The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy edited by Michael Rydelnik, Edwin Blum

The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy
edited by Michael Rydelnik, Edwin Blum

ISBN-13: 9780802409638
Hardcover: 1440 pages
Publisher: Moody Publishers
Released: October 1st 2019


Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
As Jesus walked the Emmaeus road, he showed his companions how the whole of Scripture foretold his coming. Yet so often today we’re not quite sure how to talk about Jesus in the Old Testament. How do you know what applies to Jesus? And how do you interpret some of the strange prophetic language? Get answers and clarity in this authoritative and reliable guide to messianic prophecy from some of the world’s foremost evangelical Old Testament scholars.

In this in-depth, user-friendly one volume resource you get essays from scholars on the big ideas and major themes surrounding Messianic prophecy, a clear and careful commentary on every passage in the Old Testament considered Messianic, and insights into the original Hebrew and helpful analysis of theological implications. Watch the Scriptures come into full color as you see new meaning in familiar passages and further appreciate God’s masterful handiwork in preparing the way for Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah.


My Review:
The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy is a collection of academic essays on the topic of Messiah references in the Old Testament. Each chapter is written by a different author, but they're all written in an academic tone and have plenty of end notes. The initial essays were more generalized essays about the word Messiah, where it is found in the Old Testament, and what was said of the Messiah, and things like that. Then the authors would take a group of verses and talk about context, word studies, and such showing how this is a reference to the Messiah. This book appears to be written to counter the critics claims that the Messiah is not mentioned in the Old Testament, so the essays argue the case for these verses referring to the Messiah. Overall, this huge book takes a long time to read from front to back but it gives an interesting look at the messianic verses of the Old Testament.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

ESV Expository Commentary (Volume 5): Psalms-Song of Solomon

ESV Expository Commentary (Volume 5): Psalms-Song of Solomon
by C. John Collins (Psalms),
Ryan Patrick O'Dowd (Proverbs),
Max Rogland (Ecclesiastes),
Douglas Sean O'Donnell (Song of Solomon)

ISBN-13: 9781433546440
Hardcover: 1216 pages
Publisher: Crossway
Released: September 6th 2022

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
A Passage-by-Passage Commentary on Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon. Designed to strengthen the global church with a widely accessible, theologically sound, and pastorally wise resource for understanding and applying the overarching storyline of the Bible, the ESV Expository Commentary features the full text of the ESV Bible passage by passage, with crisp and theologically rich exposition and application. This commentary's contributors include:

C. John Collins (Psalms)
Ryan Patrick O'Dowd (Proverbs)
Max Rogland (Ecclesiastes)
Douglas Sean O'Donnell (Song of Solomon)

This book features passage-by-passage commentary on the books of Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon, taking a biblical-theological and broadly Reformed approach to interpreting and applying the text. It includes introductions to each book featuring an outline, key themes, author and date information, literary features, relationship to the rest of the Bible, and interpretive challenges.


My Review:
This is a (huge) commentary on Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. Each book first had an introduction section about when and who wrote the book along with the major themes. Then (going passage by passage) the section of text to be commented on was provided in the ESV version and the commentary followed. Each book was commented on by a different person. The first three were more academic in tone while the last was more conversational in the word choice and tone.

Psalms (which takes up over half of the book) is overly thorough. It has the usual overview of the book or the psalm and examined things like the meaning of questionable words. But it hasn't really improved my understanding of the Psalms. I felt like this was more focused on academic debates. For example, Psalm 1 verse 3 refers to "streams of water." The commentary explained a debate about if the stream is natural or artificial (a canal) based on the word used, though they admitted that it doesn't matter to the meaning of the psalm whether the stream is natural or not. So it's a lot of reading with little of it about improving my understanding and more about side issues (like assuring women that a promise to "a man" also applies to women).

Proverbs was basically a mini-sermon for each group of verses. The commentator linked in related verses from both the Old and New Testament but seemed more interested in telling the reader what to think about the theme in those verses than simply helping the reader to understand the words and context.

