Tag Commentaries

On My Shelf: January-March

philipmcduffie Leave a comment

Here’s a behind-the-scenes glance at what I’ve been reading over the past few months. I’ve added a brief book description from Amazon to give you a taste of each book. Perhaps one of these books will garner your attention and compel you to add it to your cart! But let me mention a few things before you start scrolling:

  • I don’t agree with everything in every book I read
  • I’ve found all of these books helpful
  • I’ve found some of these books more helpful than others
  • These books are listed in the order I read them

The Unwavering Pastor: Leading the Church with Grace in Divisive Times by Jonathon Dodson

Leadership is hard. Pastoring through divisive times is even harder. How do we lead well when criticized? How do we keep loving the church when hurt by her? What does it look like to remain committed to the gospel in cultural division?

Seasoned pastor Jonathan Dodson comes alongside struggling pastors and ministry leaders to guide them into the comfort of Christ. But he doesn’t stop there. Full of wisdom drawn from 2 Timothy, this book will equip you to lead the church with grace, charity and spiritual power through divisive times.

Great for pastors and ministry leaders who need encouragement and insight, or are wrestling with their calling. Makes a thoughtful gift.

Digital Liturgies: Rediscovering Christian Wisdom in an Online Age by Samuel James

With advancements in internet technology, people can get instant answers to just about any of their questions, connect long distance with family and friends, and stay informed with events around the world in real time.

In Digital Liturgies, tech-realist Samuel D. James examines the connection between patterns in technology and human desires. Everyone longs for a glimpse of heaven; James argues they are just looking for it in the wrong place—the internet. 

This accessible book exposes 5 “digital liturgies” that prohibit people from contemplating big truths, accepting the uncomfortable, and acknowledging God as their Creator. It then calls readers to live faithfully before Christ, finding wisdom through Scripture and rest in God’s perfect design. 

  • A Biblical View of the Internet and Technology: Readers explore the connection between human desire, the internet, and wisdom through a Christian lens
  • Great for College Students, Parents, and Pastors: This book encourages readers to live faithfully for Christ 
  • Offers a Tech-Realist Perspective: Samuel D. James highlights the inherent dangers of digital technologies, offering wisdom for navigating our internet-saturated world 

Mere Evangelism: 10 Insights From C.S. Lewis to Help You Share Your Faith by Randy Newman

Evangelism is an extraordinary task; it’s what God uses to bring people from death to life. But it has always been difficult.

C.S. Lewis was used by God in the conversions of countless people, from friends and acquaintances in his own lifetime to modern-day readers of books such as The Chronicles of Narnia and Mere Christianity (the most influential Christian book of the 20th century). As Tim Keller comments, “C.S. Lewis was incredibly skilled at getting Christianity across in a way that’s powerful to thoughtful people.” So, if we want help with evangelism, there is much we can learn from the clarity and imagination of this hugely influential Christian writer.

You may feel inadequate to the task; after all, there is only one C.S. Lewis. But evangelist Randy Newman skillfully helps us to apply the methods Lewis used (storytelling, humour, imagery and more) in our own conversations.You will be equipped to talk about your faith and engage with unbelievers wisely, whatever their attitude towards the Christian faith.

“This isn’t a book to increase membership in a C.S. Lewis fan club or prompt praise for him. It’s to strengthen our resolve to point lost people to the one who could deliver them from a realm where it’s ‘always winter but never Christmas.’ My prayer is that this book will help you say and do things that will make an eternal difference in many people’s lives.” From the introduction to Mere Evangelism by Randy Newman.

Humility: The Joy of Self-Forgetfulness by Gavin Ortlund

There are many misconceptions about what it means to be humble. Some think that being humble means hiding your talents and abilities or being weak and inauthentic. But the Bible paints a different picture—defining humility as a self-forgetfulness leading to joy and explaining that it is a life-giving virtue that frees you from the restricting needs of your ego. 

