Preaching the Word – serie

What does it look like to “walk in the light, as he is in the light,” to truly live as a follower of Christ? This all-important question finds its answer in three letters from the apostle John. Marked by their sermonic tone, devotional fervor, and emphasis on obedience to God’s commands, 1, 2, and 3 John lovingly teach us how to follow Jesus in open devotion to God.Professor of preaching David L. Allen guides us through 1–3 John with skill and wisdom, offering helpful insights into the Christian life as well as important themes such as: The divinity of ChristSpiritual rebirthThe work of Jesus on the crossOur responsibility to forsake sin and keep God’s commandmentsThe work of the SpiritThe danger of false teachersHermeneutically sound, Christ-centered, and remarkably practical, this study opens up John’s letters anew and lays out the path for us to walk in light of God’s truth and love.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

Jesus is King. Standing as a central theme of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus’ kingly authority has profound implications for our lives today—changing the way we view the world, interact with others, and respond to blessings and hardships.In this reader-friendly commentary, seasoned pastor Doug O’Donnell leads us through the first book of the New Testament, highlighting key themes and offering contemporary illustrations for preaching. Drawing on years of pastoral experience, O’Donnell helps us to see how Matthew’s various emphases—including Jesus’ messianic titles, fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, teaching on the kingdom of heaven, and present and future role as judge—all relate to Christ's kingship over all of creation.Full of biblical insights aimed at both pastors and laypeople, this volume ultimately highlights Matthew’s call to all people to worship and obey Jesus, our humble King and gracious Savior.

In the book of Revelation, God unveils the world as it really is, identifying an unseen spiritual war and announcing a very real day of judgment. As the end approaches, we need to be convinced that Jesus is reigning as the risen King. We need to have him speak to the situation in our churches. We need to see how God will pulverize wickedness, answer those who oppose him, and establish his eternal kingdom. Revelation has exactly what we need.Useful for personal study, as well as for preaching and teaching, the thirty-seven sermons in this volume have a clear structure and even include helpful charts and tables to highlight key themes and literary elements. In each sermon, professor and pastor James Hamilton grabs the reader’s attention, raises awareness of a real need, and states the main point of the biblical text. In addition to explaining the meaning of each passage, Hamilton connects the main ideas to applicable analogies and actionable points.Revelation is a prophecy of epic proportions and Hamilton invites readers to love God and his people by expositing this revelation of Jesus, and to say along with the apostle John, “Come, Lord Jesus.”Part of the Preaching the Word series.

What do you do when you’ve made a mess of things? Where do you go when you’ve blown it badly? How does the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ empower us to combat things like hypocrisy, pride, people-pleasing, and apostasy? Paul’s letter to the Galatians tells us what we need to know in these situations as he teaches us how to rely upon costly grace.In this fresh and engaging commentary, pastor Todd Wilson invites us to look beneath the surface of controversy in Galatia to the even more fundamental issue at stake: gospel-rooted living. Combining scholarly depth with practical wisdom, he offers us a soulful commentary based on years of ministry experience and biblical reflection. Read Galatians anew with this exegetically engaged, theologically informed, and pastorally minded resource!Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The book of Judges powerfully demonstrates the chaos that can arise when sin reigns in people’s hearts. In contrast, the book of Ruth offers a message of redemption and hope following disorder. Set in a time when everyone “did what was right in his own eyes,” both books work together to highlight God’s faithfulness in the midst of Israel's disobedience.Exploring the stories of figures such as Gideon, Samson, Naomi, and Ruth, this accessible commentary emphasizes the countless ways God protected and preserved his people in the Bible. Experienced preacher Barry Webb explores important connections between Judges and Ruth, reminding us of God’s promises to his people and offering practical applications for daily life—pointing us toward the hope of the coming King of kings, Jesus Christ.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

