Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.8/10
A masterful, balanced, and deeply insightful exposition of Matthew that deserves a central place in every preacher’s library.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 1232 pages
- Type
- Academic, Exegetical (Technical), Expository (Mid-Level)
- Theo. Perspective
- Broadly Evangelical, Reformed
- Overall score
- 8.8 / 10
- Strength
- A masterful and deeply informed exposition that blends rigorous scholarship with clarity and pastoral value.
- Limitation
- Its academic depth may feel heavy for teachers seeking a more immediately accessible, sermon-ready resource.
R. T. France’s commentary on Matthew in the New International Commentary on the New Testament series is widely regarded as one of the finest modern expositions of the First Gospel. France brings a lifetime of scholarship to the task, handling Matthew’s narrative shape, Old Testament foundations, and theological emphases with remarkable clarity. This commentary is thorough without being bloated, scholarly without being obscure, and deeply attentive to the text as Scripture.
France approaches Matthew with keen literary sensitivity. He pays close attention to structure, theme, and context, helping readers see how Matthew crafts his portrait of Jesus as Israel’s Messiah, the fulfilment of God’s promises, and the authoritative teacher of the kingdom. His analysis is balanced, careful, and refreshingly free from speculative tangents.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We value France’s mastery of Matthew’s use of the Old Testament. His insights into fulfilment motifs, typology, and intertextual echoes give teachers a richer understanding of how Matthew presents Jesus as the consummation of Israel’s story. This is one of the commentary’s greatest strengths and a major reason why it continues to be so widely respected.
Pastors will appreciate France’s clarity. Though primarily academic, the commentary is highly readable, and France communicates complex material with a steady simplicity. His methodical explanations help preachers trace Matthew’s argument, understand difficult passages, and teach the Gospel with confidence. While he does not offer much direct application, the theological weight and exegetical precision provide more than enough material for thoughtful sermon work.
France also demonstrates a commendable restraint. He is honest where the text is disputed, careful not to overreach, and consistently charitable in presenting alternative views. This makes the commentary particularly valuable for ministry contexts where clarity, fairness, and steady exposition are needed.
Closing Recommendation
We warmly recommend France’s Matthew to pastors, teachers, and serious students of Scripture. It is one of the strongest full-length commentaries available on this Gospel and remains a dependable companion for both study and preaching.
If you want a commentary that combines depth, clarity, and theological steadiness, France’s contribution stands near the top of any Matthew bibliography—an outstanding resource for long-term ministry use.
Classification
- Level: Advanced
- Best For: Advanced students / scholars, Busy pastors, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Strong recommendation