Ecclesiastes was still academic enough in tone that it wasn't a quick read, but the commentator did explain passages so the reader can better understand the intent of the writer.

Song of Solomon was much easier to read and did help the reader follow what was going on. The commentator interpreted the action as happening to a generic woman and man (her "king" rather than Solomon) as well as pointing toward the churches relationship with Christ.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Rose Guide to the Feasts, Festivals and Fasts of the Bible by Paul H. Wright

Rose Guide to the Feasts, Festivals and Fasts of the Bible
by Paul H. Wright

ISBN-13: 9781649380210
Hardcover: 232 pages
Publisher: Rose Publishing
Released: July 15, 2022

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
Passover. Yom Kippur. Feast of Tabernacles. Rosh Hashanah. With all the ceremonies, festivals, and observances in the Bible, it’s hard to keep track of them all and remember why they’re important to our faith! But what if you could distill all this key information across dozens of chapters of the Bible into one solid, easy-to-read handbook with images, charts, and diagrams? It’s never been easier to get an expert look at the traditions, fasts, and feasts of the Bible: with this guide, 5 leading authorities on biblical celebrations and disciplines will help condense their research and historical knowledge into key takeaways that you can learn quickly and easily:

Solid overviews of the feasts, celebrations, and rituals kept in ancient Israel and the Old Testament

Historical background of the feasts and holy days in the centuries leading up to the New Testament

Summary of modern-day traditions kept by Jews today

Key takeaways of how messianic communities observe biblical feasts and holidays today

Presentation of how non-messianic Christian congregations have adopted the feasts into liturgies, theologies, etc.

God commanded Moses and the children of Israel to observe feasts and holy days as memorials to the great things that he had done in their lives. With expert research, clearly understand how these times of celebration are important to help us better see God’s complete picture and plan of redemption.


My Review:
This book looks at the regular fasts and feasts in the Old Testament period, in the New Testament Period, of modern Jews, of Messianic Jews, and of Christians. For the Old and New Testament sections, the authors explored how the pilgrim feasts were supposed to be celebrated and what the biblical evidence is for how the feasts were actually celebrated throughout the Bible (and if there were times when they weren't celebrated at all). They provided the context of the feasts and fasts: why they were celebrated, how they fit into a largely agricultural society, and how Israel was similar to and different from their neighbors. They talked about both feasts in general and the annual feasts. There were references to specific events in the Bible, to comments made in writings by others at that time, and to finds in archaeology. The book included some charts and pictures of things like the different foods mentioned in the feasts or a table set up for a modern Passover. Overall, I'd recommend this informative book.

The first chapters talked about: Sabbath, New Moon, Rosh Hashanah (New Year's Day), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), Passover (Feast of Unleavened Bread), Shavuot (Feast of Weeks), and Sukkot (Feast of Booths), Purim, Hanukkah, and days of Fasting, and other holidays. Messianic perspective was given on the Sabbath, Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, First Fruits, Feast of Weeks/Pentecost, Day of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Booths, Purim, Hanukkah. He also explained how the Spring feasts were fulfilled by Yeshua and the Fall feasts will be fulfilled in the future. He also talked about how Jesus celebrated these feasts in the New Testament. The Christian perspective covered how the early church celebrated these holidays and how that changed with time: Sabbath and Sunday, Passover and Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, Pentecost, Advent, Holy Cross Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas and Epiphany.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The New Testament in Its World by N. T. Wright and Michael F. Bird

The New Testament in Its World
with N. T. Wright and Michael F. Bird

MasterLectures Video
Publisher: Zondervan Academic
Source: Free month offer from MasterLectures.

Video Series Description:
Enter the world of the New Testament. A companion to The New Testament in Its World by N. T. Wright and Michael F. Bird, these lectures serve as your passageway from the twenty-first century to the era of Jesus and the first Christians.

Professors Wright and Bird will guide you through how to read the New Testament, the world of Jesus and the early church, deep studies on both Jesus and the apostle Paul, lectures on every book of the New Testament, as well as how to live the story of the New Testament today.