Old Testament Scholar Daniel Block Equips You to Teach the Book of Ezekiel with Authority and ClarityFilled with complex imagery, harsh judgments, and controversial language, Ezekiel is one of the most challenging Bible books to teach. But the story of this prophetic priest helps believers wrestle with an important question: What happens when God abandons his people? In this Preaching the Word volume, Old Testament scholar Daniel Block presents a thorough yet accessible study of Ezekiel, combining content from dozens of his sermons into one volume. He examines the characters and structure of the Bible story, as well as the audience, historical context, rhetoric, and more. This commentary is an essential resource for anyone interested in studying, teaching, or preaching the Bible.  Expositional Commentary on the Book of Ezekiel: In-depth, practical study features content from more than 70 sermons by Daniel BlockReader-Friendly: Written by a pastor for pastors, this commentary is also an accessible resource for students and laypeoplePart of the Preaching the Word Series: Volumes for other books of the Bible are also available

Following closely on the heels of the Exodus story, the book of Joshua recounts the mighty acts of God as he fulfills his promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is, quite profoundly, a testimony to God’s awesome power and enduring faithfulness.Written to aid pastors in their preaching and churches in their reading, this accessible commentary guides us through the history of Joshua’s leadership in Israel and God’s direction of his covenant people to their promised “rest” in the land of Canaan.With warmth and wisdom, David Jackman ultimately encourages us to trust God’s promises more deeply and obey his commands more wholeheartedly—that we might fully enjoy all the blessings secured for us in and through our Joshua—Jesus Christ.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The issues addressed in the the book of 1 Corinthians are strikingly similar to the issues faced by the church today: sin, pride, disunity, and confused identities. Paul warns the Corinthians with words of exhortation, but not without profound encouragement. In doing so, he points modern readers to the hope offered to Christians as they follow Jesus in a fallen world.In this commentary, pastor Stephen Um uses powerful illustrations and practical applications to point readers and teachers of the Bible to the heart of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians: the gospel of Jesus Christ that has the power to save, change, and unite God’s people.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

Life can be hard, and sometimes it seems like God doesn’t even care. When faced with difficult trials, many people have resonated with the book of Job—the story of a man who lost nearly everything, seemingly abandoned by God.In this thorough and accessible commentary, Christopher Ash helps us glean encouragement from God’s Word by directing our attention to the final explanation and ultimate resolution of Job’s story: the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Intended to equip pastors to preach Job’s important message, this commentary highlights God’s grace and wisdom in the midst of redemptive suffering.Taking a staggeringly honest look at our broken world and the trials that we often face, Ash helps us see God’s sovereign purposes for adversity and the wonderful hope that Christians have in Christ.Luke’s carefully researched and orderly account of the life of Christ is one of the finest pieces of historical writing from the ancient world. More importantly, it boldly proclaims the story and significance of Jesus, emphasizing his “gospel” as good news for the whole world.In this illuminating commentary, respected pastor R. Kent Hughes explores Luke’s historical claims about the life of Christ and his overarching message, offering helpful insights into the biblical text and pastoral reflections on how it applies to everyday life.Written to help preachers and Bible teachers communicate God’s Word more effectively, this commentary explores how the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus constitute the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and guarantee salvation to all who believe on his name.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The book of 1 Kings outlines the rise and fall of ancient Israel through the stories of fourteen kings. It is a book of great victories and devastating failures. In its pages are violence, betrayal, power, and politics. But no matter how great the accomplishments or evil the deeds, none of these kingdoms built by human kings could last.John Woodhouse walks us through this book passage by passage as it reveals how God’s purpose for the kings reaches far beyond what they could accomplish in their lifetimes. Their lives are part of a greater story, bearing witness about the King of kings, Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world—building and strengthening our faith as we set our eyes on the kingdom that will last forever. Divided into 8 parts, each with a distinct theme found in the book of 1 KingsWritten in a conversational, pastoral tone, making it particularly suitable for devotional use and preaching preparationAuthor is a seasoned pastor with many years of experience preaching and teaching God’s WordFeatures an illustration index, a general index, and a Scripture indexPart of the award-winning Preaching the Word commentary series

