Drawing from the great doctrinal heritage of the Reformed faith, Daniel Doriani brings clarity and unique insight to the many practical lessons on Christian living and salvation found in the book of Romans.
With verse-by-verse commentary, Doriani examines Paul’s message to the early church in Rome in detail, providing readers with historical, cultural, and biblical context for each chapter, along with structural analysis and theological lessons. This comprehensive commentary explores the core of Pauline theology, touching on themes of righteousness, church unity, justification, and the application of faith in our daily lives.
As are all Reformed Expository Commentaries, this book is accessible to both pastors and lay readers. Each volume in the series gives careful attention to the biblical text, is doctrinally Reformed, focuses on Christ through the lens of redemptive history, and applies the Bible to our contemporary setting.
Endorsements
“A commentary that is rich, accessible, and immensely helpful . . . full of deep theological insights gleaned from the original language and historical context . . . [and] packed with real-life applications and illustrations.” — Courtney Doctor, Coordinator of Women’s Initiatives, The Gospel Coalition
“Blends exegetical insight, theological soundness, pastoral passion, and homiletical vividness. Doriani shows us how Paul’s magisterial epistle of the gospel of God’s grace addresses issues raised by biblical scholars...and practical challenges confronting all Christians.” — Dennis E. Johnson, Professor Emeritus of Practical Theology, Westminster Seminary California
“A commentary that is accessible and faithful to the content of this epistle. Enjoy the use of it and proclaim the message in it.” — Harry L. Reeder III, Senior Pastor, Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham
“The next time I teach through Romans, this exceptional resource will be my first go-to. I recommend the same for any other serious student of Scripture and follower of Christ.” — Scott Sauls, Senior Pastor, Christ Presbyterian Church, Nashville
“Theologically rich, exegetically faithful, and pastorally applicable. Doriani’s excellent exegesis is sprinkled with stories that powerfully illustrate the truths presented. The world and the church desperately need to hear afresh the gospel of God in Jesus Christ, and Doriani presents it beautifully in all its richness and power.” — Thomas R. Schreiner, James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
“Fresh in outlook, wise in counsel, and rich in illustration...Doriani’s exposition channels Paul’s own zeal for God’s righteousness and the gospel’s potency. Among numerous recent Romans commentaries, this one stands out for its combining of scholarly rigor with pastoral experience and personal warmth.” — Robert W. Yarbrough, Professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary
Daniel M. Doriani (MDiv, PhD, Westminster Theological Seminary; STM, Yale Divinity School; Research Fellow, Yale University) is professor of theology and vice president at Covenant Theological Seminary. He is the founder and president of The Center for Faith and Work, St. Louis; a member of the Council of The Gospel Coalition; and a regular blogger. He was also a lead pastor for fifteen years.
As a part of Scripture, Song of Songs is God-breathed and useful to instruct all Christians, single or married, divorced or widowed, straight or struggling with same-sex desires. Pastor-scholar Iain Duguid steers a middle way between allegorical and literal approaches, showing that this book’s celebration of the love between a man and woman can not only shape our thinking about human relationships but also give us profound insight into the love that Christ has for his bride, the church.
Reviews
“So is the Song of Songs really about sex or Jesus? Iain Duguid steers a wise and pastoral path between those simplistic choices. He demonstrates how this poetic book on the excellencies of human love is not merely a practical marriage guide nor an allegorical representation of the coming Christ. Rather, this book is the best song of all songs because it provides divinely inspired insights into the blessings and weaknesses of human love in order to point us toward the goodness and necessity of the grace of God, whose love is perfected in Christ alone.” — Bryan Chapell, Pastor, Grace Presbyterian Church, Peoria, Illinois“This book helps us. As a wise and seasoned pastor, Iain gently weeps with us in our broken search for false loves. Yet he strongly rouses our affections to the One whose love is true, satisfying, lasting, romantic, and alluring. Practical, tasty, and invigorating, Iain’s prose and poetry offer a timely guide for those who desire the lovers of Solomon’s Song to disciple them in Jesus.” — Zack Eswine, Pastor, Riverside Church, Webster Groves, Missouri; Director of Homiletics, Covenant Theological Seminary
“Iain Duguid takes a book of the Bible that many Christians are intimidated by and showcases it in its rightful place as the finest of songs. Perhaps we’ve been as insecure about tackling the allegorical and literal interpretations in this song as we may be in our own relationships. Not anymore! This commentary will prove that of all the songs written to explore the age-old questions of love, the Song of Songs is the one that we cannot and do not want to get out of our heads.” — Aimee Byrd, Author, Housewife Theologian and Theological Fitness; cohost, Mortification of Spin
Iain M. Duguid (PhD, University of Cambridge) is professor of Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia. He has written numerous works of biblical exposition, including Esther & Ruth in the Reformed Expository Commentary series, Ezekiel in the NIV Application Commentary series, and Numbers in the Preaching the Word series.
