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Luke

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readersStrong recommendation

Summary

William Hendriksen’s volume on Luke in the New Testament Commentary series (Baker Book House, 1978) is a full-length, verse-by-verse exposition written from a clearly Reformed, evangelical standpoint. Running to over a thousand pages, it aims to walk carefully through the whole Gospel, explaining the text in its context and tracing Luke’s distinctive emphases on salvation history, the work of the Spirit, and the compassion of Christ.

Hendriksen brings together careful exegesis, interaction with the Greek text, and a concern that the message of Luke should be understood and proclaimed in the life of the church. The commentary is designed primarily for pastors and serious Bible students, but committed lay readers willing to work through a substantial volume will also find rich help here.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We value this commentary first for its theological reliability. Hendriksen writes as a convinced Reformed pastor-theologian, treating Luke as the inspired and historically trustworthy word of God. He is alert to questions of authorship, structure, and background, yet he never allows technical discussion to unsettle confidence in the text. His treatment of key themes—the Son of Man, the kingdom of God, reversal for the poor and lowly, the cost of discipleship—is consistently anchored in historic orthodox convictions.

Second, the volume offers substantial help for exposition. Hendriksen moves steadily through the text, section by section, explaining difficult phrases, highlighting Old Testament allusions, and drawing out the flow of argument. Greek is referenced where it genuinely clarifies meaning, but never in a way that excludes non-specialists. Preachers will appreciate the way he marks transitions, gathers parallels, and shows how individual stories fit Luke’s larger narrative purpose.

Third, there is real pastoral warmth. This is not a dry academic treatise; Hendriksen writes as someone who expects Luke’s Gospel to be preached, believed, and obeyed. Alongside doctrinal clarity there are frequent notes that suggest lines of application, comfort, and exhortation. While the work does not read like a sermon series, it consistently nudges the reader toward worship and obedience rather than mere information-gathering.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend Hendriksen on Luke warmly for pastors, elders, Bible teachers, and serious students who want a substantial, trustworthy companion to the Gospel. It will particularly serve those in Reformed and conservative evangelical settings who desire robust exegesis joined to confessional conviction and pastoral concern.

Readers needing exhaustive engagement with the latest critical scholarship may wish to pair this with a more recent technical volume, but as a primary preaching commentary—especially for those who share its theological instincts—this remains a richly rewarding and dependable choice.


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Mark

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readersStrong recommendation

Summary

The commentary on Mark by William Hendriksen (Baker Book House, 1975) is part of the Hendriksen–Kistemaker series, offering a verse-by-verse exposition of the Gospel of Mark that aims to serve both preacher and teacher alike.

Hendriksen writes from a Reformed perspective with clarity and doctrinal conviction, focusing on the Gospel’s portrayal of Christ’s kingdom, suffering and sovereign work. The commentary strikes a balance between textual sensitivity and accessible presentation, making it a useful resource for those preaching through Mark or studying the text deeply.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

Firstly, Hendriksen’s theological reliability stands out. His treatment of Mark consistently affirms the deity and lordship of Christ, the historical-grammatical bearing of Scripture, and a covenantal understanding of the Gospel—providing a foundation for faithful preaching in a Reformed evangelical context. This makes the commentary especially suitable for pastors and Bible teachers who want grounded theological commentary rather than mere devotional sketches.

Secondly, the practical usefulness is strong. While not overloaded with hyper-technical apparatus, the volume includes textual notes, clear introductions to each section, and application-oriented reflections. Though the publication date means some modern scholarship is not incorporated, the work remains remarkably serviceable and accessible—ideal for sermons, Sunday school teaching or personal study. Finally, Hendriksen’s style is steady and warm; he writes in a way that invites the reader into the text rather than confusing them with jargon.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this commentary for pastors, teachers and serious lay-students who value a Reformed, evangelical foundation and wish to engage Mark with care and confidence. It is not the most technical commentary available—but for its niche theologically faithful, clearly written, and pastorally oriented—it is a very good choice.

If one seeks the most up-to-date critical interaction and volume of recent scholarship, one might look elsewhere—but for consistent Reformed preaching use, this Hendriksen volume remains excellent.


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Matthew

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readersStrong recommendation

Summary

The commentary on Matthew by William Hendriksen offers a verse-by-verse exposition of the Gospel of Matthew from a firmly Reformed perspective. Published in 1973 by Baker Book House, this volume spans over 1,000 pages and integrates thoughtful commentary, Greek textual notes, and application sidebars.