In Humility: The Joy of Self-Forgetfulness, Gavin Ortlund encourages readers that humility is not just an abstract virtue but a mark of gospel integrity. Ortlund examines humility both on a personal level and in the context of the church, giving examples of ways to cultivate it—including meditation on the gospel and practicing intentional gratitude. Drawing from Philippians 2 and historical texts such as C. S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity and Jonathan Edwards’s sermon “A Christian Spirit Is a Humble Spirit,” Ortlund defines humility in light of the incarnation and death of Jesus Christ, casting a vision for a gospel-centered, humble life.

  • First Book in the Growing Gospel Integrity Series: Created in partnership with Union School of Theology, with future volumes written by Sinclair B. Ferguson, Joe Rigney, and Conrad Mbewe
  • Written by Gavin Ortlund: Author of Theological Retrieval for Evangelicals: Why We Need Our Past to Have a Future and Finding the Right Hills to Die On: The Case for Theological Triage
  • For Small Groups and Individual Study: Questions at the end of each chapter encourage small group discussion 

The Tinker’s Progress: The Life and Times of John Bunyan by Jacob Tanner

Known primarily for his allegorical work, The Pilgrim’s Progress, John Bunyan was also a preacher, a gifted theologian and interpreter of Scripture. Academically, he was not a learned man, but when it came to practical and experiential mastery of the Scriptures and their theology, he was as gifted as anyone. His writings have a beauty and practicality not often found. He teaches that the greater the Christian’s understanding of truth, the stronger their own passion for Jesus will be, and the greater their worship and doxology will become.

Jacob Tanner’s enlightening biography traces Bunyan’s life from his humble beginnings to his calling home to the Celestial City. From his debaucherous youth to glimpses of grace and eventual calling to ministry.

There are lessons here for any twenty–first century Christian. He can teach men to be mature, fathers to be loving, husbands to be faithful, pastors to be tender, saints to suffer well, Christians to be steadfast. One of his greatest lessons to modern Christians is how to live faithfully for Christ in a world that is antagonistic to God.

The Preacher’s Portrait: Five New Testament Word Studies by John Stott

Convinced that knowing the Word of God is fundamental to preaching, John Stott here presents brief studies of five New Testament metaphors that characterize preachers: steward, herald, witness, father, and servant. In the course of these five studies, Stott discusses the message and authority of preachers, the character of their proclamation, the vital necessity of their own experience of the gospel, and their motives and moral qualities, particularly humility, gentleness, and love.

A biblically faithful portrayal of what preachers are supposed to be emerges from Stott’s reflections —as he says, “a portrait painted by the hand of God himself on the broad canvas of the New Testament.”

Courage: How the Gospel Creates Christian Fortitude by Joe Rigney

Throughout Scripture, important biblical figures have faced numerous adversities with remarkable courage. In the New Testament, the apostles endured persecution, imprisonment, and even death for spreading the good news of the gospel. Yet, amid their struggle, they continued to expand the kingdom of God—even rejoicing as they suffered for Christ. How can believers exhibit this same courage today? 

In Courage, author Joe Rigney explores the Christian virtue of fortitude and its connection to the gospel. From a theological perspective, Rigney argues that courage—used in the proper context—is a sign of God’s salvation and a believer’s faith in Christ. In this concise and practical book, readers will defeat feelings of anxiety, anger, and fear as they gain boldness from God to endure all of life’s circumstances. 

  • Explores Christian Fortitude: How the gospel shapes this important Christian virtue   
  • Practical Study: This concise guide encourages Christians to build up their boldness through Christ 
  • A Part of the Growing Gospel Integrity Series: Created in partnership with Union School of Theology
  • Written by Joe Rigney: Author of The Things of Earth; Strangely Bright; and More Than a Battle: How to Experience Victory, Freedom, and Healing from Lust.

Predestination: An Introduction by Andrew Naselli

For many, contemplating predestination brings about fear, trepidation, controversy, and emotional exhaustion, making it a difficult topic to study―let alone view as a blessing. 

This addition to the Short Studies in Systematic Theology series carefully examines God’s word to answer 15 commonly asked questions regarding the doctrines of election and reprobation. With helpful visuals, key definitions, answer summaries, and prayer responses, this concise guide is perfect for all believers who want to discover and delight in what God has revealed throughout Scripture. Readers will not only learn how God saves his people from their sins, but will be stirred to respond to him in worship. 