Richard D. Phillips (MDiv, Westminster Theological Seminary) is the senior minister of Second Presbyterian Church of Greenville, South Carolina. He is a council member of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals, chairman of the Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology, and coeditor of the Reformed Expository Commentary series.
Phillips reminds us that what God has done and will do for the people of God always precedes what God expects of His people. He explains that the physical return was meant to prompt a spiritual and theological return to faith in the Lord, and that Zechariah called the people to such a true return and reassured them of the Lord's willingness to receive them and restore to them the promised blessings.
Richard Phillips serves as senior minister of Second Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC. He is also series co-editor of the Reformed Expository Commentary
Zephaniah warned of imminent judgment and pointed to hope close at hand: God is both Judge and a Refuge from judgment.
Haggai declared that God’s struggling people needed to reorder their priorities and invest in building the Lord’s house so that God’s renewed presence in their midst would bring renewed blessing.
Malachi, when doubt of the Lord’s love and watchfulness led the people into sin and distress, addressed their concerns and failings one by one. God would not abandon those who feared him, despite a history of rebellion against him.
Practical, devotional, and expositional, this commentary delves into the ways these three prophets point us to the sufferings of Christ, the forgiveness of God, and anticipated glories to come.
Reviews
“Why should you mess with this commentary? First, any volume that helps get Zephaniah into the church should be scooped up. Second, no other commentary will introduce you to ‘anorexic gods’! Third, Duguid and Harmon always keep Christ central and let grace be as delightful as it is—and their expositions aggravatingly challenge our attitudes and assumptions and in the process meddle with our cherished idols and bogus religion.” — Dale Ralph Davis, Minister-in-Residence, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina“The authors of this volume on Zephaniah, Haggai, and Malachi are to be commended for their exposition of these three prophetical books. In keeping with the REC series’ goal, they expound the message of the prophets, reflect theologically on what the Spirit of God intends to communicate to the body of Christ in every age, make insightful comments on the redemptive-historical progression of the unfolding of the Father’s purposes, and encourage God’s people to respond to the Spirit appropriately and practically by their faithful exposition of God’s Word.” — Willem A. VanGemeren, Professor Emeritus of Old Testament and Semitic Languages, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
“In their clear and convicting expositions of Zephaniah, Haggai, and Malachi, Duguid and Harmon show how these neglected books of the Bible are both relevant and refreshing. Through the lens of the gospel, they showcase how themes like repentance and restoration, election and hope, and judgment and mercy come together in the cross and consummation of Christ. Every pastor who seeks to teach the whole counsel of God’s ever-living and always-active Word should have this splendid commentary in his library.” — Douglas Sean O’Donnell, Senior Pastor, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Elgin, Illinois
“Duguid and Harmon take us on a delightful journey through some less- trodden paths of the Old Testament in a way that is warm-hearted, theologically rich, pastorally sensitive, and, above all, Christ-honoring. It is not easy to write in a way that marries rigorous scholarship and searching application, but this volume pulls this off with style! This is the work of true pastor-scholars who write with penetrating discernment and a deep concern for God’s glory.” — Gary Millar, Principal, Queensland Theological College, Spring Hill, Australia
Matthew P. Harmon (MDiv, ThM, Westminster Theological Seminary) is pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church (ARP) in Grove City, Pennsylvania.
Iain M. Duguid (PhD, University of Cambridge) is professor of Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia. He has written numerous works of biblical exposition, including Esther & Ruth in the Reformed Expository Commentary series, Ezekiel in the NIV Application Commentary series, and Numbers in the Preaching the Word series.
The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible® (POSB) is a practical and comprehensive commentary set that gives the pastor or teacher everything they need to preach or teach God’s Word. Covering every book of the Bible, POSB is the perfect resource for expository or topical teaching.
With over a million copies sold in print, POSB is unlike any other commentary you will encounter. Each volume gives you detailed, verse-by-verse exposition for every Bible passage. Along with the biblical commentary, POSB includes extensive outlines with sub-points, thoughts on practical application, deeper studies on key biblical topics and themes, and full cross references.
You will quickly see the added value and ease of use that comes with having this commentary in your Olive Tree library. The Olive Tree edition separates the outlines and commentary to make POSB even easier to use. Instead of scrolling back and forth (or flipping pages), you can see the commentary and outlines side-by-side as you study or prepare your sermon. POSB is also fully functional with the Resource Guide and is configured to help you get to the information you need quickly. You can both drill down to the verse you want to study and easily find all the introductory material on each book of the Bible.
The Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible makes it easy to create life-changing sermons and lessons. Everything you need to understand any passage of the Bible is right at your fingertips. And this resource is not just for preachers and teachers; it’s perfect for any Christian who wants to know God’s Word better.
