James Montgomery Boice (1938 – 2000) was an American Reformed Christian theologian, Bible teacher, author, and speaker known for his writing on the authority of Scripture and the defense of biblical inerrancy.
He was also the Senior Minister of Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia from 1968 until his death.
He also served as Chairman of the International Council on Biblical Inerrancy for over ten years and was a founding member of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.
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Reviews
“Dr. Boice’s commentary series is a treasure for the church and for her pastors. No expository preacher can afford to be without it.”
— R.C. Sproul
“Of all that I’ve seen, this commentary probably provides the best direct help for preaching on the Psalms. Boice has written a well-crafted, easily understood commentary that provides good historical background and thoughtful suggestions for illustration.”
— Minister’s Packet (April/May 1999)
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Volumes
The links below go to Amazon using each book’s exact ISBN.
Genesis Vol. 1: Creation and Fall
What can we gain from studying the Book of Genesis? According to James Montgomery Boice, starting at the beginning of everything causes us to think about God and to understand ourselves as fallen, yet redeemable.
This knowledge not only deepen our understanding of the Christian faith but also enhances our ability to impart the gospel’s truth to a world desperately in need of it.
The first in a three-volume series on the Book of Genesis, Creation and Fall shows how the story of redemption–essentially all of Scripture–has no significance apart from the story of creation and fall.
These first eleven chapters of Genesis establish the relationship of God to the cosmos and to all peoples of the earth.
Topics covered in volume 1 include:
In the Beginning (1:1)
Is the Fall a Fact? (3:1-6)
Only Evil All the Time (6:5-8)
The God Who Remembers (8:1-19)
The Test of Human Government (9:1-7)
The Tower of Babel (11:1-9)
Genesis Vol. 2: A New Beginning
In this commentary on Genesis 12-36, Boice traces the “new beginning” of God’s plan of redemption, which arose out of God’s relationship with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
By delving into the patriarchs’ lives, Boice demonstrates how much they are like us and how easily we relate to them, both in triumphs and failures.
The second of three volumes on the Book of Genesis, A New Beginning shows how God changed the course of history beginning with one less-than-perfect man. It reveals the patriarchs’ stories as compelling, dramatic, and true to life.
As you study their stories, writes Boice, “I trust that God will use their strengths and weaknesses, victories and failures, to guide you in the true path of discipleship and to strengthen your witness.”
Topics covered include:
The Gift of Faith (12:4)
Promises to Live By (15:2-5)
God’s Covenant Children (17:23-27)
What Made Abraham Glad? (22:13-14)
A Tale of Two Sons (25:12-26)
Jacob’s Wages (30:25-43)
Genesis Vol. 3: Living by Faith
No man in Scripture lived more consistently and completely for God than did Joseph, a favorite son of Jacob. In times of adversity and in times of prosperity-both of which offered the temptation to deny God and his lordship-Joseph remained steadfast.
Living by Faith is the third and final volume on Genesis. Volume 1 focused on God’s relationship to the cosmos and to all peoples of the earth. Volume 2 traced the “new beginning” of God’s plan of redemption. In volume 3, Boice follows the complete story of Joseph, a “man for all seasons.” By exploring Joseph’s loyalty to God, Boice presents him as an example for Christians today.
Topics include:
God’s Man in Egypt (37:36)
Prospering in Prison (39:20-23)
What Can I Believe? (45:25-28)
The Living Church (48:1-11)
Joseph: A Fruitful Vine (49:22-26)
Blessings upon Children’s Children (50:22-23)
Commentaries by James Montgomery Boice explain the meaning of the biblical text verse by verse and section by section, while also relating the text to the realities of Christian life.
This latest addition to Boice’s popular expositional commentary series discusses the themes of obedience and love in the context of the life of Joshua, a chosen military commander. Boice’s easy-to-understand writing makes Joshua a helpful commentary for pastors, students, and laypeople alike.
Nehemiah was a great leader. According to James Montgomery Boice, Nehemiah’s leadership abilities were born from his submission to God, his ability to focus on the right goals, his wisdom in handling complex situations, and his courage to act decisively.
“But the most important thing about Nehemiah,” says Boice, “is that he was a man of God, and because he was so close to God in prayer and personal piety, he was able to draw from God the wisdom, patience, skill, and perseverance he needed.”
This insightful commentary follows a chosen leader through the great task of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem 150 years after it was destroyed by King Nebuchadnezzar.
Through analysis of eight dynamics of the Old Testament text, Boice explores all aspects of Nehemiah’s work, from taking command to getting the work done, from dealing with oppression to dedicating the wall and establishing Jerusalem as a city under God.
No matter how familiar you may be with the Psalms, an incredible amount of information and insight can be gained through this commentary.”–Christian Retailing
Whether you’re a serious Bible student probing through Psalm 19 or a first-time reader inspired by the promise of Psalm 23, this first volume on the book of Psalms explores each of the first forty-one psalms, uncovering deep reflections, wisdom for living, and verses of praise, confidence, and repentance.
