Summary
We find Roy E. Ciampa and Brian S. Rosner help us read 1 Corinthians as a pastoral letter driven by the gospel and shaped by Scripture. They keep the church situation in view, but they never let the situation become the meaning.
Their work is strong on the letter’s use of the Old Testament and on the way Paul forms a holy people in a compromised culture.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We should own this volume when we need depth for a difficult letter. 1 Corinthians is full of sharp edges, and Ciampa and Rosner help us handle them without panic or harshness.
They clarify Paul’s argument on division, sexual ethics, worship, spiritual gifts, and resurrection, and they repeatedly show how the cross reorders the church’s values and practices.
For pastors facing modern confusion, this is a weighty, reliable guide that strengthens faithful teaching and wise shepherding.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend this as a strong advanced commentary for preaching and teaching 1 Corinthians, particularly for those who want thorough exegesis joined to clear theological direction for church life.
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.
Brian S. Rosner
Brian S. Rosner is an Australian New Testament scholar of the contemporary era, writing within evangelical Protestantism with a strong interest in biblical theology and ethics.
He is best known, alongside Roy Ciampa, for a major commentary on 1 Corinthians, where he shows how Paul’s instruction is shaped by Scripture and aimed at forming a holy, unified church. Rosner’s broader work often explores how the gospel shapes conduct, identity, and life together under the lordship of Christ.
He remains valued for clear thought, responsible handling of Scripture, and a consistent effort to connect doctrine to discipleship without moralism. Recommended titles include The First Letter to the Corinthians, Paul and the Law, and his work on New Testament ethics and biblical theology.
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical