New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series)

New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series)

The New Testament Commentary series, published by Baker Book House, was written to provide pastors, teachers, and serious students with clear, reverent, and text-rooted exposition of every New Testament book. Across its roughly fifteen volumes, William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker aim to combine sound exegesis, theological steadiness, and pastoral usefulness in a format accessible to ordinary readers without sacrificing depth.

A hallmark of the series is its balance: scholarly analysis presented in warm, readable prose. Greek discussion is included where helpful but never overwhelms the non-specialist; doctrine is articulated with clarity but without unnecessary polemic; application is present yet never forced. Both authors write from a distinctly Reformed evangelical perspective, marked by confidence in the authority of Scripture, a strong Christological focus, and a commitment to strengthening the ministry of the local church.

Among mid-level commentary sets, this series remains one of the most reliable for devotional reading, sermon preparation, and steady study. For preachers seeking trustworthy guidance grounded in historic orthodoxy—and for thoughtful lay readers who want more than surface exposition—these volumes continue to offer dependable, nourishing help.

Publisher: Baker Book House

Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series)

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Revelation

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.8Author: Simon J. Kistemaker Bible Book: Revelation Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Expositional Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical, Reformed

Summary

Simon Kistemaker’s volume on Revelation in the Hendriksen–Kistemaker New Testament Commentary series offers a clear, steady, and pastorally sensitive guide through one of Scripture’s most challenging books. We find here an exposition shaped by careful exegesis, sober restraint, and a deep confidence in the sovereign triumph of Christ.

Kistemaker anchors his work in a redemptive-historical reading of Revelation, constantly drawing the reader back to the central theme: the Lamb reigns. Rather than indulging speculation, he emphasises the book’s encouragement to suffering saints and the certainty of God’s unfolding purposes.

This commentary serves pastors, teachers, and thoughtful believers who want solid exposition without being overwhelmed by technical complexities.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

First, Kistemaker offers clarity where many commentators offer complexity. He explains symbolism with care, shows how the Old Testament shapes John’s vision, and provides a theological compass rooted in Christ’s kingship. His approach is consistently reverent, grounded, and oriented toward the text rather than contemporary sensationalism.

Second, this commentary is highly serviceable for sermon preparation. Kistemaker draws out pastoral implications with maturity, helping preachers see how Revelation strengthens faith, steadies hope, and deepens endurance. He writes with an awareness that this book is meant to comfort the church—not confuse it.

Third, Kistemaker strikes a fruitful balance between scholarly engagement and accessible exposition. He interacts with major interpretive positions, but always with a gentle hand, keeping the focus on the message rather than the debate.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend this commentary to pastors and teachers seeking a reliable, Christ-exalting guide through Revelation. It offers substance without unnecessary weight, and clarity without oversimplification.

If you want a commentary that strengthens confidence in God’s sovereignty, nurtures worship, and equips you to preach Revelation with conviction, this volume deserves a prominent place on your shelf.

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James, Epistles of John, Peter, and Jude

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.4Author: Simon J. Kistemaker Bible Book: 1 John, 1 Peter, 2 John, 2 Peter, 3 John, James, Jude Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

Simon J. Kistemaker’s volume James, Epistles of John, Peter, and Jude in the New Testament Commentary series (Baker Book House) offers a full exposition of these General Epistles in one substantial hardback. First published in 1996, it provides verse-by-verse commentary on James; 1–3 John; 1–2 Peter; and Jude, written from a clearly Reformed, evangelical standpoint and aimed chiefly at pastors, Bible teachers, and serious students.

Kistemaker combines careful exegesis with a pastoral tone, explaining the flow of argument in each letter and drawing out their major themes: living faith and works (James), truth and love in the church (1–3 John), suffering and hope (1–2 Peter), and contending for the faith (Jude). The result is a single, coherent resource for handling some of the New Testament’s most searching and practical writings.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We value this commentary first for its doctrinal steadiness. Kistemaker writes within a confessional Reformed framework, treating these epistles as inspired Scripture and giving full weight to their teaching on repentance, holiness, perseverance, and the testing of genuine faith. His handling of James is balanced—emphasising that works flow from justifying faith rather than competing with it—and his exposition of the Johannine epistles carefully holds together assurance, obedience, and love in the life of the believer.