Psalm 1 stresses the importance of God’s guidance in one’s life.
Psalm 16 foretells Jesus’ resurrection, a startling and impressive declaration for the time.
Psalm 23 portrays life as a pilgrimage, where God is provider, comforter, and friend.
I have always thought of the psalms as the deepest and most spiritual portion of the Word of God.”–James Montgomery Boice
Covering Psalms 42-106, this second volume on the book of Psalms portrays the realities of human life and the peace that is found in God alone. James Montgomery Boice explores the life of David–his pain, trials, joy, and spiritual aspirations.
Psalm 47 reveals God as king of all the earth and calls people of all nations to praise him.
Psalm 62 speaks God’s peace to anyone discouraged, depressed, or threatened.
Psalm 100 invites us to “enter his courts with thanksgiving.”
The psalms themselves speak so powerfully to the hurts, fears, disappointments, faith, hope, and spiritual aspirations of God’s people.”–James Montgomery Boice
Exploring Psalms 107-150, this third and final volume on the book of Psalms offers solid, practical, and well-illustrated expositions on God’s nurturing, grace, comfort, and instruction.
James Montgomery Boice expounds on the theme of worship–what true worship is, who should worship, and when and how we should praise God.
Psalm 110 calls us to offer our lives to Christ the Messiah.
Psalm 133 describes the unity of those who live together as brothers.
Psalm 147 challenges us to move our focus from ourselves to a God who is worthy of our praise.
Commentaries by James Montgomery Boice explain the meaning of the biblical text verse by verse and section by section, while also relating the text to the realities of the Christian life.
This new commentary will inform pastors, Bible students, and interested laypersons of Daniel’s illuminating insights into history and its message of how to live for God in ungodly times.
Minor Prophets Vol. 1: Hosea – Jonah
The Minor Prophets dramatize the character of God as few other books in the Bible do. According to noted expositor James Montgomery Boice, they particularly highlight three aspects of God’s character: his sovereignty, his holiness, and his love.
The messages of the Minor Prophets and their pertinent application for our lives should not be dismissed.
This two-volume expositional and inspirational commentary on the Minor Prophets integrates rigorous scholarship with accessible writing.
It will inform a wide range of readers–from serious Bible students to interested laypersons–and help you understand and apply the truths found in the text.
Boice not only explains the meaning of the text verse by verse and section by section, he also relates the text’s concerns to the world in which we live, the life of the church, and the realities of the Christian life.
Volume 1 surveys Hosea through Jonah, covering such topics as:
The Second Greatest Story in the Bible (Hosea 1:1-2:1)
The Divided Heart of Israel (Hosea 10:1-15)
Peter’s Text at Pentecost (Joel 2:28-32)
How God Views Religion (Amos 4:1-5:15)
Deliverance in Zion (Obadiah 15-21)
The Greatest Revival in History (Jonah 3:1-10)
Minor Prophets Vol. 2: Micah – Malachi
The Minor Prophets dramatize the character of God as few other books in the Bible do. According to noted expositor James Montgomery Boice, they particularly highlight three aspects of God’s character: his sovereignty, his holiness, and his love.
The messages of the Minor Prophets and their pertinent application for our lives should not be dismissed.
This two-volume expositional and inspirational commentary on the Minor Prophets integrates rigorous scholarship with accessible writing.
It will inform a wide range of readers–from serious Bible students to interested laypersons–and help you understand and apply the truths found in the text.
Boice not only explains the meaning of the text verse by verse and section by section, he also relates the text’s concerns to the world in which we live, the life of the church, and the realities of the Christian life.
Volume 2 surveys Micah through Malachi, covering such topics as:
A King for Judah (Micah 4:6-5:5)
God Against Ninevah (Nahum 1:1-2:13)
The Secret of Effective Prayer (Habakkuk 3:1-2)
God of the Nations (Zephaniah 2:4-3:8)
Former Glory, Future Glory (Haggai 2:1-23)
Call to True Religion (Zechariah 7:1-8:23)
Mirror of This Age (Malachi 1:1-5)
New Testament
Matthew: An Expositional Commentary, vol. 1
Matthew: An Expositional Commentary, vol. 2
The Gospel of Matthew, said James Montgomery Boice, is “the first of the gospels, the longest, the most Jewish, the most evangelistic, and, in many ways, the most compelling. To some people, now as well as then, Matthew is the most important book ever written.”
This two-volume expositional commentary on one of the Bible’s most powerful books integrates rigorous scholarship and clear communication.
Boice not only explains the meaning of the text verse by verse and section by section, he relates the text’s concerns to the world in which we live, the life of the church, and the realities of the Christian life.
