Is it time to take your understanding of the Gospel of Matthew to the next level? Learning and absorbing insights about the life and ministry of Jesus Christ from Matthew is worth your time and effort. Bible commentaries on Matthew can help you understand and apply this important New Testament book.
The Bible instructs Christians to seek wisdom (Prov. 1:7, James 1:5), and who better to learn from than pastors, theologians, and professors who have been studying and teaching Matthew for decades?
10 Best Matthew Commentaries
The best Matthew commentaries are listed below. The recommendations include commentaries for every reading level and purpose, including individual Bible study, small groups, Sunday school, preaching, and teaching. The “Top 10” list is based on aggregate reviews.
Readers are encouraged not to use commentaries to replace prayer, the Holy Spirit, and the individual’s diligent study of Scripture. Nevertheless, a list based on aggregate reviews will likely point you in the right direction to find the right resource for your purposes.
Please use the list below as a starting point for learning about commentaries on Matthew. It’s not intended as the “final word” on the topic but merely a “helpful word.”
If my work on this website helps you, will you please consider buying me a coffee? Thank you.
#1: Matthew by D.A. Carson (EBCR)
D.A. Carson is a prominent evangelical theologian and New Testament scholar. He is widely recognized for his academic contributions to biblical studies and commitment to evangelical theology. Carson has authored or edited over 60 books, covering various topics related to biblical interpretation, theology, and Christian living.
One of the finest evangelical commentaries ever printed
Based on aggregate reviews, D.A. Carson’s Matthew volume in the Expositor’s Bible Commentary series (original and revised) is the most well-reviewed commentary on the Gospel.
Volume: Carson updated his 1984 edition with a revision in 2010. Though not afraid to dive deeply into textual, historical, or theological matters, it’s a mid-level commentary as Carson had pastors in mind when he wrote it. Readers don’t need to know Greek to utilize it.
Author: Carson is one of the leading evangelical theologians of the late 20th and early 21st century. He is the editor of the Pillar New Testament Commentary series. Carson is Reformed, non-dispensational, and has a high view of Scripture. Carson, who is now retired, taught at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
Series: The EBC series aims to provide thorough and reliable explanations of the Bible by combining insights from a team of respected scholars and experts. The publisher says the REBC series “is that of a scholarly evangelicalism committed to the divine inspiration, complete trustworthiness, and full authority of the Bible.” See more about the Expositor’s Bible Commentary series, original and revised.
| Reviews from Academic Journals |
| Journal of the Evangelical Theology Society (subscription required) |
| “… a veritable gold mine of information for research, preaching, and teaching… here is a scholar who knows his material, weighs the options carefully, and offers judicious conclusions as a genuine believer.” |
| Trinity Journal (subscription required) |
| “This is, in most areas, the commentary on Matthew for which evangelicals have been waiting for the last thirty years or more… a first-rate commentary, sound in scholarship, sensitive in discussions of areas of controversy, clear in expression, uncompromising in loyalty to the Word of God, and eminently usable by the ‘expositor’ for whom the series is designed.” (R.T. France) |
| Reviews from Pastors and Professors |
| Thomas Schreiner |
| “clear first choice for pastors” |
| Desiring God (ministry of John Piper) |
| #1 recommended commentary on Matthew |
| Keith Mathison (Ligonier Ministries) |
| “Carson’s work is characterized by careful and sane exegesis and consideration of all interpretive options” |
Writing ministry: Carson is well-known for his John commentary in the Pillar series, which many consider one the best John commentaries available today. His best-reviewed non-commentary books include, “Exegetical Fallacies,” “How Long, O Lord? Reflections on Suffering and Evil,” and “The God Who Is There: Finding Your Place in God’s Story.”
Please also see Best Commentary Series: The Top 50. Based on aggregate reviews.
#2: The Gospel of Matthew by R.T. France (NICNT)
R.T. France (d. 2012) was a highly respected biblical scholar and theologian. He specialized in the study of the New Testament and made significant contributions to biblical scholarship, particularly in the areas of the Gospels and Pauline literature.
France is less accessible than Carson yet has excellent depth
R.T. France’s Matthew commentary in the New International Commentary on the New Testament series is one of the most-well reviewed volumes in one of the best-reviewed series. This volume was highly anticipated for years. Reviews indicate that it was worth the wait.
Comparison: For many pastors and teachers, choosing between Carson and France for the best Matthew commentary is hard. Some (like me!) own both volumes. In general, Carson’s volume is more accessible, while France’s generally has more depth.