In addition to numerous studio lectures, on-location sessions will immerse you into the world of the New Testament. Filmed around the world, this series takes you on a journey with Wright and Bird to Jerusalem, Corinth, Athens, Rome, Nazareth, Qumran, Capernaum, and the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

At nearly 13 hours of content, these lectures are the definitive video introduction to the history, literature, and theology of the New Testament.

Watch the Trailer.


My Review:
Length: Around 14 hours of video when including the bonus material.

The New Testament in Its World is a video study about the books of the New Testament. The series was so long that I was not able to complete it before the end of my free trial period. I enjoyed sessions 5 through 15, which gave cultural background and context to the New Testament and the early church. The later sessions focused on specific books of the Bible and tended to focus more on the debates about who wrote the book, who it was sent to, etc. They also summarized the major ideas in the books and suggested applications. Both authors apparently wanted to talk about each book and each summarized the book, so some of it was repeated information.

Some of these sessions were filmed on-location or included brief video clips of the cities where the letter was written or was sent. While the cultural background information was potentially interesting for anyone, I felt like the debated information was much more academic than most people would care about.

Introduction - Welcome to the Study
Session 1 - Beginning Study of the New Testament
Session 2 - The New Testament as History
Session 3 - The New Testament as Literature
Session 4 - The New Testament as Theology
Session 5 - The History of the Jews
Session 6- Jewish Context of Jesus, Early Church
Session 7 - Greco-Roman Context of Early Church
Session 8 - The Study of the Historical Jesus
Session 9 - The Profile and Praxis of a Prophet
Session 10 - Who Did Jesus Think He Was?
Session 11 - The Death of the Messiah
Session 12 - Afterlife for Greek, Roman, Jew
Session 13 - Story of Easter (Apostle Paul)
Session 14 - Story of Easter (the Evangelists)
Session 15 - Story of Paul's Life and Ministry
Session 16 - A Primer on Pauline Theology
Session 17 - Galatians
Session 18 - 1 and 2 Thessalonians
Session 19 - Philippians
Session 20 - Colossians, Philemon, Ephesians
Session 21 - 1 and 2 Corinthians
Session 22 - Romans
Session 23 - The Pastoral Epistles
Session 24 - The Gospel according to Mark
Session 25 - The Gospel according to Matthew
Session 26- Gospel of Luke, Acts of the Apostles
Session 27 - The Gospel according to John
Session 28 - The Making of the Gospels
Session 29 - Intro to Early Christian Letters
Session 30 - The Letter to the Hebrews
Session 31 - Letters by Jesus's Brothers
Session 32 - Petrine Letters: 1 and 2 Peter
Session 33 - Johannine Letters: 1, 2, 3 John
Session 34 - Revelation
Session 35- Intro to Textual Criticism of the NT
Session 36 - Canonization of the New Testament
Session 37 - Bringing It All Together
BONUS: What Are "Principalities" in the Bible?
BONUS: Why Study the Historical Jesus?
BONUS: What Is Prayer?
BONUS: How Did Jesus View His Vocation?
BONUS: What Paul Means by "Faith"
BONUS: The Persecution of Christians
BONUS: Why Does Resurrection Matter?
BONUS: How to Understand the Holy Spirit
BONUS: How the Gospel Is Different from Ancient Religion
BONUS: The End of Exile: Daniel, Jesus, and Redemption



If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

EPIC: An Around-the-World Journey through Christian History by Tim Challies

EPIC: An Around-the-World Journey through Christian History
by Tim Challies

MasterLectures Video
Publisher: Zondervan Academic
Source: Free month offer from MasterLectures.

Video Series Description:
The Epic documentary series takes you on a journey with Tim Challies to twenty-four countries, visiting dozens of museums, cemeteries, libraries, houses, monuments, and more. From pulpits to paintings, the labor of monks to the martyrdom of missionaries. Through thirty-three carefully selected objects, author and pastor Tim Challies introduces learners to the history of Christianity in a unique and creative way. It's a story that tells us what God is accomplishing in this world, whether through princes or peasants, triumph or trial.

