A Commentary on Judges and Ruth (Kregel Exegetical Library) by Chisholm Jr., Robert B. (2013) Hardcover

by Robert B. Chisholm Jr.

Excellent Book

Genres: Old Testament

Hardcover

First published November 1, 2012

About the author

While Dr. Chisholm enjoys teaching the full breadth of Old Testament Studies, he takes special delight in the major and minor prophets. He can take the intricacies of those books and communicate them for marketplace use, as evidenced in his published texts on the prophetic literature. Dr. Chisholm recently published Handbook on the Prophets. He was the translation consultant for the International Children’s Bible and for The Everyday Bible, and is senior Old Testament editor for the NET Bible.

Reviews

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Judges and Ruth is an Old Testament commentary, written by Robert B. Chisholm Jr. and published by Kregel Academic. Commentaries on Judges and Ruth can be either highly critical or devotional in nature. I therefore was pleasantly surprised when I read Chisholm’s work and found it to be on the conservative side while still engaging with high criticism scholarship. It has been a long time since a scholarly mostly conservative work has been published on the books of Judges and Ruth and Chisholm did not disappoint, although I expected a more lengthy work. Yet in the space he was given he used it wisely.

This commentary is the a newer edition of the emerging Kregel Exegetical Library Series, a series which is synonymous with through exegesis and spot on application, this volume not only continues this legacy, but truly propels it to new heights. This volume is one of the most articulate and practical commentaries on the historical books of which is usually bogged down by from criticism and or feminist propaganda. Furthermore Chisholm does answer these critical issues, something he does flawlessly by the way, he interacts with critical scholarship in a way most conservative commentators don’t. From this it is easy to see why Chisholm is a highly regarded scholar and superior exegete.

Judges and Ruth has two main sections the typical general introduction, and then followed by a insightful exegetical commentaries on the books of Judges and Ruth. With regard to the general introduction it is the typical study into the introductory matters of the book and how they relate to the Bible as a whole. This is a serious scholarly work which dives into contextual as well as the as the different methodical approaches to study of this books of Judges and Ruth takes great care in carefully showing the original context of passage while applying it directly to the modern day reader. He uses his own translation of the Hebrew text, which demonstrates his knowledge of the original language. I do wish though that there was more application to some of the more difficult passages.

While I disagree with Chisholm on a few minor issues with regard to Old Testament date of writing, the arguments he makes are sound I just adhere to a earlier date of composition. Chisholm is innovate in his interpretation and application while staying stalwart in his commitment to orthodoxy. In the vein of recommending, Judges and Ruth, to others I would recommend this commentary to pastors and scholars, yet I would highly recommend pastors, such as myself, to pair this scholarly commentary with one that is one that has more of a pastoral tone. There are many commentaries about the book of Exodus available at this moment but Judges and Ruth of the Kregel Exegetical Library series is a very scholarly works worthy of your time.

This book was provided to me free of charge from Kregel in exchange for an unbiased, honest review.

Exodus: Kregel Exegetical Library

© 2013 by Robert B. Chisholm Jr.

Publisher: Eerdmans

Page Count: 697 Pages

ISBN: 978-0825425561

[Michael Boling · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are certainly a plethora of options when it comes to selecting a biblical commentary ranging from the truly scholarly and academic to those volumes geared towards the layman. Having utilized individual commentaries and commentary sets as well as having owned a variety of commentary sets, I have grown to enjoy some more than others for use in a variety of both personal and academic related study. A commentary I have enjoyed exploring recently is a volume from Kregel’s Exegetical Library, specifically their volume A Commentary on Judges and Ruth by Dr. Robert Chisholm, Jr.

For many, getting excited about a commentary on Judges and Ruth many be a bit of a stretch as typically most gravitate towards commentaries on New Testament books such as the Gospel of John, Romans, or even Revelation. Tackling the subject matter found in Judges and Ruth, albeit an important part of the overall study of Scripture, is perhaps not on the top of most people’s list of things to do. After working through Chisholm’s commentary on Judges and Ruth, that previous ambivalence towards these books will endure a massive paradigm shift.