Volume: With the 2007 publication of this commentary, France expanded his volume on Matthew in the TNTC series, which was published in 1985 (see below). However, this volume isn’t merely an update but a substantially new commentary.
Author: France was an evangelical affiliated with the Anglican church and taught at Oxford University. He served on the NIV translation committee. France’s Mark volume in the NIGTC series is considered one of the best Mark commentaries available today.
Series: The publisher notes that the NICNT series aims to provide readers of the New Testament “with an exposition that is thorough and abreast of modern scholarship and at the same time loyal to the Scriptures as the infallible Word of God.” See more about the New International Commentary on the New Testament series.
| Reviews from Academic Journals |
| Bibliotheca sacra (subscription required) |
| “This may be the best amillennial commentary on Matthew currently available… his writing style is truly captivating… [France] is a first-class Gospels scholar…” |
| Journal of the Evangelical Theology Society (subscription required) |
| “France has made this a commentary on Matthew, not a commentary on commentaries on Matthew… His work should be warmly appreciated, and his example of focusing on textual exegesis rather than peripheral matters should be followed by all those who do scholarly biblical exegesis for the benefit of Christ’s church.” |
| Reviews from Pastors and Professors |
| D.A. Carson (links to Amazon) |
| A “best buy” on Matthew, “Judicious, well-written, and informed, this is likely to become a standard work on Matthew for some time to come” |
| Keith Mathison (Ligonier Ministries) |
| “France’s work is thorough and solidly evangelical and will be beneficial to pastors and all serious students of Scripture” |
Writing ministry: Among his best-reviewed non-commentary books is “The Evidence for Jesus,” in which he examines the historical evidence for the existence of Jesus and the reliability of the Gospel accounts. In it, he addresses common questions and objections about the historical Jesus and offers helpful insights.
Also, see the Best One-Volume Bible Commentaries based on aggregate reviews.
#3: Matthew (2 vol.) by Donald A. Hagner (WBC)
Donald A. Hagner is a well-known biblical scholar. He is a retired professor of New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary, where he taught for many years. Hagner has written several books and articles on various aspects of the New Testament and biblical studies.
A two-volume award-winning commentary
This two-volume set on Matthew in the Word Biblical Commentary series is designed for pastors and professors. It’s a mid-level volume that those with some Greek will maximize. Others, too, will benefit, but perhaps not in every part. It won the ECPA Gold Medallion Award for “Best Commentary” in 1996.
Volumes: Volume I is 407 pages long and was published in 1993. Volume II is 527 pages in length and was published in 1995. The second volume has slightly better reviews on aggregate, but if a reader enjoys one volume, they will likely enjoy both.
Author: Hagner is ordained in the United Presbyterian Church. He taught for many years at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. Notably, Hagner revised the Romans volumes in the EBCR series. Please see the best Romans commentaries for more.
Series: The WBC series is designed for scholars, pastors, and serious students of the Bible who seek detailed textual and exegetical insights. The publisher notes it “delivers the best in biblical scholarship from the leading scholars who share a commitment to Scripture as divine revelation.” See more about the Word Biblical Commentary series.
| Reviews from Academic Journals |
| Journal of the Evangelical Theology Society (subscription required) |
| “…even when one disagrees with Hagner’s conclusions, one must admire his discussion of the evidence and his weighing of the competing viewpoints… the WBC format has been utilized by Hagner to write what is perhaps the finest evangelical commentary on Matthew in terms of detailed exegetical discussion… deserves a wide readership.” |
| Trinity Journal (subscription required) |
| “…will stand as one of the premier commentaries on Matthew for years to come… will prove to be a benchmark for other works on the gospel… the student of Matthew cannot afford to be without this work… thorough, well written, and clearly organized… the student or pastor seeking to understand a passage in Matthew’s gospel would do well to begin with what Hagner has written.” |
| Reviews from Pastors and Professors |
| Thomas Schreiner |
| “helpful commentary on the Greek text” |
| Denver Seminary (Craig Blomberg, etal.) |
| A “priority” commentary on Matthew |
Writing ministry: Among Hanger’s best-reviewed non-commentary books include “The New Testament: A Historical and Theological Introduction,” “New Testament Exegesis and Research: A Guide for Seminarians,” and “The New Testament: A Historical and Theological Introduction.”
