach that often clashes with Scripture. I.e. they are more liberal with the use of the church treasury than Scripture allows, though at the same time they do present some wise words regarding stewardship that leaders would be wise to heed. Rating: 2/5 Writen from an Armeniain background against Calvinism. Also written as part of a two part series (the companion volume is titled "For Calvinism") to discuss the differences between Calvinism and Armenianism. This book is only mildly helpful since both positions are wrong. One helpful section had to do with the rise of New Calvinist a.k.a. Radical Calvinists (i.e. John Piper who is surprisingly called out by name) and the new direction Calvinism is headed (one which many Calvinists are strongly opposed to). Simply put, there are other books that do a better job pointing out the errors of Calvinism while at the same time teaching the truth of the Gospel. Rating: 3.5/5 I will freely confess that I have only made it one third of the way through this book, but do plan on completing it. There is definitely some helpful material for understanding the end-time language of the New Testament. Written from a Reformed background the author understands the nature of the Kingdom (the church) and is opposed to a premillennial explanation of eschatology. Warning: This book is written on a high accademic plain, is difficult to read, and is pretty dry. Definitely not a book for all people. Having said that, I do think it is a worthwhile read is you are able to manage it and I look forward to completing it. Rating: 4/5 An old-school point-by-pont, passage-by-passage refutation of Premillennialism. A concise, clear, distinct, and pointed assesment of the subject with a bold (somewhat dogmatic) style that often escapes modern writers. The one downside of the book is that the author believes in the renovated earth theory and a personal anti-christ. With these two caveats, a good read. Highly Recommend- Rating: 5/5 This book presents an introduction to Biblical Theology and traces the theme of salvation through Christ from one end of the Bible to the other. Another way to describe it would be an introductive study in typology. Clowney excells in telling the stories of the Old Testament and linking them up to their fulfillment in Christ. A highly enjoyable read, written on a moderate level, while accessable and challenging to the average and advanced student alike. Rating: 2/5 While studying through the Book of Acts I found that most modern commentators interact with Jervell's work on some level. So, I decided to purchase and read his book. Though he makes some helpful points (on structure in particular) and recognizes the theme of the Restoration of Israel, he believes that the Restoration of Israel is through Covenant Theology rather than the New Covenant. Thus the work is a mixed bag; somewhat helpful but largely flawed. Rating:2/5 See my synopsis of Jervell's other book listed above: Luke and the People of God. Same insights apply here. Rating: 3/5 An interesting read about liberal movements within Churches of Christ. In my opinion it is not as good as Adrift by Phil Sanders or Piloting the Straight by Dave Miller. If you have already read those two and would like to read more along the same lines, this is a pretty good book. Rating: 4/5 I hesitate to even include this MacArthur book in my list or confess to having read it. The reason for that is because though this is a good book (for the most part), the majority of MacArthur's stuff is not only bad, but quite dangerous. It always worries me when a member of the church tells me they have been reading MacArthur because he is such a thorough Calvinist and Premillennialist. So, my comments on this book are in no way meant to be an endorsement of MacArthur or anything else he has written. Having said all that, this was a refreshing read in the sense that it took a no-holds-barred approach to the subject of the Social Gospel. In fact, MacArthur says many things I believe faithful preachers would often get in trouble for saying because of their ponted and candid nature. When MacArthur preaches about the inspiration of Scripture and the sufficiency of the Gospel, he is a force to be reconed with for the cause of truth. When he gets on most any other subject he constantly tries to work in Calvinism or Dispensationalism and becomes a force to be reconned with on the side of error. Always be weary of MacArthur. Rating: 4/5 Written along the same lines as Johnson and Tannehill's books, this may be the best of the three. Again, the point is not a verse-by-verse commentary of the Book of Acts, but rather a recognition of the themes and a synthesizing of the parallels and structure. Outstanding material on a neglected portion of study in the Book of Acts. A moderate to high-moderate reading level. Rating: 0/5 Bad. Real bad. No redeeming qualities. Can't say I read every word, but it was awful. The only use for this book would be in preparing for a debate or use as kindling. Highly Recommend - Rating:5/5 I read this debate with a group of brethren as part of a study. We met once a week to discuss two affirmatives and two negatives. The debate revolves around the topics of Dispensational Premillennialism, Salvation by Faith Alone, and Once-Saved-Always-Saved. Both debaters were highly respected representatives of their positions with John R. Rice (the Baptist) being the most famous of the two (he was a famous radio preacher and author). In the end, Rice was no match for the truth and Brother Oliphant. This is probably the best debate I have ever read next to the Porter-Ketcherside Debate. Both sides take traditional positions, and use traditional arguments, making it both interesting and practical. Every serious Bible student and congregational teacher should read this book. It is in print and available thanks in large part to Brother Lynwood Smith who preserved it through the years. Rating:3.5/5 Are you interested in the Historical reliability of the eyewitness testimony of the Gospels? Here is a high level work that unearths some new findings and re-examines old evidences with fresh perspectives. Richard Bauckham is exhaustive (and sometimes exhausting) in his defense of eyewitness testimony and how history was written in the time of the Bible. One of the neatest aspects of this book is its explanation of Jewish names and its analysis of what amounts to the equivalent a Jewish phone directory from the first two centuries on the New Era. This is not a book everyone will enjoy, but is a thorough examination of the subject and is highly regarded in academic circles. The Remedial System by Hiram Christopher Rating: 2/5 I read this