Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.6/10
A dependable, text-anchored exposition that offers clear guidance for preaching and teaching.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 546 pages
- Type
- Exegetical (Technical), Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level)
- Theo. Perspective
- Reformed
- Overall score
- 8.6 / 10
- Strength
- Anchored in careful, trustworthy exegesis that consistently clarifies John’s themes for pastoral use.
- Limitation
- Engagement with the latest Johannine scholarship is more limited compared to newer technical works.
William Hendriksen’s commentary on the Gospel of John, published by Baker Book House in 1954, is one of the earliest volumes in his New Testament Commentary series. Written from a firmly Reformed and warmly evangelical perspective, it offers a full exposition of John’s Gospel with careful attention to structure, key themes, and the theological distinctiveness of the Fourth Gospel. Hendriksen approaches the text with deep confidence in its historical reliability and presents Christ as the eternal Son who reveals the Father in grace and truth.
This volume moves steadily through the Gospel in a clear, pastoral style, bringing together exegetical analysis, doctrinal reflection, and practical insight. Pastors and serious students will find that Hendriksen does not merely comment on the text but seeks to lead readers into worship and obedience as the glory of Christ is unfolded.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We value this work highly for its theological fidelity. Hendriksen’s robust defence of Johannine authorship, his insistence on the Gospel’s trustworthiness, and his rich exposition of Christ’s person and work make this commentary deeply reliable for preaching. His discussions of the prologue, the I AM sayings, the signs, and the Upper Room discourse are especially strong—clear, reverent, and pastorally attuned.
In terms of exposition, Hendriksen excels in explaining the flow of argument and the theological purpose behind John’s selection and arrangement of material. He draws out the Gospel’s themes of life, light, witness, and belief with clarity and care. Greek references support the exposition without overwhelming readers, making the volume accessible to those with limited formal training.
For practical ministry, the commentary is rich with pastoral insight. Hendriksen frequently notes doctrinal connections, pastoral implications, and applications that naturally arise from the text. Though published many decades ago, the warmth, clarity, and devotional resonance of the work mean it continues to serve preachers exceptionally well.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend this commentary gladly to pastors, expositors, and serious Bible students who desire a reliable, Christ-centred exposition of John. While newer technical works provide wider engagement with recent scholarship, Hendriksen remains a steady, trustworthy, and richly edifying guide whose work still stands with strength in the pulpit and study.
As a primary preaching companion—especially for those within a Reformed or conservative evangelical tradition—this volume remains both nourishing and dependable.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Strong recommendation