1 and 2 Samuel

Summary

We find Bill T. Arnold’s 1 and 2 Samuel in the NIV Application Commentary series a strong resource for preaching a long narrative with theological coherence. Arnold helps us trace the Lord’s purposes in kingship, covenant, and repentance, and he keeps the story moving toward the need for a faithful king under God.

The structure encourages disciplined work. We are helped to see what the passage meant, how it functions within the larger narrative, and then how its significance addresses the church today. It is not a sermon ready commentary, but it regularly strengthens sermon preparation.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this volume if we want help preaching Samuel without reducing it to character studies. It supports exposition that keeps covenant faithfulness, leadership under God, and the seriousness of sin and repentance in view.

We also benefit where familiar episodes can become predictable. Arnold often forces us back into the text’s actual emphasis, which sharpens application and guards against lazy readings.

For Reformed preaching, we still want a strong Christward line to the true King, but this volume often supplies the narrative and theological clarity that makes that line more faithful.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this as a strong mid level companion for preaching 1 and 2 Samuel, especially for pastors planning a sustained series.

As pastoral next steps, we can go to the Bible Book Overview for 1 Samuel, browse Top Recommendations, and consult the Reformed Commentary Index to build a balanced shelf for preaching.