Explore the History of Ancient Israel and Judah to Find Hope Amid Division in the World TodayThe book of 2 Kings recounts the most tragic period in the Old Testament: the collapse of the two nation-states that had once been Israel. Following rebellion against the house of David, God’s people entertained false gods and endured a turbulent succession of kings, none of whom could bring the salvation they desperately needed. In this Preaching the Word volume, John Woodhouse presents a thorough yet accessible study of 2 Kings. Walking passage-by-passage through the text, he examines the destruction of Israel and Judah, and makes practical connections that will help believers endure the troubles of the world today. This expositional commentary is an essential resource for anyone interested in studying, teaching, or preaching the Bible.  Expositional Commentary on 2 Kings: In-depth, practical study of the kings and prophets of Israel and JudahReader-Friendly: Written by pastors for pastors, this commentary is also an accessible resource for students and lay peoplePart of the Preaching the Word Series: Volumes for 1 Kings and other books of the Bible are also available in the series

Our culture holds the megaphone when it comes to talking about sex today. Yet the church has maintained a reputation for keeping quiet, hesitant to teach people about this sacred aspect of life. The Song of Solomon, however, holds nothing back as it sings loudly about the holy practice of sexuality and pushes us into the conversation with godly theology.While this biblical text has been subject to a broader range of interpretation probably than any other book in the Bible, Wisdom Literature expert Doug O’Donnell offers this comprehensible guide to help uncoil its complexities and solve its riddles. He explores the poetry, themes, and wisdom of this song from a Christocentric perspective, and gives us a profound, rich, and witty reflection that encourages right thinking and behavior.Showing how this “song of songs” is meant to teach us about biblical sexuality and God’s heart for his people, O’Donnell elucidates on the greatest subject of all time—love.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

There are substantial reasons to be energized about studying the Pastoral Letters of Paul. Between them they teach the proper ordering of the church (1 Timothy), they present a developed challenge to all Christians (2 Timothy), and they suggest God’s priorities for mature ministry (Titus). Experienced pastors R. Kent Hughes and Bryan Chapell have done their homework—applying sound principles in interpreting the texts so that we can understand what Paul was really saying.Teaching on important matters for the local church, Hughes and Chapell offer a timely word to the many Christians who are concerned about their role and responsibility to communicate the truth of the gospel in this diverse and pluralistic society. The Pastoral Letters remind us that, like Timothy, we are to guard what has been entrusted to our care, to fight the good fight, and to keep preaching the Word.Through the apostle's words and the commentators' insights here, we gain an understanding of what God requires of those who would lead in the local church, as well as of those who would be led. Embracing grace, loving godliness, and sharing Christ were not just charges to the early believers, and are not solely the responsibility of pastors, deacons, and elders in the church. They are exhortations for any of us who call ourselves disciples of Christ today.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The book of Deuteronomy is a call to obedience—the proper response to God’s faithfulness and love. Consisting primarily of speeches that Moses gave to the Israelites shortly before they entered the Promised Land, Moses’ words proclaimed God’s covenant faithfulness in hopes of motivating the Israelites to obey God despite the coming temptation to conform to the Canaanite culture.The challenges they faced then are remarkably parallel to those facing Christians today as we grapple with the issue of obedience in a world that offers other attractive ways of life. We wonder: How can we be faithful to God? And how do we help our children and the people we lead to be faithful? This book tells us how Moses tackled these challenges and, as Paul confirms in the New Testament, Deuteronomy serves “as an example…written down for our instruction” (1 Cor. 10:11).Ajith Fernando unpacks the relevance of Deuteronomy and captivates us with rich anecdotes from his thirty-five years of ministry to first-generation Christians in Sri Lanka. He offers concrete examples of how the truths contained in Deuteronomy can be applied, and he teaches us that obedience is the necessary response to the God who loves and saves us.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

