The Message of 2 Peter & Jude

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
Bible Book: 2 Peter Jude
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical Reformed
Resource Type: Commentary
Last updated: December 4, 2025
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Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.8/10

A pastorally wise and textually faithful commentary — ideal for preaching and shepherding the church.

Publication Date(s): 2021
Pages: 296
ISBN: 9780830825141
Faithfulness to the Text: 9/10
The authors consistently engage the Greek-text issues, parallels between 2 Peter and Jude, and provide historical context without resorting to speculative reconstructions.
Christ Centredness: 8/10
While the focus is expository and pastoral rather than Christ-theological, the authors nevertheless emphasise the hope of Christ's return and perseverance in grace — grounding exhortations in gospel assurance.
Depth of Insight: 8.5/10
The commentary balances careful exegesis and practical application. It may not rival heavyweight academic commentaries in technical detail, but it offers considerable theological and pastoral insight for ministers and serious students.
Clarity of Writing: 9/10
Language is clear, readable, and flowing. The authors avoid heavy scholarly jargon, making the volume accessible without losing substance.
Pastoral Usefulness: 9.5/10
This commentary shines in its usefulness for preaching, teaching, discipleship, and church leadership. Its structure lends itself directly to sermon preparation or group teaching.
Readability: 9/10
The book moves smoothly from introduction through exposition and application. Sections are well organised, and the writing style invites engagement even for those with limited time.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
296 pages
Type
Application, Expositional, Homiletical
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical, Reformed
Overall score
8.8 / 10
Strength
Clear, accessible exposition that honours Scripture and ministers well to pastors and teachers.
Limitation
Less technical depth than advanced academic commentaries on 2 Peter and Jude.

We find in The Message of 2 Peter & Jude a clear-eyed, pastorally sensitive exposition of two of the New Testament’s less often studied letters. Lucas and Green guide readers through the texts with both doctrinal fidelity and practical urgency. Their commentary avoids needless technicality, opting instead for clarity and application — making it well suited for preachers, teachers, and thoughtful lay readers alike.

The volume treats 2 Peter and Jude side by side — drawing out the parallels in theme, warning, and hope — while maintaining sufficient attention to their distinct emphases. Whether dealing with issues of false teaching, perseverance, or the promise of Christ’s return, the authors strike a balance between theological seriousness and pastoral warmth.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

First, this commentary works hard to honour Scripture. Lucas and Green engage the letters’ historical context, compare the overlapping material between 2 Peter and Jude, and show how the warnings and assurances of these epistles remain deeply relevant for the modern church. Their fidelity to the text helps readers navigate tricky passages without drifting into speculative interpretation.

Second, the book excels in making application. The authors never treat these letters as irrelevant ancient relics — but bring their teaching firmly into the heart of contemporary church life. Issues like false doctrine, moral drift, and the hope of Christ’s return are handled with pastoral wisdom. This makes the volume especially useful for pastors preparing sermons or leaders instructing congregations.

Third, the style is accessible without being shallow. The language remains clear and readable, avoiding jargon and needless academic weight. That makes it a helpful first-level commentary for busy pastors or lay-leaders who want dependable expository insight without wading through heavy technical discussion.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend The Message of 2 Peter & Jude as a pastorally wise, theologically sound, and practically useful commentary. For those preaching, teaching, or shepherding churches, this volume offers clarity, depth, and encouragement. It sits as a dependable ‘go-to’ on a shelf for expositions of 2 Peter or Jude, and we believe it deserves close and regular use.


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Classification

  • Level: Mid-level
  • Best For: Busy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-training
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

Reviewed by

An Expositor