#4: The Gospel of Matthew by Craig S. Keener (SRCS)
Craig S. Keener is a prominent biblical scholar and theologian known for his extensive work in New Testament studies. He is a professor at Asbury Theological Seminary. Keener is highly regarded for his meticulous research, thoroughness, and commitment to academic scholarship and faith.
Keener provides insights into the culture and literature of Matthew
Keener has written on Matthew for years. This volume in the Socio-Rhetorical Commentary series reflects the most recent updates to his research. His focus in this commentary is on the socio-historical contexts of Matthew. Keener is an expert in the Bible’s cultural, historical, and literary background, which is evident in this volume.
Comparison: People interested in Keener’s work on Matthew for purposes like Bible studies and preaching would likely find that his Matthew volume in the IVPNTC series is a better option (see below).
Author: Keener is known for his extensive work in biblical scholarship and is recognized as a leading New Testament scholar. He is mainly known for his expertise in the historical and cultural background of the New Testament and his meticulous research methodology.
Series: The SRC series aims to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the biblical text by exploring its social and rhetorical dimensions. It bridges the gap between the ancient and modern worlds, shedding light on the cultural, historical, and rhetorical contexts in which the biblical texts were written.
| Reviews from Academic Journals |
| Themelios (subscription required) |
| “Keener has produced a distinctive and valuable and insightful commentary. With its abundant references to ancient literature and secondary literature, it can only be described as a remarkable tour de force. Solidly evangelical, deeply thoughtful, always informed and eminently practical, this is a commentary that will faithfully lead readers to the heart of Matthew.” |
| Presbyterion (subscription required) |
| “…it displays massive erudition… Keener is an exceptionally clear writer, capable of expressing the fruits of his research in non-technical terms.” |
| Reviews from Pastors and Professors |
| D.A. Carson (links to Amazon) |
| a “best buy” on Matthew; “sets new standards… it is engagingly written and always has the preacher and teacher in mind.” |
| Denver Seminary (Craig Blomberg, etal) |
| a “priority” commentary on Matthew |
Writing ministry: Keener has authored numerous books and academic articles, many of which are highly regarded in the field of biblical studies. One of his most notable works is the four-volume set titled “The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament,” which provides valuable insights into the historical and cultural context of the New Testament writings.
#5: Matthew by Craig L. Blomberg (NAC)
Craig L. Blomberg is a biblical scholar and theologian known for his contributions to New Testament studies. He is a professor at Denver Seminary. His scholarship is characterized by a balanced and rigorous approach, combining academic research with a commitment to the authority and relevance of Scripture.
Evangelical interpretations with application suggestions
Volume: Blomberg’s Matthew volume in the New American Commentary series is best described in his own words from the preface: “The most important consideration in the theological exposition of a Gospel is to determine what a given Evangelist wants to stress.” Read Best Bible Commentaries’ interview with Craig Blomberg on this volume to learn more.
Author: Blomberg teaches at Denver Seminary, which is Baptist. He wrote 1 Corinthians in the NIVAC series, considered one of the best 1 Corinthians commentaries. He also wrote James in the ZECNT series, considered one of the best James commentaries.
Series: The NAC series is designed to provide in-depth evangelical scholarship focusing on applying biblical truth to contemporary life. The publisher notes it “has been designed primarily to enable pastors, teachers, and students to read the Bible with clarity and proclaim it with power.” See more about the New American Commentary series.
| Reviews from Academic Journals |
| Themelios (subscription required) |
| “Blomberg’s commentary is solidly evangelical, well-informed, and judicious in its conclusions… it is clear that the author is an exegete, and a good one… he helps “the reader understand what the text says” and “provides pastoral wisdom” “…filled with solid, informative exegesis… especially appealing to pastors and lay teachers” (Donald Hagner) |
| Reviews from Pastors and Professors |
| Thomas Schreiner |
| “helpful commentary for pastors” |
| D.A. Carson (links to Amazon) |
| “equally good in detail and in the flow of the argument” |
Writing ministry: Among Blomberg’s best-reviewed non-commentary books include “The Historical Reliability of the Gospels,” “Interpreting the Parables,” “A Handbook of New Testament Exegesis,” and “The Historical Reliability of John’s Gospel: Issues and Commentary.”
#6: Matthew by Grant R. Osborne (ZECNT)
Grant R. Osborne (1942-2018) was a highly respected professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He made significant contributions to the field of biblical studies, particularly in the areas of hermeneutics, the study of the book of Revelation, and the Gospels.