Second, it is very usable in the study. The commentary follows the text closely, with clear section headings, straightforward explanations, and judicious use of Greek where it sheds real light on the passage. Preachers will find help in navigating difficult issues such as trials and temptation, the tongue, false teaching, church conflict, and the call to steadfastness under pressure. Kistemaker regularly moves from explanation to implication, giving natural launch-points for sermons and Bible studies.

Third, the one-volume scope across several letters is genuinely practical. For those planning a preaching series in James, 1 John, 1 Peter, or Jude—or dipping into these books repeatedly over the years—having a single, theologically aligned companion is a real advantage. While it does not attempt exhaustive engagement with every scholarly debate, it offers enough substance to give preachers confidence that they are on solid ground.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this volume warmly for pastors, elders, and serious Bible-study leaders in Reformed and broadly evangelical churches who want clear, trustworthy exposition of these General Epistles. It will serve particularly well as a primary mid-level commentary for sermon preparation and teaching.

Those engaged in academic research or seeking the most technical linguistic work may wish to supplement it with more specialised volumes. But as a core ministry resource—combining doctrinal integrity, clarity of exposition, and pastoral usefulness—Kistemaker’s James, Epistles of John, Peter, and Jude remains an excellent addition to a working library.


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Hebrews

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.8Author: Simon J. Kistemaker Bible Book: Hebrews Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

Simon J. Kistemaker’s Hebrews (Baker Book House, 1984) in the New Testament Commentary series is a warm, accessible, pastor-friendly exposition of one of the most demanding books in Scripture. Writing from a Reformed evangelical standpoint, Kistemaker unfolds the argument of Hebrews with patience and clarity, tracing the author’s presentation of Jesus as the perfect High Priest, the fulfilment of the Old Covenant, and the anchor of the believer’s hope. His treatment offers a dependable bridge between scholarly understanding and pastoral application.

The commentary proceeds verse by verse, giving attention to structure, Old Testament background, and theological coherence. While not a technical monograph, it provides solid guidance for teachers and preachers seeking to navigate the deep Christology and pastoral exhortations of Hebrews.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We commend this volume first for its Christ-centred clarity. Kistemaker consistently draws out the supremacy, priesthood and sacrificial work of Christ—the heart of Hebrews—without drifting into speculative tangents. His discussions on chapters 4–10, in particular, offer clear explanations of the priestly office, covenant theology, and the superiority of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice.

For preaching and teaching, this commentary is especially useful. Kistemaker explains the text with pastoral sensitivity, identifies the author’s argument in each section, and offers application that naturally grows from the passage. Difficult portions—warnings, perseverance, apostasy, Melchizedek—are handled with care and doctrinal steadiness, making the commentary suitable for ministry in Reformed evangelical churches.

Though not the most academically technical treatment of Hebrews, it offers enough engagement with key issues to orient the preacher, while maintaining readability for sustained sermon series. Its steady combination of exposition and theology makes it a reliable companion for those teaching the book.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly recommend this commentary to pastors, elders and Bible teachers who desire a trustworthy, Christ-centred exposition of Hebrews. It is particularly valuable for those seeking a mid-level commentary that lends itself naturally to preaching and pastoral ministry.

Those requiring heavy engagement with Greek linguistics or advanced scholarly debate may wish to supplement with more technical works, but as a core resource for faithful exposition, Kistemaker’s *Hebrews* remains an excellent choice.


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2 Corinthians

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.4Author: Simon J. Kistemaker Bible Book: 2 Corinthians Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

Simon J. Kistemaker’s commentary on 2 Corinthians (Baker Book House, 1997) is part of the respected Hendriksen–Kistemaker New Testament Commentary series. It provides a verse-by-verse exposition of Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, written from a Reformed evangelical perspective, aimed at pastors, Bible teachers and serious students seeking dependable help for preaching and study.