book with a group of guys at the recommendation of Clint DeFrance. Spoiler: Brother Clint and I do not share the same opinion of this book. I did learn a couple things from this book regarding the nature of angels and the point of John 3:5 "born of water and Spirit" (he takes the same position as B. W. Johnson though Johnson is better). It was a bit surprising to read a Restoration preacher deny the full inspiration of the Bible, advocate Theistic Evolution, and teach the Day-Age and Gap theories. Beyond being a mixed bag with less good than bad, Christopher is not a clear writer, is dry, and difficult to read. Unless you like wading through a lot of muddy water searching for a single pearl or two of lesser quality, I would suggest skipping this book. If I had it to do over again, I would have skipped this book. On the other hand, I am guess I can lay claim to a select group of people in the last 50 years who has read all of The Remedial System. Rating: 2.5/5 This is a brief introduction to the theme of Christ being the central theme of the Bible and contains four different artciles from four differnt authors who are highly involved and respected in this field of study. There are some helpful parts to Dugid's and Beale's material, but the other two authors leave a lot to be desired. There are other books that are better than this one (such as Clowney's The Unfolding Mystery), but I am thankful for this book because it introduced me to Iain Duguid who I think is a good writer and worth reading more of his material. |
Recommended Reading - Rating: 4/5 This is a massive volume and I have by no means read it in its entirety, but I have begun to use it as a standard source in my studies. The strength of this commentary is identifying Old Testament quotations, allusions, and echoes found within the New Testament. Even when the exposition of these Old Testament references is off, the simple identification of them is extremely helpful. I have also found the footnotes and references to be extremely valuable and many of the books that I have read this year are a direct result of this volume. A great volume for the serious Bible student. Rating: 3/5 This shorter version of the massive three volume commentary set on Matthew is much more practical and helpful, though there are times when you want the full depth of the original. For those interested in a serious study of Matthew, this rather technical work should be engaged. It is not right on every passage (as is the case with any commentary) but it is helpful in recognizing key themes and dealing with intertextuality. Rating: 4/5 Gareth Reese is a modern day J. W. McGarvey. Their works complement one another well and represent some of the best scholarship available on the pattern of salvation in the Book of Acts. I believe Reese if wrong when he writes about the work of the Holy Spirit in many passages, yet his presentation of the personal indwelling position is as good as anyone's and presents material one needs to be able to handle if they are going to disagree with that position (as do I). All in all a helpful and accessible exposition of the Book of Acts. Rating: 4/5 Probably the single best commentary on the Gospel of Matthew written by a denominational author. R. T. France has done his homework and is highly respected by commentators of all backgrounds. Some of his strengths include his interaction with the Old Testament, his structure of the Gospel, and his interactions with other Gospel writers and Bible commentators. Pay attention to the footnotes for many hidden gems and great source material. Rating: 4/5 Smith's approach to the Book of Genesis is different than most you will find. Rather than limiting hs exposition of the first several chapters to a defense of Creation vs. Evolution, Smith ably attempts to give the passage's original sense and purpose while also establishing the foundation for the rest of the book and the Bible as a whole. As always, Smith's writing is enjoyable, challenging, and thought provoking. If you are not familiar with James E. Smith, you need to get familiar with him. His writings on the Old Testament must simply not be ignored. Rating 3.5/5 A condensed modern version of McGarvey's commentary on Acts written in an enjoyable style similar to James E. Smith. More of an introductory/survey read rather than an in-depth approach to the Book of Acts. A worthwhile read. | Highly Recommend: Rating 5/5 Hardly a week goes by where I do not find myself referencing this volume. Though it has been some time since I read this volume in its entirety, it has proven itself time and time again as a beneficial reference tool. This is a must read for any serious Bible student and is written in a way that is accessable and enjoyable. Rating: 3.5/5 In studying through the Book of Acts in the past couple of months I have found this book to be very conservative and helpful. The author believes in the full inspiration of the Bible and ties the interpretation of Acts to the Gospel of Luke and the fulfillment of numerous Old Testament passages. This is a great volume to pair with J. W. McGarvey and Gareth Reese for a fuller approach to the Book of Acts. Highly Recommend - Rating: 5/5 Brother Mike Criswell's commentary is the best overall commentary on the Gospel of Matthew that I have read from a Church of Christ background. Some have dubbed this volume as a "condensed Fowler" which is high praise indeed. While interacting with scholars from the past Brother Criswell gives a great overview of the book and provides helpful material explaining numerous difficult passages throughout. Rating: 3.5/5 The unique quality and strength of this volume is the author's relentless attack on Dispensationalism. Though there are other redeeming qualities, the author's belief in the nature and purpose of the church in contrast to the Dispensational view is where the greatest value lies. Recommended Reading - Rating: 4/5 Whenever I study the parables of Christ, I find this book to be my first go-to source. Though written in the early to mid 1800's, William Taylor's expositions are as fresh and applicable today as ever. Though he sometimes slips into some faith-only or once-saved-always-saved error during his application, his exposition of Scripture is enjoyable, insightful, and of top quality. If you plan to study the parables, you need to get this book. Rating: 4/5 I have only interacted with the 1 Timothy portion of this volume, but have found it to be helpful as is always the case with Gareth Reese. Conservative, thorough, scholarly, well written, and well researched. If you aren't familiar with Gareth Reese, you need to get familiar with his commentaries. |