Volume 2 of Preaching the Word’s Accessible Commentary on the Psalms Explores Chapters 42–106The Psalms is one of the most widely loved books of the Bible. A source of instruction for our prayers, inspiration for our songs, and consolation for our tears, these biblical poems resound with the whole spectrum of human emotion and teach us to hope in God each and every day. In the second volume of a 3-part commentary on the Psalms, pastor James Johnston walks readers through chapters 42–106, offering exegetical and pastoral insights along the way.Edited by R. Kent Hughes, the Preaching the Word expository series is an essential resource for anyone interested in studying, teaching, or preaching the Bible. Expository Commentary on the Psalms: In-depth study explores more than 60 individual psalms and explains how they fit together in ScriptureAccessible: Written by pastors for pastors, this commentary is also an accessible resource for students and laypeoplePart of the Preaching the Word Series: This is volume 2 of a 3-part commentary on the Psalms; volumes for other books of the Bible are also available

Isaiah is widely considered the deepest, richest, and most theologically significant book in the Old Testament. It is, without question, a profound statement by God about his own sovereignty and majesty spoken through his chosen spokesman, the prophet Isaiah.In this accessible commentary on the book of Isaiah, Raymond C. Ortlund Jr. argues that Isaiah imparts a single vision of God throughout all sixty-six chapters. It is a unified, woven whole that ultimately shows that God saves sinners. He saves them from their own self-invented salvations, so that they can walk in the light of his love.Ultimately, the message of Isaiah offers us a God-centered confidence that enables us to face anything while challenging us to trust God in new ways.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The book of Numbers tells the story of Israel’s experience, ranging from their exodus out of Egypt to their entrance into the Promised Land. The lives of two generations are recorded: the first lacking in faith and receiving their just punishment from God, and the second believing the Word of God and so entering into their inheritance as his children.Like those generations of Israelites, Christians today are also on a journey between events of deepest significance—from the work of Christ that provides our exodus from bondage to sin and death to Jesus’ second coming that ushers his children into the true and final promised land of heaven.Author Iain Duguid aids both pastors and laypeople on this journey by explaining the profundities of the biblical text, especially its less transparent portions, and communicating the lasting message of God’s devotion to those who follow him in faith.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

During Paul’s ministry, Corinth was a newly rebuilt, bustling, important city in the Roman Empire. It was a place full of pride, individualism, wealth, and religious pluralism. No wonder its inhabitants held little regard for Paul’s message!Sound familiar? Our contemporary culture has much in common with ancient Corinth. The relevance of this book to churches today is astounding. Paul delivers powerful theology that turns the values of the ancient Roman world upside-down—the grace of God, the centrality of the cross, and God’s power made perfect in weakness. He challenges us to live counterculturally.In this commentary on 2 Corinthians, Pastor R. Kent Hughes carefully examines this second letter from the apostle Paul to the church in Corinth, continuing to provide rich biblical insight for the body of Christ.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The book of Genesis contains some of the most beautiful and well-known stories in the Bible: the garden, the flood, the tower of Babel, and the lives of the patriarchs. But these are more than just good stories. They lay the groundwork for God’s relationship with humanity and for his plan for our salvation, making Genesis foundational to understanding everything else that happens in the Bible. Genesis reveals much about human nature and the nature of God. From the actions of the first man and woman, we see where our rebellious, sinful nature originates. And through the whole book we see the hand of a sovereign God who is loving and merciful, but also just and holy. Time and again in Genesis, God showers his grace upon undeserving humanity, giving us our first tastes of God’s enduring faithfulness that shines throughout the entire Bible. R. Kent Hughes, respected pastor and author of many other commentaries in this series, takes readers back to the beginning of the Bible and moves through Genesis with careful exegesis. He explores the superbly crafted structure of the book as well as the weighty themes it contains. For those who preach, teach, and study God’s Word, this exceptionally detailed work will reveal much about the beginnings of God’s great story.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