Much like other academic minded commentaries, Chisholm’s effort works through the necessary elements of Scripture such as the genre, historical background, literary structure, themes, scholarly discussion and related issues of interpretation, date of composition, and a number of other important issues related to grasping the background of the book. All of these issues are engaged in great detail by Chisholm prior to him even exegetically engaging the text itself. Some may view such detailed background information as interesting yet not important to grasping the message of the book in question. Again, if one takes the time to read the scholarly yet accessible information provided by Chisholm, they will quickly understand the wisdom of engaging this background type information and how it relates to an overall holistic approach to books such as Judges and Ruth.

In his preface to the section on Judges, Chisholm aptly notes “Some readers of the Bible shy away from the book of Judges. After all, it’s filled with violence and doesn’t seem very spiritually uplifting.” In responding to that approach to Judges, Chisholm rightly suggests “the book is in the Bible for a good reason. It illustrates how corrupt human nature really is and how far a society can fall when it turns its back on God and his moral standards. On a more positive note, in the midst of the moral chaos depicted in the book, we see a God who is patient and compassionate as he disciplines and preserves his covenant people.”

In working through the book of Judges, Chisholm addresses three main questions, that of “What did the text mean in its ancient Israelite context? What theological principles emerge from or are illustrated by a thematic analysis of the text? How is the message of the text relevant to the church?” These three questions are the underpinning of how Chisholm approaches his exegetical remarks throughout the section on Judges thus bringing what may appear to be a book of non-stop conflict and a repeated cycle of rejection and return from and to God to something far more, namely a timeless message of sin and God’s grace extended towards His people.

Each section of Chisholm’s commentary on Judges provides a short section of Scripture, a note on the narrative structure of that section, a helpful outline, comments on the literary structure, and an exposition of the passage. Written with a focus towards pastors yet easily accessible to layman, I found the discussion of Judges to be information, biblically sounds, and focused again on bringing the story of Judges to our own day and age. This approach is something not found in most commentaries on Judges and thus I found Chisholm’s approach to be excellent and highly useful.

The Book of Ruth has been of great interest in my own personal bible study of late so I was most interested in exploring what Chisholm offers in his section on Ruth with particular attention paid to how his approach compares to other similar commentaries in my home library on Ruth. After working through this commentary, I can easily submit that Chisholm’s discussion and approach to Ruth greatly enhanced my understanding of the overall message and background of that wonderful book.

There is much to be said about the plot and themes in Ruth and Chisholm expertly addresses every aspect of this book with the utmost skill and precision. He aptly notes “When one views the book of Ruth from a canonical, Christian perspective, it takes on a christoletic dimension” meaning the message of Ruth points straight to Christ and the message of God providing salvation for His people. This is a truly “messianic trajectory” as noted by Chisholm. As with the section on Judges, Chisholm approach Ruth with a short section of Scripture, a note on the narrative structure of that section, a helpful outline, comments on the literary structure, and an exposition of the passage.

Another helpful aspect of this commentary, especially for pastors, is the inclusion of homiletic suggestions at the beginning of each section. These helpful prompts for potential messages truly provides yet another quality tool for pastors to be able to take the message found in Judges and Ruth and to expound on those messages in a way the members of their church will greatly appreciate and understand. This makes this particular commentary a very powerful tool for bible study for pastors over and above what is typically offered in other commentaries on the market today of a similar nature.

I highly recommend Kregel Academic’s A Commentary on Judges and Ruth by Dr. Robert Chisholm, Jr. Biblically accurate, scholarly yet accessible, full of valuable information, and focused on bringing the message of the gospel to books not often thought to be focused on such things, this commentary should be on the shelves of every pastor and Seminary student.
I received this book for free from Kregel Academic for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Evangelicals declare that all scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness (2 Tim 3:16), we do not make much space for certain books of the Old Testament in worship. Take the book of Judges. Besides the Gideon and Samson stories in children's Bibles and Sunday school lessons, Judges is left untouched by many churches. The Sunday Revised Common Lectionary has just one reading from Judges in its three year cycle (Judges 4:1-7) which highlights Deborah, the female Judge and prophetess. Of course, this is a mere fragment of the Deborah/Barak story, ignoring the main action of the chapter (the actual battle with Sisera and his destruction at the hands of Jael). The book of Ruth fairs a little better (it is not a violent book, so the RCL is less reticent to exclude it). There are two passages included in year B (not too bad for a four-chapter-book).