The commentary follows the text closely, offering translation notes, structural commentary, theological reflection and practical application. Kistemaker interacts with the Greek text lightly and focusses on the interplay of divine sovereignty, Christian ministry and the life of the church as Paul reflects on his apostolic identity, suffering, reconciliation and hope in Christ.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We commend this volume for its strong theological grounding. Kistemaker treats the epistle as authentic, inspired Scripture and highlights key themes such as reconciliation in Christ, the ministry of the new covenant, the believer’s earthly weakness and heavenly glory. His treatment of chapters such as 4–5 and 12 is thoughtful and pastorally sensitive, helping the reader navigate issues of divine strength in weakness and the call to live by faith while awaiting the eternal.

In practical ministry terms, the commentary is particularly useful for those handling difficult passages on suffering, apostolic authority, church division, and the real-life outworking of the gospel. Kistemaker offers helpful section introductions, clear structure and frequent application sections that draw the text into congregational life. While it is not the most critically intensive work in the field, it makes up for this in clarity and ministry-focus.

Moreover, the accessible style means the book works well as a working tool in sermon preparation and teaching. The reader is not overwhelmed by heavy technical apparatus but still benefits from sound exegesis and theological reflection rooted in the Reformed tradition.

Closing Recommendation

We wholeheartedly recommend this commentary to pastors, elders and serious students operating in a Reformed evangelical context who wish to preach or teach 2 Corinthians with confidence. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a dependable, ministry-oriented commentary that marries sound doctrine with faithful exposition.

For those requiring the latest scholarship in Greek linguistics or the most advanced critical interaction, this may be supplemented by more technical resources—but as a core ministry companion this Kistemaker volume remains thoroughly valuable.


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1 Corinthians

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.4Author: Simon J. Kistemaker Bible Book: 1 Corinthians Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

Simon J. Kistemaker’s commentary on 1 Corinthians (Baker Book House, 1993) is a substantial treatment of Paul’s first epistle, written as part of the New Testament Commentary series originally begun by William Hendriksen and completed by Kistemaker. The volume offers verse-by-verse exposition, Greek minor notes, structural analysis, and application—designed for pastors, teachers, and serious students within the evangelical and Reformed tradition.

Kistemaker assumes Paul’s authorship, the unity of the letter, and its continuing relevance for Christian community, doctrine, and life. The commentary serves those who wish to explore how Hermeneutics, ethics, ecclesiology and gospel theology converge in 1 Corinthians’ treatment of division, worship, gifts and resurrection.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We commend this work particularly for its theological coherence. Kistemaker writes from a genuinely Reformed and evangelical standpoint: he brings forward the sovereignty of God, the centrality of Christ, the role of the Spirit, and the calling of the church to unity and maturity. His handling of the resurrection chapter (15) is especially helpful—he balances doctrinal richness with pastoral sensitivity and ties the resurrection’s hope to the present life of the church.

From a preaching and teaching perspective, the commentary is strong in structure and clarity. Each section begins with a helpful introduction, and the flow of Paul’s argument is well-marked throughout. For pastors preparing sermons on contentious issues in Corinth (divisions, spiritual gifts, leadership, worship, immorality) this volume gives reliable guidance, theological backbone and application pointers. Greek terms and textual notes are offered when they matter, without overwhelming the minister who may not be a specialist.

Moreover, the style is approachable: Kistemaker writes as a scholar-pastor rather than a detached academic. Application material appears naturally and repeatedly, enabling ministers and Bible teachers to draw directly from the commentary to the pulpit or classroom. While some more recent critical commentary offers additional engagement with newer research, this volume holds up as a thoroughly trustworthy, church-friendly resource.