Hendriksen writes with the dual conviction that Scripture is God’s word and that the expository task is both faithful and practical. Within this narrative gospel he highlights the kingdom of heaven, the fulfilment of Old-Testament prophecy, and the Lord’s authority, all while guiding the reader through the text with clarity and pastoral warmth.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

First, this commentary stands out for its theological consistency. Hendriksen remains committed to Reformed doctrines of salvation, covenant and Christ’s lordship—he brings these into his commentary without overt polemics, making the book helpful for preaching and teaching in a confessional evangelical context. Because of this, we find it very reliable for pastors and church-leaders who want a commentary rooted in historic orthodoxy, not simply modern thematic commentary.

Second, practical value is high. The book offers not only scholarly insight (including Greek textual references and bibliographies) but also application sections that help bridge from text to congregation. That makes it especially worth owning for those who both teach and preach. Third, although it was written some decades ago, its form and language remain accessible: Hendriksen avoids overly technical jargon while still unpacking key theological and exegetical points—so it serves both seasoned and developing expositors.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this volume with confidence for those pastors, teachers, and serious students who desire to dig into Matthew with theological depth and pastoral sensitivity. If you are looking for a commentary that supports faithful preaching and robust exegesis from a Reformed perspective, this Hendriksen volume is a solid cornerstone of any commentary library.

For those whose budget or time restricts them, there may be more recent volumes with fuller engagement of current scholarship—but for core use in Reformed pulpit work, this remains a dependable choice.


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1-3 John

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groupsUseful supplement

Summary

John MacArthur’s 1–3 John offers a clear, pastoral, and text-driven exposition of John’s letters, written to strengthen assurance, cultivate discernment, and promote faithful Christian love. We are guided through John’s contrasts—light and darkness, truth and error, love and hatred, confidence and fear—with MacArthur following his familiar verse-by-verse approach. The commentary is aimed at pastors, Bible teachers, and thoughtful lay readers who desire clarity and doctrinal stability rather than academic technicality.

MacArthur handles the distinctive Johannine vocabulary and cyclical style with patience, helping readers understand why themes recur and how they interconnect. His focus remains on John’s pastoral aim: to assure believers of eternal life in Christ and to protect them from false teachers seeking to distort the apostolic message. While the commentary does not engage deeply with scholarly debates surrounding Johannine authorship or historical background, it succeeds in offering accessible, faithful exposition.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This commentary excels in presenting the pastoral weight of 1 John. MacArthur unpacks the epistle’s three great tests—doctrinal, moral, and relational—with consistent clarity, showing how assurance rests in Christ’s work, is evidenced by obedience, and is expressed through genuine love. His explanations make these themes highly preachable, especially for congregations wrestling with assurance or the challenges of loving one another faithfully.

We also appreciate MacArthur’s treatment of discernment. His exposition of antichrist teaching, false prophets, and the necessity of testing the spirits is steady, conservative, and pastorally sensitive. In an age marked by theological confusion, MacArthur’s clarity on these passages provides teachers with helpful structure and confidence.

His reflections on love—rooted in God’s nature, revealed in Christ’s sacrifice, and manifested in the life of the believer—are warm, practical, and grounded in the text. The commentary helps pastors communicate both the depth of God’s love and the seriousness of the call to love one another.

Though much shorter, 2 and 3 John are handled with equal care. MacArthur explains their emphasis on hospitality, truth, church leadership, and the dangers of both rejecting and receiving false teachers. These brief letters come to life with clear, pastoral application.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend MacArthur’s 1–3 John as a faithful and pastorally rich resource for preaching, teaching, and discipleship. Its clarity, doctrinal steadiness, and warm encouragement toward love, holiness, and discernment make it especially valuable for local church ministry.

Though best paired with a more technical work for deeper study of Johannine themes, this commentary stands as a reliable and edifying companion for anyone teaching these letters with conviction and care.


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2 Peter & Jude

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingUseful supplement

Summary

John MacArthur’s 2 Peter & Jude offers a clear and conservative exposition of two short yet potent New Testament letters. We are guided through their warnings against false teachers, their calls to doctrinal vigilance, and their encouragements to persevere in godliness. MacArthur follows his characteristic verse-by-verse approach, providing accessible explanation, pastoral application, and steady focus on the authority of Scripture. Designed for pastors, teachers, and lay leaders, this commentary serves those seeking clarity rather than technical debate.