POSB features include:
- Detailed outlines for every book of the Bible
- Well researched and easy to read commentary
- Practical application for godly living
- Deeper studies to dive into key topics and themes
- Full text cross references (no need to look them up)
The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture does what very few of today's students of the Bible could do for themselves. With the aid of computer technology, the vast array of writings from the church fathers—including much that is available only in the ancient languages—have been combed for their comment on Scripture. From these results, scholars with a deep knowledge of the fathers and a heart for the church have hand-selected material for each volume, shaping, annotating and introducing it to today's readers. Each portion of commentary has been chosen for its salient insight, its rhetorical power and its faithful representation of the consensual exegesis of the early church.
The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture is an ecumenical project, promoting a vital link of communication between the varied Christian traditions of today and their common ancient ancestors in the faith. On this shared ground, we listen as leading pastoral theologians of seven centuries gather around the text of Scripture and offer their best theological, spiritual and pastoral insights.
Today the historical-critical method of interpretation has nearly exhausted its claim on the biblical text and on the church. In its wake there is a widespread yearning among Christian individuals and communities for the wholesome, the deep and the enduring. The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture does not seek to replace those excellent commentaries that have been produced in the twentieth century. Rather, it supplements them, framing them with interpretive voices that have long sustained the church and only recently have fallen silent. It invites us to listen with appreciative ears and sympathetic minds as our ancient ancestors in the faith describe and interpret the scriptural vistas as they see them.
The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture is a postcritical revival of the early commentary tradition known as the glossa ordinaria, a text artfully elaborated with ancient and authoritative reflections and insights. An uncommon companion for theological interpretation, spiritual reading, and wholesome teaching and preaching.
About the Revelation volume:
The Revelation to John--with its vivid images and portraits of conflict leading up to the marriage supper of the Lamb, the cosmic destruction of evil, and the formation of a new heaven and a new earth--was widely read, even as it was variously interpreted in the early church. Approaches to its interpretation ranged from the millenarian approach of Victorinus of Petovium to the more symbolic interpretation of Tyconius, who read Revelation in the sense of the universal and unitary time of the church. Tyconius's Book of Rules, deeply admired by Augustine with its seven principles of interpretation, strongly influenced not only ongoing interpretation of the Revelation but the whole of medieval exegesis.
From early on the book of Revelation was more widely accepted in the West than in the East. Indeed the earliest extant commentaries on Revelation in Greek date from Oecumenius's commentary in the sixth century, which was soon accompanied by that of Andrew of Caesarea. Earlier Eastern fathers did, however, make reference to Revelation in noncommentary works.
This ACCS volume edited by William C. Weinrich draws heavily on the two Greek commentaries from Oecumenius and Andrew of Caesarea to represent Eastern interpretation, while focusing on six other commentaries as primary witnesses to Western interpretation--those of Victorinus of Petovium, Tyconius, Primasius, Caesarius of Arles, Apringius of Beja and Bede the Venerable. Every effort has been made to give adequate context so that the creative use of Scripture, the theological interest and the pastoral intent can be discerned by readers today.
Amid this treasure trove of early interpretation readers will find much that appears in English translation for the first time.
What is the book of Revelation? Does it describe in veiled language events of its writer's own day, or is it largely a prophecy of events still to come? Is it a chart of the whole of history from Christ's first coming to his second? Or does it deal chiefly with principles which are always valid in Christian experience?
And what is a twenty-first century reader to do with living creatures, locusts like horses, seven bowls of wrath, war in heaven, various beasts and a dragon?
Michael Wilcock maintains that when God's words, declarations, arguments and reasonings had all been spoken, God gave the church a 'gorgeous picture book'. He lifts the curtain on Revelation's drama in eight scenes, helping our imaginations as well as our minds grasp the key concepts of this fascinating and enigmatic New Testament book.
About the Bible Speaks Today (BST) Series:
Edited by J.A. Motyer and the late John R. W. Stott, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are characterized by what Stott called a "threefold ideal . . . to expound the biblical text with accuracy, to relate it to contemporary life and to be readable." As such, each contributor in this series is both a noted scholar and a working pastor.
The BST series, now complete, covers all sixty-six books of the bible (Old and New Testaments) in fifty-five volumes. If you preach or teach from Scripture, the Bible Speaks Today series will help you apply the timeless biblical message to the everyday experiences of your listeners. And if you study the Bible on your own, these volumes will be a helpful resource focusing on the significance of God's Word for your own life and work.
Esteemed as one of the greatest commentaries on John's Apocalypse of our time, the New International Greek Testament Commentary on the Book of Revelation reflects a lifetime of critical thinking and research on the book of Revelation. From G. K. Beale, the Kenneth T. Wessner Chair of Biblical Studies at Wheaton College Graduate School, who has also written John's Use of the Old Testament in Revelation and The Use of Daniel in Jewish Apocalyptic Literature and in the Revelation of St. John, this long-awaited commentary comes out of unrivaled knowledge in the field of apocalyptic literature.
