Publisher: Eerdmans

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Eerdmans

Eerdmans

Founded in 1911 by William B. Eerdmans in Grand Rapids, Michigan, William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company has long been recognised as one of the leading publishers of serious Christian scholarship in the English-speaking world. Independent and interdenominational, Eerdmans maintains a strong evangelical heritage while engaging a broad academic readership. Its editorial ethos combines fidelity to Scripture with intellectual honesty, aiming to serve both the church and the academy through thoughtful, well-edited works in biblical studies, theology, and Christian history.

Eerdmans commentaries are distinguished by their scholarly depth, clarity of exposition, and enduring production quality. Series such as The New International Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (NICOT/NICNT) exemplify its commitment to rigorous exegesis joined with theological conviction. Many of its volumes have become standard reference points for pastors, seminarians, and scholars seeking trustworthy, text-focused engagement with the Word of God.

Volumes from this publisher are consistently dependable for serious students of Scripture.

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The Book Of Leviticus

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.6Author: Gordon J. Wenham Bible Book: Leviticus Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

Gordon Wenham’s contribution to the NICOT series on Leviticus remains one of the most influential treatments of the book in modern evangelical scholarship. We find here a careful, reverent handling of the text that combines linguistic skill, canonical sensitivity, and an evident appreciation for the theological weight of Israel’s sacrificial system. Wenham writes with a clarity that helps pastors and students gain a confident grasp of a book often considered difficult.

The commentary moves steadily through the text, explaining ritual detail without losing sight of Leviticus’ covenantal structure and pastoral purpose. Wenham shows how law, sacrifice, holiness, and worship all emerge from God’s gracious initiative, giving preachers the tools to handle the material with confidence rather than hesitation.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

Wenham’s work remains valuable because it succeeds at both detailed exegesis and clear theological synthesis. His explanations of ancient Near Eastern background, ritual terminology, and literary shape are consistently measured and free from speculation. This makes the commentary a reliable companion for anyone wanting to preach or teach Leviticus with conviction.

He is particularly strong in tracing the logic of the sacrificial system and the moral vision embedded within Israel’s holiness laws. Throughout, Wenham highlights how these instructions reveal God’s character and point forward to the fulfilment found in Christ, without forcing connections or losing the integrity of the Old Testament text.

For pastors preparing sermons, his structure, concise explanations, and thoughtful theological reflection make difficult passages accessible. For students, the commentary serves as a model of careful evangelical scholarship.

Closing Recommendation

This is a significant and trustworthy volume that has shaped generations of preachers. We gladly commend it to pastors and serious students who want depth without unnecessary technicality. Wenham’s work remains one of the best entry points for anyone preparing to teach Leviticus.

If you intend to spend any length of time preaching from this book, this commentary deserves a place on your shelf.


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The Book Of Genesis Chapters 18-50

Mid-levelAdvanced students / scholars, Busy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.0Author: Victor P. Hamilton Bible Book: Genesis Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Academic, Exegetical (Technical) Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

Victor P. Hamilton’s Genesis 18–50 continues the strengths of his first NICOT volume with the same blend of linguistic precision, narrative sensitivity, and theological depth. We find here a careful and reverent exposition of the patriarchal narratives, tracing Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph with a steady commitment to reading the text on its own terms. Hamilton is thorough without being burdensome, technical yet still attentive to the unfolding drama of God’s covenantal purposes.

This volume serves pastors, students, and serious readers who want a responsible and substantial guide to the latter half of Genesis. Hamilton keeps the narrative moving while offering detailed help on key interpretive and theological issues along the way.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

Hamilton is especially strong in explaining the literary coherence of Genesis 18–50. His work on the Abrahamic narratives, the complex Jacob cycle, and the theological weight of the Joseph story gives preachers firm footing when preparing to teach these rich passages. He handles the Hebrew text with competence, providing insight into structure, repeated motifs, and the flow of the storyline.

We appreciate Hamilton’s measured engagement with critical scholarship: he neither ignores nor idolises academic debates. Instead, he offers readers what they most need—clear explanation, careful exegesis, and a consistent concern to show how the text itself makes sense. His treatment of Joseph, in particular, gives readers a compelling view of God’s providence and covenant fidelity in the midst of human frailty and family conflict.