Watch the Trailer.


My Review:
EPIC is a travelogue video series looking for historical objects around the world that tell the story of Christianity. Each episode is 25 minutes long. The host went to museums, historical sites, churches, etc. Sometimes he was allowed to film inside, showing the object that he talked about, while other times he simply described what he had seen while standing outside of the museum. He explained how the object told an important part of Christian history. There were also scenes showing him traveling, eating, taking photographs, etc. Sometimes the video was jerky, which I find difficult to watch. I enjoyed seeing the video of some of the sites in Germany and India that I've never seen pictures or video of before.

Episode 1 - Israel & Italy
Episode 2 - England
Episode 3 - Ireland & Scotland
Episode 4 - France & Switzerland
Episode 5 - Germany & Ecuador
Episode 6 - Australia & New Zealand
Episode 7 - Zambia & Zimbabwe
Episode 8 - India
Episode 9 - China, Philippines & South Korea
Episode 10 - USA



If you've watched this video series, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the series in the comments.

Romans by Alan F. Johnson

Romans by Alan F. Johnson ISBN-13: 9780802418265 Paperback: 320 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: June 5, 2018

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Martin Luther said Romans was so important that every Christian should memorize it. Romans outlines many of the basics of the faith and has been a favorite of Christians throughout history. But reading Romans without knowing the historical background is like watching an old comedy without knowing the cultural references—still enjoyable, but not nearly as vibrant. Encounter Paul’s crowning epistle in full color through Romans from the Everyday Bible Commentary series. In it you’ll receive enlightening verse-by-verse commentary from Alan F. Johnson that’s both straightforward and insightful. You’ll gain cultural and historical backgrounds, insights from the original language, and help with the difficult passages


My Review:
Romans is a commentary on Romans. The author gave some background information about the book and then commented on the verses as he worked verse-by-verse through Romans. It works best if you read the passage and then read his comments. He provided word studies, background information, and preaching-style insights into the meaning of the text. He also talked about various interpretations of certain verses why he thought a certain interpretation was stronger than the others. I thought he did a good job of helping explain potentially confusing verses and bringing out insights from the text. Overall, I'd recommend this useful Bible-study tool.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Psalms by Robert L. Alden

Psalms by Robert L. Alden ISBN-13: 9780802419040 Paperback: 336 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: March 5, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
There is nothing that can speak to the Christian’s heart quite like the Psalms. These cherished songs lead us into worship, guide our lament, and teach us to pray. But they are even more vibrant when we understand the context, author’s intent, and recognize what this means for our lives today. This is what the best preachers do, but you don’t have to wait until Sunday’s sermon. Encounter the beautiful depth of Psalms through an enlightening chapter-by-chapter commentary from Robert L. Alden that’s both straightforward and insightful. This single-volume commentary is helpfully divided into three thought-provoking sections: Songs of Devotion, of Dedication and of Discipleship.


My Review:
Psalms is a commentary on Psalms. The author did a good job of commenting on each of the psalms and bringing insight to them. He urged that his comments be read with your Bible open to that psalm. He talked about the structure of the psalm, similar words (and contrasts) that aren't immediately obvious in the English translations, and otherwise brought out useful and insightful points to help the reader better understand the psalms. His comments were not difficult to follow even though some of the terms were more academic (but he clearly explains them). Overall, I'd recommend this useful commentary.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Colossians by Joyce Meyer

Colossians by Joyce Meyer ISBN-13: 9781546026143 Hardcover: 208 pages Publisher: FaithWords Released: March 31st 2020

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Let the wisdom of Colossians transform relationships in every area of your life -- home, church, and even the world -- with this study guide from renowned Bible teacher Joyce Meyer. Paul's letter to the Colossians reminds us that as we have died with Christ, so, too, do we need to die to our sins. It encourages us that because we have also been raised in Him, we must submit to Jesus and adopt qualities motivated by Christian love.


