August H. Konkel

August H. Konkel is a North American Old Testament scholar of the contemporary era, writing within evangelical scholarship with a consistent interest in biblical theology.

He is best known for work in the historical books, especially 1 and 2 Kings. Konkel helps pastors track the narrative logic of kingship under covenant, showing how the rise and collapse of Israel and Judah is assessed by the Lord’s word, the call to exclusive worship, and the hope that outlives judgement.

He remains valued because he keeps large narrative flow in view and repeatedly draws readers back to the text’s own emphases rather than modern hobby horses. Recommended titles include 1 and 2 Kings in the NIV Application Commentary, his biblical theology writing, and his contributions on the Old Testament’s storyline.

Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

August H. Konkel

August H. Konkel is a North American Old Testament scholar of the contemporary era, writing within evangelical scholarship with a consistent interest in biblical theology.

He is best known for work in the historical books, especially 1 and 2 Kings. Konkel helps pastors track the narrative logic of kingship under covenant, showing how the rise and collapse of Israel and Judah is assessed by the Lord’s word, the call to exclusive worship, and the hope that outlives judgement.

He remains valued because he keeps large narrative flow in view and repeatedly draws readers back to the text’s own emphases rather than modern hobby horses. Recommended titles include 1 and 2 Kings in the NIV Application Commentary, his biblical theology writing, and his contributions on the Old Testament’s storyline.

Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

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Deuteronomy, ESV Expository Commentary

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.3
Bible Book: Deuteronomy
Publisher: Crossway
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

In Deuteronomy, ESV Expository Commentary, August H. Konkel helps us read Deuteronomy with care and confidence, and the wider ESV Expository Commentary framework keeps us moving from explanation toward proclamation. Volume 2.

We are given a workable blend of explanation and pastoral direction. It is the kind of volume we can keep open on the desk while preparing sermons, studies, and teaching plans.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this volume because it helps us prepare sermons with fewer shortcuts. It points us back to context, highlights the flow of argument and narrative, and keeps the centre of the passage in view.

We benefit from the way it keeps gospel contours visible. It does not force Christ into every paragraph, but it does keep the promises, patterns, and purposes of God moving toward their fulfilment.

As part of a working library, it pairs well with more detailed resources. It keeps us oriented, and it stops us getting lost in detail that never reaches the congregation.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this volume for pastors and teachers who want an accessible, Scripture shaped guide to Deuteronomy. It is especially useful when we need help with structure, emphasis, and faithful application.

As always, the best use is to read the passage first, then consult the commentary to test our instincts and refine our sermon shape. It strengthens preparation that aims at worship and obedience.

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.


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1 and 2 Kings

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
7.9
Bible Book: 1 Kings 2 Kings
Publisher: Zondervan
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

We find August H. Konkel’s 1 and 2 Kings in the NIV Application Commentary series a useful guide through a large and sobering history. He helps us trace the covenant logic of the narrative, where worship, leadership, and faithfulness are constantly tested, and where the prophets interpret history under the Lord’s Word.

The commentary supports pastors by clarifying structure and theme, then moving toward contemporary significance without turning Kings into mere political commentary. The repeated drift toward idolatry, and the repeated calls to hear the Lord, are kept at the centre, which helps our preaching remain faithful and urgent.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this volume if we want help preaching Kings as theological history rather than scattered episodes. It supports exposition that shows why the monarchy fails and why the story leaves us longing for a true and faithful King.

We also benefit from the way it handles application with restraint. It helps us press the text into the conscience of the church, calling us to wholehearted worship and obedience, without flattening the narrative into simple lessons.

For Reformed preaching, we still add a stronger confessional voice for clearer covenant categories, but this volume can serve as a steady bridge for weekly work.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this as a solid mid level resource for preaching 1 and 2 Kings, especially for pastors planning a series through a demanding narrative.

As pastoral next steps, we can go to the Bible Book Overview for 1 Kings, browse Top Recommendations, and consult the Reformed Commentary Index to build a balanced shelf for preaching.


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