Reviews
Journal of Biblical Literature
"The culmination of over a decade of research of writing on the Apocalypse, Beale's work makes a significant contribution to our understanding of Revelation. While the reader may not necessarily agree on all points, the commentary will certainly provide considerable insight into John's often perplexing vision. In particular, Beale's grasp of the Greek grammar of Revelation is outstanding. Too few scholars today have the linguistic expertise to furnish the reader with such extensive and thoughtful notes. . . Beale also provides the reader with a rich collection of intertextual references from the Hebrew Bible, rabbinic literature, Jewish apocalyptic, and early Christian texts. . . Beale has written a truly important work that should be consulted as a reference by serious scholars of the Apocalypse."
The Preacher’s Outline & Sermon Bible® (POSB) is a practical and comprehensive commentary set that gives the pastor or teacher everything they need to preach or teach God’s Word. Covering every book of the Bible, POSB is the perfect resource for expository or topical teaching.
With over a million copies sold in print, POSB is unlike any other commentary you will encounter. Each volume gives you detailed, verse-by-verse exposition for every Bible passage. Along with the biblical commentary, POSB includes extensive outlines with sub-points, thoughts on practical application, deeper studies on key biblical topics and themes, and full cross references.
You will quickly see the added value and ease of use that comes with having this commentary in your Olive Tree library. The Olive Tree edition separates the outlines and commentary to make POSB even easier to use. Instead of scrolling back and forth (or flipping pages), you can see the commentary and outlines side-by-side as you study or prepare your sermon. POSB is also fully functional with the Resource Guide and is configured to help you get to the information you need quickly. You can both drill down to the verse you want to study and easily find all the introductory material on each book of the Bible.
The Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible makes it easy to create life-changing sermons and lessons. Everything you need to understand any passage of the Bible is right at your fingertips. And this resource is not just for preachers and teachers; it’s perfect for any Christian who wants to know God’s Word better.
POSB features include:
- Detailed outlines for every book of the Bible
- Well researched and easy to read commentary
- Practical application for godly living
- Deeper studies to dive into key topics and themes
- Full text cross references (no need to look them up)
Dr. Roger Mohrlang has earned a BS from Carnegie Institute of Technology, an MA from Fuller Theological Seminary, and the D.Phil. in New Testament from University of Oxford. He served as a Bible translator and translation consultant in Africa for over 7 years, has served as a visiting professor at various colleges, and is a Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Whitworth College, where he has been since 1978. His areas of expertise include Paul’s letters and New Testament ethics.
Dr. Gerald Borchert is retired professor of New Testament from both Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently Thesis Director at Institute for Worship Studies, Jacksonville, Florida, and part-time Professor of New Testament at Carson Newman College. He earned his B.A. from the University of Alberta, an LL.B., from University of Alberta Law School, an M.Ddiv. from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, his Th.M. at Princeton Theological Seminary and his Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and Princeton University (1967). He has also done post-doctoral work at numerous schools and has served as a pastor and interim pastor variously throughout his career.
The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture does what very few of today's students of the Bible could do for themselves. With the aid of computer technology, the vast array of writings from the church fathers—including much that is available only in the ancient languages—have been combed for their comment on Scripture. From these results, scholars with a deep knowledge of the fathers and a heart for the church have hand-selected material for each volume, shaping, annotating and introducing it to today's readers. Each portion of commentary has been chosen for its salient insight, its rhetorical power and its faithful representation of the consensual exegesis of the early church.
The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture is an ecumenical project, promoting a vital link of communication between the varied Christian traditions of today and their common ancient ancestors in the faith. On this shared ground, we listen as leading pastoral theologians of seven centuries gather around the text of Scripture and offer their best theological, spiritual and pastoral insights.
Today the historical-critical method of interpretation has nearly exhausted its claim on the biblical text and on the church. In its wake there is a widespread yearning among Christian individuals and communities for the wholesome, the deep and the enduring. The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture does not seek to replace those excellent commentaries that have been produced in the twentieth century. Rather, it supplements them, framing them with interpretive voices that have long sustained the church and only recently have fallen silent. It invites us to listen with appreciative ears and sympathetic minds as our ancient ancestors in the faith describe and interpret the scriptural vistas as they see them.
The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture is a postcritical revival of the early commentary tradition known as the glossa ordinaria, a text artfully elaborated with ancient and authoritative reflections and insights. An uncommon companion for theological interpretation, spiritual reading, and wholesome teaching and preaching.
About the Romans volume:
A Christianity Today 1999 Book of the Year!
St. Paul's Letter to the Romans has long been considered the theological high-water mark of the New Testament. It was no less regarded by the ancient church, and patristic interpreters have left us an abundance of valuable comment on Romans.
This Ancient Christian Commentary on Romans collects the best and most representative of patristic commentary and homily on Romans, and it brings to the public some valuable material that has hitherto been unavailable in English translation.