Although the commentary is more technical than explicitly pastoral, it offers rich material for preaching. Themes such as promise, blessing, reconciliation, and divine sovereignty are consistently and helpfully illuminated.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend Genesis 18–50 to pastors and teachers seeking a dependable and thorough companion for the patriarchal narratives. It rewards slow and attentive reading, offering clarity, depth, and theological steadiness throughout.

For those preparing to teach Genesis in depth, Hamilton’s work remains one of the finest and most trustworthy evangelical resources available.


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The Book Of Genesis Chapters 1-17

AdvancedAdvanced students / scholars, Busy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.0Author: Victor P. Hamilton Bible Book: Genesis Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Academic Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

Victor P. Hamilton’s Genesis 1–17 in the NICOT series is a careful, thorough, and deeply respectful exposition of the opening chapters of Scripture. We find it a work of substantial learning, marked by steady evangelical commitments and a seriousness about reading the text as Scripture rather than merely ancient literature. Hamilton moves patiently through creation, fall, flood, covenant, and the early patriarchal narratives, combining linguistic precision with clear theological observation.

This volume is designed for pastors and students who want to handle Genesis responsibly at a technical level without losing sight of its spiritual and doctrinal significance. It offers clarity on contentious issues while maintaining a tone of humility and restraint.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

Hamilton’s greatest strength lies in his ability to explain what the text is doing—literarily, theologically, and canonically. His analysis of structure, keyword patterns, and narrative flow provides preachers with a strong foundation for sermon preparation. He is especially helpful on the meaning and movement of Genesis 1–3, the nature of covenant in chapters 9 and 15, and the unfolding promises to Abram.

His engagement with critical scholarship is balanced and measured. Hamilton acknowledges alternative views without allowing them to dominate the commentary. Instead, he keeps the reader anchored in the text itself, showing how the narrative’s theological coherence and literary shape guide responsible interpretation.

This volume is also pastorally useful. Hamilton often highlights themes that echo across the canon—creation’s order and goodness, the depth of human rebellion, the mercy and justice of God, and the faith that marks Abraham’s life. These emphases equip preachers to proclaim Genesis in a way that honours both its ancient context and its place in redemptive history.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend Genesis 1–17 by Hamilton as a rich and trustworthy guide for anyone teaching or studying the foundations of Scripture. It requires slow reading, but those who invest the time will find clarity, depth, and theological steadiness.

For pastors, students, and serious readers seeking a substantial evangelical treatment of Genesis, this volume remains one of the finest resources available.


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The Books Of Ezra And Nehemiah

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.0Author: F. Charles Fensham Bible Book: Ezra, Nehemiah Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expository (Mid-Level) Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

F. Charles Fensham’s Ezra and Nehemiah in the NICOT series is a steady, text-focused exposition of two books that sit at a crucial moment in the life of God’s people. We find this commentary consistently clear, historically informed, and pastorally aware, offering readers a reliable guide to the return from exile, the rebuilding of temple and walls, and the renewal of worship under Ezra and Nehemiah’s leadership. Fensham writes from a broadly evangelical standpoint, combining academic seriousness with respect for the canonical shape of the text.

The strength of the volume lies in its balance: it deals carefully with historical and linguistic issues while also tracing the theological themes of grace, repentance, covenant identity, and persevering obedience. It serves pastors, students, and thoughtful readers who want a grounded, trustworthy companion to these post-exilic books.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

Fensham is particularly skilled at reconstructing the historical setting of Ezra and Nehemiah in a way that is both accessible and illuminating. He clarifies the political landscape of the Persian period, the administrative challenges faced by the returning remnant, and the spiritual priorities that shaped their reforms. This background material proves invaluable for preachers who want to help congregations feel the weight and hope of these books.

The commentary offers careful, verse-by-verse exposition without overwhelming the reader with technical digressions. Fensham’s treatment of Ezra’s commitment to the law, Nehemiah’s leadership under pressure, and the people’s rediscovery of their covenant identity provides rich material for pastoral ministry. His explanations of Hebrew terms and textual questions are concise and steady, giving readers confidence without unnecessary complexity.

