Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.0/10
A concise and practical guide to 2 Peter and Jude that highlights their urgent warnings and steady calls to steadfast, truth-anchored faith.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 288 pages
- Type
- Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level)
- Theo. Perspective
- Baptist, Broadly Evangelical, Reformed
- Overall score
- 8 / 10
- Strength
- A clear, conservative exposition that keeps close to the text and provides steady pastoral direction for teaching and warning passages.
- Limitation
- Does not engage deeply with scholarly debates or alternative interpretations, keeping the analysis mid-level.
John MacArthur’s 2 Peter & Jude offers a clear and conservative exposition of two short yet potent New Testament letters. We are guided through their warnings against false teachers, their calls to doctrinal vigilance, and their encouragements to persevere in godliness. MacArthur follows his characteristic verse-by-verse approach, providing accessible explanation, pastoral application, and steady focus on the authority of Scripture. Designed for pastors, teachers, and lay leaders, this commentary serves those seeking clarity rather than technical debate.
Both letters require careful handling because of their strong language and complex background. MacArthur offers enough historical and linguistic detail to illuminate the text, while keeping the commentary readable. His commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture and to clear doctrinal boundaries makes this a reliable guide for those teaching in contexts where discernment is essential.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
This volume shines in its treatment of false teaching. MacArthur draws out the pastoral urgency in both Peter and Jude, showing the destructive nature of false doctrine and the necessity of steadfast truth. His exposition is firm without being sensational—a helpful balance for preachers shepherding congregations through confusion or theological drift. The commentary equips readers to recognise the character, methods, and consequences of those who distort the gospel.
We especially appreciate MacArthur’s explanation of the positive exhortations in both letters: growing in the knowledge of Christ, building oneself up in the faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, and keeping oneself in the love of God. His pastoral applications are encouraging, urging believers toward spiritual maturity rather than mere polemics.
The commentary’s handling of difficult passages—such as the angels who sinned, the examples of judgment, and the imagery of the “last days”—is conservative and straightforward. MacArthur does not pursue speculative interpretations; instead, he offers measured explanations aimed at clarity and usefulness for teaching. This makes the volume especially valuable for small group leaders and pastors preparing sermons or discipleship material.
Throughout the commentary, the tone is steady, earnest, and centred on the need to remain anchored in Scripture while living in a world of moral chaos and doctrinal confusion. This matches the heartbeat of both letters and provides practical shepherding value for ministry today.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend MacArthur’s 2 Peter & Jude as a dependable and pastorally useful mid-level exposition. It serves those who teach or preach these letters with faithful clarity, offering both warning and encouragement in a manner that honours the intent of the biblical authors.
While it benefits from being paired with a more detailed technical commentary, this volume stands strong as a clear, accessible, and edifying resource for pastors and teachers committed to guarding the truth and strengthening believers in godliness.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Useful supplement