BibComs

Recent and upcoming developments

Dr Karl Möller — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 09:18:28 +0000

Over the last few days, I have put together lists of commentaries on Revelation and especially on Mark’s gospel. In addition, there is now a list of additional studies on Mark, which is going to grow over the next week or so. I also hope to add descriptions to some of the commentaries on Mark’s gospel and put together a short list of the best picks.

Additional Studies on Mark

Dr Karl Möller — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 19:42:11 +0000

Anderson, J. C. and Moore, S. D. (eds) (2008) Mark and Method: New Approaches in Biblical Studies. 2^nd edn. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xi + 288 pp.

Beasley-Murray, G. R. (1993) Jesus and the Last Days: The Interpretation of the Olivet Discourse. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson. x + 518 pp.

Best, E. (1981) Following Jesus: Discipleship in the Gospel of Mark. Sheffield: JSOT Press (JSNTSup, 4). 283 pp.

Best, E. (1983) Mark: The Gospel as Story. Edinburgh: T. & T. Clark. vii + 155 pp.

Best, E. (1986) Disciples and Discipleship: Studies in the Gospel according to Mark. Edinburgh: T. & T. Clark. xi + 244 pp.

Black, C. C. (1989) The Disciples according to Mark: Markan Redaction in Current Debate. Sheffield: JSOT Press (JSNTSup, 27). 392 pp.

Black, C. C. (2001) Mark: Images of an Apostolic Interpreter. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xx + 327 pp.

Bock, D. L. Blasphemy and Exaltation in Judaism: The Charge against Jesus in Mark 14:53-65. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker. xiv + 285 pp.

Bolt, P. G. (2004) The Cross from a Distance: Atonement in Mark’s Gospel. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press (New Studies in Biblical Theology, 18). 213 pp.

Fowler, R. M. (2001) Let the Reader Understand: Reader-Response Criticism and the Gospel of Mark. Harrisburg, PA: Trinity Press International. xiii + 279 pp.

Garrett, S. R. (1998) The Temptations of Jesus in Mark’s Gospel. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans. x + 212 pp.

Gaventa, B. R. and Miller, P. D. (eds) (2005) The Ending of Mark and the Ends of God: Essays in Memory of Donald Harrisville Juel. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press. vii + 184 pp.

Geddert, T. J. (1989) Watchwords: Mark 13 in Markan Eschatology. Sheffield: JSOT Press. 352 pp.

Hengel, M. (1985) Studies in the Gospel of Mark. London: SCM Press. xiv + 206 pp.

Hooker, M. D. (2000) ‘Mark’s Parables of the Kingdom (Mark 4:1-34)’, in Longenecker, R. N. (ed.) The Challenge of Jesus’ Parables. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, pp. 79-101.

Iverson, K. R. and Skinner, C. W. (eds) (2011) Mark as Story: Retrospect and Prospect. Atlanta: Society of Biblical Literature (SBLRBS, 65). xii + 309 pp.

Juel, D. H. (1999) The Gospel of Mark. Nashville: Abingdon Press (IBT). 200 pp.

Levine, A.-J. and Blickenstaff, M. (eds) (2001) A Feminist Companion to Mark. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press (Feminist Companion to the New Testament and Early Christian Writings, 2). 261 pp.

Malbon, E. S. (1986) Narrative Space and Mythic Meaning in Mark. San Francisco: Harper & Row. xiv + 212 pp.

Malbon, E. S. (2000) In the Company of Jesus: Characters in Mark’s Gospel. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press. xx + 244 pp.

Malbon, E. S. (2009) Mark’s Jesus: Characterization as Narrative Christology. Waco, TX: Baylor University Press. xiv + 286 pp.

Malbon, E. S. (ed.) (2009) Between Author and Audience in Mark: Narration, Characterization, Interpretation. Sheffield: Sheffield Phoenix Press. xii + 196 pp.

Marcus, J. (1992) The Way of the Lord: Christological Exegesis of the Old Testament in the Gospel of Mark. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press. xv + 240 pp.

Martin, R. (1973) Mark: Evangelist and Theologian. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. 240 pp.

Mitchell, J. L. (2001) Beyond Fear and Silence: A Feminist-literary Approach to the Gospel of Mark. New York: Continuum. viii + 152 pp.

Moloney, F. J. (2004) Mark: Storyteller, Interpreter, Evangelist. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson. xiv + 224 pp.

Myers, C. (1988) Binding the Strong Man: A Political Reading of Mark’s Story of Jesus. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis. xxxiii + 500 pp.

Orton, D. E. (ed.) (1999) The Composition of Mark’s Gospel: Selected Studies from Novum Testamentum. Boston: Brill (Brill’s Readers in Biblical Studies, 3). vi + 272 pp.

Proctor, J. (2005) Mark’s Jesus: The Message and Meaning of Mark’s Gospel. Cambridge: Grove Books (Grove Biblical Series, 37). 28 pp.

Rhoads, D. M., Dewey, J. and Michie, D. (1999) Mark as Story: An Introduction to the Narrative of a Gospel. 2^nd edn. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xiii + 176 pp.

Robbins, V. K. (1992) Jesus the Teacher: A Socio-rhetorical Interpretation of Mark. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xliv + 249 pp.

Santos, N. F. (2003) Slave of All: The Paradox of Authority and Servanthood in the Gospel of Mark. London: Sheffield Academic Press (JSNTSup, 237). xii + 337 pp.

Smith, S. H. (1996). A Lion with Wings: A Narrative-Critical Approach to Mark’s Gospel. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press (BibSem, 38). 258 pp.

Telford, W. R. (1995) Mark. Reprint, London: T & T Clark International, 2003 (T & T Clark Study Guides). 162 pp.

