Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.2/10

A strong advanced Matthew commentary that keeps us close to the text and helps us preach Christ the King with clarity.

Publication Date(s): 1992

Pages: 798

ISBN: 978-0-8028-3696-0

Faithfulness to the Text: 8.7/10

We find consistent attention to the argument of the passage, with careful handling of context and a disciplined respect for what the text actually says.

Christ Centredness: 8.2/10

We are helped to keep Christ central in both doctrine and application, with connections that arise from the text rather than from habit or sentiment.

Depth of Insight: 8.6/10

We gain real help on interpretive decisions and theological themes, with sustained engagement that rewards careful study.

Clarity of Writing: 8.1/10

Clear structure and controlled prose make it workable for weekly preparation, even when the material is weighty.

Pastoral Usefulness: 8/10

The exposition supports proclamation and shepherding, helping us press the truth home with realism and hope.

Readability: 7.7/10

Substantial in size, but readable in steady portions, and well suited to ongoing sermon work.

Summary

At a Glance

Length: 798 pages
Type: Exegetical (Technical)
Theo. Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Overall score: 8.2 / 10
Strength: Clear exegesis with steady attention to Matthew’s purpose and fulfilment themes.
Limitation: More demanding than a mid level volume, it rewards slower reading and sustained time.

We find Leon Morris a steady companion for reading Matthew as a Gospel that announces the King, and forms a kingdom people. He keeps us close to the text’s movement, and he is at his best when he clarifies Matthew’s use of the Old Testament and the shape of Jesus’ teaching.

The Pillar series aims for serious exegesis that still serves the pulpit. Morris gives clear judgments without needless noise, and he helps us trace themes like fulfilment, true righteousness, and the cost of discipleship.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this volume when we want a commentary that respects the details, but does not lose the thread. Morris explains the passage, then regularly helps us see how Matthew is pressing faith, obedience, and worship in response to Christ.

He is also reliable in sections that can become familiar and thin, such as the Sermon on the Mount and the Passion narrative. He slows us down, shows what the text actually says, and keeps application tethered to the point of the passage.

For those preaching through Matthew, it rewards patient reading and supports proclamation that is both doctrinally sound and pastorally direct.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this as a strong advanced commentary for preaching and teaching Matthew, especially when we want mature exegesis with a clear line of argument. Pair it with a more homiletical resource if you want extra sermon shaping help, but Morris will serve us well at the level of the text.

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.

Where to buy

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