Paideia Commentaries are modern biblical studies reference tools that focus on the interpretation, and theological implications, of New Testament books.
Paideia authors comment passage-by-passage, yet discuss individual words, phrases, and verses when they are important to the overarching meaning of text.
The publisher notes that “each commentary follows the original train of thought as indicated by the author instead of modern artificial distinctions.
Using this approach, one is able to grasp not only the exegetical-historical information of a passage, but also follow a coherent theological expression throughout.”
Which commentary series is best for your purposes? See Best Bible Commentaries: Top 50. Based on aggregate reviews.
 |
|---|
Want to save money on bible commentaries? Logos Bible Software is the best digital resource for bible commentaries, theology books, and more. When you sign up through Best Bible Commentaries, you will save 10% on the cost of the software in addition to getting five free books. Click on the LOGOS image above to learn more. |
Paideia Commentaries: Reviews
“The Paideia Commentary series has established itself as a solid series of concise works that focus on the final form of the biblical text, highlighting narrative flow, rhetorical devices and structure, and commenting particularly on relevant historical background and theological significance.”
~ Craig L. Blomberg, Denver Journal
“[I] continue to be impressed by the contributors’ skill in combining academic rigor with accessibility. . . . The [series] authors . . . combine historical and linguistic analysis with theological reflection, which makes these commentaries useful for those interested in bridging the gap between the ancient world and contemporary Christianity (seminarians, clergy). . . . Frequent inserts with asides [offer] additional explanations or attempts to relate ancient texts to contemporary issues.”
~ Michael Gilmour, Catholic Biblical Quarterly
Author Interviews from the Paideia series on Best Bible Commentaries
1-2 Peter – Duane Watson (click to read full Q & A)
Preview: “While it was not a focus of this series, I was most edified by trying to write the theological issues section. I was raised in the holiness movement and look for how I can apply what the text says to daily life. As I have grown older, I have tried to refine this practical approach by not being too specific as to how a text can be applied and rather open up the possibilities to people to pursue their own paths.”
Volumes in the Concordia Commentary Series
The links below go to Amazon, which sells new and used books. Also visit Christian Book Distributors’ Paideia commentaries page to compare prices.
“Happy are those students (and pastors and teachers) who will read Talbert’s commentary early in their formation. They will learn from a master teacher how to do biblical exegesis from historical, literary, and theological perspectives.”–Daniel J. Harrington, SJ, Catholic Biblical Quarterly
“Balanced in judgment and offering numerous astute observations, this work should prove highly useful, especially to serious readers seeking a reliable introduction and companion for their study of Mark’s account of Jesus’s ministry.”–Larry W. Hurtado, New College, University of Edinburgh
“Among the spate of commentaries published on John’s Gospel, Brant’s is distinctive and distinguished. It may well become the text of choice for the university classroom and will enhance appreciation of the Bible as literature.”–Willard Swartley, Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary
“An impressive analysis. . . . Parsons draws on his extensive studies of Greco-Roman literature and ancient concepts of physiognomy to provide a useful and illuminating commentary.”–Joseph B. Tyson, Catholic Biblical Quarterly
“[Matera] provides readers with a careful scholarly overview of the text and discusses the major interpretive issues that it has occasioned. This is a highly informative and user-friendly commentary on a hugely influential text.”–Paul Foster, Expository Times
“Learned and concise. This is an ideal commentary for students and pastors seeking a reliable guide to one of Paul’s most important letters.”–Frank J. Matera, Catholic University of America
2 Corinthians – Raymond F. Collins
“Collins’s impressive scholarly achievements and vast teaching experience are evident in his commentary on 2 Corinthians. He deftly leads his readers through Paul’s most challenging text. In addition to highlighting Paul’s rhetorical strategies, Collins offers a lucid exposition of the apostle’s defense of his ministry and his determination to help the Corinthians to embrace God’s mysterious way of exhibiting power through weakness. I will strongly recommend that my students read this commentary, which continues the level of excellence set by its predecessors in the Paideia series.” —Thomas D. Stegman, SJ, associate professor of New Testament and Professor Ordinarius in the Ecclesiastical Faculty of Boston College School of Theology and Ministry
Ephesians and Colossians – Charles H. Talbert
“Talbert’s work succeeds wonderfully in fulfilling the vision for the Paideia commentaries–the seasoned work of a scholar-teacher made accessible for theological students–and if subsequent volumes match the standard set here, this series will indeed be one to watch in coming days.”–Timothy G. Gombis, Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society
“Thompson’s masterful commentary on Hebrews will be a boon to students, preachers, and experts alike. Its clear, readable style, accompanied by a wealth of sidebars and charts, makes one of the most obscure books of the New Testament easily accessible.”–Alan C. Mitchell, Review of Biblical Literature
James and Jude – Duane F. Watson and Terrance Callan
“An excellent contribution to the impressive Paideia commentary series. Students will benefit greatly from this well-written volume. Veteran scholars are also encouraged to add it to their library.”–Craig A. Evans, Acadia Divinity College
First and Second Peter – John Painter and David A. deSilva
“A solid, rhetorically informed commentary that fulfills the aspirations of the Paideia series. I look forward to recommending this work to my students.”–Peter H. Davids, Houston Baptist University
First, Second, and Third John – George L. Parsenios
“Amid a crowded field of commentaries on the Letters of John, this volume is perhaps first among its peers. At once accessible, thorough, and conversant with the intricacies of the Greek text, Parsenios provides both scholar and preacher with enormously valuable insights. This may just become the first commentary many will reach for when working in these short letters.” –Gary M. Burge, professor of New Testament, Wheaton College and Graduate School
“Well-written, accessible, and wise, Tonstad’s commentary navigates a myriad of issues that either put off or entice readers to the enigma that is Revelation. Situating Revelation among its Reformation skeptics, its modern naysayers, and its more sensationalist interpreters, Tonstad reads the apocalypse in terms of the cosmic conflict in which God’s decisive response to the evil of the great Deceiver is to offer revelation and witness as the antidote. Full of macro- and micro-level insights along with clear and helpful theological analysis, this volume is a welcome addition to the Paideia series.” –Darian Lockett, associate professor of New Testament, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University