Both letters require careful handling because of their strong language and complex background. MacArthur offers enough historical and linguistic detail to illuminate the text, while keeping the commentary readable. His commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture and to clear doctrinal boundaries makes this a reliable guide for those teaching in contexts where discernment is essential.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume shines in its treatment of false teaching. MacArthur draws out the pastoral urgency in both Peter and Jude, showing the destructive nature of false doctrine and the necessity of steadfast truth. His exposition is firm without being sensational—a helpful balance for preachers shepherding congregations through confusion or theological drift. The commentary equips readers to recognise the character, methods, and consequences of those who distort the gospel.

We especially appreciate MacArthur’s explanation of the positive exhortations in both letters: growing in the knowledge of Christ, building oneself up in the faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, and keeping oneself in the love of God. His pastoral applications are encouraging, urging believers toward spiritual maturity rather than mere polemics.

The commentary’s handling of difficult passages—such as the angels who sinned, the examples of judgment, and the imagery of the “last days”—is conservative and straightforward. MacArthur does not pursue speculative interpretations; instead, he offers measured explanations aimed at clarity and usefulness for teaching. This makes the volume especially valuable for small group leaders and pastors preparing sermons or discipleship material.

Throughout the commentary, the tone is steady, earnest, and centred on the need to remain anchored in Scripture while living in a world of moral chaos and doctrinal confusion. This matches the heartbeat of both letters and provides practical shepherding value for ministry today.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend MacArthur’s 2 Peter & Jude as a dependable and pastorally useful mid-level exposition. It serves those who teach or preach these letters with faithful clarity, offering both warning and encouragement in a manner that honours the intent of the biblical authors.

While it benefits from being paired with a more detailed technical commentary, this volume stands strong as a clear, accessible, and edifying resource for pastors and teachers committed to guarding the truth and strengthening believers in godliness.


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1 Peter

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingUseful supplement

Summary

John MacArthur’s 1 Peter offers a steady and pastorally rich exposition of Peter’s letter to scattered believers facing hardship and opposition. We are led through the apostle’s call to steadfast hope, holy living, and Christ-like endurance, with MacArthur following his familiar verse-by-verse approach. The commentary is written for pastors, Bible teachers, and thoughtful lay readers who desire clarity, doctrinal steadiness, and pastoral encouragement from the text.

MacArthur provides helpful background to the circumstances of suffering in Asia Minor and consistently keeps the focus on Peter’s pastoral aims. He offers brief linguistic insights, clear theological explanation, and practical application throughout. While the commentary does not pursue academic debates in depth, it succeeds in offering faithful exposition for those preparing sermons or leading Bible studies.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume shines in its treatment of Christian suffering and perseverance. MacArthur shows how Peter grounds endurance in the grace of God, the example of Christ, and the future inheritance promised to believers. His exposition of 1 Peter 1:3–9 is especially strong, helping readers feel the weight of Christian hope amid trials. Pastors will find this section rich for preaching encouragement to weary saints.

We also appreciate MacArthur’s clarity in handling the call to holiness. His reflections on living honourably among unbelievers, resisting sinful desires, and embracing a distinctively Christian way of life offer dependable guidance for discipleship and pastoral ministry.

The commentary provides clear and balanced instruction on submission and authority—addressing government, the workplace, and the home. While holding a complementarian view, MacArthur expresses these convictions with pastoral sensitivity. His exposition of Christ’s suffering and submission in chapter 2 is particularly helpful in shaping a Christ-centred ethic for believers.

MacArthur’s handling of difficult passages—such as 1 Peter 3:18–22—is straightforward and conservative. Though he does not engage extensively with alternative views, he presents his interpretation clearly and pastorally.

Closing Recommendation

We gladly recommend MacArthur’s 1 Peter as a warm, faithful, and practical resource for preaching and teaching. It is especially valuable for pastors shepherding congregations through trials, discouragement, or cultural pressure. The commentary’s emphasis on hope, holiness, submission, and Christ-like endurance aligns beautifully with Peter’s message.

While best used alongside a more technical commentary for deeper study, this volume provides a clear and edifying foundation for anyone committed to teaching 1 Peter with conviction and care.


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2 Timothy

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingUseful supplement

Summary

John MacArthur’s 2 Timothy provides a warm, pastoral, and text-focused exposition of Paul’s final letter. We are guided through the apostle’s last exhortations to his beloved coworker, his unwavering confidence in Christ, and his solemn charge to guard and proclaim the gospel. MacArthur follows his familiar verse-by-verse approach, offering clear explanations rooted in a conservative evangelical reading of Scripture. The commentary is crafted for pastors, teachers, and serious students who want dependable help in understanding and applying this deeply personal and powerful epistle.

