Deuteronomy, ESV Expository Commentary

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
Bible Book: Deuteronomy
Publisher: Crossway
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary
Last updated: February 17, 2026
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Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.3/10

A strong series level companion for Deuteronomy, helping us move from text to pulpit with clarity and care.

Publication Date(s): 2021
Pages: 752
ISBN: 9781433546327
Faithfulness to the Text: 8.2/10
We find August H. Konkel careful to follow the flow of Deuteronomy, with consistent attention to context and to the passage’s own emphasis.
Christ Centredness: 8.4/10
We are helped to preach Christ from Deuteronomy with restraint and confidence, tracing promise and fulfilment without forcing connections.
Depth of Insight: 8/10
We gain solid insight into structure and themes, with enough engagement to sharpen our judgment for preaching and teaching.
Clarity of Writing: 8.2/10
The writing is clear and well organised, making it workable for weekly preparation and easy to consult in the study.
Pastoral Usefulness: 8.4/10
The volume repeatedly helps us move from explanation to congregational use, with application that is direct, wise, and not gimmicky.
Readability: 8.3/10
It is a substantial read, but it is paced for pastors and teachers, and it rewards steady use over time.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
752 pages
Type
Expository (Mid-Level)
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical
Overall score
8.3 / 10
Strength
Accessible explanation that stays close to the text and serves the church.
Limitation
Not as detailed on technical debates as a specialist exegetical commentary.

In Deuteronomy, ESV Expository Commentary, August H. Konkel helps us read Deuteronomy with care and confidence, and the wider ESV Expository Commentary framework keeps us moving from explanation toward proclamation. Volume 2.

We are given a workable blend of explanation and pastoral direction. It is the kind of volume we can keep open on the desk while preparing sermons, studies, and teaching plans.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this volume because it helps us prepare sermons with fewer shortcuts. It points us back to context, highlights the flow of argument and narrative, and keeps the centre of the passage in view.

We benefit from the way it keeps gospel contours visible. It does not force Christ into every paragraph, but it does keep the promises, patterns, and purposes of God moving toward their fulfilment.

As part of a working library, it pairs well with more detailed resources. It keeps us oriented, and it stops us getting lost in detail that never reaches the congregation.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this volume for pastors and teachers who want an accessible, Scripture shaped guide to Deuteronomy. It is especially useful when we need help with structure, emphasis, and faithful application.

As always, the best use is to read the passage first, then consult the commentary to test our instincts and refine our sermon shape. It strengthens preparation that aims at worship and obedience.

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, Pastors-in-training
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

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