Closing Recommendation

We gladly recommend this commentary to pastors, elders, and committed Bible students who serve in Reformed evangelical contexts and want robust, accessible exposition of 1 Corinthians. If you are seeking one commentary you can consult repeatedly—rich both in doctrine and ministry‐orientation—this is a strong contender.

For those requiring technical depth in Greek linguistics or the most recent scholarly debates, you may supplement with a more technical volume. But as a primary ministry tool, Kistemaker’s commentary remains an excellent investment.


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Acts

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.6Author: Simon J. Kistemaker Bible Book: Acts Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

Simon J. Kistemaker’s Acts in the New Testament Commentary series (Baker Book House, 1990) is a substantial, pastorally minded exposition of Luke’s second volume. Written from a clearly Reformed evangelical perspective, it offers a careful, verse-by-verse treatment of Acts with consistent attention to context, theology, and the unfolding mission of the early church. Kistemaker balances scholarly credibility with a warm pastoral tone, making the commentary accessible to ministers and serious students who want reliable help in handling this foundational New Testament book.

The commentary walks steadily through the narrative, providing historical background, structural observations, theological explanation, and practical reflection. It serves those preparing sermons, leading Bible studies, or seeking a deeper understanding of the church’s origins and the work of the Spirit in advancing the gospel.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We value this commentary particularly for its theological steadiness. Kistemaker treats Acts as trustworthy historical narrative, written under divine inspiration, and he consistently upholds apostolic teaching, the sovereignty of God in mission, and the centrality of Christ’s lordship. His expositions of Pentecost, the apostolic sermons, Paul’s missionary journeys, and the formation of the early church demonstrate sound exegesis and a strong grasp of Luke’s theological aims.

In terms of usefulness, this volume shines in its clarity and structure. Kistemaker explains difficult passages with patience, identifies patterns in Luke’s narrative, and regularly notes pastoral and doctrinal implications. Preachers will appreciate the clear transitions, careful explanation of key Greek terms where necessary, and the way each episode is set within the larger redemptive story. It is not a technical commentary, but it offers enough depth to serve as a dependable companion throughout sermon preparation.

We also commend the commentary for its pastoral warmth. Kistemaker writes as a churchman, not merely an academic. His applications grow naturally from the text and encourage the reader toward faithfulness, courage in witness, and confidence in the gospel’s advance.

Closing Recommendation

We gladly recommend this commentary to pastors, elders, Bible teachers, and committed students who desire a reliable, Christ-centred, and ministry-oriented exposition of Acts. It is especially well suited for those within a Reformed evangelical tradition who want clarity, theological depth, and trustworthy guidance through Luke’s narrative.

While more technical works exist for academic research, Kistemaker’s volume remains one of the most pastor-friendly and dependable mid-level treatments of Acts available, and a worthy addition to any preaching library.


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Thessalonians, Timothy, and Titus

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.4Author: Simon J. Kistemaker, William Hendrickson Bible Book: 1 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Thessalonians, 2 Timothy, Titus Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

In this volume of the New Testament Commentary series, William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker present exposition on 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus and Hebrews (Baker Book House, 1996). Addressing both Pauline epistles to the early church and the larger theological treatise of Hebrews, the authors offer a verse-by-verse treatment geared to pastors, teachers and serious church-students who desire expository commentary with theological integrity and practical application.

The commentary moves systematically through each text, combining translation notes, structural commentary, theological reflection, and ministry application. From the eschatological urgency of the Thessalonian letters, through the pastoral oversight of Timothy and Titus, to the Christ-centred heights of Hebrews, Hendriksen and Kistemaker maintain a steady anchor in the authority of Scripture and the sovereignty of God in salvation and Church life.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We commend this work for its doctrinal solidity. The authors write from a clearly Reformed evangelical standpoint, underscoring God’s sovereign grace, the centrality of Christ, the work of the Spirit and the call of the church to faithful ministry. In Thessalonians they handle the return of Christ and the community’s hope with both care and pastoral sensitivity; in the Pastorals they engage matters of leadership, doctrine and church order with clarity; and in Hebrews they show the supremacy of Christ as priest and mediator in a way that supports preaching with theological weight.