But the books that are most difficult for us, and feel archaic to our modern sensibilities, sometimes have the most to teach us. Robert Chisholm does a masterful job of mining the depths of Judges and Ruth and bringing homiletic insights to working preachers. I have not read Chisholm in any substansive way before, though I did reference his From Exegesis to Exposition several times in seminary. In A Commentary on Judges and Ruth, Chisholm examines the passage through a synchronic lens, with an eye for its historical impact and literary craft. He then draws out the theological import and suggests a direction for pastors who will be preaching from the passage.

The book of Judges and Ruth occupy the same historical period in Biblical history (the time of the Judges, cf Ruth 1:1). But their tone could not be more different. Judges describes Israel's failure to possess the land, their repeated fall into idolatry where they 'do evil in the eyes of the Lord," and the way the surrounding cultures contribute the the moral decay of the nation. In the beginning of the book, when a 'Judge' is raised up by God in response to the people crying out and returning back to him, the Judge acts decisively to deliver the nation. Othniel (3:7-11) and Ehud (3:12-31) set the standard. However when Deborah commissions Barak to deliver the people, we see him hesitate (4:8). This hesitancy to act (or to follow) is evident in every cycle in the later part of the book (i.e. Gideon, Jepthah, Samson). When you get to Jepthah (10:6-12:15), a generally righteous judge you find that he is so affected by the surrounding culture that human sacrifice is an acceptable offering in exchange for victory (336). Samson's twenty year 'rule' is not accompanied by any sort of crying out to the LORD by the people, no one rallies around him, and he only fights the Philistines on his own whim. The epilogue of Judges (17-21) records two episodes which evidence the moral degradation of the nation (including nationally sanctioned rape).

The tone of Ruth is much more hopeful. Naomi returns from Moab a widow who had lost her sons. Ruth, her Moabite daughter-in-law comes with her, though there is no prospect of an heir or a future for her there. When she goes to glean in the fields of Boaz, she is treated with kindness. When Naomi hears of it, she hatches a plot to get Ruth hitched. In the end Boaz marries Ruth and the two become the great grandparents of David (and she is included in the Messianic line of Jesus).

For each episode in these books, Chisholm presents a translation and narrative struture (noting the Hebrew syntax in his translation), discusses literary structure, exposits and discusses the message and application. The final section is where he draws out the exegetical and theological themes and points at homiletical trajectories. This is a tightly organized and well presented framework and it read well (which you can't often say of higher level commentaries). Chisholm is a confessional scholar and so sits under the text. As an exegete, he has a sharp eye for the original context, and his exposition is helpful for drawing out a message for today which is faithful to the text. I also appreciated that he discusses at length in his comments, the degradation of the treatment of women throughout the book of Judges. He is cognizant of feminist critiques of Judges, even if his reading is much more conservative (i.e. he hints at Deborah's appointment as Judge the result of the lack of male leadership. Though certainly the Hebrew scriptures attest elsewhere that God's choice is not necessarily society's choice). I appreciated his handling of the Ruth story as well (some of his translation notes are golden here!), but it his reading of Judges which garners my highest praise.

This is the second volume in the Kregel Exegetical Library I have reviewed (the first was Volume 1 of the Psalms by Allen Ross). On the strength of these two volumes, I think this is going to be an excellent commentary series. Both volumes have strong introductions, attentiveness to historical and literary forms and practical insights. I can't recommend this commentary enough. So if you are preaching on Judges or just want to delve in for personal study, this is well worth the effort. I give it five stars: ★★★★★

Thank you to Kregel Academic for providing me with a copy of A Commentary on Judges and Ruth in exchange for my honest review. I was not asked to write a positive review, but sometimes, they are that good.

[Brandon Vaughan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book does has some really good information, but the writing style is so rigid and wooden that it was hard to tread through in most places. I think that many of the modern scholarly theological authors pontificate way too much over stuff that really doesn’t even matter. I think this book fits that category.

[Chris Woznicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are a few Old Testament scholars that I gravitate towards – Brueggemann, Block, Beale, (The B-Team), John Goldingay, and Robert Chisholm. When I venture into the strange world of the Old Testament, that is when I am asked to fill in for an OT class at EBC, I turn to these guys as dialogue partners. Since I really like what Chisholm usually has to say about the OT I figured that I should take a look at his latest commentary on Judges and Ruth.