My Review:
Colossians is a Bible commentary on Colossians that can be used for personal Bible study or even as a devotional. The author provided the Bible verses in the book (often using an amplified version). She covered several verses at a time and worked her way through Colossians. She talked about each group of verses and brought out insights to improve our understanding. She stayed focused on the verses rather than telling funny stories, but it wasn't highly academic or difficult to follow. It's written at a layman's level and contained short enough sections that it could be used for daily devotional reading. She included questions for personal reflection along with space to write in your answer. Overall, I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to better understand Colossians.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

James by Vernon Doerksen

James by Vernon Doerksen ISBN-13: 9780802418975 Paperback: 176 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: March 5, 2019

Source: review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
What should you as a Christian be thinking, saying, and doing? These are the questions we’re all asking and that James is answering. Encounter the beautiful depth of James through an enlightening verse-by-verse commentary from Vernon Doerksen that’s both straightforward and insightful. You’ll gain a new perspective on how James relates to other passages in the Old and New Testament, insights from the original languages, and help with the difficult passages.


My Review:
James is a commentary on James. The author gave some background information about the book and then commented on the verses as he worked verse-by-verse through James. It works best if you read the passage and then read his comments. He provided word studies, background information, and preaching-style insights into the meaning of the text. I thought he did a good job of helping explain potentially confusing verses and bringing out insights from the text. Overall, I'd recommend this useful Bible-study tool.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Isaiah by Alfred Martin

Isaiah by Alfred Martin ISBN-13: 9780802418241 Paperback: 144 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: June 5, 2018

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Prophecy can be confusing. In a book like Isaiah, historical events are presented out of order and right next to future prophecies without obvious distinctions between the two. Plus, it’s full of strange symbols like the sprout that grows out of the root of Jesse. What we need is a guide—someone who will tell us what’s historic and what’s prophetic, and explain all the strange symbolism clearly and simply. This is what the best preachers do, but you don’t have to wait until Sunday’s sermon. Encounter the beautiful depth of Isaiah through an enlightening commentary from Alfred Martin that’s both straightforward and insightful.


My Review:
Isaiah is a commentary on Isaiah. The author gave some background information about the book (when it was written, who wrote it, etc.) and then commented on large groups of verses as he worked through Isaiah. The verses being commented on were indicated in the top margin of each page, and sometimes a chapter or more was covered on one page. The author spent the most time on Messianic references or verses referred to in the New Testament. He also spent some time responding to the critical views of Isaiah and defending the unity of Isaiah (as in, it was written by one person: Isaiah). This commentary works best if you read the passage and then read his comments (or his comments and then the verses). Overall, I'd recommend this Bible-study tool to Christians wanting an overview of Isaiah.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Daniel by John C. Whitcomb

Daniel by John C. Whitcomb ISBN-13: 9780802418234 Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: June 5, 2018

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
We love the stories of courage and faith in Daniel, but the prophecy in the second half of the book can befuddle us. What we need is a guide—someone who can paint a picture of the historical background that brings the stories in Daniel to life, and who can explain all the prophetic symbolism clearly and simply. This is what the best preachers do, but you don’t have to wait until Sunday’s sermon. Encounter the beautiful depth of Daniel through an enlightening verse-by-verse commentary from John C. Whitcomb that’s both straightforward and insightful. You’ll gain important historical background, insights from the original languages, explanations of prophetic symbols, and more!

You don’t have to go to seminary to encounter God in exciting, new ways through His Word. Discover how much more enjoyable your personal study will be with understandable, quality Bible commentary for everyday life.


