Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.3/10
A theologically rich, pastorally oriented commentary on Matthew for clear, Reformed exposition.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 832 pages
- Type
- Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level), Homiletical
- Theo. Perspective
- Reformed
- Overall score
- 8.3 / 10
- Strength
- Warm, readable, and deeply Christ-centred exposition that helps preachers handle Matthew faithfully and clearly.
- Limitation
- Not designed for technical study; analytical depth is lighter than more academic Matthew commentaries.
This commentary on Matthew by R. C. Sproul is a verse-by-verse commentary on the Gospel of Matthew, drawn from 128 sermons preached at Saint Andrew’s Chapel and published in the St. Andrew’s Expositional Commentary series. It aims to combine solid exegesis, rich Reformed theology, and practical application for the church.
Sproul’s methodology is expositional rather than highly technical: he opens each passage, explains its meaning in context, highlights theological themes (such as Christ’s identity, the Kingdom of God, and the church’s life), and then brings the implications into how believers live. Because it is based on preaching, the tone is pastoral and accessible rather than primarily academic.
This commentary is best suited for pastors, teachers, and mature lay-leaders who value a Reformed theological framework, and who want a book that can serve both as sermon preparation and for faithful Bible study. It is less heavy on Greek/Hebrew or on critical apparatus, so academic specialists may find it less detailed than other commentaries.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
One of the main strengths of this work is its clarity combined with theological depth. Sproul is a gifted communicator who consistently draws out the doctrinal riches of Matthew, bringing the message of the Gospel to bear on everyday Christian experience. The commentary shows the sovereignty of God, the person and work of Christ, and the implications of discipleship with conviction and clarity.
Another advantage is its practical orientation: since the book is adapted from sermons, it gives many entry-points into how to teach or preach Matthew’s Gospel. The passages are introduced, explained, and then applied — helpful for sermon series, adult Bible studies, or personal preparation. For those working in the pulpit or small-group ministry, this resource stands as a bridge between purely devotional reading and rigorous academic treatises.
Additionally, the series’ Reformed theological anchor is a plus for pastors and teachers who want their commentaries aligned with the doctrines of grace. Sproul’s legacy as a Reformed theologian ensures that readers will encounter a gospel-centred, well-grounded perspective. While this does not preclude broader evangelical use, the vantage point is unmistakably Reformed.
Closing Recommendation
We therefore recommend this commentary strong for pastors, Bible-teachers and senior lay-leaders looking for a robust, readable, and theologically sound guide to the Gospel of Matthew. It complements more technical commentaries and is particularly effective when you want something readable that still goes beyond surface application.
If your primary need is advanced linguistic or critical-historical engagement, you might consider supplementing it with a more academic work. But for teaching, preaching and faithful exposition in a Reformed evangelical context, this is a very commendable choice. Score: 8.0/10.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Strong recommendation