What also stands out is Fensham’s ability to keep the theological heart of these books in view. He highlights themes of God’s providence, the cost of obedience, the importance of gathered worship, and the need for spiritual renewal among God’s people. These emphases make the commentary especially helpful for ministers seeking to apply Ezra and Nehemiah in a contemporary church context.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend Ezra and Nehemiah by Fensham as a clear, faithful, and pastorally useful commentary. It may not be the most technical volume available today, but it excels in clarity, balance, and theological steadiness—qualities that serve preachers exceptionally well.

For those preparing to teach or preach these books, this NICOT volume remains one of the most dependable and accessible evangelical treatments available.


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The Second Book Of Samuel

AdvancedAdvanced students / scholars, Busy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
7.8Author: David Toshio Tsumura Bible Book: 2 Samuel Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Academic Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

David Toshio Tsumura’s Second Samuel in the NICOT series is a deeply learned, text-driven exposition of one of the Old Testament’s most gripping and theologically charged narratives. We find it a commentary shaped by rigorous linguistic expertise, steady evangelical commitments, and a clear desire to help readers understand the canonical form of the text. Tsumura works patiently through the book’s structure, characters, and historical setting, giving pastors and students a strong foundation for responsible interpretation.

This volume pays careful attention to the Hebrew text while remaining accessible to those who are willing to read slowly. It offers clarity on difficult passages, avoids speculative reconstructions, and highlights the theological currents—sin, judgement, mercy, kingship, and covenant faithfulness—that run through the life of David and the life of Israel.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

The great strength of Tsumura’s work lies in its precision. His analysis of Hebrew narrative, idioms, and structure helps preachers avoid common missteps and handle the text with integrity. Whether addressing David’s triumphs, moral failures, or the complexities of court politics, Tsumura consistently draws attention to what the text says rather than what later assumptions impose upon it.

He engages scholarship with balance, interacting with critical views without allowing them to dictate the shape of his exposition. The result is a commentary that is academically trustworthy yet pastorally grounded. His thematic sensitivity—particularly around divine sovereignty, human frailty, and the unfolding of God’s purposes—provides rich material for preaching.

Although this is a technical commentary at heart, Tsumura writes with clarity, giving readers confidence as they move through some of the most difficult and emotionally charged narratives in the Old Testament. It is a volume that rewards careful study and strengthens the preacher’s grasp of the text’s message.

Closing Recommendation

We commend Second Samuel by Tsumura as a substantial and reliable guide for anyone preaching or studying this book. Its depth, steadiness, and refusal to sensationalise the text make it especially valuable for ministers who want to handle these narratives with theological maturity and pastoral care.

For those seeking a commentary that combines scholarly rigour with reverent exposition, this NICOT volume is a strong and enriching companion.


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The First Book Of Samuel

AdvancedAdvanced students / scholars, Busy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
7.8Author: David Toshio Tsumura Bible Book: 1 Samuel Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Academic Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

David Toshio Tsumura’s First Samuel in the NICOT series is a meticulous, academically rich, and linguistically precise exposition of this pivotal historical book. We find it a commentary deeply rooted in the Hebrew text, offering pastors and students a trustworthy guide through the narrative complexity, theological depth, and literary artistry of 1 Samuel. Tsumura’s work is grounded in broadly evangelical commitments, combining rigorous scholarship with a clear respect for the canonical shape of Scripture.

The commentary excels in clarifying historical and philological issues while giving careful attention to narrative structure and character development. It is particularly valuable for those seeking to understand the transition from judges to kingship and the theological themes that undergird Israel’s early monarchy.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

Tsumura brings formidable linguistic skills to the text, offering explanations of Hebrew syntax, vocabulary, and grammar that strengthen a preacher’s confidence in interpretation. Yet despite its technical depth, the commentary remains accessible enough for patient readers who want to dig into the text responsibly.

His treatment of Samuel, Saul, and David is especially insightful. Tsumura highlights the theological threads woven through the narrative—God’s sovereignty, the nature of true leadership, the danger of disobedience, and the surprising patterns of divine election. He consistently points readers to the theological message of the text rather than allowing historical debate to dominate the discussion.