My Review:
Daniel is a commentary on Daniel. The author gave some background information about the book (when written, who wrote it, etc.) and then commented on each (small) grouping of verses as he worked through Daniel. He talked about the conservative response to liberal views about when the book was written and supposed contradictions in Daniel. He provided word studies, cultural and historical background information, and preaching-style insights into the meaning of the text. It works best if you read the passage and then read his comments. I thought he did a good job of helping explain potentially confusing verses. The commentary was more academic than conversational in tone, but I had no trouble understanding his points. Overall, I'd recommend this useful Bible-study tool.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Acts by Charles C. Ryrie

Acts by Charles C. Ryrie ISBN-13: 9780802418227 Paperback: 112 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: June 5, 2018

Source: review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
The book of Acts is a thrilling account of the early church discovering what it means to be Christian. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, they lived out a triumphant faith in the face of opposition and persecution, established order for the growing movement, and took the gospel to the ends of the earth. Encounter Acts through enlightening verse-by-verse commentary from Charles Ryrie that’s both straightforward and insightful.


My Review:
Acts is a slim book that basically summarized (in the author's own words) what happened in each group of verses. There's no point in reading this with Acts as you pretty much just get want's in the book of Acts. The author did include some background information about the book of Acts (when it was written, by whom, etc.) and occasionally included small bits of background information in the "commentary" on the verses. Still, it seemed more an overview of what happened in Acts rather than author comments and insights into the verses.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Stories with Intent by Klyne R. Snodgrass

Stories with Intent: A Comprehensive Guide to the Parables of Jesus by Klyne R. Snodgrass ISBN-13: 9780802842411 Hardcover: 864 pages Publisher: Eerdmans Released: Jan. 11, 2008

Source: Bought.

Book Description from Goodreads:
Stories with Intent offers pastors and students an accessible and comprehensive guide to Jesus' parables. Klyne Snodgrass explores in vivid detail the context in which these stories were told, the purpose they had in Jesus' message, and the ways they have been interpreted by the church and modern scholarship. While holding a consciously evangelical approach, Snodgrass deals throughout with a broad spectrum of opinions and interpretations.

He begins by surveying the primary issues in parables interpretation. Offering both a new, more functional classification system for Jesus' parables and guidelines for interpreting them, he provides an overview of other parables -- often neglected in the discussion -- from the Old Testament, Jewish writings, and the Greco-Roman world. The remaining chapters group the longer and more important parables of Jesus thematically and give a comprehensive treatment of each, including background and significance for today.


My Review:
Stories with Intent will probably most appeal to pastors or academics as it goes into more detail the most people will be interested in. He doesn't look at every single parable but looks at different categories of parables and explores the main ones. For each parable, he looked into the main ways that people have interpreted the parable throughout history. He also looked at cultural background information, including quoting sources from around that time period that relate to the topic (like references to procedures for inheritance if the father has not yet died, when studying the Prodigal Son parable). He gets into Greek words and tenses and how this may change how a sentence is interpreted. He talked about if the parable is the same as a similar one in another gospel or if it is not. He favored the more obvious interpretations and the assumption that the parables were really spoken by Jesus. I read the entire thing and, overall, agreed with his analysis and his reasoning. I'd recommend this book to those who want extensive study on parables or simply want this as a reference book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

James by Joyce Meyer

James by Joyce Meyer ISBN-13: 9781546026068 Hardcover: 160 pages Publisher: FaithWords Released: March 5, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
James has so much to say about living a powerful and effective life in Christ. The book addresses a variety of topics important to growing your faith and teaches that you not only need to read the Word of God and know what it says, but you also need to act on it. In this comprehensive biblical commentary, Joyce Meyer offers you practical insights for studying the book of James, with room for personal reflections that will help you grasp the truths in God's Word. You'll discover how to identify life-changing wisdom and get a better understanding of God's plan and purpose for your life.

Part of her first-ever biblical commentary series, Joyce's book on James will stir your faith in God and inspire you to live it out in practical ways because of your love for Him and desire to glorify Him in your life.