Few Christians would dispute that the book of Romans is one of the most powerful and inuential books ever written. After all, Paul’s epistle has been the written force behind some of the most significant conversions of church history: St. Augustine was convicted of his sin after reading some verses from the thirteenth chapter; Martin Luther recovered the doctrine of salvation by faith from his study of Romans 1:17; John Wesley felt his heart “strangely warmed” and transformed while listening to the reading of Luther’s preface to the book of Romans; and John Bunyan was so inspired as he studied the great themes of Romans that he wrote the immortal Pilgrim’s Progress. There is no doubt about the power of the book of Romans.Pastor Kent Hughes invites us now to experience the same power that was exhibited in the lives of great Church leaders such as Augustine, Luther, Wesley, and so many others. The fundamental truths expressed in Paul’s letter—the themes of justification by faith, abounding grace, and freedom from sin—come to life as we explore the book that has so challenged and nourished followers of Christ for centuries.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The three chapters of Matthew known as the Sermon on the Mount contain truths so rich and powerful that even a lifetime of study could not exhaust their depths. For centuries, Jesus’s majestic portrait of the kingdom of heaven and his unparalleled instructions for godliness have captivated Christians and non-Christians alike. In this classic commentary, now revised with a fresh look and ESV Bible references, seasoned pastor R. Kent Hughes guides readers through this glorious portion of the Bible with exegetical precision, expositional clarity, and practical sensitivity. Whether used by preachers, small group leaders, or individual laypersons, this resource will prove invaluable for illuminating the Sermon on the Mount’s enduring power to enliven hearts and transform minds.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The Apostle Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians is one of the most dynamic portions of all of Scripture. Called by one commentator “the crown and climax of Pauline theology,” it issues a clarion call to all who follow the Master. With its dual focus on Christ and the Church, as well as its careful presentation of doctrine and duty, Ephesians points the way to true Christian living and victory in a sin-embattled world.In this helpful volume, Pastor Hughes provides an engaging treatment of the major themes of Ephesians: The celebration of full redemptionThe mystery of a new humanity—a third race—in ChristThe fullness of the Spirit for holy livingThe beauty of God-given roles in the home and workplaceThe implications of our position with Christ in the heavenly realmsResounding victory in spiritual warfareThis practical commentary on one of the most important expositions of Pauline soteriology in the New Testament will challenge and equip both pastors and students for a walk of spiritual power.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

Paul’s epistles to the churches of Philippi and Colossae, and to Philemon stand together as some of the most profound illustrations of the unifying power of the gospel in all of Scripture. Highlighting the reconciliation that Christians enjoy in and through Jesus, Paul’s lofty words and impassioned exhortations spur us to embrace one another as brothers and sisters in Christ.These books also cover important topics such as: Joy for the Christian lifeThe priority of the gospelFinding true contentment in ChristSafeguards against seductionThe source of fullness for the Christian familyIn this study of Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon, renowned pastor R. Kent Hughes amplifies and explains the apostle Paul’s message with memorable illustrations and penetrating insights into the biblical text. His careful exegesis and perceptive applications will encourage fresh understanding and promote lasting growth as readers are systematically led through God’s Word.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

For years, Crossway’s Preaching the Word commentary series has helped pastors, preachers, and anyone who teaches God’s Word to better interpret and apply the message of the Bible. Under the careful editorial oversight of experienced pastor and best-selling author R. Kent Hughes, this series is known for its commitment to biblical authority, its pastoral tone and focus, and its overall accessibility. Now available for the first time, this 19-volume set covering the entirety of the New Testament features contributions from a host of respected Bible teachers—offering readers a well-rounded and multipurpose resource for preaching, teaching, and personal study. Includes commentaries on every book in the New Testament, written by a host of experienced Bible teachersEach volume features an illustration index, a general index, and a Scripture indexPart of Crossway’s award-winning Preaching the Word commentary series