Telford, W. R. (1999) The Theology of the Gospel of Mark. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. xvi + 275 pp.

Telford, W. R. (ed.) (1995) The Interpretation of Mark. 2^nd edn. Edinburgh: T. & T. Clark. xiv + 342 pp.

Thurston, B. B. (2002) Preaching Mark. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xii + 218 pp.

Tolbert, M. A. (1989) Sowing the Gospel: Mark’s World in Literary-Historical Perspective. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xvi + 336 pp.

van Oyen, G. and Shepherd, T. (eds) (2006) The Trial and Death of Jesus: Essays on the Passion Narrative in Mark. Leuven: Peeters (Contributions in Biblical Exegesis and Theology, 45). x + 268 pp.

Vines, M. E. (2002) The Problem of Markan Genre: The Gospel of Mark and the Jewish Novel. Atlanta: Society of Biblical Literature (Academia Biblica, 3). xi + 220 pp.

Watts, R. E. (2000) Isaiah’s New Exodus in Mark. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker. xvi + 479 pp.

Williams, J. F. (1994) Other Followers of Jesus: Minor Characters as Major Figures in Mark’s Gospel. Sheffield: JSOT Press (JSNTSup, 102). 231 pp.

Commentaries on Revelation: Long List

Dr Karl Möller — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 16:45:12 +0000

Aune, D. E. (1997) Revelation 1–5. Dallas, TX: Word. (1998) Revelation 6–16. (1998) Revelation 17–22. Nashville: Thomas Nelson (WBC, 52A, 52B, 52C). ccxi + 374, xlv + 526 and xlvi + 449 pp.

Beasley-Murray, G. R. (1974) The Book of Revelation. Reprint, Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock, 2010 (NCB). 352 pp. Beasley-Murray pays attention to theological issues and in particular to Revelation’s Christology, which is seen as inseparable from its eschatology.

Boring, M. E. (1989) Revelation. Louisville: John Knox Press (Int.). xiii + 236 pp.

Boxall, I. (2006) The Revelation of Saint John. London: Continuum (BNTC, 18). xvi + 347 pp.

Caird, G. B. (1966) The Revelation of Saint John. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson (BNTC). x + 316 pp. Caird’s commentary is well-known for its focus on reading Revelation as a Christian reinterpretation of Old Testament themes and images.

Koester, C. R. (2001) Revelation and the End of All Things. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans. xiv + 209 pp.

Morris, L. (1987) The Book of Revelation: An Introduction and Commentary. 2nd edn. Leicester: Inter-Varsity Press (TNTC). 256 pp.

Reddish, M. G. (2001) Revelation. Macon, GA: Smyth & Helwys (SHBC). xxiv + 472 pp.

Roloff, J. (1993) The Revelation of John: A Continental Commentary. Translated by J. E. Alsup. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xi + 275 pp.

Sweet, J. P. M. (1979) Revelation. London: SCM Press (Pelican Commentaries). xv + 361 pp. Sweet’s volume, which is strong on the significance of Old Testament allusions, is one of the better short commentaries on Revelation.

Talbert, C. H. (1994) The Apocalypse: A Reading of the Revelation of John. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press. ix + 123 pp.

Witherington, B. (2003) Revelation. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press (NCBC). xviii + 307 pp.

Commentaries on Mark: Long List

Dr Karl Möller — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:06:33 +0000

Anderson, H. (1981) The Gospel of Mark. London: Oliphants (NCB). xviii + 366 pp.

Bock, D. L. (2006) ‘The Gospel of Mark’, in Turner, D. L. and Bock, D. L. The Gospel of Matthew, The Gospel of Mark. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House (CsBC, 11). xiv + 560 pp.

Boring, M. E. (2006) Mark: A Commentary. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press (NTL). xxxvii + 482 pp.

Brooks, J. A. (1991) Mark. Nashville: Broadman & Holman (NAC, 23). 288 pp.

Cole, R. A. (1989) The Gospel according to Mark: An Introduction and Commentary. 2nd edn. Leicester: Inter-Varsity Press (TNTC, 2). 340 pp.

Collins, A. Y. (2007) Mark: A Commentary. Minneapolis: Fortress Press (Hermeneia). xlvi + 894 pp.

Cranfield, C. E. B. (1959) The Gospel according to Saint Mark: An Introduction and Commentary. Reprint, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1983 (CGTC). xv + 503 pp.

Culpepper, R. A. (2007) Mark. Macon, GA: Smyth & Helwys (SHBC). xviii + 622 pp.

Donahue, J. R. and Harrington, D. J. (2002) The Gospel of Mark. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press (SP, 2). xv + 491 pp.

Dowd, S. E. Reading Mark: A Literary and Theological Commentary on the Second Gospel. Macon, GA: Smyth & Helwys. xx + 171 pp.

Edwards, J. R. (2002) The Gospel according to Mark. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans (PNTC). xxvi + 552 pp.

Evans, C. A. (2001) Mark 8:27–16:20. Nashville: Thomas Nelson (WBC, 34B). xciii + 594 pp.

France, R. T. (2002) The Gospel of Mark: A Commentary on the Greek Text. Carlisle: Paternoster Press (NIGTC). xxxvii + 719 pp.

Garland, D. E. (1996) Mark. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan (NIVAC). 653 pp.

Geddert, T. J. Mark. Scottdale, PA: Herald Press (BCBC). 454 pp.

Guelich, R. A. (1989) Mark 1–8:26. Dallas, TX: Word (WBC, 34A). xliii + 454 pp.

Gundry, R. H. (1993) Mark: A Commentary on His Apology for the Cross. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans. lv + 1069 pp.

Hare, D. R. A. (1996) Mark. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press (WBComp). x + 230 pp.

Healy, M. (2008). The Gospel of Mark. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic (CCSS). 348 pp.