  • Great for Theologians, Pastors, and Students: Designed to be short and approachable, this concise study dives deep into the doctrine of predestination
  • Part of the Short Studies in Systematic Theology Series: Other titles include The Person of Christ; Glorification; and The Doctrine of Scripture
  • Written by Andrew David Naselli: Pastor and professor of systematic theology and New Testament 

Preaching That Moves People: How To Get Down the Mountain of Your Messages with Maximum Impact by Yancey Arrington

Dr. Yancey Arrington says the reason many preachers don’t connect with their congregants isn’t because they haven’t thought through the message, but because they haven’t felt through it. In this practical guide for preachers of churches big and small, Arrington offers an innovative and effective paradigm based on his years of coaching preachers that brings the best to bear in both the ‘who’ and ‘how’ of the preaching event. Be prepared to better preach in a way that moves people!

Facing the Last Enemy: Death and the Christian by Guy Waters

When we’re standing at the gravesite, death gives little closure and leaves many questions unanswered. Despite the common claim that “dying is just a natural part of life,“ people seem to avoid this unsettling subject more than ever. Yet the Bible doesn’t shy away from the reality of death. God’s Word has the answers we need to face the grave with confidence in our risen Redeemer.

In this book, Dr. Guy Waters provides the Bible’s answers to essential questions about death, dying, and what comes after this life. Here is balm for the grieving, counsel for caretakers, and guidance to help God’s people rest in Christ’s victory as we come to life’s final battle.

Commentaries on Philippians

Back in January, I began a sermon series through Paul’s letter to the Philippians. Here are some of the commentaries I’ve found helpful.

The Message of Philippians (The Bible Speaks Today Series) by J.A. Motyer

Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians while he was in prison, but it contains no hint of self-pity. Instead, the letter radiates joy―joy that Christ was proclaimed, joy in fellowship with the Philippian Christians, and above all, joy in Jesus himself.

In this Bible Speaks Today volume, J. A. Motyer identifies three major themes that filled Paul’s heart and mind as he wrote: the unity of the church, the person of Jesus and what he has achieved, and the call to live a life worthy of the gospel. Guiding readers passage by passage through Philippians, Motyer provides helpful background, highlights key themes, and offers applications for Christians today.

Philippians (Exegetical Guide to the Greek New Testament) by Joseph H. Hellerman

The Exegetical Guide to the Greek New Testament (EGGNT) closes the gap between the Greek text and the available lexical and grammatical tools, providing all the necessary information for greater understanding of the text. The series makes interpreting any given New Testament book easier, especially for those who are hard pressed for time but want to preach or teach with accuracy and authority.

Each volume begins with a brief introduction to the particular New Testament book, a basic outline, and a list of recommended commentaries. The body is devoted to paragraph-by-paragraph exegesis of the Greek text and includes homiletical helps and suggestions for further study. A comprehensive exegetical outline of the New Testament book completes each EGGNT volume.

The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible: Galatians – Colossians (The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible KJV) by Leadership Ministries Worldwide

Preach powerful, life-changing sermons every Sunday with the bestselling commentary series, The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible. This unique resource will help you do more sermon preparation in less time.

  • Cut research time in half with balanced, comprehensive insight from 2,000 years of the best Christian thinkers, designed especially for you and your busy schedule
  • Understand the Bible better with deeper studies that expand on original Greek sources, provide historical background, and explain key points.
  • Get a headstart with an outline & subject index designed for topical study—perfect for quickly creating messages on a particular theme.
  • Create clear and concise messages with verse-by-verse, ready-to-use outlines that draw out key concepts.
  • Leave your congregation with practical applications with our easy-to-understand thoughts and deeper studies.

Philippians: The NIV Application Commentary by Frank Thielman

The NIV Application Commentary helps you communicate and apply biblical text effectively in today’s context. To bring the ancient messages of the Bible into today’s world, each passage is treated in three sections:

  • Original Meaning. Concise exegesis to help readers understand the original meaning of the biblical text in its historical, literary, and cultural context.
  • Bridging Contexts. A bridge between the world of the Bible and the world of today, built by discerning what is timeless in the timely pages of the Bible.
  • Contemporary Significance. This section identifies comparable situations to those faced in the Bible and explores relevant application of the biblical messages. The author alerts the readers of problems they may encounter when seeking to apply the passage and helps them think through the issues involved.

