1 Corinthians

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
Bible Book: 1 Corinthians
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary
Last updated: February 6, 2026
Looking for alternatives? Compare 1 Corinthians commentaries.

Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.4/10

A strong mid level 1 Corinthians commentary, clear, firm, and pastorally alert.

Publication Date(s): 2018
Pages: 384
ISBN: 9780830842971
Faithfulness to the Text: 8.6/10
We find consistent attention to Paul’s argument and the letter’s pastoral purpose.
Christ Centredness: 8.3/10
Christ crucified remains central, shaping ethics, worship, and church life.
Depth of Insight: 8.5/10
We are helped by careful guidance through difficult passages and contested questions.
Clarity of Writing: 8.2/10
Direct and clear, with organisation that serves sermon preparation.
Pastoral Usefulness: 8.6/10
The commentary equips us to address real church problems with truth and shepherding care.
Readability: 8/10
Readable and focused, with enough substance to reward careful study.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
384 pages
Type
Expository (Mid-Level)
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical
Overall score
8.4 / 10
Strength
Helpful guidance through the letter’s most demanding chapters.
Limitation
Not as expansive as major academic multi volume treatments.

We find Thomas R. Schreiner’s 1 Corinthians a clear, firm, and pastorally aware guide through a letter full of real church problems. He helps us see Paul’s consistent concern, that the gospel reshapes a divided, confused, and morally pressured congregation.

The writing is direct and well organised, with careful attention to argument and context across the whole letter.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this commentary when we need help preaching difficult sections with courage and clarity. Schreiner handles disputed passages with measured judgement, and he helps us keep the letter’s main line visible, Christ crucified, the Spirit’s work, and love that builds up the church.

We also benefit from the pastoral emphasis. Application is not bolted on, it arises naturally from Paul’s purposes, which helps us speak to modern churches with both truth and tenderness.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this as a strong mid level commentary for preaching and teaching 1 Corinthians, especially for pastors who want clear guidance through the letter’s most contested chapters.

As pastoral next steps, we can visit the Bible Book Overview, browse Top Recommendations, and use the Reformed Commentary Index to build a wiser working library.


Where to buy
exlib_wtb_inserted

Classification

  • Level: Mid-level
  • Best For: Busy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-training
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

Build your shelf for this Bible book

Top picks connected to this Bible book, plus a few trusted global staples.

Reviewed by

An Expositor