From a ministry-use perspective, the volume is quite practical. It includes clear section introductions, helpful summaries and accessible application reflections that bridge from text to congregation. While not the most cutting-edge in critical scholarship, its balance of faithful exegesis and church-directed application makes it usable for sermon preparation and teaching alike. The convenience of having these five letters and Hebrews in one trusted resource further adds to its value.

Moreover, the style is intentionally readable. Technical elements such as Greek word-notes and textual observations are included, yet the authors keep the language clear and avoid overwhelming the reader. This makes the book suitable for pastors and church-leaders seeking depth without sacrificing accessibility.

Closing Recommendation

We heartily recommend this volume to pastors, Bible-study leaders and serious students who operate within a Reformed evangelical framework and desire one dependable commentary covering Thessalonians, the Pastorals and Hebrews. It particularly suits those who preach or teach across multiple epistles and desire a unified resource that combines doctrine, exposition and ministry insight.

If you already possess several more recent specialist commentaries or are engaged in academic research, you may choose to supplement it. But for many church-based contexts this Hendriksen–Kistemaker volume remains a strong ministry companion.


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Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians and Philemon

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.4Author: William Hendrickson Bible Book: Colossians, Ephesians, Galatians, Philemon, Philippians Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

Exposition of Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon by William Hendriksen (Baker Book House) belongs to the New Testament Commentary series. First published in 1996, this approx. 1,000-page volume covers five epistles of Paul: Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Hendriksen writes from a Reformed-evangelical standpoint, offering verse-by-verse exposition aimed at pastors, teachers and serious Bible-students who value doctrinal depth alongside practical ministry application.

The work moves through each letter with consistent clarity, offering textual remarks, theological reflection, and application-oriented commentary. Hendriksen’s tone is that of a pastor-scholar: confident in the authority of Scripture, attentive to the Greek text where it clarifies meaning, and sensitive to the needs of the church-reader rather than purely the academic specialist.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We commend this volume first for its robust doctrinal foundation. Hendriksen remains firmly in a Reformed tradition—emphasising God’s sovereign grace, the centrality of Christ, the unity of the body of Christ, and the life of faith. His examination of Galatians’ freedom in Christ, Ephesians’ unity and mystery, Philippians’ joy in Christ, Colossians’ supremacy of Christ over all, and Philemon’s reconciliation theme, all bear the hallmark of careful theology married to faithful exegesis.

From a practical ministry standpoint, the volume is especially helpful for sermon-preparation and teaching series. Hendriksen provides chapter introductions, section summaries, and frequent application notes that keep the text rooted in the life of the church. While not the most current in every facet of recent scholarship, its clarity and pastoral tone mean it remains a friendly companion for ministry. In particular, the cohesion of covering these five letters in one resource is convenient for pastoring through multiple epistles without switching volumes.

Finally, we appreciate the accessibility of the commentary. Technical matters are addressed (Greek word notes, structural observations) yet Hendriksen writes in a way that welcomes non-specialists. The high page-count may challenge busy readers, but for those building a preaching library this is a strong foundation piece.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this commentary warmly for pastors, elders, and committed Bible-study leaders who desire a clear, theologically anchored exposition of these Pauline epistles from a Reformed evangelical perspective. If you want one trusted volume to cover Galatians through Philemon that serves both teaching and preaching purposes, this offers excellent value.

If you already possess separate technical commentaries covering each letter and are seeking cutting-edge scholarship, you might supplement this with younger volumes. But for a primary ministry resource, Hendriksen’s work remains solid and well-worth acquiring.


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Romans

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.4Author: William Hendrickson Bible Book: Romans Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

The commentary on Romans (Baker Book House, 1981) forms part of the New Testament Commentary series. Hendriksen offers a full-length exposition of Paul’s Epistle to the Romans, written with the pastoral heart of a Reformed minister and the mind of an evangelical scholar. He treats the epistle systematically, guiding the reader through its doctrinal depth—sin, justification, sanctification, and the life of faith—while maintaining a lucid and church-oriented style.