My Review:
James is a Bible commentary on James that can be used for personal Bible study or even as a devotional. The author provided an amplified version of the verses, doing one to seven verses at a time and working her way through James. She talked about each group of verses and brought out insights to improve our understanding. She stayed focused on the verses rather than telling funny stories, but it wasn't highly academic or difficult to follow. It's written at a layman's level and contained short enough sections that it could be used for daily devotional reading. She included questions for personal reflection along with space to write in your answer. Overall, I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to better understand James.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Proverbs- Everyday Bible Commentary by Irving Jensen

Proverbs- Everyday Bible Commentary by Irving Jensen ISBN-13: 9780802418968 Paperback: 120 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: March 5, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
The wisdom of Proverbs sometimes comforts and sometimes confuses. It contains some of our most cherished verses, as well as odd metaphors, and strange pronouncements that can feel cold or even cruel. What we need is a guide—someone who can explain the confusing bits and bring familiar passages to life. This is what the best preachers do, but you don’t have to wait until Sunday’s sermon. Encounter the beautiful depth of Proverbs through an enlightening verse-by-verse commentary from Irving Jensen that’s both straightforward and insightful.


My Review:
Proverbs--Everyday Bible Commentary is a commentary on Proverbs. The author started by providing an overview of Proverbs by looking at key themes, main topics, background and setting, and an outline. He followed this by working verse by verse through each section, explaining what Solomon was saying. The author didn't provide any insights that I haven't already gotten just from reading Proverbs in my Study Bible. Sometimes, his interpretation of the verse didn't agree with what I've read elsewhere. He occasionally speculated about things not necessary to understanding the verses, and I often found myself disagreeing with what he proposed. I was disappointed that I didn't really get much out of this. However, it was easy to follow what the author was saying.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Ephesians by Joyce Meyer

Ephesians by Joyce Meyer ISBN-13: 9781546025993 Hardcover: 176 pages Publisher: FaithWords Released: March 5, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Paul's letter to the Ephesians is a well-loved book of the Bible that teaches some of the most important lessons of faith: who you are in Christ, how you are to live as His follower, and how to gain victory in the spiritual battles you face. In this study tool, Joyce Meyer takes a close look at the meaning of those beloved verses, identifying key truths and incorporating room for personal reflection.

Joyce's first-ever biblical commentary series provides teachings that will help you develop a stronger relationship with God. As you take the time to study His Word, you'll see how much He loves you and who you are in His image. Change will come, and your life will bear the good fruit that God intends!


My Review:
Ephesians is a Bible commentary on Ephesians that can be used for personal Bible study or even as a devotional. The author provided an amplified version of the verses, doing one to seven verses at a time and working her way through Ephesians. She talked about each group of verses and brought out insights to improve our understanding. She stayed focused on the verses rather than telling funny stories, but it wasn't highly academic or difficult to follow. It's written at a layman's level and contained short enough sections that it could be used for daily devotional reading. She included questions for personal reflection along with space to write in your answer. I have read several commentaries on Ephesians lately, and this is one of the better ones, in my opinion. Overall, I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to better understand Ephesians.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

1 Corinthians- Everyday Bible Commentary by Robert Hughes

1 Corinthians- Everyday Bible Commentary by Robert Hughes ISBN-13: 9780802418999 Paperback: 160 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: March 5, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Divisions, immorality, marital strife, spiritual gifts, money, wisdom, folly, and holiness—these may have been Corinthian problems first, but we need Paul’s wisdom just as much today. But it can be confusing to read 1 Corinthians on our own. What we need is a guide—someone who can explain what’s going on in the world outside the letter and bring to life Paul’s words of exhortation. This is what the best preachers do, but you don’t have to wait until Sunday’s sermon. Encounter the beautiful depth of 1 Corinthians through an enlightening verse-by-verse commentary from Robert R. Hughes that’s both straightforward and insightful.


