Philippians

by George H. Guthrie, Clinton E. Arnold

On Sale: 2023-08-29

Book Summary

The Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament series is the go-to resource for pastors and Bible teachers looking for deep but accessible study that equips them to connect the needs of Christians today with the biblical text.

About the Book

Designed for the pastor and Bible teacher, the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament features today's top New Testament scholars and brings together commentary features rarely gathered together in one volume. With careful analysis and interpretation of the Greek text, the authors trace the flow of argument in each New Testament book, giving readers the tools they need to properly understand and communicate the meaning of the text.

Commentary on each passage follows a clear structure to help readers grasp the flow and meaning of the text:

  • Literary Context: A brief discussion of how the passage functions in the broader literary context of the book.
  • Main Idea: A one- or two-sentence statement of the big idea or central thrust of the passage.
  • Translation and Graphical Layout: Presents each commentator's translation of the Greek text in a graphical layout to help the reader visualize, and thus better understand, the flow of thought within the text.
  • Structure: Describes the flow of thought in the passage and explains how certain interpretive decisions regarding the relationship of the clauses were made in the passage.
  • Exegetical Outline: The overall structure of the passage is described in a detailed exegetical outline. This will be particularly helpful for those who are looking for a way to concisely explain the flow of thought in the passage in a teaching or preaching setting.
  • Explanation of the Text: Commentators examine words and images, grammatical details, relevant Old Testament and Jewish background to a particular concept, historical and cultural context, important text-critical issues, and various interpretive issues that surface.
  • Theology in Application: The theological message of the passage is summarized. The author discusses the theology of the text in terms of its place within the book and in a broader biblical-theological context. Finally, each commentator provides some suggestions on what the message of the passage is for the church today.

The Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament series is the go-to resource for pastors and Bible teachers looking for deep but accessible study that equips them to connect the needs of Christians today with the biblical text.

Reviews

'As robust as it is creative, and rigorous as it is warm, George Guthrie's commentary on Philippians offers interpreters a prized resource for understanding as well as living one of Paul's most inspiring letters. Numerous charts and excursus sections make this an easily navigable research resource, all written in engaging prose. I look forward to learning from this commentary as a teacher and preacher and to sharing it with my students, who so often turn to Philippians to ground their understanding of God's majestic grace in Jesus Christ.'

'George Guthrie excavates the depths of Paul's letter to the Philippians to bring forth precious insights old and new. This commentary has the right amount of detail without being convolutedly technical. It is a careful and methodical exploration of this letter and a fantastic resource for anyone serious about exegesis, preaching, or teaching this precious letter by the apostle Paul.'

'George Guthrie has prepared a feast. Virtually every page of this commentary is seasoned with astute interpretive skill, theological insight, and prayerful reflection for God's people.'

'George Guthrie is well-known for commentaries and other scholarship with the most helpful historical-cultural background, thorough analysis of the meanings of words, and meticulous analysis of the structure of the text. This gem of a study of Philippians does all of these, but the Theology in Application section goes one step further with deeply encouraging and convicting syntheses. If you can own only one commentary on Philippians, buy this one. If you already have plenty, consult this one first nevertheless.'

'George Guthrie's commentary on Philippians is thoroughly researched, in conversation with interpreters past and present, and yet highly accessible. Full of exegetical and rhetorical insights, helpful graphics and sidebars, and pastoral wisdom, it will be useful for anyone interested in seriously studying--and living--this wonderful Pauline letter. I will return to it again and again.'

'George Guthrie's scholarship is a gift to both academia and the church. Taking in the breadth of scholarship even while offering fresh exegetical insights and relevant pastoral application, Guthrie's commentary on Philippians will be a valuable resource for pastors and teachers for years to come.'

'George H. Guthrie's ZECNT commentary on Philippians is an excellent addition to the field of Pauline and Philippians study. The introduction is thorough, well-written, engages with Pauline scholarship skillfully, and, in my view, accurate in its conclusions. The exegetical sections draw from the Greek text masterfully with sound conclusions and interpretations. Yet it is also easy to read, and the Theology in Application sections give contemporary readers wise insights for thought and life today.'

'Guthrie brings Philippians to life with his exceptional discussion of the epistle's structure and extensive command of historical context. Guthrie's elegant prose conveys Paul's pastoral concerns. Every chapter contains gems of newly discovered information that will delight scholars and students alike.'

'I wholeheartedly recommend George Guthrie's volume in the ZECNT series. Guthrie writes creatively and imaginatively, yet faithfully. He incorporates the latest scholarship in careful exegesis. Details are noticed and valued but not at the expense of the larger story and theological landscape. As well as anyone, Guthrie connects the ancient, yet timeless, text of Scripture with all the complexities of contemporary life. You are hearing both professor and pastor comment accurately and creatively on one of Paul's most precious letters. You will not be disappointed.'

'In a crowded field of Philippians commentaries, George Guthrie's volume stands out as one of the best. Guthrie's clear and accessible exposition of the letter is grounded in deep and thorough research. Particularly helpful is the attention he gives to the movement of the letter's argument--a matter of vital importance to effective teaching and preaching the letter.'

'In this exegetically insightful, theologically rich, and spiritually edifying commentary, George Guthrie's considerable abilities are on display. This careful and pastorally sensitive commentary should be in easy reach of any person preaching or teaching on this remarkable letter.'

'Philippians deserves a special commentary to unveil fully its manifold treasures, and this commentary by George Guthrie admirably fits that bill. It is part of the highly praised ZECNT series that has unique features such as a graphical layout of the translation of the Greek text, exegetical outlines, and theology in application in addition to in-depth explanation of the text. Guthrie conveys his thoroughgoing analyses in a winsome style, and his theological discernment makes this work indispensable for preaching and teaching the text.'

'Philippians, Paul's most joy-filled letter, is full of encouragement for Christians experiencing pressure from the surrounding culture and struggling with damaging disunity. Guthrie's commentary, itself a pleasure to read, offers a lively and compelling account of Paul's teaching on how to live well for Christ under such pressures. He shows how Paul uses a soaring Christ hymn and inspiring Christocentric examples, including his own, to exhort followers of Christ to live faithful lives and to partner in mission. A timely message, this lucid commentary demonstrates how deep theology can transform troubled and messy lives.'

'This commentary is exactly what every faithful expositor needs--careful and warm-hearted exegesis of the Greek text that is based on cutting-edge research, yet with a commitment to clarity, brevity, and practical application. Here is a commentary that is informative and inspiring, written by a scholar deeply devoted to Christ and the Scriptures. Highly recommended.'

Product Details

  • Imprint: Zondervan Academic
  • On Sale: 2023-08-29
  • Pages: 400
  • Publisher: Zondervan Academic
  • Series: Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament
  • Publication Date: 2023-08-29
  • Trim Size: 25.000mm x 25.000mm x 25.000mm
  • Weight: 453.000gr
  • Category 1 : RELIGION / Biblical Commentary / General
  • Category 2 : RELIGION / Biblical Criticism & Interpretation / New Testament
  • Category 3 : RELIGION / Biblical Studies / Paul's Letters