An excellent author contributes to an excellent commentary series
Osborne has a well-earned reputation for being an outstanding New Testament exegete. The format in the acclaimed Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament showcases the breadth of his gifts as he navigates exegetical, theological, and application sections with skill.
Author: Osborne was Arminian and premillennial. He served on the NLT translation committee. Osborne’s doctoral advisor was the prestigious biblical scholar I. Howard Marshall. He is well-known for his Revelation volume in the BECNT series, considered one of the best Revelation commentaries.
Series: The ZECNT is highly regarded for its emphasis on exegesis and application. The publisher says the unique format of the series “was refined over time by an editorial board who listened to pastors and teachers express what they wanted to see in a commentary series based on the Greek text.” See more about the ZECNT series.
| Reviews from Academic Journals |
| Review of Biblical Literature (subscription required) |
| “Osborne avoids a forced choice (more common in older works) between history and theology; he reads Matthew as theologically motivated history.” “…offers a moderately conservative outlook, but Osborne remains generous and ready to interact with a range of positions… scholars working on Matthew’s Gospel cannot afford to neglect this important addition to research on this Gospel.” (Craig Keener) |
| Themelios (subscription required) |
| “Overall, the pastor who makes this one of the main commentaries in sermon preparation will not be disappointed, and in this it seems Osbrone’s volume accomplishes its goal… a notable achievement and will indeed serve its educated-pastoral purpose well in many ways. I would recommend it as one to have on any pastor’s shelf as they study and proclaim the Gospel from the First Gospel.” |
| Reviews from Pastors and Professors |
| Denver Seminary (Craig Blomberg, etal.) |
| A “priority” commentary on Matthew |
Writing ministry: Among Osborne’s best-reviewed non-commentary books include “The Hermeneutical Spiral: A Comprehensive Introduction to Biblical Interpretation” and “The Resurrection Narratives: A Redactional Study.”
#7: Matthew (3-4 vols.) by W. D. Davies and Dale C. Allison (ICC)
Davies (1911-2001) held academic positions at various prestigious institutions, including the University of Wales, King’s College London, and Duke University in the United States. Allison has earned a reputation for his scholarly expertise, particularly in Jesus studies and the study of the New Testament.
The non-abridged is the best technical commentary on Matthew
According to aggregate reviews, the unabridged edition of these Matthew volumes in the International Critical Commentary series is the best technical resource on the first Gospel.
Volumes: The unabridged edition consists of four dark green, hardback volumes. The abridged edition is made up of three pink, softcover volumes. The unabridged requires knowing Greek and is designed for scholars; the abridged is mid-level and designed for pastors.
Authors: In alignment with the series’ name, the authors take a critical approach to Scripture. Davies was a Congregationalist and an early proponent of The New Perspective on Paul. Allison teaches at Princeton Theological Seminary.
Cost: Commentaries in this series are among the most expensive on the market today. Commonly, new hardback volumes cost well over $100 each, sometimes closer to $150. Abridged volumes are commonly $60-$70 each new.
| Reviews from Academic Journals |
| Review of Biblical Literature (subscription required) |
| “The style of the commentary is largely descriptive, it’s perspective moderately critical… Readers will generally gain a good understanding of the basic issues of interpretation of the individual pericopes as they work through each section… for beginning students and busy ministers.” (Refers to the abridged edition.) |
| Reviews from Pastors and Professors |
| Thomas Schreiner |
| recommended, “massive and technical Greek commentary” (refers to unabridged version) |
| Keith Mathison (Ligonier Ministries) |
| #5 commentary on Matthew; “the work of Davies and Allison is indispensable” (refers to unabridged version) |
Series: The ICC series was initially conceived in the late 19th century. The publisher says it has “sought to bring together all the relevant aids to exegesis, linguistic and textual no less than archaeological, historical, literary and theological to help the reader.”
#8: The Gospel According to Matthew by Leon Morris (PNTC)
Leon Morris (1914-2006) was a notable biblical scholar and theologian who made significant contributions to the field of New Testament studies. He was known for his expertise in the areas of the Gospels, Pauline theology, and the theology of the Atonement.
An evangelical commentary for pastors
Author: Leon Morris was a highly respected and influential Bible scholar. He was born in Australia and became well-known for his significant contributions to New Testament studies. He was affiliated with the Anglican church and was well-known for his Romans commentary in the same series.
Morris held academic positions at various institutions, including Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia, and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois, United States.