Based on messages preached at Philadelphia’s world-renowned Tenth Presbyterian Church, The Gospel of Matthew displays Dr. Boice’s hallmark blend of thoughtful interpretation and contemporary insight for daily living.
It will appeal to a wide range of readers, from serious Bible students to interested laypersons.
Many pastors, students, and teachers have come to know and depend upon James Montgomery Boice’s scholarly yet accessible commentaries on the most popular books of the Bible.
Here is an addition to the Boice commentaries that has a unique focus. Instead of examining an entire book of the Bible, it provides readers with an in-depth look into Matthew 5-7, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount.
As with his other commentaries, Boice explains the meaning of the text verse by verse and also guides readers on how to apply the truths they find by relating the concerns of the text to today’s world, the church, and the realities of the Christian life.
Boice’s clear and practical writing will make The Sermon on the Mount a helpful commentary for a wide range of readers, from serious Bible students to interested laypersons.
The Gospel of John Vol. 1: The Coming of the Light
The Gospel of John, says James Montgomery Boice, is “a powerful source of instruction and comfort to many millions of God’s people down through the ages of church history.”
Exploring chapters 1-4, this first volume on the Gospel of John is an insightful study and devotional guide for serious Bible students as well as interested laypersons.
James Montgomery Boice explores the coming of Jesus Christ and discusses the initial reaction some people had toward him.
Topics include:
“Light for Every Man” (1:9)
“The Mark of the Christian” (1:35-51)
“Was Jesus Christ a Revolutionary?” (2:12-17)
“God’s Greatest Gift” (3:16)
“Last Words of a Humble Man” (3:22-30)
“Christ, the Soul Winner” (4:30)
The Gospel of John Vol. 2: Christ and Judaism
“If we allow God to use us, we become important spiritually,” says James Montgomery Boice. “For the Lord Jesus Christ himself is seen in the conduct of his followers.”
This second volume on the Gospel of John shows how Jesus dealt with the hostility that began to arise among the religious leaders in regard to various practices of faith and how he didn’t allow their hostility to deter him from his path.
In so doing, Christ provided the ultimate example for living in the Father’s name.
Other topics discussed include:
“Is God Silent?” (5:17-23)
“A Matter of Life or Death” (5:28-30)
“Who’s in Charge?” (6:10-15)
“Murmurs of Disbelief” (6:41-47)
“None like Jesus” (7:45-52)
“The Last Enemy” (8:51)
The Gospel of John Vol. 3: Those Who Received Him
“Open your ears,” says James Montgomery Boice. “Hear the voice of Christ. Believe him. Turn to him. Throw yourself upon him. Receive him as your Savior.”
Even in the midst of pain and persecution, we are to live as Christ would live. Volume 3 on the Gospel of John shows Jesus turning to all who had received him in the midst of, and in spite of, growing hostility from the authorities of Judaism.
Covering chapters 9-12 of the Gospel, this volume covers such topics as:
“The Problem of Pain” (9:2-3)
“A Question for Everyone” (9:35-38)
“One Flock, One Shepherd” (10:16, 19-21)
“Why Did Jesus Christ Die?” (11:51-52)
“How to Save Your Own Life” (12:24-26)
“Jesus, the Great Attraction” (12:31-33)
The Gospel of John Vol. 4: Peace in Storm
“Do you want peace?” asks James Montgomery Boice. “Are you willing to receive it at the point where Jesus indicated it may truly be found?”
This fourth volume on the Gospel of John calls us to the peace that can be found in Christ’s love. Nowhere in the entire Bible can we walk on more holy ground as we listen to Christ’s final discourses.
Covering chapters 13-17, Boice discusses such topics as:
“Love Letters from the Lord” (13:1)
“A Clue for Finding Happiness” (13:16-17)
“Gifts and Fruit” (14:16-18)
“God Glorified . . . in You” (15:8-11)
“No Strange Trial” (16:1-4)
“The Real Lord’s Prayer” (17:1-5)
The Gospel of John Vol. 5: Triumph Through Tragedy
“In the wisdom and purpose of God,” says James Montgomery Boice, “the tragedy of the cross is a triumph since it is this that makes salvation possible.”
More than a message of Christ’s triumph, the final chapters of the Gospel of John describe how we can triumph as well. Volume 5 covers chapters 18-21 and deals with the culmination of Christ’s earthly ministry, centering on his betrayal, trial, death, and resurrection.
Topics discussed include:
“The Charge against the Prisoner” (18:19-24)
“Words from the Cross” (19:25-27)
“For Whom Did Christ Die?” (19:30)
“The Not-Quite-Empty Tomb” (20:1-10)
“The Best News Ever Heard” (20:18)
“Christ’s Last Word” (21:22)
“There’s nothing today’s church needs so much as to rediscover the doctrine, spirit, and commitments of the early Christian community,” writes James Montgomery Boice.