Outstanding among these commentators is "Ambrosiaster," the name given to the unknown Latin commentator of the late fourth century, whose enduring worth is evident to all who read him. And the extensive commentary by Origen, largely inaccessible to modern readers, is frequently and extensively presented here in English for the first time. These commentators are joined by great figures such as John Chrysostom of Constantinople, Theodore of Mopsuestia, Augustine of Hippo, Theodoret of Cyrus, and several lesser commentators such as Diodore of Tarsus and Didymus the Blind of Alexandria.
This commentary on Romans (now in its second edition) provides a rare opportunity to encounter the familiar Pauline exposition of the righteousness of God as it echoes in the great Christian minds and communities of the early church.
Paul's letter to the young church in Rome has dramatically influenced Christians through the ages. It has been described as a 'gateway into heaven'.
In his letter Paul gives a complete picture of the gospel - the fullest and grandest in the New Testament. His horizons are vast, taking in time and eternity, the past, present and future of humanity, and the great themes of justification, sanctification and glorification.
The Message of Romans is the most personally rooted of John Stott's expositions, for he confesses to have re-encountered Paul's letter constantly throughout his Christian life. At the same time, her interacts with other commentators, some of whom are challenging interpretations that are time-honoured and traditional. He sees Romans as a Christian manifesto for our increasingly unstable world, emphasising the good news of freedom through Jesus Christ. Paul's vision of this freedom is astonishing. It overcomes ethnic conflict, the darkness of moral guilt, condemnation from God and alienation from others. It is a freedom to serve God and our neighbours in love.
About the Bible Speaks Today (BST) Series:
Edited by J.A. Motyer and the late John R. W. Stott, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are characterized by what Stott called a "threefold ideal . . . to expound the biblical text with accuracy, to relate it to contemporary life and to be readable." As such, each contributor in this series is both a noted scholar and a working pastor.
The BST series, now complete, covers all sixty-six books of the bible (Old and New Testaments) in fifty-five volumes. If you preach or teach from Scripture, the Bible Speaks Today series will help you apply the timeless biblical message to the everyday experiences of your listeners. And if you study the Bible on your own, these volumes will be a helpful resource focusing on the significance of God's Word for your own life and work.
This highly anticipated commentary on the Greek text of Romans by veteran New Testament scholar Richard Longenecker provides solid scholarship and innovative solutions to long-standing interpretive problems. Critical, exegetical, and constructive, yet pastoral in its application, Longenecker's monumental work on Romans sets a course for the future that will promote a better understanding of this most famous of Paul's letters and a more relevant contextualization of its message.
The book of Ruth is a tale of charm and delight. Goethe called it "the loveliest complete work on a small scale, handed down to us as an ethical treatise and an idyll." Another writes, "No poet in the world has written a more beautiful short story."
The book tells about very ordinary people facing very ordinary events. We meet Naomi, who underwent hardship in famine and bereavement but eventually won peace and security. We meet Ruth, a young foreign woman from Moab who attached herself to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and to Naomi's God. And we meet Boaz, who by marrying Ruth fitted into God's purpose's for history. Both King David and Jesus are numbered among their descendants.
Theologically the story of Ruth is a story about God's providence. This David Atkinson demonstrates clearly in his passage-by-passage exposition.
About the Bible Speaks Today (BST) Series:
Edited by J.A. Motyer and the late John R. W. Stott, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are characterized by what Stott called a "threefold ideal . . . to expound the biblical text with accuracy, to relate it to contemporary life and to be readable." As such, each contributor in this series is both a noted scholar and a working pastor.
The BST series, now complete, covers all sixty-six books of the bible (Old and New Testaments) in fifty-five volumes. If you preach or teach from Scripture, the Bible Speaks Today series will help you apply the timeless biblical message to the everyday experiences of your listeners. And if you study the Bible on your own, these volumes will be a helpful resource focusing on the significance of God's Word for your own life and work.
Reading the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, we witness the transition of Israel from tribal confederacy to established monarchy. And, as Mary Evans shows in this passage-by-passage commentary, during such a transition questions of identity and power are unavoidable.
In the aftermath of the decline of the judges, priests abuse their priestly privileges; a people covets the centralized authority of its impious neighbors; and a throne is won, forsaken, redeemed, lost and found again.
But in the key characters in this dawning era of Israelite history we see, hidden behind the faults and failings of Israel's best and brightest, the faithfulness of a God who looks on the heart and directs the path of every king and every kingdom.
About the Bible Speaks Today (BST) Series:
Edited by J.A. Motyer and the late John R. W. Stott, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are characterized by what Stott called a "threefold ideal . . . to expound the biblical text with accuracy, to relate it to contemporary life and to be readable." As such, each contributor in this series is both a noted scholar and a working pastor.