Throughout the commentary, MacArthur balances doctrinal clarity with pastoral tenderness. He situates the letter in Paul’s imprisonment and impending death, helping readers feel both the urgency and the hope that characterise the epistle. While not academic in scope, the work provides enough background, linguistic insight, and theological reflection to aid effective preaching and teaching.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume is especially helpful in unpacking Paul’s charge to “preach the word” in chapter 4. MacArthur’s exposition is stirring and practical, offering guidance for faithful ministry in seasons of opposition, indifference, or suffering. His reflections on endurance, courage, and the sacred trust of Scripture are rooted firmly in the text and will strengthen pastors and elders in every context.

We also value the commentary’s treatment of gospel fidelity. MacArthur draws out Paul’s repeated emphasis on guarding the good deposit, avoiding empty chatter, and entrusting sound doctrine to faithful men. His pastoral applications speak directly to contemporary challenges in church leadership and theological drift.

The commentary handles difficult passages—such as the nature of false teachers, the meaning of apostasy, and the marks of godliness—in a clear and steady manner. MacArthur’s conservative perspective is evident, yet it is delivered with a pastoral heart, aiming to encourage rather than merely correct.

Through the letter’s personal sections—Paul’s loneliness, his longing for fellowship, his confidence in the Lord—MacArthur provides devotional and pastoral reflections that will resonate deeply with those engaged in ministry. This makes the commentary not only instructive for the mind but strengthening for the soul.

Closing Recommendation

We commend MacArthur’s 2 Timothy as an edifying and ministry-focused exposition. It serves pastors and teachers particularly well, offering clarity, conviction, and comfort for those committed to guarding the gospel and proclaiming Christ faithfully.

Although best paired with a more technical commentary for detailed study, this volume stands as an excellent mid-level resource and deserves a place in any preaching or pastoral library.


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1 Timothy

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingUseful supplement

Summary

John MacArthur’s 1 Timothy provides a clear and pastorally focused exposition of Paul’s instructions to his young coworker in Ephesus. We are guided through the apostle’s charge to defend sound doctrine, establish godly order in the church, and pursue holiness in both life and leadership. MacArthur follows his characteristic verse-by-verse approach, offering a conservative and straightforward reading designed to equip pastors, elders, and serious students of Scripture.

The commentary keeps close to the biblical text, giving brief historical background, occasional Greek insights, and steady pastoral reflections. While it does not engage deeply with academic discussions surrounding authorship, false teachers, or sociocultural background, it provides reliable exposition for those wanting clarity, doctrinal steadiness, and help for ministry practice.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume is especially valuable for its pastoral treatment of church leadership and order. MacArthur’s exposition of the qualifications for elders and deacons in chapter 3 is clear, practical, and rooted in the text. He emphasises character, godliness, and doctrinal fidelity—qualities that remain essential for ministry in every age. Teachers will find this section consistently useful for leadership training and congregational teaching.

We also appreciate the commentary’s handling of Paul’s concern for sound doctrine. MacArthur draws attention to the dangers of false teaching, myths, and speculative theology, helping pastors ground their ministries in the gospel rather than peripheral debates. His reflections on the stewardship of truth and the centrality of apostolic teaching are timely and pastorally helpful.

The commentary provides balanced exposition of more challenging passages—such as Paul’s instructions regarding public worship, gender roles, and pastoral responsibility. MacArthur’s conservative complementarian reading is expressed with clarity and conviction, and while readers from differing perspectives may nuance certain points differently, the commentary remains a useful guide for understanding the text as written.

Throughout, MacArthur’s pastoral tone helps anchor the commentary in the realities of ministry life: the temptations of pride, the dangers of greed, the need for perseverance, and the call to pursue godliness above all else.

Closing Recommendation

We commend MacArthur’s 1 Timothy as a reliable and pastoral exposition well-suited to those engaged in local church leadership. Its clarity, doctrinal stability, and practical applications make it an especially helpful resource for pastors, elders, and Bible study leaders.

While best used alongside more technical commentaries for deeper study, this volume offers a solid foundation for sermon preparation and for shaping healthy church practice grounded in Scripture.


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1 & 2 Thessalonians

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingUseful supplement

Summary

John MacArthur’s 1 & 2 Thessalonians offers a clear and steady exposition of Paul’s earliest letters, guiding readers through themes of gospel faithfulness, Christian hope, holy living, and the return of Christ. We are walked carefully through Paul’s encouragement to a young church facing persecution, as well as his correction of misunderstandings surrounding the Day of the Lord. Following his characteristic verse-by-verse approach, MacArthur provides a text-driven commentary suited especially for pastors and Bible teachers who desire clarity and doctrinal steadiness.