Hooker, M. D. (1991). A Commentary on the Gospel according to St Mark. Reprint, London: Continuum, 2001 (BNTC). viii + 424 pp.

Hurtado, L. W. Mark. Carlisle: Paternoster Press (NIBCNT, 2). xii + 306 pp.

Kernaghan, R. J. (2007) Mark. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press (IVPNTC, 2). 351 pp.

Lane, W. L. (1974) The Gospel according to Mark: The English Text with Introduction, Exposition and Notes. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans. (NICNT, 2). xvi + 652 pp.

Malbon, E. S. (2002) Hearing Mark: A Listener’s Guide. Harrisburg, PA: Trinity Press International. xi + 114 pp.

Mann, C. S. (1986) Mark: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. Garden City, NY: Doubleday (AB, 27). xxvi + 714 pp.

Marcus, J. (2000) Mark 1–8: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. New York: Doubleday. (2009) Mark 8–16: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press (AB, 27 and 27A). xix + 569 and lx + 610 pp.

Moloney, F. J. (2002) The Gospel of Mark: A Commentary. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson. xviii + 398 pp.

Oden, T. C. and Hall, C. A. (eds) (1998) Mark. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press (ACCSNT, 2). xxxv + 281 pp.

Schweizer, E. (1971) The Good News according to Mark: A Commentary on the Gospel. Translated by D. H. Madvig. London: SPCK. 395 pp.

Stein, R. H. (2008) Mark. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic (BECNT). xxi + 823 pp.

Taylor, D. B. (1992) Mark’s Gospel as Literature and History. London: SCM Press. xii + 388 pp.

Taylor, V. (1952) The Gospel according to St. Mark: The Greek Text with Introduction, Notes, and Indexes. London: Macmillan. xx + 696 pp.

Witherington, B. (2001) The Gospel of Mark: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans. xxiv + 463 pp.

Wright, T. (2001) Mark for Everyone. London: SPCK. xii + 243 pp.

Additional Studies on Exodus

Dr Karl Möller — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 22:39:00 +0000

Coats, G. W. (1999) Exodus 1–18. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans (FOTL, 2A). xiv + 178 pp. As the title of the series indicates, this project seeks to apply a form-critical perspective to the Old Testament books. It does not offer detailed exegetical (philological) engagement with the text but focuses on questions regarding structure (which receives more attention here than in any other commentary available), genre, setting and intention. Coats’s earlier work on Genesis is one of the strongest works in the series, but the volume on Exodus 1–18, unfortunately, falls far short of this standard due to the author’s deteriorating health. Readership: S

Gowan, D. E. (1994) Theology in Exodus: Biblical Theology in the Form of a Commentary. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press. xviii + 297 pp. This is more like a theological treatise that investigates what Exodus teaches about God, hence the title Theology in Exodus rather than Theology of Exodus. Particular attention is paid to Exodus 3–4, but Gowan works his way through the whole book, which he reads within its canonical context while also taking into consideration the history of Jewish and Christian thought on this book. Readership: SM

Heither, T. (2002) Schriftauslegung: Das Buch Exodus bei den Kirchenvätern. Stuttgart: Verlag Katholisches Bibelwerk (NSKAT, 33/4). 221 pp. Readership: F

Johnstone, W. (1990) Exodus. Sheffield: JSOT Press (OTG). 120 pp. *** Reprint: Johnstone, W. (2001) ‘Exodus’, in Rogerson, J. W., Moberly, R. W. L. and Johnstone, W. Genesis and Exodus. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press (OTG). This is an introduction to the critical issues in the study of the book. It looks at historical questions (such as the biblical chronology, ancient Near Eastern sources, whether Exodus should be regarded as a historical work, the figure of Moses), institutional matters (i.e. Passover, unleavened bread, firstlings, theophany, covenant and law), literary issues (e.g. literary criticism, tradition history, redaction criticism, the new literary approach) and theological concerns (the revelation of the divine name, the theologies of the D version and the P edition). Readership: S

Krochmalnik, D. (2000) Schriftauslegung: Das Buch Exodus im Judentum. Stuttgart: Verlag Katholisches Bibelwerk (NSKAT, 33/3). 183 pp. Readership: F

Longman, T. (2009) How to Read Exodus. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic. 187 pp. Readership: ML

Origenes (Origen) (2008) Predigten des Origenes zum Buch Exodus: lateinisch–deutsch. Translation by T. Heither. Münster: Aschendorff. 278 pp. Readership: F

Sarna, N. M. (1986) Exploring Exodus: The Heritage of Biblical Israel. New York: Schocken. xii + 277 pp. *** Second Edition: Sarna, N. M. (1996) Exploring Exodus: The Origins of Biblical Israel. 2nd edn. New York: Schocken. xx + 277 pp. This is not quite a commentary in the strict sense, even though Sarna does follow the book’s narrative sequence, but rather a study of many key issues arising out of the text. Written for students, teachers and the educated layman, it offers a Jewish perspective on Exodus. The focus is on the book’s ‘spiritual values and moral and ethical imperatives’. In a new foreword added to the 1996 edition, Sarna dissents from recent scholarship that questions the historicity of the Exodus narrative. Readership: ML

Commentaries on Exodus: Long List

Dr Karl Möller — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 23:16:36 +0000

Ashby, G. W. (1998) Go out and Meet God: A Commentary on the Book of Exodus. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans (ITC). xiv + 146 pp. Ashby, a retired bishop in the Anglican Church of South Africa, writes with the experience of someone involved in the country’s anti-apartheid movement. In a series that explores the theological importance of the Old Testament within a global setting, Ashby seeks to show how Exodus can be applied to liberation movements within current societies. The commentary, which focuses on themes such as oppression and liberation, features a foreword by Desmond Tutu. Readership: M