This unique, award-winning commentary is the ideal resource for today’s preachers, teachers, and serious students of the Bible, giving them the tools, ideas, and insights they need to communicate God’s Word with the same powerful impact it had when it was first written.

Philippians, Colossians, Philemon (The New American Commentary, Vol. 32) by Richard Melick

THE NEW AMERICAN COMMENTARY is for the minister or Bible student who wants to understand and expound the Scriptures. Notable features include:* commentary based on THE NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION;* the NIV text printed in the body of the commentary;* sound scholarly methodology that reflects capable research in the original languages;* interpretation that emphasizes the theological unity of each book and of Scripture as a whole;* readable and applicable exposition.

On My Shelf: January-March

philipmcduffie Leave a comment

Here’s a behind-the-scenes glance at what I’ve been reading this year. I’ve added a brief book description from Amazon to give you a taste of what each book is about. Perhaps one of these books will garner your attention and compel you to add it to your cart! But let me mention a few things before you start scrolling:

  • Just because I read a book doesn’t mean I agree with everything in it
  • I’ve found all of these books helpful
  • I’ve found some of these books more helpful than others
  • These books are listed in the order I read them

Embracing Complementarianism: Turning Biblical Convictions into Positive Church Culture by Graham Beyond and Jane Tooher

“It can be tempting to shy away from addressing the issue of gender roles in church because it’s often controversial. But this can result in churches either being increasingly influenced by secular culture or simply sticking with the status quo when it comes to what men and women do in church. 

Building on the belief that complementarianism is both biblical and positive, this book focuses on what these convictions look like in practice. Moving beyond the familiar discussions around “gender roles”, and leaving room for variety in how readers implement these ideas, it will encourage a church culture where men and women truly partner together—embracing their privileges and responsibilities, and maximizing their gifts, in joyful service of God’s kingdom.”

Pure: Why the Bible’s Plan for Sexuality Isn’t Outdated, Irrelevant, or Oppressive by Dean Inserra

“Few things bring more immediate scrutiny and impassioned angst among young adult Christians today than hearing the words “purity culture.” Serious flaws from purity culture deserve to be scrutinized, especially given its lasting negative effects on some raised in the movement. Many Christians today reject the movement—and all that it stood for—wholesale. However, we can’t ignore the clear sexual ethics of the Bible. Pure dives into the big picture of God’s design for men and women regarding sexuality, and seeks to reclaim one of the clearest teaching in the scriptures: the call to sexual purity. While purity culture gets the truth right, the approach and gospel elements it espouses are often wrong. Let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water, but rather celebrate God’s great design for marriage and the loving boundaries he has put in place for our joy, protection, and flourishing.”

Chasing Contentment: Trusting God in a Discontented Age by Erik Raymond

The biblical practice of contentment can seem like a lost art―something reserved for spiritual giants but out of reach for the rest of us. In our discontented age―characterized by impatience, overspending, grumbling, and unhappiness―it’s hard to imagine what true contentment actually looks (and feels) like. But even the apostle Paul said that he learned to be content in any and every circumstance. Paul’s remarkable contentment was something grown and developed over time.

In Chasing Contentment, Erik Raymond helps us understand what biblical contentment is―the inward gracious spirit that joyfully rests in God’s providence―and then how we learn it. Giving us practical guidance for growing in contentment in various areas of our lives, this book will encourage us to see contentment as a priority for all believers. By God’s grace, it is possible to pursue the high calling of contentment and anchor our joy in God himself rather than our changing circumstances.

Grace at Work: Redeeming the Grind and the Glory of Your Job by Bryan Chapell

“For many people, their job is merely “the daily grind” needed to provide for family or pay the bills. Yet our work is a vital means for fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives and displaying his grace to those around us. We bear God’s image in our workplaces, experiencing his blessings and expressing his nature through our efforts, integrity, creativity, generosity, and excellence. No earthly chore is without the opportunity to observe his divine hand. No challenge in task or relationship is without opportunity to represent God’s heart. 