The volume is intended for preachers, teachers and committed students of the Word who seek more than devotional reflection. Hendriksen presumes the text is authoritative and engages it accordingly, making the work suitable for use in sermon preparation and serious study in a Reformed evangelical setting.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We commend this commentary for its theological reliability. Hendriksen stays faithfully within a classic Reformed framework—emphasising God’s sovereign grace, Christ’s redemptive work and the believer’s union with Christ—without lapsing into theological jargon or abstraction. His exposition of Romans 9–11 remains particularly strong in drawing out the mystery of God’s sovereign election and the remnant of Israel within the plan of salvation.

From the standpoint of preaching and teaching, the work excels in clear structural aids: introductions to sections, helpful summaries of argumentative flow, and application notes that keep the text connected to congregational life. While it is not the most recent commentary, its church-centred tone and pastoral orientation make it a useful working tool for ministry. Its strength lies in bridging rigorous theology and accessible exposition.

We also like Hendriksen’s commitment to practical ministry. He writes not only for the academy but for the pulpit and classroom. Although newer technical volumes may incorporate more recent research and critical discussion, this commentary remains dependable in equipping ministers who value Reformed depth and evangelical clarity.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this commentary warmly for pastors, elders, Bible-study leaders and engaged students who share a Reformed evangelical conviction and aim to preach or teach Romans with substance and clarity. It is especially suited for those committed to doctrinal fidelity and congregational relevance.

If you already own a highly technical commentary on Romans, this Hendriksen volume may serve as a second voice—a steady, clear-voiced companion. But if you are building a commentary library and wish for one volume you can trust, it makes a fine choice.


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John

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.6Author: William Hendrickson Bible Book: John Series: New Testament Commentary (Hendriksen Kistemaker Series) Publisher: Baker Book House Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Reformed

Summary

William Hendriksen’s commentary on the Gospel of John, published by Baker Book House in 1954, is one of the earliest volumes in his New Testament Commentary series. Written from a firmly Reformed and warmly evangelical perspective, it offers a full exposition of John’s Gospel with careful attention to structure, key themes, and the theological distinctiveness of the Fourth Gospel. Hendriksen approaches the text with deep confidence in its historical reliability and presents Christ as the eternal Son who reveals the Father in grace and truth.

This volume moves steadily through the Gospel in a clear, pastoral style, bringing together exegetical analysis, doctrinal reflection, and practical insight. Pastors and serious students will find that Hendriksen does not merely comment on the text but seeks to lead readers into worship and obedience as the glory of Christ is unfolded.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We value this work highly for its theological fidelity. Hendriksen’s robust defence of Johannine authorship, his insistence on the Gospel’s trustworthiness, and his rich exposition of Christ’s person and work make this commentary deeply reliable for preaching. His discussions of the prologue, the I AM sayings, the signs, and the Upper Room discourse are especially strong—clear, reverent, and pastorally attuned.

In terms of exposition, Hendriksen excels in explaining the flow of argument and the theological purpose behind John’s selection and arrangement of material. He draws out the Gospel’s themes of life, light, witness, and belief with clarity and care. Greek references support the exposition without overwhelming readers, making the volume accessible to those with limited formal training.

For practical ministry, the commentary is rich with pastoral insight. Hendriksen frequently notes doctrinal connections, pastoral implications, and applications that naturally arise from the text. Though published many decades ago, the warmth, clarity, and devotional resonance of the work mean it continues to serve preachers exceptionally well.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this commentary gladly to pastors, expositors, and serious Bible students who desire a reliable, Christ-centred exposition of John. While newer technical works provide wider engagement with recent scholarship, Hendriksen remains a steady, trustworthy, and richly edifying guide whose work still stands with strength in the pulpit and study.

As a primary preaching companion—especially for those within a Reformed or conservative evangelical tradition—this volume remains both nourishing and dependable.


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