Beer, G. (1939) Exodus. Tübingen: Mohr (HAT, 3). 179 pp. Compared to the earlier works by McNeile and Driver, Beer, writing in the 1930s, was already less certain about the sources of Exodus and somewhat more tentative regarding historical and geographical issues. Readership: F

Binz, S. J. (1993) The God of Freedom and Life: A Commentary on the Book of Exodus. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press. 147 pp. This commentary, which is based on the translation of the New American Bible, according to the publishers is aimed at adult study groups, college courses and individuals who want to understand the Scriptures. Readership: L

Bruckner, J. K. (2008) Exodus. Milton Keynes: Paternoster Press (NIBCOT, 2). xvi + 348 pp. Readership: ML

Brueggemann, W. (1994) ‘The Book of Exodus: Introduction, Commentary, and Reflections’, in Keck, L. (ed.) The New Interpreter’s Bible. Volume 1: General Articles on the Bible. General Articles on the Old Testament. Genesis. Exodus. Leviticus. Nashville: Abingdon Press, pp. 675-982. Like other commentaries in the New Interpreter’s Bible, Brueggemann’s work reproduces the text from the NIV and NRSV in parallel columns and applies the latest interpretive methods to Exodus. Brueggemann discerns four key themes in the book: liberation, law, covenant and the presence of God. As regards the prominent theme of liberation, he argues that, although this has been ‘a voice for alternative possibilities in the world’ for some time, it exists in tension with a countervailing theme of conservatism in the book’s priestly parts. Readership: ML

Burns, R. J. (1983) Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers: With Excursuses on Feasts/Ritual and Typology. Wilmington, DE: Michael Glazier (OTM, 3). 298 pp. This commentary is somewhat selective in that not every chapter of the three books is dealt with, but Exodus receives more attention than the other two. Burns adopts a traditional literary-critical approach. Readership: ML

Cassuto, U. (1967) A Commentary on the Book of Exodus. Translation by I. Abrahams. Jerusalem: Magnes Press. xvi + 509 pp. This is a classic commentary that looks at Exodus from a Jewish perspective. Cassuto rejects the documentary hypothesis and posits an ancient heroic poem as the principle source of the book. He is adamant that the final form of the text, which he regards as a ‘sublime religious document’, has to be the object of study. His commentary is to be commended for its philological analysis and its sensitivity to the book’s literary artistry – Cassuto is especially helpful in identifying literary patterns. Although the comments are based on the Hebrew text, the commentary can be consulted profitably by a wider readership. The Hebrew original was published in 1951. Readership: SM

Childs, B. S. (1974) Exodus: A Commentary. London: SCM Press (OTL). xxv + 659 pp. This is a true landmark as far as commentaries on Exodus are concerned. Childs is known for pioneering the canonical approach, and he used Exodus as a showcase for demonstrating its potential. His work on Exodus was ground-breaking in that Childs paid attention not only to standard critical issues, such as textual criticism, philology and critical methodology (i.e. source, form and traditio-historical criticism), but also to the canonical shape of Exodus, its theological significance in relation to its Old and New Testament context and its Jewish and Christian reception history. Readership: SM

Clements, R. E. (1972) Exodus. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press (CBC). viii + 248 pp. The Cambridge Bible Commentary is aimed at a general readership and designed for use with the New English Bible. Clements, in line with the format of the series, provides summary interpretation on sections of text together with further comments on selected verses. Readership: L

Coggins, R. J. (2000) The Book of Exodus. Peterborough: Epworth (Epworth Commentaries). xxi + 130 pp. Commentaries in the Epworth series, which are based on the Revised English Bible, are intended to be ecumenical, multicultural and multifaith in outlook. Coggins therefore appropriately incorporates feminist and liberationist readings of the text while noting that certain aspects of the book (e.g. the suffering of the Egyptians, or the absence of women in the second half of Exodus) remain problematic for anyone with an inclusivist agenda. Readership: ML

Cole, R. A. (1973) Exodus: An Introduction and Commentary. Leicester: Inter-Varsity Press (TOTC). 239 pp. Volumes in the Tyndale commentary series do not reproduce the biblical text and comment selectively on individual words and phrases. They do not presuppose knowledge of Hebrew but assume that readers have an interest in the nuances of the biblical language. Cole’s commentary is to be noted especially for its helpful theological introduction to the book of Exodus. Readership: ML

Craghan, J. F. (1985) Exodus. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press (Collegeville Bible Commentary. Old Testament, 3). 110 pp. The Collegeville Bible Commentary series adopts the New American Bible translation. Like other volumes in the series, Craghan’s comments on Exodus are very brief, but the book includes review aids and discussion questions to facilitate group study. Readership: L

Currid, J. D. (2000) A Study Commentary on Exodus. Volume 1: Chapters 1–18. (2001) A Study Commentary on Exodus. Volume 2: Chapters 19–40. Auburn, MA: Evangelical Press. 415 and 398 pp. Readership: ML

Davies, G. H. (1967) Exodus: Introduction and Commentary. London: SCM Press (TBC). 253 pp. Davies adopts a standard source-critical approach and pays little attention to historical and geographical questions. For him, the theme of the presence of God is at the heart of Exodus’s theology, an approach developed further by Durham in his contribution to the Word Biblical Commentary. Readership: ML

Dohmen, C. (2004) Exodus 19–40. Freiburg: Herder Verlag (HTKAT). 415 pp. Readership: F

Dozeman, T. B. (2009) Exodus. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans (ECC). xix + 868 pp. This is a substantial commentary of over 800 pages in the tradition of critical scholarship. Questions of authorship and the distinction between P and Non-P materials receive detailed attention, as do the central themes of each passage. Readership: SM

Driver, S. R. (1911) The Book of Exodus in the Revised Version, with Introduction and Notes. Cambridge: University Press (CBSC). lxxii + 443 pp. Another classic, Driver was one of the pioneers of a source-critical analysis of Exodus in the English speaking world and an advocate of the documentary hypothesis. His commentary exhibits special expertise regarding texts and versions and pays particular consideration to geographical and historical matters. It is, however, quite dated now.

