Thanks go out to Thomas Nelson Publishers for the recent re-release of one of my favorite commentary sets for preachers. Originally published as The Communicator's Commentary, the entire New Testament series has now been reissued in softcover as The Preacher's Commentary. These volumes are written by preachers for preachers, and include authors such as Lloyd Ogilvie (who was also General Editor for the series), Stuart Briscoe, Maxie Dunnam, Earl Palmer and many more. Over the years I've turned to these volumes again and again for preaching ideas, so it is a delight to see them made available for a new generation of preachers. (The entire set retails for about $200, but is available through Amazon for about $145.) Now I'm looking forward to seeing the Old Testament volumes!
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Another great resource for preachers is John Phillips' "Exploring" series, published by Kregel Publications. (You've seen excerpts from these in Preaching over the past year.) Three new volumes in the series were released this year: Exploring the Love Song of Solomon, Exploring the Epistles of John, and Exploring the Future. The last title is unlike the others in the series in that it explores biblical texts from several portions of scripture (rather than a single book) on the subject of biblical prophecy. Phillips consistently provides helpful expository insights.
The Holman Old Testament Commentary (Broadman & Holman) continues to offer excellent tools for pastors. These volumes are designed specifically for the preacher-teacher, and provide practical interpretations and summaries of the text, along with useful outlines, illustrations and resources which will be of real value to the preacher. Two of the most recent volumes to be released as Isaiah by Trent Butler and Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers by Glen S. Martin. Preachers will find both volumes to be helpful additions to their libraries.
The New Testament Library (Westminster John Knox Press) is a new series which will reflects the insights of primarily mainline scholarship. The volumes will include fresh translations based on the best available manuscripts. Two of the most recent releases are written by Catholic scholars: II Corinthians by Frank J. Matera and I & II Timothy and Titus by Raymond F. Collins. Both Matera and Collins teach at the Catholic University of America.