The BST series, now complete, covers all sixty-six books of the bible (Old and New Testaments) in fifty-five volumes. If you preach or teach from Scripture, the Bible Speaks Today series will help you apply the timeless biblical message to the everyday experiences of your listeners. And if you study the Bible on your own, these volumes will be a helpful resource focusing on the significance of God's Word for your own life and work.
"The followers of Jesus are to different," writes John Stott, "different from both the nominal church and the secular world, different from both the religious and the irreligious. The Sermon on the Mount is the most complete delineation anywhere in the New Testament of the Christian counter-culture. Here is a Christian value-system, ethical standard, religious devotion, attitude to money, ambition, lifestyle and network of relationships--all of which are totally at variance with those in the non-Christian world. And this Christian counter-culture is the life of the kingdom of God, a fully human life indeed but lived out under the divine rule."
In The Message of the Sermon on the Mount, John R. W. Stott accurately expounds the biblical text and relates it to life today. Above all, the author says, he wants to let Christ speak this sermon again, this time to the modern world.
About the Bible Speaks Today (BST) Series:
Edited by J.A. Motyer and the late John R. W. Stott, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are characterized by what Stott called a "threefold ideal . . . to expound the biblical text with accuracy, to relate it to contemporary life and to be readable." As such, each contributor in this series is both a noted scholar and a working pastor.
The BST series, now complete, covers all sixty-six books of the bible (Old and New Testaments) in fifty-five volumes. If you preach or teach from Scripture, the Bible Speaks Today series will help you apply the timeless biblical message to the everyday experiences of your listeners. And if you study the Bible on your own, these volumes will be a helpful resource focusing on the significance of God's Word for your own life and work.
Sessions with Colossians and Philemon is a ten-session study unit designed to provide a compelling preview to these two of Paul’s letters. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
Eric Porterfield takes readers on a journey through Paul's letters to the Colossians and to Philemon. These letters celebrate the good news that God is on the move in the world through Jesus Christ, shaping the world into what it was created to be. This movement will one day be complete when Christ returns to fully establish the kingdom of God. Until that day we work for the kingdom, give witness to it, and invite others to enter it through faith in Christ. Paul's letters equipped their original audiences and they equip us to be “on the move with God” as faithful kingdom workers.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Eric Porterfield is married to the Rev. Alicia Davis Porterfield and they have three children, Davis, Luke, and Thomas. He is a graduate of Duke Divinity School and serves as the pastor of the Winter Park Baptist Church in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Sessions with Corinthians is a ten-session study designed to provide a compelling preview of the books of 1 & 2 Corinthians. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking resource page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
Michael McCullar takes readers on a journey through Paul's two letters to the church in Corinth. The letters reveal foundational teachings of the Christian church on services, unity, worship, conduct, marriage, spiritual gifts, and the exercise of love as a basis for living. All are well-designed as lessons for imperfect people living in an imperfect world.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Michael D. McCullar is the executive pastor of Johns Creek Baptist Church, Alpharetta, Georgia. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama-Birmingham, New Orleans Baptist Seminary, and Oxford Graduate School. He is the author of the James Annual Bible Study, A Christian’s Guide to Islam, Sessions with James, Sessions with Corinthians, Sessions with Timothy & Titus, and co-author of Building Blocks for Sunday School Growth and Sessions with Mark.
Sessions with Ephesians is a nine-session study unit designed to explore Paul’s response to a young congregation in need of a definable doctrine and a theological document to meet the needs of an expanding church that was literally being invaded by divisive and contrary philosophies. Each session is followed by thought-provoking questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages.
Ephesians has been called “the most contemporary book in the Bible.” Strip it of just a few first-century references and it would be easily applicable to the modern church. It was, however, directed to the church of Paul’s day that struggled with issues of inclusion and moving beyond the constraints of ancient Judaism. In this letter we see where God wants to take the church, and, if we truly internalize its words, we see our own unique role in God’s plans.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
William L. Self is Pastor Emeritus at Johns Creek Baptist Church in Alpharetta, Georgia. Dr. Self is a graduate of Stetson University (BA), Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (BD), and Candler School of Theology (ThD). The McAfee School of Theology at Mercer University has established the William L. Self Preaching Lectureship in his honor.
Michael D. McCullar is the executive pastor of Johns Creek Baptist Church, Alpharetta, Georgia. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama-Birmingham, New Orleans Baptist Seminary, and Oxford Graduate School. He is the author of the James Annual Bible Study, A Christian’s Guide to Islam, Sessions with James, Sessions with Corinthians, Sessions with Timothy & Titus, and co-author of Building Blocks for Sunday School Growth and Sessions with Mark.
Sessions with Esther is a ten-session study unit designed to guide group or individual study. Esther is an Old Testament short story that covers a challenging episode during Israel’s occupation and exile by the ancient Persian empire. Each study is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allows for a deeper experience of the Scripture.
