Evaluation
Overall Score: 9.0/10
A richly pastoral, Christ-centred exposition of 1 Timothy that serves preachers and church leaders exceptionally well.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 288 pages
- Type
- Expositional
- Theo. Perspective
- Reformed
- Overall score
- 9 / 10
- Strength
- A careful, Christ-centred exposition that blends clear teaching with pastorally sensitive application.
- Limitation
- Its mid-level scope means those seeking deeper technical or linguistic work will need supplementary resources.
Philip Graham Ryken’s volume on 1 Timothy in the Reformed Expository Commentary series offers a rich blend of faithful exposition, pastoral warmth, and theological depth. Written from a clearly Reformed and Christ-centred perspective, it aims to help preachers and teachers handle Paul’s words with clarity and conviction. Ryken moves carefully through the text, explaining its meaning, tracing its redemptive themes, and applying it wisely to the life of the church.
The commentary is built around sermons that have been refined for publication, giving it a natural, engaging flow. Ryken consistently focuses on the pastoral heart of 1 Timothy—sound doctrine, godly leadership, ordered worship, and the call to live as God’s household in a confused world.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We appreciate Ryken’s ability to teach with both depth and accessibility. His exposition is clear, rooted in the text, and consistently Christ-focused. He handles difficult passages—including eldership, pastoral qualifications, false teaching, and the role of men and women in the church—with admirable balance and pastoral sensitivity.
This volume shines in its practical application. Ryken does not merely explain what Paul says; he shows how it shapes the life, mission, and health of a local congregation. Preachers will find ready-to-use structure, memorable phrasing, and theological clarity that serves both pulpit and people.
The commentary is also filled with biblical connections, doctrinal reflection, and historical insight, all communicated with the gentle clarity that marks the REC series. While not a technical commentary, it stands as one of the best pastoral expositions available on 1 Timothy.
Closing Recommendation
We warmly recommend this commentary to pastors, elders, ministry trainees, and any believer seeking to understand 1 Timothy with pastoral depth. It is especially valuable for those preparing to teach through the Pastoral Epistles in a local church setting.
Ryken’s contribution is faithful, nourishing, and deeply aligned with Reformed convictions—an excellent resource for Christ-centred ministry.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Strong recommendation