Summary
We find The Letter To The Ephesians by Lynn H. Cohick in the New International Commentary On The New Testament to be a substantial, thoughtful commentary on one of Paul’s richest letters. Cohick engages conscientiously with questions of authorship, historical context, and theological structure, guiding the reader from the grace of God in Christ to the concrete implications for Christian living, rooted deeply in the text of Ephesians and its cosmic vision of redemption. The work offers careful analysis of the Greek text alongside judicious interaction with secondary scholarship, without overwhelming the pastor or teacher with needless technicality.
Across its pages we sense a scholar at work who is at home with the cultural context of the ancient world, particularly in her attention to household codes, family structures, and the social realities of Paul’s audience. This dimension enriches our reading of Ephesians by reminding us that the gospel shapes human life at every level, including our relationships, vocations, and community life.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We should own this commentary because it bridges academic rigour and pastoral usefulness with rare skill. Cohick’s exposition is rooted in the Greek text and grounded in historical context, yet she never loses sight of the letter’s grand theological claims about Christ’s reconciling work and the unity of Jew and Gentile believers in the body of Christ. Readers who value sound exegesis that feeds faith will find these pages rich in both insight and spiritual nourishment.
Another strong reason to own this work is its careful treatment of interpretive debates around Pauline authorship and first century setting. Cohick dialogises fairly with divergent views without succumbing to unnecessary scepticism or broad doubt about Paul’s hand in this letter. This gives readers both depth and confidence as they navigate contested scholarly terrain.
Finally, for pastors and teachers who value clarity and relevance, this commentary moves from careful detail to big picture with pastoral sensitivity. We find here theological reflection that aids proclamation, worship, and discipleship, while thoughtfully connecting the ancient world with contemporary concerns without forcing modern categories on the text.
Closing Recommendation
We close by recommending this commentary to those who want a mature, generous, and textually grounded guide to Ephesians that will deepen both understanding and devotion. It stands as a valuable addition to any pastor’s or scholar’s library, and will repay careful reading again and again.
Lynn H. Cohick
Lynn H. Cohick is an American New Testament scholar with broad evangelical commitments. She writes with historical awareness and pastoral sensitivity, especially in studies of early Christian communities and the status of women in the ancient world. Her commentaries show careful handling of the text and a steady concern for Christian formation. Readers value her clarity, balance, and commitment to grounding theology in Scripture’s own setting. Notable works include commentaries on Philippians and Ephesians.