Charles Qualls takes readers on a patient journey through Esther. Central characters Esther and her cousin Mordecai are relatively powerless, yet in the face of a corrupt deputy and an uninterested king, they rise to the moment to stop the genocide of an entire ethnic group. We discover inspiring bravery, thoughtful and disciplined strategy, and more than one cautionary figure here. We have much to learn about living in our present day from this fascinating story set long ago.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Charles Qualls is senior pastor of the Franklin Baptist Church in Franklin, Virginia. A native of Atlanta, he is a doctoral graduate of the McAfee School of Theology of Mercer University. Prior to his work in Virginia, he served churches in Georgia and North Carolina. Charles has authored or co-authored eight other titles for Smyth & Helwys. He and his wife, Elizabeth, enjoy travel, sports, and the written word.
Sessions with Exodus is a thirteen-session study unit designed to explore the book of Exodus. William Shiell invites believers on a journey with the Israelites from bondage into the wilderness to worship with God’s presence. This study uses the questions that God’s children ask throughout Exodus to spark discussion with households and study groups about the life of faith in the wilderness.
As churches and faithful followers of God engage a changing world, Sessions with Exodus provides timely application to reimagine ministry as God’s pilgrim community. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
William D. Shiell is the president of Northern Seminary, where he also serves as professor of pastoral theology and preaching. A native of Pensacola, Florida, Dr. Shiell holds degrees from Samford University (BA) and Baylor University (MDiv, PhD). Dr. Shiell and his wife, Kelly, met while in college at Samford. They have two sons, Parker and Drake. Prior to coming to Northern, Dr. Shiell served as a pastor of Baptist churches in Texas, Tennessee, and Florida. Dr. Shiell has published five books, including Sessions with Matthew as well as Acts in the Preaching the Word series.
Sessions with Ezra & Nehemiah is a ten-session study unit designed to explore the story and theological themes associated with the Israelites’ return from exile. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
Ezra and Nehemiah address questions that continue to be relevant for believers today: How does a religious group embody their faith as a minority movement in a larger, pluralistic culture? How do church leaders guide people of faith to develop courage and holiness? Ezra and Nehemiah also provide encouragement to churches who struggle with the nostalgia of their past even as they move forward into their future, as well as those moving from disordered chaos to spiritual community.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Randy Shepley serves as senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Newport News, Virginia. He has also pastored churches in Georgia and North Carolina. A native of Atlanta, Randy graduated from Mercer University (BA), Candler School of Theology at Emory University (MDiv), and the McAfee School of Theology of Mercer University (DMin). Randy is married to Alice, who is a native of Macon, Georgia. Randy and Alice have three children, James, Samuel, and Elizabeth.
Sessions with Galatians is a ten-lesson study unit designed to provide a compelling study of Paul’s letter to the Galatians. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking resource page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
Eric Porterfield takes readers on a journey through Paul’s letter to the churches of Galatia. The letter celebrates Christ’s faithful love for humanity, which evokes the human response of faith and love. Jesus overcomes the barriers that keep human beings separated and creates the freedom of life in Christian community. Jesus frees us from lives of self-focus and frees us for lives of faithful witness, revealing that true freedom comes when we love God and love our neighbors.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Eric S. Porterfield is married to the Rev. Alicia Davis Porterfield and they have three children, Davis, Luke, and Thomas. He is a graduate of Duke Divinity School and serves as the pastor of the Winter Park Baptist Church in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Sessions with Genesis is a ten-session study unit designed to provide a compelling look at the book of Genesis. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resources pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
Immersing us in the book of Genesis, Tony Cartledge examines both its major stories and the smaller cycles of hope and failure, of promise and judgment. Genesis introduces these themes of divine faithfulness and human failure in unmistakable terms, tracing Israel's beginning to the creation of the world and professing a belief that Israel's particular history had universal significance.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
This volume is available for purchase individually, or as part of the Sessions Series (23 Vols.).
Tony Cartledge is Professor of Old Testament at Campbell University Divinity School. He is also the author of 1 & 2 Samuel in the Smyth & Helwys Bible Commentary series, Telling Stories: Tall Tales and Deep Truths, and Sessions with Samuel: Stories from the Edge. He is co-author with Jan Rush of A Whole New World: Life After Bethany and Job: Into the Fire, Out of the Ashes (Smyth & Helwys Annual Bible Study).
Sessions with Isaiah is a nine-session study unit designed to explore how an individual, a people, or a nation responds spiritually to great stress. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
The book of Isaiah begins in the years of national stress when, under various kings, Israel was surrounded by more powerful neighbors and foolishly sought foreign alliances rather than dependence on Yahweh. It continues with the natural result of that unfaithfulness: conquest by the great power in the region, Babylon, and the captivity of many of Israel’s best and brightest in that foreign land. The book concludes anticipating their return to the land of promise and strong admonitions about the people’s conduct—but we also hear God’s reassuring messages of comfort and restoration, offered to all who repent.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
James M. King is the senior pastor at Parkway Baptist Church in Duluth, Georgia. He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and holds two master’s degrees and a Ph.D. from the former Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr. King is a teaching supervisor for the Contextual Education Program at Candler School of Theology, Emory University. He and his wife, Linda, have been married for forty-three years and have three adult children and three grandchildren. During his spare time, he enjoys fishing, reading, and traveling.
