The Interpretation Bible Commentary is a resource for pastors, students, and students of the Bible who are seeking a basic understanding of Scripture. This acclaimed collection offers an accessible commentary on each book of the Bible, focusing on preaching and teaching.
While it doesn’t contain rigorous scholarship as do some other commentaries, its focus is on the theological and literary aspects of the biblical text. Rather than getting bogged down in technical details, the commentaries illuminate the overarching themes, narrative structure, and spiritual significance of each passage. However, the commentaries do refer to the Greek in ways that clarify the text as well as offer varying interpretations. I’ve personally found this helpful in a number of places.
The contributors are leading biblical scholars (among them are Ralph P. Martin and Richard B. Hays) from different viewpoints (many of whom are traditional in their understanding). They seek to combine exegetical expertise with pastoral sensitivity. The commentaries are heavy on the latter. Particularly noteworthy is how the commentaries connect individual passages to the broader biblical canon and Christian theology, connecting Old Testament texts with New Testament passages.
For preachers and teachers, the Interpretation series is a valuable resource for messages and lessons. The theological reflections and real-world applications provide a springboard for bringing Scripture into dialogue with modern life.
In a crowded field of biblical commentaries, the Interpretation series distinguishes itself through its readability and bridge between scholarship and practice.
I own the New Testament commentary set (17 volumes), which I recently acquired. And I’m still skipping and dipping into them. The rest of the review will focus on the New Testament commentaries.
Review of the Interpretation Bible Commentary of the New Testament (17 Volume Set)
The “Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching” series, edited by James Luther Mays and Paul J. Achtemeier, is a resource designed specifically for those who interpret the Bible within the contemporary church context. This particular set includes all seventeen New Testament commentaries, making it a comprehensive tool for preachers, pastors, and teachers.
Content and Structure
The series is known for its focus on the homiletical aspects of the biblical texts. Each volume provides an emphasis on how these texts can be preached and taught in contemporary church settings. The commentaries are written by different scholars who bring practical insights to their interpretations as well as references to the Greek to shed light on meaning.
Strengths
- Practical Application: One of the standout features of this series is its practical orientation. The commentaries are not just academic exercises but are aimed at helping preachers and teachers convey the biblical message effectively to their congregations.
- Consistency: The uniformity in the approach across all seventeen volumes ensures that users can rely on a consistent methodology and style, which is helpful for those who are using multiple volumes for teaching or sermon preparation.
Weaknesses
- Limited Critical Engagement: While the series excels in practical application, it doesn’t delve as deeply into critical scholarship as some other commentaries. Those looking for extensive engagement with historical-critical methods might find this series somewhat lacking.
- Homiletical Bias: Given its focus on preaching and teaching, the series sometimes prioritizes homiletical concerns over exegetical precision. This can be a limitation for users seeking a more purely academic analysis.
Reception
The “Interpretation” series has been well-received in both academic and church circles. It has garnered praise for its ability to bridge the gap between scholarly exegesis and practical ministry. One of my conversation partners on The Insurgence Podcast, Jared uses it regularly. He told me that he uses it often, therefore, I acquired the set.
For more information and to get a set, go to The Interpretation Bible Commentary.
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Update: Attention pastors, preachers, and teachers. We are taking applications for the next Insurgence Experience (IXP) Mastermind. Go here for details and apply.
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