Review

Let me just get this out of the way - this book is massive, its 697 pages long. Okay now that I got that off my chest let me talk a bit about the book.

Chisholm does some intense exegetical work in this book, he provides his own translation of Judges and Ruth, he breaks up the narratives into 1) mainline clauses, 2) offline clauses, and 3) discourse. This isn’t typical for a translation, but the benefit to doing this is that it helps him do exegetical work, it especially helps the reader appreciate the literary features of both of these books.

Chisholm’s approach is a “literary-theological method.” This is helpful for preachers and teachers. The days when people were doing source criticism (thankfully) are almost over. That way of doing exegesis is way too speculative. Because Chisholm refuses to play the source-criticism game, he can focus on the things that pastors are really concerned about – How is God speaking through this text (i.e. what is the theological message of this text?)

Chisholm claims that he has pastors in mind as readers of the text. The pastors who will probably benefit the most from the depth of exegesis Chisholm engages in aren’t many (scholars will greatly benefit from his nuanced discussion of the text), however Chisholm does step back and give a lot of big picture insight which will actually be very helpful for preachers/teachers.

He approaches each section of text through the filter of the following three questions:

What did the text mean in its ancient Israelite context?
What theological principles emerge from a thematic analysis of the text?
How is the message of the text relevant to the church?

The fact that he breaks the commentary up according to these questions is very helpful for people who are trying to preach. The most basic hermeneutic for preachers is 1-What did the text mean? 2-What is the theological message? 3-How does it apply to us? So in writing the commentary according to his three questions, he allows preachers to interact with answers to the questions that they are already asking themselves on a weekly basis.

Pros

Because of the purpose of this blog (and space constraints) there are too many nuanced arguments to interact with in any detailed sort of way. [For instance I disagree with his interpretation of why Mahlon and Killion have died in Ruth.] However there are many things that Chisholm should be commended for. First, unlike most conservative commentators he is well attuned to feminist issues present in the text. He devotes an entire section in the introduction to Judges to this very topic. It was honestly my favorite part of his discussion of Judges. Second, he catches interesting literary nuances that most people tend to miss. For instance, when discussing Naomi’s move from Bethlehem, he points out the fact that readers who are accustomed to Judges, know that bad things happen when people leave Bethlehem – the reader will expect tragedy when reading about Naomi’s move. However, he points out, that the narrator actually turns the “leave Bethlehem and experience tragedy” narrative on its head. In the story of Ruth, leaving Bethlehem (eventually) leads the to birth of king David. For a Jew, this is the exact opposite of tragedy; it’s the greatest blessing that could be bestowed upon a woman. Finally, the homiletical sections are organized clearly and are full of helpful suggestions for preaching Judges and Ruth. Within the introduction for both of these books, Chisholm includes “Major Themes” and the “Book’s Purpose” these two sections give a framework for his homiletical outlines. For the homiletical outline Chisholm goes section by section giving short, one or two sentence statements about:

The Exegetical Ideas
Theological Ideas
Homiletical Trajectories
Primary Preaching Idea

Every preacher could benefit from reading these short sections. Though concise, they are full of theological depth and practical application.

Concluding Thoughts

I haven’t read any of the other Kregel Exegetical Library Commentaries but if they are anything like this one then I am in love with the series. Chisholm does thorough exegetical work and gives plenty of homiletical help to preachers and teachers. What more do you need from a commentary?

If you are looking for a commentary to use in preparing a sermon series on Judges or Ruth you need to pick up a copy of this book.

(Note: I received this book courtesy of Kregel Academic in exchange for an impartial review.)

[Mike E. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Most helpful Ruth commentary homiletically. Cogently argued interpretations. In-depth Hebrew exegesis.

[Bob Hayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Commentary Type:
This is a technical/semi-technical commentary that provides both a detailed exegetical analysis of the Hebrew text and a variety of homiletical helps for applying the message of the text for today’s hearers.

Structure and Features:
Robert Chisholm’s Commentary on Jugdes and Ruth is organized in such a way as to provide the most help for the busy preacher or teacher who will use this volume to help in preparing to teach through these books for the benefit of the church.

