Summary
In this volume of the New Testament Commentary series, William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker present exposition on 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus and Hebrews (Baker Book House, 1996). Addressing both Pauline epistles to the early church and the larger theological treatise of Hebrews, the authors offer a verse-by-verse treatment geared to pastors, teachers and serious church-students who desire expository commentary with theological integrity and practical application.
The commentary moves systematically through each text, combining translation notes, structural commentary, theological reflection, and ministry application. From the eschatological urgency of the Thessalonian letters, through the pastoral oversight of Timothy and Titus, to the Christ-centred heights of Hebrews, Hendriksen and Kistemaker maintain a steady anchor in the authority of Scripture and the sovereignty of God in salvation and Church life.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We commend this work for its doctrinal solidity. The authors write from a clearly Reformed evangelical standpoint, underscoring God’s sovereign grace, the centrality of Christ, the work of the Spirit and the call of the church to faithful ministry. In Thessalonians they handle the return of Christ and the community’s hope with both care and pastoral sensitivity; in the Pastorals they engage matters of leadership, doctrine and church order with clarity; and in Hebrews they show the supremacy of Christ as priest and mediator in a way that supports preaching with theological weight.
From a ministry-use perspective, the volume is quite practical. It includes clear section introductions, helpful summaries and accessible application reflections that bridge from text to congregation. While not the most cutting-edge in critical scholarship, its balance of faithful exegesis and church-directed application makes it usable for sermon preparation and teaching alike. The convenience of having these five letters and Hebrews in one trusted resource further adds to its value.
Moreover, the style is intentionally readable. Technical elements such as Greek word-notes and textual observations are included, yet the authors keep the language clear and avoid overwhelming the reader. This makes the book suitable for pastors and church-leaders seeking depth without sacrificing accessibility.
Closing Recommendation
We heartily recommend this volume to pastors, Bible-study leaders and serious students who operate within a Reformed evangelical framework and desire one dependable commentary covering Thessalonians, the Pastorals and Hebrews. It particularly suits those who preach or teach across multiple epistles and desire a unified resource that combines doctrine, exposition and ministry insight.
If you already possess several more recent specialist commentaries or are engaged in academic research, you may choose to supplement it. But for many church-based contexts this Hendriksen–Kistemaker volume remains a strong ministry companion.
William Hendrickson
William Hendriksen (1900–1982) was a Dutch-American New Testament scholar whose work reflects a rich Reformed heritage and a lifelong commitment to careful, Christ-centred exposition.
Best known for his contributions to the New Testament Commentary series, he produced substantial volumes on books such as Matthew, John, Romans, and the Pastorals. His scholarship combined rigorous exegesis with a pastor’s instinct, shaped by years of teaching and ministry in the Christian Reformed Church.
Hendriksen’s writing remains cherished for its clarity, theological steadiness, and deep reverence for Scripture. He excelled in explaining the text without obscuring it, guiding readers with both precision and devotion. His work continues to serve pastors and teachers who long for commentary that is faithful, accessible, and pastorally rich.
Recommended titles include his commentaries on Matthew and John.