Series: The Pillar New Testament Commentary series is designed to serve a diverse audience, including biblical scholars, pastors, teachers, students, and serious readers of the New Testament. The series aims to provide in-depth, academically rigorous, and accessible commentaries on the New Testament books.
D.A. Carson is the editor of the PNTC series. The publisher notes the series combines “rigorous exegesis and exposition, with an eye alert both to biblical theology and the contemporary relevance of the Bible.”
#9: Matthew by R.T. France (TNTC)
See more about R.T. France above (#2). Bible scholar Tom Schreiner includes this volume among his recommended commentaries on Matthew, saying, “a shorter treatment that is helpful.”
A more accessible version of France’s NICNT volume
Volume: Bible scholar Tom Schreiner includes this volume among his recommended commentaries on Matthew, saying, “a shorter treatment that is helpful.” Many readers looking for a resource for purposes like Bible studies and preaching will find this volume more accessible than his in the NICNT series.
Series: The publisher notes that the TNTC series is “designed to help readers understand what the Bible actually says and what it means…[each commentary] examines the text section by section, drawing out its main themes.” See more about the Tyndale New Testament Commentary series.
#10: Matthew by Michael J. Wilkins (NIVAC)
Michael J. Wilkins has made significant contributions to the field of New Testament studies, particularly in the Gospels, Pauline literature, and biblical theology. He is known for his expertise in the Gospel of Matthew and Romans.
A mid-level commentary from a BIOLA professor
Volume: This commentary is much larger than others in the NIV Application Commentary series at over 1,000 pages. The sections on interpretation provide many exegetical insights. And, as the series title indicates, Wilkins devotes a lot of space to explaining Matthew’s relevance to contemporary life with an emphasis on discipleship.
Author: Wilkins is evangelical. He is ordained in the EFCA denomination. Wilkins teaches at BIOLA University. He specializes in New Testament theology, Christology, and discipleship.
Series: The NIVAC is a popular commentary series that seeks to bridge the gap between biblical scholarship and present-day application. The publisher notes that the goal of the NIVAC series “is to help you with the difficult but vital task of bringing an ancient message into a modern context.” See more about the NIV Application Commentary series.
Writing ministry: Wilkins has also written the book “Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship,” which explores the concept of discipleship in the New Testament. He also co-authored the book “The Gospels and Acts: The Holman Apologetics Commentary on the Bible.”
10 More Commentaries on the Gospel of Matthew
Why are the Matthew commentaries below not in the “Top 10”? It’s not because they have received poor reviews or people haven’t found them helpful. The reasons vary.
Some are relatively new and haven’t been widely reviewed, read, or used. Others haven’t been broadly distributed, so getting enough information to aggregate is difficult. And others may be outdated in relation to biblical scholarship or out of print and difficult to acquire.
The “Top 10” list is reviewed annually. Readers are encouraged to consider the volumes in this section before purchasing a Matthew commentary. These ten are not in any particular order.
Matthew by Jeannine K. Brown (TtT)
Jeannine K. Brown is a prominent biblical scholar and professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary in San Diego, California. She specializes in hermeneutics, biblical interpretation, and the Gospel of Luke.
A highly-visual textbook on Matthew’s Gospel
Volume and author: Craig Blomberg lists Brown’s Matthew commentary as a “priority” volume on the first Gospel. She serves on the NIV Bible translation committee.
Series: The Teach the Text Commentary series is specifically designed for pastors, teachers, and Bible study leaders seeking resources to aid them in effectively teaching and communicating the message of the biblical text to their congregations or study groups. See more about the Teach the Text series.
Since the series is discontinued, volumes on the secondary market may cost more than other commentaries because demand for them exists, yet the supply is limited.
Matthew by Craig A. Evans (NCBC)
Craig Evans is a prominent biblical scholar and New Testament specialist. Craig A. Evans is known for his extensive research and publications in biblical archaeology, textual criticism, and the historical Jesus.
A mid-level commentary from a Baptist professor
Volume: Craig Blomberg calls Evans’ volume a “priority” commentary on Matthew. The publisher notes that the New Cambridge Bible Commentary series does not “assume the reader has a great deal of specialized theological knowledge or an impressive command of the Hebrew, Aramaic, or biblical Greek.”
Series: The NCBC series is highly regarded for its scholarly approach to biblical interpretation and its commitment to providing accessible and insightful commentary on the biblical text. Readers consider it an excellent resource for scholars and general readers interested in studying the Bible.