Dunnam, M. D. (2004) Exodus. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson (The Preacher’s Commentary, 2). 395 pp. Orig.: (1987) Waco, TX: Word (The Communicator’s Commentary Series. Old Testament, 2). The focus in this commentary, which seeks to interpret Exodus through the lens of the New Testament, is on application rather than serious engagement with the text. Dunnam’s work should therefore not be used on its own, but it can be a useful supplement for the preacher. The Bible translation used is the New King James Version. Readership: M

Durham, J. I. (1987) Exodus. Waco, TX: Word (WBC, 3). xxxiv + 516 pp. This commentary, which includes a new translation of Exodus from the Hebrew as well as serious engagement with textual criticism and detailed exegetical comments on the text, focuses strongly on the theology of Exodus. Durham regards the theme of God’s presence with his people as central to the book’s message, he engages with source criticism throughout, and he offers some fine exegetical insights along the way. Readership: SM

Ellison, H. L. (1982) Exodus. Philadelphia: Westminster Press (DSB). xi + 203 pp. This commentary, which follows the RSV, is too brief to be really useful, but Ellison provides some helpful comments that are aimed at the layperson. There is a particular emphasis here on the theology of Exodus, and Ellison reads the book as a prelude to the New Testament, as it were. Having said that, however, he is sensitive to Exodus’s own historical context and its ongoing significance for Judaism. Readership: L

Enns, P. (2000) Exodus. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan (NIVAC). 620 pp. Of all the commentaries aimed specifically at the preacher, this is one of the best. Enns deals with many important historical issues, but his commentary is to be commended especially for the author’s thoughtful theological engagement with the text. Readership: ML

Fischer, G. and Markl, D. (2009) Das Buch Exodus. Stuttgart: Verlag Katholisches Bibelwerk (NSKAT, 2). 408 pp. F

Fretheim, T. E. (1991) Exodus. Louisville, KY: John Knox Press (Int.). xii + 322 pp. Fretheim’s very readable commentary contains many stimulating literary, hermeneutical and theological insights. It does not engage with the more technical issues in the interpretation of Exodus, but that should not detract anyone from engaging with Fretheim’s creative work. There is a particular focus here on the meaning of liberation and on Exodus as paradigm, but Fretheim cautions readers against misreading liberation as license, since the book leads from slavery to freedom understood as service to God. Readership: ML

Gispen, W. H. (1982) Exodus. Translation by E. van der Maas. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan (Bible Student’s Commentary). 335 pp. First published in Dutch in 1951, this commentary offers some helpful exegetical and theological comments from a Reformed perspective. Readership: SM

Greenberg, M. (1969) Understanding Exodus. New York: Behrman House. (Heritage of Biblical Israel, 2). viii + 214 pp. Greenberg’s commentary, which offers perceptive comments on Exodus 1–11, unfortunately, was never completed. For each section, Greenberg looks at the movement of the story as well as its themes, structure and redaction. One of the interesting features of this commentary is its engagement with rabbinical sources.

Houtman, C. (1993) Exodus. Volume 1: Chapters 1:1–7:13. (1996) Exodus. Volume 2: Chapters 7:14–19:25. (1999) Exodus. Volume 3: Chapters 20–40. (2002) Exodus. Volume 4: Supplement. Kampen: Kok (HCOT). xx + 554, xii + 466, xiv + 738 and vii + 70 pp. This commentary, which runs to over 1800 pages, is one of the most extensive treatments of Exodus available today. There is a strong focus on European scholarship here, and Houtman is worth reading for his judicious yet at the same time creative approach. He offers detailed exegesis as well as a consideration of the text’s reception history and its theological significance. Readership: SM

Hyatt, J. P. (1980) Commentary on Exodus. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans (NCB). 351 pp. Orig.: (1971) London: Oliphants. This is a mainstream critical commentary on Exodus in the tradition of McNeile and Driver, although Hyatt supplements their source-critical focus with traditio-historical insights. Like some other volumes in the New Century Bible series, the commentary unfortunately is rather sketchy in its exegetical engagement with the text and offers little theological comment. It is worth consulting primarily for its excurses on a number of topics. Readership: SM

Ibn Ezra, A. (1996) Ibn Ezra’s Commentary on the Pentateuch. Volume 2: Exodus (Shemot). Translation by H. N. Strickman and A. M. Silver. New York: Menorah.

Ibn Ezra, A. (2000) Abraham ibn Esras langer Kommentar zum Buch Exodus. Bd. 1: Parascha Schemot bis Beschalach (Ex. 1–17). (2000) Abraham ibn Esras langer Kommentar zum Buch Exodus. Bd. 2: Parascha Jitro bis Pekudej (Ex. 18–40). Translation by D. U. Rotzoll. Berlin: de Gruyter (Studia Judaica/Forschungen zur Wissenschaft des Judentums, 17). cl + 482 and 1117 pp. Readership: F

Jacob, B. (1992) The Second Book of the Bible, Exodus. Translation by W. Jacob. Hoboken, NJ: Ktav. xxxv + 1099 pp. Readership: S

Jacob, B. (1997) Das Buch Exodus. Stuttgart: Calwer Verlag. xxv + 1098 pp. Readership: F

