Evaluation
Overall Score: 9.4/10
A warm, faithful, and pastorally rich exposition of 1–2 Peter that strengthens hope, holiness, and confidence in Christ.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 432 pages
- Type
- Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level), Homiletical
- Theo. Perspective
- Reformed
- Overall score
- 9.4 / 10
- Strength
- A faithful and pastorally rich exposition marked by reverence, clarity, and strong Christ-centred emphasis, giving teachers and preachers steady help for handling Peter’s themes of endurance and holiness.
- Limitation
- Sproul gives minimal attention to technical debates, and the work lacks the broader scholarly engagement found in specialised academic treatments.
R. C. Sproul’s exposition of 1–2 Peter in the St. Andrew’s Expositional Commentary series offers a warm, clear, and pastorally rich journey through two letters written to suffering believers. Drawing on decades of teaching and pastoral ministry, Sproul unpacks the apostle Peter’s exhortations with his characteristic theological clarity, gospel focus, and pastoral tenderness. These sermons-turned-commentary reflect Sproul’s ability to make deep truth accessible while keeping Christ at the centre.
The commentary moves steadily through both epistles, highlighting Peter’s emphasis on holiness, hope, perseverance, suffering, false teaching, and the promises of Christ’s return. Sproul does not aim for technical detail or academic debate; rather, he focuses on helping readers understand the text, delight in the gospel, and grow in steadfast discipleship in the midst of trials.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We appreciate Sproul’s ability to speak clearly into themes of suffering and holiness—areas that sit at the heart of 1–2 Peter. His exposition offers comfort without sentimentality, and challenge without harshness. He patiently guides readers through the nature of saving faith, the call to holiness, God’s sovereignty in trials, and the believer’s hope in Christ’s unfading inheritance.
Preachers will benefit from Sproul’s model of pastoral exposition. He demonstrates how to teach doctrine in a way that strengthens weary believers and equips them to stand firm. His handling of texts such as 1 Peter 1:3–9, 1 Peter 2:24–25, and 2 Peter 1:3–11 is especially helpful, providing both theological depth and practical clarity.
Sproul also addresses the challenges of false teaching in 2 Peter with wisdom and restraint. He grounds discernment in biblical truth rather than speculation, helping readers see how the gospel shapes both belief and behaviour. For personal devotions, sermon preparation, or small-group study, this commentary offers nourishing, trustworthy, and deeply encouraging guidance.
Closing Recommendation
We warmly commend Sproul’s 1–2 Peter as a faithful, pastoral, and uplifting resource for believers facing trials or seeking to grow in holiness. It is particularly valuable for pastors and ministry leaders who want a dependable, gospel-centred companion to Peter’s letters.
If you desire an accessible exposition that strengthens faith, deepens hope, and clarifies the call to holy living, Sproul’s volume on 1–2 Peter is an excellent choice.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Strong recommendation