Evaluation

Overall Score: 7.4/10

Publication Date(s): 2002

Pages: 344

ISBN: 9780830814695

Faithfulness to the Text: 6.8/10

The material often catches the passages gravity, but interpretative leaps are common. Keep returning to the unit and the argument of Matthew.

Christ Centredness: 8.8/10

The focus on Christ, especially in the passion and resurrection, is a notable strength. Use that focus to serve the text rather than to bypass it.

Depth of Insight: 7/10

There are strong theological instincts, though depth varies by extract. It is most fruitful when you gather several comments and weigh them together.

Clarity of Writing: 7.1/10

Short selections are generally clear, but the shifting voices can feel fragmented. It helps to read within one passage block at a time.

Pastoral Usefulness: 7.6/10

Very useful for preaching the passion, resurrection, and discipleship demands. Less useful for historical detail or literary analysis.

Readability: 7.2/10

Readable in short bursts and easy to consult in preparation. It is not designed for continuous reading like a modern commentary.

Summary

At a Glance

Length: 344 pages
Type: Theological
Theo. Perspective: Non-Evangelical / Critical
Overall score: 7.4 / 10

This volume provides early Christian extracts on Matthew 14 to 28, including miracle narratives, discipleship teaching, parables of judgement, and the passion and resurrection. The comments are arranged by reference, offering a wide sampling of voices rather than a unified commentary. The approach foregrounds doctrinal and pastoral reading, often with strong christological instincts.

Strengths

The passion narratives benefit from older devotional seriousness, helping the preacher linger over the cross and resurrection with reverence. The extracts also press ethical implications, warning against hypocrisy and calling for steadfast discipleship. When you are preparing to preach familiar sections, these historic voices can provide fresh angles and memorable theological phrasing.

Limitations

As with other volumes in the series, context can be thin. Some readings may spiritualise details without showing the exegetical path. You will not receive sustained argument about Matthean structure, intertextuality, or first century setting. The variety of voices can also make it harder to form a single clear line for teaching unless you are already grounded in the passage.

How We Would Use It

Begin with close reading in Matthew and consult a strong modern commentary for structure and context. Then use this volume to enrich theological reflection and application, especially in Holy Week preparation or teaching on discipleship and judgement.

Closing Recommendation

A helpful theological supplement for advanced readers. It rewards careful use, but it requires discernment and it should never replace contextual exposition.

Where to buy

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