2 Peter, ESV Expository Commentary

Mid-levelBusy pastorsStrong recommendation
Bible Book: 2 Peter
Publisher: Crossway
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary
Last updated: February 17, 2026
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Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.2/10

A clear and steady guide that helps us preach 2 Peter with seriousness, hope, and care.

Publication Date(s): 2018
Pages: 784
ISBN: 978-1433546723
Faithfulness to the Text: 8.3/10
We find Matthew S. Harmon careful with context, and steady in tracing the apostle’s argument without forcing the text into tidy shortcuts.
Christ Centredness: 8/10
We are helped to preach Christ as the goal of growth, the anchor of hope, and the Lord whose return gives weight to every warning.
Depth of Insight: 8.1/10
We gain solid guidance on structure and key themes, with enough detail to sharpen judgement for preaching without overwhelming the reader.
Clarity of Writing: 8.2/10
The writing is clear and well organised, so we can find what we need quickly and keep moving in preparation.
Pastoral Usefulness: 8.3/10
The commentary presses the letter’s pastoral aims, helping us warn, encourage, and build confidence in God’s promises.
Readability: 8.1/10
It is substantial, but the pacing is manageable, and the tone stays focused on serving preaching and teaching.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
784 pages
Type
Expository (Mid-Level)
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical
Overall score
8.2 / 10
Strength
Strong help with the letter’s warnings, and clear guidance for staying anchored in the apostle’s flow of thought.
Limitation
Those wanting extensive technical debate may still pair it with a more specialised volume.

In 2 Peter, ESV Expository Commentary, Matthew S. Harmon helps us preach with watchful seriousness, as the apostle calls the church to grow in grace while resisting false teaching. Volume 12.

We are given clear pathways through the letter’s argument, and steady help to keep each paragraph tied to the whole.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this volume when we need a workable guide for weekly preparation, one that keeps pulling us back to the text and its aims.

It supports us in handling warning passages without panic or softness. We are helped to speak plainly about judgment, and also to press the patience and mercy of the Lord.

It is also useful for training, because it models careful reading and measured application that stays close to context.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend 2 Peter, ESV Expository Commentary for pastors and teachers who want a mid level, church facing companion that strengthens faithful proclamation.

As pastoral next steps, we can visit the Bible Book Overview, browse Top Recommendations, and use the Reformed Commentary Index to build a wiser working library.


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Classification

  • Level: Mid-level
  • Best For: Busy pastors
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

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An Expositor