Another strength is Tsumura’s balanced engagement with critical scholarship. He neither ignores difficult questions nor allows speculative theories to overshadow the narrative’s inspired coherence. His steady focus on what the text actually says makes this volume highly dependable for preaching and teaching.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend Tsumura’s *First Samuel* as one of the strongest technical-yet-usable commentaries on the book. It offers clarity for pastors preparing to preach, depth for advanced students, and theological integrity throughout.

For anyone seeking a robust and faithful guide to the rise of Israel’s monarchy and the rich theology of 1 Samuel, this commentary is a highly valuable addition to the study shelf.


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The Book Of Ruth

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.4Author: Robert L. Hubbard Bible Book: Ruth Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expositional Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

Robert L. Hubbard Jr.’s Ruth in the NICOT series is a beautifully crafted, academically responsible, and pastorally sensitive exposition of this cherished Old Testament book. We find it a commentary that combines rigorous linguistic work with warm theological insight, helping readers appreciate the narrative artistry and covenant theology that shape the story of Ruth. Hubbard writes from a broadly evangelical standpoint, offering a faithful and engaging treatment that serves pastors, teachers, and thoughtful Christians alike.

The commentary highlights the literary sophistication of Ruth while situating it firmly within the larger redemptive storyline. Hubbard’s attention to structure, character development, and the book’s theological themes gives readers a rich understanding of how God’s providence and kindness are woven through the narrative.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

Hubbard excels at showing how Ruth is far more than a simple love story. He demonstrates its theological depth—its portrayal of loyal love, covenant faithfulness, and the surprising grace of God reaching into the margins of Israel’s life. His exposition helps preachers appreciate how each scene contributes to the book’s movement from emptiness to fullness.

The commentary is especially strong in its analysis of Hebrew narrative technique. Hubbard’s careful work on the text brings clarity to key words, literary motifs, and structural features that shape the book’s impact. Yet he never loses sight of the pastoral importance of the story: the hope it offers to the suffering, the dignity it gives to the overlooked, and the assurance it provides of God’s steadfast commitment to His people.

Hubbard’s engagement with scholarship is balanced and discerning. He interacts with alternative views without overwhelming the reader or distracting from the message of the book. Pastors will benefit from his clear explanations, thoughtful thematic summaries, and sensitivity to the theological richness of Ruth.

Closing Recommendation

We strongly commend Hubbard’s volume as one of the finest evangelical treatments of Ruth available. It offers depth for the preacher, clarity for the student, and warmth for any believer seeking to understand God’s redeeming grace in the everyday details of life.

For those preparing to preach or study Ruth, this commentary provides a trustworthy and illuminating guide—rich, careful, and consistently edifying.


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The Book Of Joshua

AdvancedAdvanced students / scholars, Busy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.2Author: Marten H. Woudstra Bible Book: Joshua Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expositional Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

Marten H. Woudstra’s Joshua in the NICOT series is a careful, reverent, and deeply informed exposition of Israel’s entry into the land. We find it a commentary marked by confessional steadiness, linguistic competence, and a clear understanding of Joshua’s place within the unfolding covenant story. Written from a broadly Reformed perspective, it offers pastors and students a reliable guide through a book often misunderstood or mishandled in the contemporary church.

Woudstra balances detailed exegesis with theological attentiveness, setting the narratives of conquest and inheritance within the larger framework of God’s promises to Abraham and the covenantal faithfulness that shapes Israel’s identity.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume excels in its sensitivity to the theological pulse of Joshua. Woudstra shows how the book is not primarily about military triumphs but about God’s sovereign fulfilment of His word and the call to courageous obedience. His careful attention to structure—especially the division between conquest, allotment, and covenant renewal—provides preachers with clarity and confidence when planning a series.

Woudstra engages critical scholarship without being dominated by it. He treats the canonical text with respect, avoiding speculative reconstructions and instead emphasising the theological coherence of the book. His exposition illuminates key themes such as holiness, inheritance, leadership, and the faithfulness of God across generations.

Although written several decades ago, the commentary remains fresh in tone, rich in substance, and enduringly helpful for those who want to preach Joshua with integrity. It offers depth without obscurity and serves both the academy and the church with commendable clarity.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend Woudstra’s *Joshua* as one of the finest evangelical expositions of this book. It is especially valuable for pastors and advanced students who desire a commentary that is academically responsible, theologically grounded, and pastorally beneficial.