Each Bible book gets a detailed and incredibly helpful introduction. Questions of authorship, date and genre are covered, as are practical concerns like what to make of the dates in Judges, and how best to understand the structure of the content in each book. Chisholm displays a concern for the literary and canonical context of these books, spending some time discussing where Ruth should fall in the order of the canonical order, and how each book fits into the larger themes of this section of the Bible. Included in the introduction are a survey of available commentaries for each book, and a helpful discussion of homilitecial strategies and a sample sermon series for each book.

After the introduction, each Bible book is divided into sections. Each section of the text is then methodically studied: first the translation (Chisholm’s own, a slightly revised version of that he supplied for the NET Bible) is provided in segments, line by line – and arranged in such a way as to highlight the narrative structure. Clauses are categorized as “sequential” or “consequential,” “resumptive” or “supplemental,” “focusing” or “dramatic,” and etc. Back in the introduction, Chisholm gives an explanation of the narrative structure of each book and which Hebrew grammatical clues (wayyiqtol and weqatal clauses, negated and asyndetic perfects, and more) lead him to these syntactical conclusions. Important translational and syntactical notes appear in the footnotes in this section (and the footnotes are nice and easy to read, as is the font throughout the volume).

After offering the text and structure, the commentary provides an outline and then discussion on the literary structure. Next is a detailed exposition section, followed by an application section which fleshes out the thematic emphases, theological principles, and offers homiletical trajetories and preaching ideas. Finally an extensive list of references follows to round out the volume.

Evaluation:
This is an accessible and immensely helpful volume. It is written with a pastoral heart. I appreciated its Christological emphasis, and willingness to examine the typological connections between Judges and Ruth and the other books of the Bible (as in Othniel’s identity as the archetypal judge against whom David must measure up, and the echoes of Samson’s shortcomings in Saul’s inglorious career as outlined in the books of Samuel). The discussion on the dates in Judges was incredibly helpful, as was the section on the role of female characters in Judges, and how they pave the way for Hannah’s account which opens up 1 Samuel.

Chisholm has a mastery when it comes to Hebrew grammar, and I appreciate how he interacts with the text and helps us see the narrative flow intended by the biblical author. His eye for literary connections and the interplay of various genres, make this volume more useful and full-orbed. His interaction with the full breadth of scholarship related to these books, inform and guide the reader in their study of the text.

This commentary is a must-have on every pastor’s shelf. The combination of practical and homiletically helpful, with technical and exegetically robust is unmatched. No matter your level of familiarity with Hebrew, interacting with this volume will be worth your time. If you skip the footnotes and just interact with the text you will still be rewarded for your effort. I highly recommend you consider picking up this volume and exploring other titles in the Kregel Exegetical Library.

Disclaimer:
This book was provided by Kregel Academic. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.

[Craig Hurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

As of late, commentaries on Judges and Ruth have been sparse especially when it comes to exegetical work. Judges is an important book theologically and historically for the life of Israel and the reader who continues onto Ruth is given a glimmer of hope after the depressing events in Judges. What are we to learn from the failure of Israel in Judges and what hope does Ruth bring us?

Dr. Robert Chisholm Jr. answers these questions and more in A Commentary on Judges and Ruth in the Kregel Exegetical Library commentary series. The objective of this commentary series is to provide the reader with the cultural background of the text, give a detailed exegetical treatment of the passage with thematic analysis and to give direction towards the theological implications of the text along with practical application.

Judges

In regards to Judges, Chisholm tackles a number of hot topics within the book. Regarding the literary structure of the book Chisholm prefers to deal with the final form of the book and sees tracing the evolution of its literary history as a fool’s errand (15, 55). The chronology and date of Judges is worked out over the course of twenty pages and Chisholm takes the late date of 1260 for the Exodus and concludes that the date for Judges is inconclusive (56). For Deborah’s role as a judge, Chisholm takes the conservative view that the text indicates that her presence is odd which is born out through the texts “word choice and syntax” (223). In regards to the tests Gideon gives the Lord with the dew and wool fleece (Judges 6:36-40) Chisholm’s opinion is that “Geiden’s choice if signs was not arbitrary or random” (278). “The tests were designed to demonstrate the Lord’s control of the dew,” says Chisholm (278). Chisholm believes that the text leaves the event open to interpretation but those who side against Gideon on this encounter with the Lords might not be convinced.

