Summary
We find Hodge’s 1 and 2 Corinthians a substantial exposition that helps us handle difficult church issues with biblical sobriety. He is careful with Paul’s argument and he keeps pastoral application close to the text.
This volume is especially helpful when the letters confront messy congregational life, division, immorality, spiritual gifts, and resurrection hope. Hodge helps us keep the gospel centre steady throughout.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We should own this commentary because it gives us a mature theological framework for the Corinthian problems. It helps us speak to disorder and pride without losing patience or tenderness.
We also benefit from Hodge’s insistence that doctrine must serve godliness. He does not treat theology as an abstract exercise, but as a means to form a holy, united church.
It is a long volume, and it will not always move quickly. Yet it is a reliable guide for preaching series work, and it rewards careful study.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend this as a strong Reformed resource for preaching 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians. It is well suited to pastors who want depth, but not needless complication.
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.
Charles Hodge
Charles Hodge was an American Presbyterian theologian of the nineteenth century, deeply rooted in confessional Reformed orthodoxy.
He is known for clear doctrinal reasoning joined to careful reading of the biblical text. Hodge’s commentaries, especially on Romans and the Corinthian letters, help pastors follow Paul’s argument, define key terms, and apply theology to church life, worship, unity, gifts, and holiness. His work is rarely flashy, but it is consistently solid and pastorally alert.
He remains valued because he explains patiently, argues fairly, and keeps doctrine anchored in Scripture for the sake of the church. Recommended titles include 1 and 2 Corinthians in the Geneva Series, Romans, and his Systematic Theology.
Theological Perspective: Reformed