In this book, author and pastor Bryan Chapell shares this biblical perspective of vocation, explaining how God gives purpose to our work by making it an instrument of his grace to our own hearts, as well as a way of bringing his goodness and glory into our world. Chapell explains how we can worship God by our work, rising above drudgery, duty, or self-interest with the understanding that our jobs are unique callings for displaying God’s character and care. Our work is worship when we see the glory beyond the grind, the mission in the mundane, and the grace at work.”

Authentic Ministry: Serving from the Heart by Michael Reeves

“Where does authentic ministry lie? The answer of this book is: in the heart. Authentic ministry is not simply a matter of mastering professional skills or of endlessly pouring oneself out in works of service. Rather, it springs from joyful union with Christ.

Authentic Ministry offers practical guidance and spiritual nourishment for all who serve the church. Each of the nine chapters orients readers to the “one thing [that] is necessary” (cf. Luke 10:42)—abiding in Christ—while asking and answering questions both simple and profound: What is prayer? How should I respond to suffering? Who is my friend? What is theology? What does it mean to love?”

Lloyd-Jones on the Christian Life: Doctrine and Life as Fuel and Fire by Jason Meyer

“Martyn Lloyd-Jones, commonly referred to as “the Doctor,” had a successful career in medicine before abandoning it all to become a preacher in London. His sermons―displaying the life-changing power of biblical truth―diagnosed the spiritual condition of his congregation and prescribed the gospel remedy.

This study of Lloyd-Jones’s life will encourage and exhort readers to consider the role of the knowledge of God, the power of the Spirit, and the fullness of Christ in their daily lives, allowing them to discover the inseparable union of doctrine and the Christian life.”

Perspectives on Pentecost: New Testament Teaching on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit by Richard Gaffin

“With exegetical depth, objectivity, and clarity Richard B. Gaffin examines prophecy and tongues and makes a case for the cessation of both gifts at the close of the apostolic era.

Pentecost is presented as integral to the once-for-all work of Christ and decisive for the life of the whole church. Dr. Gaffin’s biblical-theological perspective is thorough: he defines all the spiritual gifts generally; he clarifies the nature of prophecy and tongues and the question of their continuance in the church today; and he indicates how these exegetical studies bear on contemporary interest in charismatic gifts.

Perspectives on Pentacost dispels the emotionalism and confusion now surrounding the Charismatic Movement. It is a reliable study for all Bible students and an especially helpful handbook for those either associated with the Charismatic Movement or who must deal with friends or family members involved in tongues-speaking experiences.”

How to Speak a Sermon: So That People Will Listen by Larry Trotter

“A powerful sermon must have not only clearly organized biblical content but also engaging delivery. How to Speak a Sermon is about sermon delivery, particularly extemporaneous sermon delivery. Combining biblical principles with the best insights of the ages and personal experiences, it explains the power and pitfalls of extemporaneous speech, how to develop speaking ability, and why preaching method matters.”

The Titus Ten: foundations for Godly Manhood by Josh Smith

“Everything in a man’s life hinges on the kind of man he is. Yet, none of us is naturally a godly man. That’s something we have to learn, pursue, and cultivate. We need a manual to help us. This book is a manual for becoming the kind of man God intends for you to be, and leading other men to do the same. Taking ten qualities from the Apostle Paul’s short letter to his mentee Titus, The Titus Ten will help you grow in your understanding of the gospel, your identity, your character, your doctrine, and more. Each chapter includes questions for reflection and discussion, to both process the way the Lord is growing you, and read in a group with other men. As you grow in these areas of your life, you’ll become the kind of man God desires to use in your family, your church, and the world.”

Gender Ideology: What Do Christians Need to Know? By Sharon James

“The world has embraced the idea that gender is something that can be decided by individuals. As Christians encounter colleagues, friends and family members who identify as a gender other than the one they were born, we need to be informed and equipped with knowledge about what the issues are, what different terms mean and what the Bible has to say about these things. While we walk the line between loving our neighbour and not buying into the world’s lies, Sharon James helps us in this informative and practical guide.”