Matthew (3 vol.) by Ulrich Luz (Herm)
Ulrich Luz is a renowned biblical scholar known for his expertise in New Testament studies, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew. He is recognized for his meticulous and detailed analysis of the text and his contributions to understanding its literary, historical, and theological aspects.
A technical Matthew commentary translated from German
Volume: Bible scholar Tom Schreiner lists this volume as a recommended commentary, calling it “a careful and massive commentary.” This volume in the Hermeneia commentary series is best for readers who can understand a technical commentary. It was translated from four volumes in German to three volumes in English. Luz published these volumes over 20 years.
Series: The Hermeneia Bible Commentary series is a highly respected and influential academic commentary series that provides an in-depth and comprehensive analysis of biblical texts. It’s known for its rigorous scholarship, attention to detail, and engagement with critical and historical methodologies.
Matthew (2 vols.) by Daniel M. Doriani (REC)
Daniel M. Doriani is a respected biblical scholar and theologian known for his expertise in New Testament studies, hermeneutics, and pastoral theology. Doriani has served as a professor at various institutions, including Covenant Theological Seminary, where he taught New Testament and pastoral theology.
A Reformed professor writes an expository commentary
Volume: Doriani’s writings and teachings emphasize the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context of the biblical text while also considering their theological significance and practical implications for Christian living.
Author: He is known for his clear and engaging writing style, making complex concepts accessible to many readers. Read Best Bible Commentaries’ seven-question interview with Daniel M. Doriani on this volume to learn more about him. Doriani also wrote the 1 Peter commentary in this series.
Series: The Reformed Expository Commentary (REC) is a series of biblical commentaries that seek to provide a clear and faithful exposition of the biblical text from a Reformed perspective.
It aims to communicate the timeless truths of Scripture in a way that is accessible, practical, and relevant to contemporary readers. See more about the Reformed Expository Commentary series.
Matthew by David L. Turner (BECNT)
David L. Turner is a respected biblical scholar known for his expertise in New Testament studies. He has made significant contributions to the study of the Gospels, particularly the Gospel of Matthew, as well as other topics in biblical theology and hermeneutics.
Matthew in the BECNT series
Author: In addition to his work on Matthew, Turner has written on other New Testament topics, including studies on the historical Jesus, biblical hermeneutics, and the doctrine of the Holy Spirit.
His writings reflect a commitment to rigorous scholarship, sound theological reflection, and practical application. He is a progressive dispensationalist. [1] Turner teaches at Cornerstone University.
Series: The publisher notes that the BECNT series aims “to provide, within the framework of informed evangelical thought, commentaries that blend scholarly depth with readability, exegetical detail with sensitivity to the whole, and attention to critical problems with theological awareness.”
Matthew (3 vol.) by Jefferey Gibbs (CC)
Gibbs has taught at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, where he served as a professor of Exegetical Theology. He has influenced the next generation of pastors and scholars through his teaching and mentoring.
An evangelical Lutheran commentary
Author: As a biblical scholar, Jeffrey A. Gibbs is respected for his careful and rigorous approach to biblical texts, his commitment to the theological significance of the Gospel message, and his ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and accessible manner.
His contributions to the study of the New Testament, particularly the Gospel of Matthew, have been valuable resources for scholars, pastors, and students of the Bible.
Series: The Concordia Commentary is a series of biblical commentaries published by Concordia Publishing House, the publishing arm of the conservative Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. This series aims to provide in-depth, scholarly, and faith-filled commentary on various books of the Bible.
According to the publisher, each author in the Concordia series “fully affirms the divine inspiration, inerrancy, and authority of Scripture as it emphasizes ‘that which promotes Christ’ in each pericope.”
Matthew (2 vol.) by Frederick Dale Bruner (Christbook)
Frederick Dale Bruner (1928-2020) was a highly respected biblical scholar and theologian known for his contributions to New Testament studies, particularly his work on the Gospel of Matthew. He served as a professor of New Testament at Whitworth University and Fuller Theological Seminary.
A Matthew commentary focused on theology
Volume: This commentary is highly regarded for its comprehensive analysis, careful attention to the original Greek text, and theological insights. Bruner’s commentary seeks to engage the academic community and the church, providing a valuable resource for pastors, students, and lay readers.