Sessions with James is an eleven-session study unit designed to give the learner a full understanding of the book of James. Each session is followed with a resource page of 8-10 questions. These resource pages allow for a deeper experience in the book of James and can be used by a seminar leader during preparation and planning as well as for individual Bible study.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Michael D. McCullar is the executive pastor of Johns Creek Baptist Church, Alpharetta, Georgia. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama-Birmingham, New Orleans Baptist Seminary, and Oxford Graduate School. He is the author of the James Annual Bible Study, A Christian’s Guide to Islam, Sessions with James, Sessions with Corinthians, Sessions with Timothy & Titus, and co-author of Building Blocks for Sunday School Growth and Sessions with Mark.
Sessions with John is a twelve-session study unit designed to provide a compelling look at the Gospel of John. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
Immersing us in the Gospel of John, this study explores themes that point to transformation, that is, to becoming a new person by trusting in and following Jesus. These studies offer Jesus’ “words of life” to a new generation of believers. Those who prayerfully ponder and strive to live these words will discover that they still have the power to breathe God’s peace and presence into every believing heart.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Robert B. Setzer, Jr., has served as pastor of the First Baptist Church of Christ in Macon, Georgia, since 1996. Bob has also served as national moderator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and teaches as adjunct faculty in the Christianity department at Mercer University. Bob is the author of Encounters with the Living Christ:Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John, Christianity for Beginners, and numerous articles and essays. His wife, Bambi, is an artist and photographer, and their only child, Whitney, is married and lives near Washington, D.C.
Sessions with John and Jude is a ten-session study unit designed to provide a compelling look at these letters from the New Testament. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allow for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
Charles Qualls takes readers on a journey through the letters of John and Jude. Shedding light on these important but often overlooked New Testament books, this study will inspire, protect, inform, and challenge our faith lives such that we are not left the same. The lessons of these letters drive us to active belief as Christ modeled.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Charles L. Qualls is associate pastor for pastoral care at the historic Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. He is a graduate of the McAfee School of Theology of Mercer University, Atlanta (Dmin.). Prior to his work in pastoral care, he served churches in Georgia and North Carolina as an adult Christian educator. Charles has co-authored three other titles for Smyth & Helwys. He and his wife, Elizabeth, enjoy travel, sports, and the written word.
Sessions with Judges is a ten-session study unit designed to guide group or individual study. Judges is an adventurous read that covers a sometimes inspiring, sometimes disturbing chapter in Israel’s history. Each study is followed by a thought-provoking page of questions that allows for a deeper experience of the Scripture.
Charles Qualls guides readers on an adventure through Judges, high-lighting characters such as Gideon, Samson, and Deborah. Readers will also follow many other brave leaders who were entrusted with a distracted people in fragile times. On balance, these stories inspire us to seek a more consistent, connected journey of faithfulness to God.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Charles Qualls is senior pastor of the Franklin Baptist Church in Franklin, Virginia. A native of Atlanta, he is a doctoral graduate of the McAfee School of Theology of Mercer University. Prior to his work in Virginia, he served churches in Georgia and North Carolina. Charles has authored or co-authored seven other titles for Smyth & Helwys. He and his wife, Elizabeth, enjoy travel, sports, and the written word.
Sessions with Luke is a ten-lesson study designed to help participants explore and embody Christian character through reflection on biblical truths illustrated in the book of Luke. Each session is followed by a thought-provoking resource page of questions that allows for a deeper experience of the scriptural passages. These resource pages can be used by seminar leaders during preparation and group discussion, as well as in individual Bible study.
Timothy Brock takes readers on a journey through Luke's brilliant collection of memorable stories, challenging teachings, and well-known parables describing the life and work of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, the stories found in Luke's gospel demonstrate that accepting the invitation to follow Jesus requires a radically transformed relationship with God and with other people. Followers of Jesus are encouraged to emulate and to embody the character of Christ as they create a lifestyle of obedience to God and service to others.
The Sessions Series is a set of Bible studies designed to encourage a deeper encounter with Scripture. Each volume includes eight to ten lessons as well as resources to facilitate preparation, class discussion, or individual Bible Study. The Sessions series editor is Michael D. McCullar.
Timothy W. Brock serves as Assistant Professor of Christian Education at Campbell University Divinity School in Buies Creek, North Carolina. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama (B.S.) and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky (M.Div./R.E. and Ed.D.). Prior to his appointment to the divinity school faculty in 2002, Dr. Brock served congregations for eighteen years in Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, and Virginia.
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