We usually do not call attention to commentaries in this review section. There are so many, some very good and others less helpful. In order to encourage expository preaching from a historically redemptive perspective, we believe these two commentaries, one from the New Testament and one from the Old Testament, should be noted. Karen Jobes, author of the 1 Peter Commentary from the Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament series, is an outstanding New Testament scholar.

Jobes has an obvious understanding of the original languages, solid theological perspective, and the ability to communicate the fruit of her labors. I have enjoyed working through several passages that are special to me from her commentary. Her comments reflect both a grasp of the historical, but also has fresh ideas for us today. Just as there is great danger in using only commentaries from the past or only using the latest and most modern, continuity of the past and present works coming together is important. You will find this in1 Peter.

You will also appreciate Jobes’ attention to details, demonstrating her masterful handling of the Greek text, but not in a way that will loose the reader in the process.