The power the early church exhibited for changes and growth is overwhelming.
Although it faced enormous obstacles–it was completely new, it taught truths that seemed unbelievable, and it suffered intense hatred and persecution-the church managed to spread across the early world within the lifetime of the first generation of believers.
In fifty chapters that progress through the book of Acts, Boice issues a challenge to believers to follow the first-century church. We are encouraged to glean the vital principles that enabled the early church to expand, and then apply them to our modern-day church.
If we take time to study the expansion of the early church, we can spread the gospel the way it was spread during the first century-by the faithful preaching and teaching of the great truths of the Bible.
Romans Vol. 1: Justification by Faith
Christianity has been the most powerful, transforming force in human history,” says James Montgomery Boice, “and the book of Romans is the most basic, most comprehensive statement of true Christianity.”
Volume 1, Justification by Faith, discusses the full impact of justification by faith alone. Boice uses stories and hymns to present the thoughts of Paul in a poetic form and provides word studies based on the Greek text to add meaning and enrichment to Paul’s words.
Chapters and verses discussed include:
“A Reputation Worth Having” (1:8)
“Not Ashamed” (1:16-17)
“Lifting the Lid on Hell” (1:29-31)
“Not Hearers Only, but Doers” (2:12-15)
“Amazing Grace” (3:22-24)
“The Steps of Faith” (4:12)
Romans Vol. 2: The Reign of Grace
Grace reigns,” says James Montgomery Boice, “not because God is gracious to us no matter what we do, but because grace has created in us a genuinely godly walk.”
Volume 2, The Reign of Grace, focuses on the sovereignty, grace, and holiness of God and on the need for holiness in believers. James Montgomery Boice discusses the full meaning of salvation, the problem with suffering, the struggles of sin, and the sustaining love God pours on his people.
He also discusses:
“God’s Purpose in Human Suffering” (5:3-5)
“Abounding Grace” (5:20)
“Whatever Became of Sin?” (7:13)
“The Greatest Chapter in the Bible” (8:1-39)
“The Inheritance of God’s Saints” (8:17)
“Five Unanswerable Questions” (8:31-36)
Romans Vol. 3: God and History
No religion is stronger than its god,” says James Montgomery Boice, “and in the case of Christianity, no Christians have ever been stronger than their knowledge of the true God and their desire to obey and glorify him.”
God and History asks what in the world is God doing to help Christians gain a better understanding of who he is? With life-empowering descriptions of God’s sovereignty and purpose, James Montgomery Boice shows us a balanced view of predestination and other issues that sometimes trouble us.
Boice discusses:
“The Potter and the Clay” (9:19-21)
“Two Kinds of Righteousness” (10:3)
“Heart Belief and Mouth Confession” (10:10)
“The Outstretched Hands of God” (10:21)
“A Future for God’s Ancient People” (11:23-24)
Romans Vol. 4: The New Humanity
It is changed people who change everything,” says James Montgomery Boice. “If you have been called to faith in Jesus Christ, you are part of the radically changed community, the new humanity.”
Volume 4, The New Humanity, explores the life applications of theology Paul set out in the final four chapters of the book of Romans. Calling all Christians to renew their understanding of the great doctrines of Christianity, Boice shows how we can live by these teachings even today.
He discusses:
“God’s Good, Pleasing, and Perfect Will” (12:2)
“Right Living at All Times” (12:17)
“To Each His Due” (13:6-7)
“Understanding the Times” (13:11)
“Check-off Points for a Good Church” (15:14)
“The Full Measure of God’s Blessing” (15:29)
According to James Montgomery Boice, Paul’s great letter to the Ephesians is “a mini-course in theology, centered on the church.”
Writing to the church in a city much like modern-day New York, Paul laid out his mature vision of the Christian faith’s central elements. The apostle set these fundamental doctrines in the context of the church as the body of Christ.
In this compelling commentary, Boice presents the message of Paul with great depth and clarity. The author proclaims the profound yet simple gospel once delivered to the church in Ephesus and effectively applies it to the modern church.
Writes Boice: “There is no denying that Ephesians is deeply appealing, perhaps precisely because . . . it presents the basic doctrines of Christianity comprehensively, clearly, practically, and winsomely.”
With this helpful, thoughtful commentary as your guide, you are invited to discover the appeal of Ephesians for yourself
The latest addition to Dr. Boice’s popular expositional commentary series, The Epistles of John brings into focus three of John’s major themes: righteousness, truth, and love.
This commentary not only explains the meaning of the text verse by verse and section by section, but it relates the concerns of the text to the world, the church, and the realities of Christian life.
Pastors, Bible students, and laypersons alike will find Boice’s easy-to-read commentary an important tool for understanding the letters of the disciple whom Jesus loved.
See the Bible Commentaries Comparison Chart to compare this series to dozens of others.