How did Christianity become one of the most important religions in world history? To answer this question, we must begin with the book of Acts, which chronicles the tumultuous days of the early Church and the spread of Christianity in the years following Jesus’ death and resurrection.In this insightful volume, Pastor Hughes leads readers to rediscover the history of the New Testament Church, examining key events in Acts such as the bold preaching of Christ’s early followers, the dramatic persecution of Christians, and the perilous missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul.This encouraging commentary on a central book in the New Testament will challenge you to walk with Christ and serve him more effectively through the power of the Holy Spirit.Following closely on the heels of the Exodus story, the book of Joshua recounts the mighty acts of God as he fulfills his promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is, quite profoundly, a testimony to God’s faithfulness. Written by a pastor to aid pastors in their preaching, and for their churches in their reading, this accessible commentary guides readers through the history of Joshua’s rise to power in Israel and God’s leading of his people into their promised “rest” in the land of Canaan. With warmth and wisdom, David Jackman ultimately points readers to the true hero of Israel’s story: God himself.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

Luke’s carefully researched and orderly account of the life of Christ is one of the finest pieces of historical writing from the ancient world. More importantly, it boldly proclaims the story and significance of Jesus, emphasizing his “gospel” as good news for the whole world.In this illuminating commentary, respected pastor R. Kent Hughes explores Luke’s historical claims about the life of Christ and his overarching message, offering helpful insights into the Biblical text and pastoral reflections on how it applies to everyday life.Written to help preachers and Bible teachers communicate God’s Word more effectively, this commentary explores how the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus constitute the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and guarantee salvation to all who believe on his name.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The Gospel of Mark resounds with the dynamic power of the Lord Jesus Christ, a message that is desperately needed in an age of aggressive evil and apathetic faith.In what is perhaps the most dramatic and action-packed of the Synoptic Gospels, Mark’s writing continues to inspire increased commitment to the Lord in the Church at large. His portrayal of Christ as the Servant-Savior takes on fresh relevance in these expositions by respected pastor and author R. Kent Hughes.With careful exegesis and instructive illustrations, Hughes draws many practical lessons for everyday living and ministry from the Biblical text. Written to help preachers and Bible teachers communicate God’s Word more effectively, this engaging commentary unpacks the Gospel of Mark with clarity and passion.The book of Hebrews conveys a double dose of spiritual power: it not only presents the supremacy of Jesus Christ unlike any other New Testament book, but it also repeatedly demands a heart response from the reader. No one can study Hebrews and not grow spiritually as he or she comes face to face with God’s one and only Son. In this insightful commentary, readers will find a gold mine of helpful discussion related to a book of the Bible that is easily misunderstood and often overlooked. With divisions and outlines that are never forced but flow naturally from the text, this updated volume in Crossway’s Preaching the Word series will be a great resource for anyone studying or teaching the book of Hebrews.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

The book of Hebrews conveys a double dose of spiritual power: it not only presents the supremacy of Jesus Christ unlike any other New Testament book, but it also repeatedly demands a heart response from the reader. No one can study Hebrews and not grow spiritually as he or she comes face to face with God’s one and only Son.In this insightful commentary, readers will find a gold mine of helpful discussion related to a book of the Bible that is easily misunderstood and often overlooked. Written by a pastor with decades of ministry and preaching experience, this volume abounds with wise insights into the book of Hebrews. With divisions and outlines that are never forced but flow naturally from the Biblical text, this commentary will be a great resource for anyone studying or teaching the book of Hebrews.Part of the Preaching the Word series.

One of the most practical books in the New Testament, the book of James is a call to action. This epistle focuses on the outworking of the Christian life, pointing us to the necessary relationship between faith and works. In a world of trials, temptation, conflict, and conceit, James urges us to demonstrate our faith through the way we live.Pastor Kent Hughes walks readers through what James has to teach us about persevering through suffering, taming the tongue, recognizing true wisdom, and living out the Word of God. With relevant discussions and practical applications, this commentary will help anyone teaching or studying the letter of James understand a crucial truth about genuine faith: it always produces good works.Part of the Preaching the Word series.