My Review:
1 Corinthians- Everyday Bible Commentary is a commentary on 1 Corinthians. The author started by explaining the key themes and main topics talked about in 1 Corinthians. He provided some background, an overview, and an outline of the letter. He then worked his way through 1 Corinthians by focusing on the next topic in the letter. He started by quoting some verses introducing the main problem and Paul's solution. He followed this by working verse by verse through that section, explaining in detail what Paul was saying, giving context to the problem, and explaining what Old Testament verses he was referring to. This is more of a sermon style than a traditional commentary. It was easy to follow what the author was saying, and it did help clarify what Paul meant and what the Corinthians were dealing with. Overall, I'd recommend this Bible commentary.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Be Alert by Warren W. Wiersbe

Be Alert by Warren W. Wiersbe ISBN-13: 9781434765048 Kindle ebook: 210 pages Publisher: David C. Cook Released: June 1, 2010

Source: bought on Amazon.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Some people who claim to represent the truth are really merchandisers of error. They deceive, mock, and defile, as their mouths speak "great swelling words" (Jude 16). Who are these false teachers? How can you recognize them? Based on 2 Peter, 2 and 3 John, and Jude, this book will help you sharpen your spiritual discernment. Join Dr. Wiersbe as he uncovers the disguises of today's religious impostors. Religious deception is on the rise. Don't be fooled by the masquerade.


My Review:
Be Alert is a commentary on 2 Peter, 2 & 3 John, Jude. It's written more like a sermon series than a Bible reference book. While you can go to a certain chapter and verse reference and read the entry for more information, but the book was designed to be read from start to finish. The book was easy to understand. Overall, I'd recommend this book for use as a personal devotional/Bible study.

The author tied in relevant Old and New Testament verses, pointed out the meanings of Hebrew words that don't fully translate into English, and explained background historical information that helped to bring out the full impact of the verses. There were 9-10 questions at the end of each chapter. Some tested to see if you remembered/understood what the author had said, but others were discussion/reflection questions about how you could apply what you had just learned.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Be Satisfied (Ecclesiastes) by Warren W. Wiersbe

Be Satisfied (Ecclesiastes) by Warren W. Wiersbe ISBN-13: 1434765067 Kindle ebook: 163 pages Publisher: David C. Cook Released: Aug. 1, 2010

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
King Solomon had it all. Wealth. Power. Prestige. Yet despite having everything he could ever want, Solomon was still unsatisfied. He soon came to a startling conclusion: Even if we have it all, it is never enough. This revelation inspired the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon’s profound thoughts on the meaning of life. BE Satisfied examines Solomon’s remarkable insights on what holds real value in this world.

Part of Dr. Warren W. Wiersbe’s best-selling “BE” commentary series, BE Satisfied has now been updated with study questions and a new introduction by Ken Baugh.

My Review:
Be Satisfied is a commentary on Ecclesiastes. The author provided information about the book of Ecclesiastes (probable author, when written, etc.). Then he went through Ecclesiastes and expounded upon each group of verses. Much of what he said I've previously heard in sermons or I already understood just from reading the verses. He had some ideas that I hadn't heard before regarding a few of the less-clear verses. It was worth reading, but I didn't find it as useful as some of his other commentaries in this series.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Insights on Luke by Charles R. Swindoll

Insights on Luke by Charles R. Swindoll ISBN-13: 9780310284314 Hardcover: 528 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: Jan. 24, 2012

Source: Bought on Amazon.

Book Description from Goodreads:
The 15-volume Swindoll's Living Insights New Testament Commentary series draws on Chuck Swindoll's 50 years of experience with studying and preaching God's Word. Each volume combines verse-by-verse commentary, charts, maps, photos, key terms, and background articles with practical application. This series is a must-have for pastors, teachers, and anyone else who is seeking a deeply practical resource for exploring God's Word.

My Review:
Insights on Luke is a Bible commentary. The author explained the meaning of various key Greek words and provided information on the cultural and historical background. There were also maps, photos, and charts to help illustrate what was going on. The author gave a paragraph or two of Scripture and then studied through that verse-by-verse. At the end of each section, he discussed how we can apply the writer's message to our own lives. He also included occasional "journal" pages were he talked about how those verses had been applied or worked out in his life.

Though you can look up information on just a single verse, this is more a Bible study book where it's assumed you'll read the whole book. Most of the text focused on clarifying what the verses mean so the reader can better understand them. Some parts were more of a sermon, where he tells the reader what to understand from it.

This book was easy to follow and understand. He brought out some interesting points about Jesus' trials. Overall, I'd recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.