Janzen, J. G. (1997) Exodus. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press (WBComp). xii + 275 pp. The focus in this commentary, which is meant to assist laity in their study of the Bible as a guide to Christian faith and practice, is on the theology of Exodus. Janzen regards the story of the exodus as a revelation of God’s concern for the liberation and redemption of all people. He stresses that the book of Exodus holds out hope for all who are oppressed but also admonishes the liberated not to perpetuate the evils under which they suffered. Readership: L

Janzen, W. (2000) Exodus. Waterloo, Ontario: Herald Press (BCBC). 496 pp. The Believers Church Bible Commentary, which stands in the tradition of Anabaptism, is aimed at lay leaders, teachers, pastors, college and seminary students, and all those searching the Bible for truth and life. Including outlines, explanatory notes, sections on the text in biblical context and on the text in the life of the church, the commentary aims to offer a balance of exegesis, theological reflection and life appropriation. Readership: ML

Kaiser, W. C. (2008) ‘Exodus’, in Longman, T. and Garland, D. E. (eds) Expositor’s Bible Commentary. Volume 1: Genesis – Leviticus. Rev. edn. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, pp. 333-561. Readership: M

Knight, G. A. F. (1976) Theology as Narration: A Commentary on the Book of Exodus. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans. xiv + 209 pp. Knight thinks of Exodus as an ‘incarnational theological essay’, which is written by one person whom he calls ‘Ex’.

Langston, S. M. (2006) Exodus through the Centuries. Malden, MA: Blackwell (BBC). xiv + 294 pp. Langston’s work is not a commentary in the traditional sense. The focus rather is on the reception history of Exodus. Readership: SM

Larsson, G. (1999) Bound for Freedom: The Book of Exodus in Jewish and Christian Traditions. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson. xvii + 334 pp. While seeking to do justice to the historical setting of Exodus, Larsson focuses on its history of theological interpretation, beginning with early Jewish interpretive traditions. His work shows that Exodus presents a defining act of liberation not only in Judaism but also in the Christian understanding of salvation history.

Lienhard, J. T. (ed.) (2001) Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press (ACCSOT, 3). xxxi + 382 pp. Readership: SM

Mackay, J. L. (2001) Exodus. Fearn: Mentor (Mentor Commentary). 623 pp.

Martin, G. S. (2002) Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman (HOTC, 2). xi + 387 pp. Readership: ML

McCurley, F. R. (1979) Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers. Philadelphia: Fortress Press (ProcC). 128 pp. Readership: M

McNeile, A. H. (1908) The Book of Exodus with Introduction and Notes. London: Methuen (WC). cxxxvi + 247 pp. Like Driver (see above), McNeile was an advocate of the documentary hypothesis, just as he shared Driver’s interest in historical and geographical issues in relation with the Exodus narrative. McNeile’s commentary, too, is very dated now. The full text is available at the Internet Archive.

Meyer, L. (1983) The Message of Exodus: A Theological Commentary. Minneapolis: Augsburg. 171 pp. Readership: ML

Meyers, C. (2005) Exodus. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press (NCBC). xxiv + 310 pp. This commentary, which is aimed at a wide readership, includes the translation of the NRSV. Meyers offers a section-by-section interpretation of Exodus as well as a number of excurses on key issues in the text and features, such as the Passover or the Decalogue, that have survived in post-biblical times. She seeks to enable readers to follow the story line of Exodus, understand its sociocultural context, appreciate its literary features, recognise its major themes and values, and note the book’s interpretive problems. Readership: ML

Motyer, J. A. (2005) The Message of Exodus: The Days of Our Pilgrimage. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press (BST). 327 pp. Readership: ML

Noth, M. (1958) Das zweite Buch Mose: Exodus. Göttingen: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht (ATD, 5). 230 pp. This is the German original of what has become a classic commentary. Noth, one of the most important German Old Testament scholars in the twentieth century, focuses particularly strongly on the text’s pre-history. His Exodus commentary was a significant milestone in the critical discussion of the book, but it offers little to the preacher or layperson. Readership: F

Noth, M. (1962) Exodus: A Commentary. Translation by J. S. Bowden. London: SCM Press (OTL). 283 pp. This is the English translation of the German commentary listed above. Readership: SM

Osborn, N. D. and Hatton, H. A. (1999) A Handbook on Exodus. New York: United Bible Societies (UBS Handbook Series). ix + 946 pp. Aimed at translators, the volumes in the UBS Hanbook Series provide exegetical, historical and linguistic information about individual words and phrases. Readership: SM

Oswalt, J. N. (2008) ‘Exodus’, in Ross, A. and Oswalt, J. N. Genesis, Exodus. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House (CsBC, 1). Readership: ML

Page, H. R. (2006) Exodus: A Bible Commentary for Every Day. Oxford: Bible Reading Fellowship (PBC). 176 pp. Readership: L

Pixley, G. V. (1987) On Exodus: A Liberation Perspective. Translation by R. R. Barr. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis. xx+ 236 pp. As the subtitle suggests, this commentary approaches Exodus from a liberationist perspective. It is aimed at a wide readership but especially those who feel ‘an identification with the oppressed in their urgent longing for liberation’ (p. xv). Discussion of the text of Exodus is fairly brief and non-technical, and there are a number of excurses on history and geography, philological problems, literary composition, and philosophical and theological themes. Pixley devotes some attention to the socio-political contexts in which the book of Exodus was produced. Readership: ML