Bruner’s scholarship was marked by a desire to bring together academic rigor and practical application, emphasizing the Gospel’s transformative power. His writings demonstrate a deep love for the Bible and a commitment to understanding its message in its original context and applying it to contemporary life.
This commentary isn’t part of a series. The publisher notes that in this commentary, “Bruner asks both what Matthew’s Gospel said to its first hearers and what it says to readers today.”
Matthew by Douglas Hare (INT)
Douglas A. Hare is a well-known biblical scholar. He was a professor of New Testament at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Hare has authored several influential works in biblical studies, including commentaries on various books of the Bible, such as Matthew, Mark, and Hebrews.
Hare provides an accessible commentary for pastors
Series: The Interpretation Bible Commentary series provides an in-depth analysis and interpretation of the books of the Bible. It targets scholars and lay readers seeking a deeper understanding of the biblical texts. The series covers the Old and New Testament, offering commentary on individual verses, sections, and overall themes.
The Interpretation series is known for its accessibility, combining scholarly rigor with clear and engaging language. It’s widely used as a resource for biblical study, preaching, and personal reflection.
Matthew by Craig S. Keener (IVPNTC)
See more about Craig S. Keener above (#4). The IVP New Testament Commentary series aims to provide accessible and reliable commentary on individual books of the New Testament, making them valuable resources for pastors, students, and lay readers.
The IVPNTC series provides a lot of application help
Series: One of the strengths of the IVP New Testament Commentary series is its commitment to practical application. The commentaries seek to bridge the gap between the ancient world and contemporary life, exploring how the biblical text speaks to the challenges and concerns of believers today.
IVPNTC volumes provide insights for personal spiritual growth, sermon preparation, and group study. The publisher notes that the series is for “preachers, teachers, students, and other individuals who want to dig deep into the heart of the New Testament.” See more about the IVP New Testament Commentary series.
Matthew by Robert H. Mounce (UBCS)
Robert H. Mounce (1921-2019) was a highly respected biblical scholar known for his contributions to New Testament studies and Greek language research. He served as a professor of New Testament and Greek at Bethel College, Western Kentucky University, and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
A Bible translator writes a commentary on Matthew
Author: Mounce is best known for his work on biblical translations and commentaries. He was involved in the translation committee for the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible and significantly contributed to translating several New Testament books.
His expertise in Greek language and grammar enriched his translation work and influenced the readability and accuracy of the NIV.
Series: The publisher notes that volumes in the Understanding the Bible Series “breaks down the barriers between the ancient and modern worlds so that the power and meaning of the biblical texts become transparent to contemporary readers.” See more about the Understanding the Bible Commentary series.
The Gospel of Matthew by John Nolland (NIGTC)
John Nolland is a highly regarded biblical scholar known for his contributions to the field of New Testament studies. He specializes in studying the Gospels, particularly the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke.
A commentary focused on Matthew’s Greek text
Author: Nolland is an Anglican priest. His scholarship is characterized by meticulous research, thorough exegesis, and a commitment to understanding the Gospels within their original historical and literary contexts.
His work combines rigorous academic analysis with a deep appreciation for the theological significance of the Gospel narratives. Nolland wrote the Luke commentary in the WBC series, which is considered one of the best Luke commentaries.
The publisher explains the importance of the New International Greek Testament Commentary series: “At a time when the study of Greek is curtailed in many schools of theology, we hope that the NIGTC will demonstrate the continuing value of studying the Greek New Testament.” See more about the New International Greek Testament Commentary series.
Matthew by Stanley Hauerwas (BTC)
Stanley Hauerwas is a renowned theologian and ethicist who has made significant contributions to the field of theology, including biblical studies. While not primarily known as a biblical scholar, Hauerwas engages with biblical texts in his theological and ethical reflections.
A liberal theological approach to Matthew
Hauerwas’s approach to biblical interpretation is influenced by narrative theology and the works of theologians such as Karl Barth and John Howard Yoder. He emphasizes the importance of reading the Bible as a story that shapes the identity and practices of the Christian community.
Hauerwas has also engaged in theological and ethical debates, including pacifism, just war theory, bioethics, and the church’s role in society.
| Also see |
|---|
| See the Top 50 Bible Commentary Series |
| See the Top 25 Whole-Bible Commentaries |
| See the Study Bibles Comparison Chart (over 50) |
References:
[1] All dispensationalists view biblical dispensations as chronologically successive. Progressive dispensationalists, in addition to viewing the dispensations as chronologically successive, also view them as progressive stages in salvation history.
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