For anyone preparing to teach Joshua in the local church, this volume will prove a steady companion—clear, faithful, and deeply nourishing.


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The Book Of Deuteronomy

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.2Author: Peter C. Craigie Bible Book: Deuteronomy Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Exegetical (Technical), Expositional Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

Peter C. Craigie’s The Book of Deuteronomy in the NICOT series is a thoughtful, disciplined exposition of one of Scripture’s most formative books. We find it a model of careful evangelical scholarship—rich in historical insight, attentive to literary structure, and deeply aware of Deuteronomy’s covenantal heartbeat. Written with clarity and restraint, it serves pastors, students, and serious readers who want to understand how Deuteronomy speaks both in its ancient setting and within the whole counsel of God.

Craigie approaches the text with reverence, working closely with the Hebrew while keeping the commentary readable. His handling of Moses’ sermons, the law sections, and the theological emphases of the book consistently reflects a commitment to Scripture’s authority and unity.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We value Craigie’s ability to synthesise scholarship without overwhelming the reader. He brings out the pastoral and theological pulse of Deuteronomy—its call to remember, obey, and walk in covenant fidelity—while avoiding speculative reconstructions. His discussions of structure, setting, and key themes give preachers solid footing when navigating the book’s density.

The commentary is especially strong in showing how Deuteronomy frames the Old Testament story and shapes Israel’s worship, ethics, and identity. Craigie’s exposition helps readers see why this book stands at the threshold of the Old Testament canon, echoing throughout the prophets, the Psalms, and the ministry of Jesus.

Although more concise than later NICOT volumes, its very simplicity makes it a dependable companion for sermon preparation, Bible study leadership, and personal study. Craigie’s even-handed judgement and theological steadiness make this a trustworthy guide for those seeking clarity and depth.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend this volume as an excellent entry point into preaching or studying Deuteronomy. It may not answer every technical question, but its clarity, reliability, and pastoral usefulness make it one of the most accessible and enduring commentaries on this foundational book.

Pastors, students, and thoughtful readers alike will benefit from Craigie’s careful exposition and his evident desire to help the church hear the living voice of God in Deuteronomy.


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The Book Of Numbers

AdvancedAdvanced students / scholars, Busy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.2Author: Timothy R. Ashley Bible Book: Numbers Series: New International Commentary On The Old Testament Publisher: Eerdmans Type: Academic Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical

Summary

Timothy R. Ashley’s The Book of Numbers in the NICOT series is a substantial, academically informed commentary that combines careful exegesis with a broadly evangelical commitment to the authority of Scripture. We find it a comprehensive and steady guide through one of the Old Testament’s more complex books, serving pastors, students, and serious readers who want to wrestle with the text in its literary and theological depth.

Ashley works closely with the Hebrew text, attends to structure, narrative flow, and historical context, and offers a balanced engagement with scholarly debates without overwhelming the reader. While primarily technical in orientation, the commentary remains attentive to the theological message of Numbers and its place within the Pentateuch.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We appreciate Ashley’s combination of philological care and theological awareness. His explanations of difficult passages—whether in the wilderness narratives, the laws, or the census materials—give preachers confidence that they are handling the text responsibly. He regularly clarifies interpretive options and demonstrates why one reading better accounts for the literary and theological shape of the book.

The commentary’s strength lies in its even-handedness: Ashley neither flattens difficulties nor indulges speculative reconstruction. He treats the canonical form of Numbers with respect, helping readers see its coherence, movement, and ongoing significance for the people of God.

Pastors will benefit from his discussions of structure and intention, especially in sections where preaching can feel daunting. Though not overtly devotional, the commentary repeatedly draws attention to God’s holiness, patience, discipline, and covenant faithfulness.

Closing Recommendation

For those preaching or studying Numbers at depth, this is a reliable, weighty companion. It requires slow reading but rewards it richly, especially for ministers and advanced students wanting a detailed, text-driven exposition grounded in sound evangelical scholarship.

We warmly commend it as a strong resource for sustained study of Numbers and an excellent addition to any serious Old Testament library.


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