Propp, W. H. C. (1999) Exodus 1–18: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. (2006) Exodus 19–40: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. New York: Doubleday (AB, 2 and 2A). xl + 680 and xxx + 865 pp. Propp’s two-volume work offers detailed exposition with a strong interest in anthropology, comparative religion and the text’s ancient Near Eastern parallels. Each section features comments on text, source and redaction-critical issues, and the commentary is characterised by careful scrutiny of Hebrew terms as well as literary, folkloric and historical interpretation of the narrative. Propp provides his own, very literal translation of Exodus, which can be awkward to read. However, this is quite deliberate, as he seeks to confront readers with the foreignness of the text. Although the Anchor Bible series is aimed not just at scholars but at the interested layperson (all Hebrew is transliterated), the extensive and academically sophisticated discussion of technical issues make Propp’s commentary most suitable for scholars. Laypersons would have to be very committed to be willing to plow through this massive work. Readership: S

Rashbam (1997) Rashbam’s Commentary on Exodus: An Annotated Translation. Edited and translated by M. I. Lockshin. Atlanta: Scholars Press (Brown Judaic Studies, 310). x + 452 pp. Readership: S

Ryken, P. G. (2005) Exodus: Saved for God’s Glory. Wheaton, IL: Crossway (Preaching the Word). 1247 pp. Readership: M

Rylaarsdam, J. C. (1952) ‘Introduction and Exegesis to the Book of Exodus’, in Buttrick, G. A. (ed.) The Interpreter’s Bible. Volume 1. Nashville: Abingdon Press, pp. 833-1099. Readership: ML

Sarna, N. M. (1991) Exodus: The Traditional Hebrew Text with the New JPS Translation. Philadelphia: Jewish Publication Society (JPSTC). xxv + 278 pp. In contrast to the above, this is a commentary on Exodus, again written from a Jewish perspective, which reproduces the Hebrew and English in parallel columns. Verse-by-verse notations include brief summaries of the ongoing narrative, explorations of nuance in the original Hebrew and allusions to traditional Jewish commentary. Sarna is particularly strong on the exegesis of individual terms, he devotes special attention to Exodus’s ancient Near Eastern context and he defends the historical veracity of many of the narrative features. Readership: SM

Scharbert, J. (1989) Exodus. Würzburg: Echter Verlag (NEB, 24). 151 pp. Readership: F

Schmidt, W. H. (1974–) Exodus. Neukirchen-Vluyn: Neukirchener Verlag (BKAT, 2). Still unfinished, Schmidt’s massive work features extensive bibliographies, notes and commentary. It pays detailed attention to source, form and traditio-critical issues as well as to historical and geographical questions. Readership: F

Stuart, D. K. (2006) Exodus. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman (NAC, 2). 827 pp. Stuart offers a verse-by-verse exposition of the book with valuable exegetical insights. The discussion of more technical issues has been relegated to the footnotes. Readership: M

Willi-Plein, I. (1988) Das Buch vom Auszug: 2. Mose. Neukirchen-Vluyn: Neukirchener Verlag (Kleine Biblische Bibliothek). vi + 247 pp. Readership: F

Commentaries on Genesis: Short List

Dr Karl Möller — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 21:50:00 +0000

Arnold, B. T. (2009) Genesis. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press (NCBC). xxi + 409 pp. Arnold’s commentary is particularly strong on linguistic issues and the ancient cultural context. The author also offers very thoughtful engagement with current scholarship. ‘Closer Look’ sections examine Genesis in its ancient Near Eastern context, while ‘Bridging the Horizons’ sections focus on the book’s enduring significance in our contemporary context today. Readership: ML

Brueggemann, W. (1982) Genesis. Atlanta: John Knox Press (Int.). viii + 384 pp. Brueggemann, one of the most readable Old Testament scholars, is always imaginative and thought-provoking in his comments. This commentary focuses on the theology of Genesis and how it can be fruitfully related to contemporary society, but Brueggemann is also worth reading for his literary observations. He is not very interested in tracing the development of the text but rather interprets it as it stands. Readership: ML

Hamilton, V. P. (1990) The Book of Genesis: Chapters 1–17. (1995) The Book of Genesis: Chapters 18–50. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans (NICOT). xviii + 522 and xx + 774 pp. Hamilton offers good discussions of some of the difficult questions of the text. He is strong on linguistic issues, such as grammar and the meaning of individual words, and he explores how Genesis is used in the New Testament. This commentary presents a conservative evangelical interpretation of Genesis. Readership: SM

Mathews, K. A. (1996) Genesis 1–11:26. (2005) Genesis 11:27–50:26. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman (NAC, 1A and 1B). 528 and 960 pp. These volumes, which feature thorough exegesis and interaction with research, discuss most of the difficult historical and philological issues, but the main focus is on Genesis as literature and theology. Mathews has many helpful comments on the relationship between Genesis and other ancient Near Eastern texts, which is his particular area of expertise. This is another conservative evangelical commentary. Readership: M

Sarna, N. M. (1989) Genesis: The Traditional Hebrew Text with the New JPS Translation. Philadelphia: Jewish Publication Society (JPSTC). xxxi + 414 pp. This is a more technical, verse-by-verse, indeed sometimes even word-by-word exegesis from a Jewish perspective. However, Sarna is very readable and he is particularly strong on archaeology, the ancient Near Eastern background and on Jewish interpretation. Readership: S

Waltke, B. K. with Fredricks, C. J. (2001) Genesis: A Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. 656 pp. Adopting an evangelical perspective, this commentary is exegetically insightful and theologically rich, although it does not offer much on the historical background of the text. Readership: M

Wenham, G. J. (1987) Genesis 1–15. (1994) Genesis 16–50. Dallas, TX: Word (WBC, 1 and 2). liii + 353 and xxxviii + 517 pp. Wenham is strong on the text’s historical background and its exegesis, but he also offers insightful guidance on reading Genesis as literature and has much to say about matters of theology and Christian application. He engages in some detail with source-critical issues, taking a generally sceptical stance towards those who are confident they can delineate the textual sources, and with the structure of individual passages. Readership: SM

