The Book Of Isaiah 1–39

Summary

Isaiah 1–39 by John N. Oswalt is a substantial, verse-by-verse commentary that treats the first portion of the book of Isaiah with seriousness, depth, and pastoral concern. Oswalt offers a full introduction covering authorship, textual history, canonical status, structure, theology, and interpretive challenges. His own translation of the Hebrew is used throughout, accompanied by detailed notes and discussion of alternate readings where appropriate. The result is a commentary that honours the text’s complexity, respects its prophetic context, and invites the preacher to wrestle with its demands rather than slide into cheap easy application.

Throughout the volume Oswalt balances historical-grammatical sensitivity with theological urgency. He does not shy from difficult passages, whether judgment or promise, wrath or comfort, but reads them as part of a unified prophetic book, written by (or ultimately grounded in) the eighth-century prophet Isaiah. The commentary shows strong grasp of Old Testament theology, covenant history, and the interplay between prophecy, judgment, and hope. It positions the text in its ancient setting, yet leaves open how the preacher may draw canonical and covenantal implications for the church today.

At the same time, this is not a devotional or sermon-ready commentary. Oswalt gives minimal homiletical shaping. What he provides is the exegetical and theological foundation; from there, the preacher must prayerfully build gospel-centred proclamation. For those who want depth and integrity before application, this commentary stands firm.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

For any preacher, teacher, or serious student working through Isaiah 1–39, this volume is indispensable. When the text grows dense, with judgment oracles, theological complexity, or prophetic imagery, Oswalt provides a sure footing. His translation helps reading and preaching, and his footnotes and discussions give clarity where Hebrew idiom or textual tradition is obscure. Relying on Oswalt helps avoid superficial readings and ensures that sermons are grounded in solid exegesis.

Moreover, for a Reformed preacher wanting to handle the Old Testament with care, Oswalt’s theological seriousness is refreshing. He argues for the unity of Isaiah, pushing back against overly fragmented or skeptical critical approaches. That gives confidence that preaching from Isaiah is not preaching a patchwork, but a coherent prophetic vision, worthy of the pulpit and rooted in divine inspiration.

Finally, though dense, the book remains usable in a preacher’s library. Its organisation and clarity make it possible to work through a passage within a reasonable preparation window. For pastors balancing sermon preparation, pastoral care, and study demands, this volume offers real value without being unwieldy.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend Isaiah 1–39 by John N. Oswalt (NICOT) as one of the strongest single-volume Old Testament commentaries available for serious exposition. If you intend to preach or teach Isaiah with faithfulness to the Hebrew, theological integrity, and a gospel-aware heart, this book is well worth owning and consulting often. It belongs in the shelf of every preacher who wishes to let Isaiah speak with authority to the church today.

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