Spurgeon and the Poor: How the Gospel Compels Christians Social Concern by Alex Diprima

“Spurgeon and the Poor is a fascinating study into the life and ministry of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, exploring his understanding of the place of benevolence in the ministry of the local church. Alex DiPrima examines the way Spurgeon’s belief that gospel preaching and soul-winning formed the church’s mission informed his view of social concern as a compelling argument for its power. Readers will gain insight into Spurgeon’s theology and experience as he ministered to the oppressed through ministries, private philanthropy, and public advocacy.”

The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in its Proper Place by Andy Crouch

“Making conscientious choices about technology in our families is more than just using internet filters and determining screen time limits for our children. It’s about developing wisdom, character, and courage in the way we use digital media rather than accepting technology’s promises of ease, instant gratification, and the world’s knowledge at our fingertips. And it’s definitely not just about the kids.

Drawing on in-depth original research from the Barna Group, Andy Crouch shows readers that the choices we make about technology have consequences we may never have considered. He takes readers beyond the typical questions of what, where, and when and instead challenges them to answer provocative questions like, Who do we want to be as a family? and How does our use of a particular technology move us closer or farther away from that goal? Anyone who has felt their family relationships suffer or their time slip away amid technology’s distractions will find in this book a path forward to reclaiming their real life in a world of devices.”

Commentaries on Ephesians

I appreciate when other pastors and teachers recommend commentaries, so here are the commentaries I’ve been using as I walk through the book of Ephesians with our student ministry at First Baptist Church Longville.

Ephesians: An Exegetical Commentary by Harold W. Hoehner

“Harold Hoehner has taught biblical exegesis to thousands of students over the years. He now brings that experience to bear on this important work.

He begins with a helpful introduction to the letter of Ephesians in which he addresses issues of authorship, structure and genre, historical setting, purpose, and theology. At the end of the introduction, the author includes a detailed bibliography for further reading. Hoehner then delves into the text of Ephesians verse by verse, offering the Greek text, English translation, and detailed commentary. He interacts extensively with the latest scholarship and provides a fair and thorough discussion of every disputed point in the book.

Pastors, students, and scholars looking for a comprehensive treatment on Ephesians will be interested in this commentary. Hoehner’s interaction with the latest scholarship combined with his detailed exegesis will make this new commentary the only resource they will need to consult.”

The Epistles to the Colossians, to Philemon, and to the Ephesians by F.F. Bruce

“‘. . . undertaken to provide earnest students of the New Testament with an exposition that is thorough and abreast of modern scholarship and at the same time loyal to the Scriptures as the infallible Word of God.’ This statement reflects the underlying purpose of The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Begun in the late 1940s by an international team of New Testament scholars, the NICNT series has become recognized by pastors, students, and scholars alike as a critical yet orthodox commentary marked by solid biblical scholarship within the evangelical Protestant tradition.

While based on a thorough study of the Greek text, the commentary introductions and expositions contain a minimum of Greek references. The NICNT authors evaluate significant textual problems and take into account the most important exegetical literature. More technical aspects — such as grammatical, textual, and historical problems — are dealt with in footnotes, special notes, and appendixes.”

The Message of Ephesians by John Stott

“A common blind spot for evangelical Christians is to overlook the central importance of the church, emphasizing individual salvation more than the saved community. Yet no one can come away from a careful reading of Ephesians with a privatized gospel. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians clearly sets forth God’s eternal purpose to create the church―God’s new society.

In this revised Bible Speaks Today volume, John Stott expounds Paul’s theme of uniting all things in Christ by uniting his church. Guiding readers passage by passage through Ephesians, he provides helpful background, highlights key themes, and offers applications for Christians today. Drawing from his many years of studying and teaching Ephesians, Stott lays out the book’s compelling vision of what the church should be and its ongoing need for renewal. Christians are called to new life, new standards, and new relationships within the new society, where God breaks down all the barriers that have divided us from God and each other.”

Commentaries on the Epistles of Paul to the Galatians and Ephesians by John Calvin

“Calvin’s Commentaries are, in the words of Philip Schaff, one of the few exegetical works that have outlived their generation. Calvin preached and wrote prolifically on the Bible. His commentaries display a rare combination of exegetical insight, pastoral concern, and theological depth which have inspired generations of Christians.”