Westermann, C. (1984) Genesis 1–11: A Commentary. (1985) Genesis 12–36: A Commentary. (1986) Genesis 37–50: A Commentary. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xii + 636, 604 and 269 pp. Running to over 1500 pages, this is the most detailed of the commentaries listed here, and as such it is not for the faint-hearted. Westermann is particularly strong on exegetical detail, but he also pays attention the theological thrust of the text and is well-known for his form-critical approach. While these volumes are primarily aimed at scholars, anyone with some theological training, who is not too daunted by the commentary’s length, would benefit from Westermann’s theological insights. Readership: SM

Additional Studies on Revelation

Dr Karl Möller — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:49:00 +0000

Bauckham, R. (1993) The Climax of Prophecy: Studies on the Book of Revelation. Edinburgh: T. & T. Clark. xviii + 550 pp. This is a collection of essays that explore many features of the book of Revelation in more depth than Bauckham’s discussion of the book’s theology listed below.

Bauckham, R. (1993) The Theology of the Book of Revelation. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press (New Testament Theology). xv + 169 pp. This book offers a highly perceptive exploration of the theology of the book of Revelation. An introductory chapter looks at how Revelation is best read, while the bulk of the book investigates Revelation’s portrayal of God (‘The one who is and who was and who is to come’), Christ (‘The Lamb on the throne’), the victory of Christ and his followers, the role of the Spirit and the New Jerusalem. The final chapter explores Revelation’s meaning for today. Bauckham is careful to explain the significance of the book’s imagery against its original context, and he does a superb job of demonstrating how Revelation’s theology is conveyed by means not only of its content but also its literary structure. As Bauckham shows, Revelation presents a theocentric vision of the coming of God’s universal kingdom that challenges Christian readers to face up to the political idolatries of their time and share in God’s purpose of gathering all the nations into his kingdom. Readership: SM

Gorman, M. J. (2011) Reading Revelation Responsibly. Uncivil Worship and Witness: Following the Lamb into the New Creation. Eugene, OR: Cascade. xvii + 211 pp. Gorman’s study is both a guide to reading Revelation and a theological exposition of some of its key themes. He discusses the book’s genre as well as its content, and he has much to say about misguided dispensationalist readings. He takes his readers through the text section by section and concludes by discussing Revelation’s spirituality. As regards its message, Gorman offers many insightful comments on the book’s call for Christian worship, witness and mission that resist and challenge culturally embedded civil religion, both in the first and the twenty-first century. Readership: SM

Holtz, T. (1971) Die Christologie der Apokalypse des Johannes. 2nd edn. Berlin: Akademie-Verlag (Texte und Untersuchungen zur Geschichte der altchristlichen Literatur, 85). xviii + 257 pp. The standard account of Revelation’s Christology. Readership: F

Mazzaferri, F. D. (1989) The Genre of the Book of Revelation from a Source-Critical Perspective. Berlin: de Gruyter (BZNW, 54). xiv + 486 pp. The focus here is mainly on the book’s genre, but Mazzaferri offers many insights into other issues of interpretation.

Minear, P. S. (1968) I Saw a New Earth: An Introduction to the Visions of the Apocalypse. Washington: Corpus Books. xxvi + 385 pp. Even if one is inclined to disagree with Minear that Revelation is not a critique of the Roman Empire, this study is worth consulting for its many important insights.

Peterson, E. H. (1988) Reversed Thunder: The Revelation of John and the Praying Imagination. San Francisco: Harper & Row. xiv + 207 pp. This is in some respects similar to a commentary, but as Peterson says, it is not a full exposition of the book of Revelation. It is better described as a meditation, but it is a very well informed one. In his introduction, Peterson comments on St John, the theologian, the poet and the pastor. Following this, he then looks at Revelation section by section, considering each in turn as the last word: on Scripture, Christ, the church, worship, evil, prayer, witness, politics, judgment, salvation and heaven. This is a most stimulating and spiritually engaging book. Highly recommended. Readership: ML

Schüssler Fiorenza, E. (1998) The Book of Revelation: Justice and Judgment. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. xii + 243 pp. This is a collection of essays on Revelation that explore the book’s theology and composition and set it in the context of early Christianity in Asia Minor.

Welcome to BibComs

Dr Karl Möller — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:16:40 +0000

BibComs is a guide to Old and New Testament commentaries and commentary series, which also includes information on some relevant additional studies on the biblical books.

This project is still very much in its infancy, but I hope to develop it in the months ahead.

Commentaries on Exodus: Short List

Dr Karl Möller — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 13:54:00 +0000

Fretheim, T. E. (1991) Exodus. Louisville, KY: John Knox Press (Int.). xii + 321 pp. Fretheim’s very readable commentary contains many stimulating literary, hermeneutical and theological insights. It does not engage with the more technical issues in the interpretation of Exodus, but that should not detract anyone from engaging with Fretheim’s creative work. There is a particular focus here on the meaning of liberation and on Exodus as paradigm, but Fretheim cautions readers against misreading liberation as license, since the book leads from slavery to freedom understood as service to God. Readership: ML

Houtman, C. (1993) Exodus. Volume 1: Chapters 1:1–7:13. (1996) Exodus. Volume 2: Chapters 7:14–19:25. (1999) Exodus. Volume 3: Chapters 20–40. (2002) Exodus. Volume 4: Supplement. Kampen: Kok (HCOT). xx + 554, xii + 466, xiv + 738 and vii + 70 pp. This commentary, which runs to over 1800 pages, is one of the most extensive treatments of Exodus available today. There is a strong focus on European scholarship here, and Houtman is worth reading for his judicious yet at the same time creative approach. He offers detailed exegesis as well as a consideration of the text’s reception history and its theological significance. This commentary will attract predominantly scholars, but ministers prepared to go the extra mile will also find much of value here. Readership: SM