Summary
We find Carl E. Armerding’s Judges a technical Word Biblical Commentary that keeps us close to the text. It is strongest when we need help with structure, key terms, and the flow of argument, especially in passages that reward slow reading.
This is not a sermon ready resource, but it can steady our preparation. It helps us see what is actually there, so our preaching is governed by Scripture rather than habit or guesswork.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We should own this commentary when we want careful exegesis to sit underneath our proclamation. The series aims for detailed engagement, and that can be a real help when we are working through difficult sections or disputed interpretations.
We also benefit when we need a reliable technical check. Used wisely, it can prevent avoidable errors, sharpen our observations, and give us better reasons for the decisions we make in the pulpit.
Because it does not do the whole Christward move for us, we will usually pair it with a more pastorally oriented volume. Even so, stronger text level footing often leads to clearer, more faithful Christ centred preaching.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend this as an advanced tool for serious study and careful sermon preparation. It serves best as a companion on the desk rather than the only voice we consult.
As pastoral next steps, we can read the Bible Book Overview, consult Top Recommendations, and browse the Reformed Commentary Index to build a wiser shelf.
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Carl E. Armerding
Carl E. Armerding was an American Old Testament scholar of the twentieth century, writing from an evangelical and broadly conservative tradition.
He is best known for work that served pastors and students through careful Old Testament study, with particular strength in prophetic literature and the world of the ancient Near East. His writing aims to clarify the text, to set passages in their historical setting without letting background swallow the message, and to help teachers keep the Lord’s covenant purposes in view as they handle judgement and hope.
He remains valued for sobriety, clarity, and a steady desire to strengthen faithful exposition rather than to chase novelty. Recommended titles include Ezra, Nehemiah in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Nahum in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, and his contributions to evangelical Old Testament reference works.
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical