Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.0/10
A clear, warm, and pastorally rich guide to Joshua that serves teachers and church leaders exceptionally well.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 400 pages
- Type
- Expositional
- Theo. Perspective
- Broadly Evangelical
- Overall score
- 8 / 10
- Strength
- A warm, practical, and pastorally helpful guide that serves teachers and church leaders exceptionally well.
- Limitation
- Focuses more on pastoral application than exegetical detail, leaving less depth for advanced study.
Kenneth O. Gangel’s volume on Joshua in the Holman Old Testament Commentary series is designed for pastors, teachers, and small-group leaders who want clear exposition married to practical application. This is a warm, approachable, and pastorally oriented commentary that aims to help readers understand the message of Joshua and apply it faithfully to the life of the church.
The commentary offers a blend of concise explanation, thematic summaries, teaching outlines, and practical insights. It does not attempt to compete with academic or technical works; rather, it serves those who want reliable, evangelical interpretation presented in a straightforward and accessible form.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We appreciate Gangel’s clarity and pastoral instinct. He consistently draws out the theological heart of the text—God’s faithfulness, covenant obedience, the gift of the land, and the call to courageous trust—without getting bogged down in speculative debates. The layout, structure, and accessible prose make this especially useful for weekly ministry rhythms.
For preachers, the outlines and teaching suggestions provide a helpful scaffolding for sermon development. The practical insights are consistently encouraging, and the commentary maintains a strong commitment to evangelical orthodoxy. This makes it a dependable companion for those guiding congregations through Joshua’s rich narrative of promise and fulfilment.
While it does not offer deep engagement with Hebrew or technical questions, it excels in what it intends to be: a clear, dependable, and pastorally sensitive aid for teaching and discipleship. When paired with a more robust exegetical volume, it becomes even more valuable.
Closing Recommendation
We gladly recommend this commentary to pastors, Bible study leaders, and Christians who desire a readable and practical guide to the book of Joshua. It is not the only volume you will need, but it is one that will serve you well in the life of the church.
For accessible exposition rooted in a broadly evangelical framework, Gangel’s contribution is a strong and trustworthy choice.
Classification
- Level: Introductory
- Best For: General readers, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Useful supplement