Summary
Peter C. Craigie’s The Book of Deuteronomy in the NICOT series is a thoughtful, disciplined exposition of one of Scripture’s most formative books. We find it a model of careful evangelical scholarship—rich in historical insight, attentive to literary structure, and deeply aware of Deuteronomy’s covenantal heartbeat. Written with clarity and restraint, it serves pastors, students, and serious readers who want to understand how Deuteronomy speaks both in its ancient setting and within the whole counsel of God.
Craigie approaches the text with reverence, working closely with the Hebrew while keeping the commentary readable. His handling of Moses’ sermons, the law sections, and the theological emphases of the book consistently reflects a commitment to Scripture’s authority and unity.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We value Craigie’s ability to synthesise scholarship without overwhelming the reader. He brings out the pastoral and theological pulse of Deuteronomy—its call to remember, obey, and walk in covenant fidelity—while avoiding speculative reconstructions. His discussions of structure, setting, and key themes give preachers solid footing when navigating the book’s density.
The commentary is especially strong in showing how Deuteronomy frames the Old Testament story and shapes Israel’s worship, ethics, and identity. Craigie’s exposition helps readers see why this book stands at the threshold of the Old Testament canon, echoing throughout the prophets, the Psalms, and the ministry of Jesus.
Although more concise than later NICOT volumes, its very simplicity makes it a dependable companion for sermon preparation, Bible study leadership, and personal study. Craigie’s even-handed judgement and theological steadiness make this a trustworthy guide for those seeking clarity and depth.
Closing Recommendation
We warmly commend this volume as an excellent entry point into preaching or studying Deuteronomy. It may not answer every technical question, but its clarity, reliability, and pastoral usefulness make it one of the most accessible and enduring commentaries on this foundational book.
Pastors, students, and thoughtful readers alike will benefit from Craigie’s careful exposition and his evident desire to help the church hear the living voice of God in Deuteronomy.
Peter C. Craigie
Peter C. Craigie was a twentieth-century Scottish-born Canadian Old Testament scholar, associated with conservative evangelical scholarship and a high view of Scripture.
Craigie’s contribution is especially seen in his commentaries on Deuteronomy, the Psalms, and other Old Testament texts. He combined linguistic and historical expertise with an ability to communicate clearly to pastors and serious lay readers. His work often engaged Ancient Near Eastern background in order to illuminate the biblical text, while maintaining commitment to its theological message and authority.
He is remembered for commentary introductions that orient the reader well, careful exegesis that is not needlessly technical, and a reverent tone that treats the Old Testament as the living Word of God. Preachers continue to turn to his volumes for solid, text-driven exposition enriched by historical insight.
Notable works include his commentaries on Deuteronomy and on selected Psalms, which remain widely consulted in evangelical circles.