The commentary remains accessible throughout. MacArthur includes brief background notes, occasional Greek insights, and pastoral reflections, keeping the focus always on the plain meaning of the text. While the commentary does not engage deeply with scholarly disputes, it succeeds in its goal of offering straightforward, trustworthy exposition from a conservative evangelical perspective.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume is particularly strong in its handling of Christian hope and eschatology. MacArthur’s explanations of the return of Christ, the resurrection of believers, and the Day of the Lord are clear and pastorally sensitive. He writes with confidence regarding the authority of Scripture while acknowledging areas where faithful interpreters may differ. His exposition of 1 Thessalonians 4–5 is especially helpful for preachers seeking structure, clarity, and comfort for their congregations.

We also appreciate MacArthur’s pastoral treatment of perseverance and holiness. Thessalonian believers lived under pressure, and MacArthur highlights Paul’s encouragements to steadfastness, purity, and love with warmth and practicality. Teachers will find his exposition of work, idleness, and Christian responsibility in 2 Thessalonians 3 particularly useful for discipleship and pastoral care.

In addition, MacArthur provides balanced reflections on spiritual leadership, the ministry of encouragement, and the marks of a healthy church. His pastoral tone is evident throughout, making the commentary not only informative but also strengthening for those engaged in ministry.

While readers looking for detailed academic interaction will need supplementary works, this commentary excels as an accessible, dependable guide for preaching and teaching these two early epistles.

Closing Recommendation

We gladly commend MacArthur’s 1 & 2 Thessalonians as a faithful and pastorally rich exposition. It serves pastors, elders, and Bible study leaders especially well, offering clear explanations of eschatological passages and strong encouragement toward steadfast Christian living.

For those building a preaching-focused library, this volume provides an excellent mid-level resource—most valuable when paired with a more technical companion, yet fully capable of standing as a reliable foundation for sermon preparation.


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Colossians & Philemon

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingUseful supplement

Summary

John MacArthur’s Colossians & Philemon offers a clear and pastoral exposition of two closely related New Testament books. In Colossians, we are led through Paul’s majestic presentation of the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ, His role as Creator and Redeemer, and the implications of His lordship for Christian living. In Philemon, MacArthur guides us through Paul’s tender, gospel-shaped appeal for reconciliation, forgiveness, and brotherly love. As with the rest of the series, the commentary follows a straightforward verse-by-verse method, designed to help pastors, teachers, and thoughtful lay readers understand and apply the biblical text.

The commentary is not technical and does not attempt to engage exhaustively with scholarly debates. Instead, it prioritises clarity, doctrinal steadiness, and practical usefulness. MacArthur gives brief notes on Greek words, background information, and theological themes, always returning quickly to the central message of each passage.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume is particularly strong in its exposition of Colossians 1, where Paul unfolds the cosmic supremacy of Christ. MacArthur’s reflections on Christ as the image of the invisible God, the head of the church, and the reconciler of all things are clear, worshipful, and pastorally rich. Teachers will find this section especially useful for grounding their congregations in a high Christology.

We also appreciate the clarity with which MacArthur addresses the false teaching threatening the Colossian church. He exposes the dangers of legalism, mysticism, and asceticism, showing how each undermines the sufficiency of Christ. His pastoral applications consistently point readers back to the freedom and fullness found in union with Christ.

The exposition of the household instructions in Colossians 3–4 is practical and balanced, offering guidance for marriages, parenting, and work relationships. MacArthur’s pastoral tone helps bring these commands into the daily life of the church with clarity and gentleness.

His commentary on Philemon, though brief, is warm and thoughtful. MacArthur highlights the transforming power of the gospel in relationships and models how Christian love and forgiveness should shape church communities. It functions as a helpful devotional and pastoral companion to the doctrinally rich material in Colossians.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend Colossians & Philemon for pastors and Bible study leaders who want a clear, text-driven exposition that keeps Christ’s supremacy at the centre. Its simplicity and pastoral warmth make it especially useful for sermon preparation, discipleship, and teaching on the nature of Christian maturity and gospel-shaped relationships.

While it is best supplemented with more technical works for deeper study, this commentary provides a reliable and edifying foundation for anyone seeking to understand and teach these two important New Testament books.


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