Ruth

Amidst the depressing events in the book of Judges Ruth is a shining example of the faithfulness of God to His people despite the vast unfaithfulness of many of the Israelites. It is within the life of two women, Naomi and Ruth, and one man Boaz, through whom we see God working among Israel during the time of the Judges. Amid the themes of God’s care for the needy and His faithfulness to His people, Chisholm sees the necessary connection to Christ (566). Chisholm ably explains the tricky Hebrew text concerning Ruth’s sleeping at the feet of Boaz in chapter three (650-53). The conclusion to the message of Ruth is that “God cares for the needy people like Naomi and Ruth; he is their ally in this chaotic world” (682).

Conclusion

As was started with Allen P. Ross’ inaugural commentary on the Psalms, Chisholm’s A Commentary on Judges and Ruth continues in the same tradition as the rest of the Kregel Exegetical Library contributions. For those who are not adept at Hebrew, the breakdown of the text and allocating of the grammatical and literary function of each clause is indispensable. Chisholm has spent a lifetime of scholarly study on these two books and it shows. Along with the exegetical work done, the theological and practical guidance is helpful for the modern reader to see how these ancient books still speak to God’s people today.

I received this book for free from Kregel for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Doug Hibbard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have pointed you to the Kregel Exegetical Library at times in the past. Today we will revisit the series and examine the volume A Commentary on Judges and Ruth. Authored by Robert B. Chisholm, Jr., who is a professor of Old Testament Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary, this is 697 pages bound in a sturdy hardcover. It’s not much to look at, with muted colors on the cover and only black and white text throughout, but the power is in the words.
Some commentaries excel at attention-holding for casual reading. A Commentary on Judges and Ruth is not one of those commentaries. This is a text for the more serious researcher or student, teacher or preacher, rather than for the light and fluffy among us.
A Commentary on Judges and Ruth takes the text of Scripture at face value. While there is some discussion of the textual critical issues, Chisholm clearly sides with the idea that we should take the Bible to be accurate and intentional in all matters. This is certainly a strength for those of us who are wanting to get into the meaning of the text more than having to defend the text’s existence.
Chisholm does his own translation work here, something I alternate between liking and disliking. In an academic/study work like this, I am more accepting of it than in a popular-type work, and his translations are nearly the same (by his admission in a footnote) as his translation work for The NET Bible. As such, they are not independent or unverifiable for the reader.
Looking at Judges and Ruth in the same volume is not the same as looking at them together. This is essentially a commentary on Judges bound with a commentary on Ruth.
Subject matter for A Commentary on Judges and Ruth focuses on a section-by-section look at the verses. This includes wrestling in both the introductory material and in order with the sacrifice of Jephthah’s daughter and Ruth with Boaz at the threshing floor. In both of these oft-debated passages, Chisholm is more focused on evidence for his view than on strictly refuting other views. The other views are clearly represented, but instead of being “dismissed,” Chisholm presents a clear picture of what he thinks. The reader is assumed smart enough to know one must choose one view or the other.
Chisholm’s treatment of the chronological questions in Judges is well-handled, and I liked his use of tables showing how the years add up. I have seen this tackled with just text, and it’s confusing.
All told, A Commentary on Judges and Ruth justifies its 2-inch slot on the bookshelf. It’s clear, though technical, and the focus on the text is well-held. Chisholm adds some basic preaching suggestions, but keeps his effort solidly on understanding what is in the text, leaving the reader to find his own way to preach and teach it.

(Free book from Kregel Academic in exchange for the review. I’m getting the better end of them on this stuff, that’s for sure.)

[Jimmy Reagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you need a really quality commentary on Judges and Ruth? Look no farther than this latest in the Kregel Exegetical Commentary series, this time by Robert Chisholm. Mr. Chisholm has 30 years teaching this portion of Scripture under his belt and it shows. Though a major commentary, this volume is effectively aimed at pastors and teachers. Instead of the rubbish approach of “speculative fancy that litters the history of biblical higher criticism”, he takes the superior and helpful “literary-theological” approach. That means he takes the text as he finds it! As a pastor, I am glad to have this book.

His Introduction for Judges is extensive and covers all the issues we might wonder about as well as the issues that scholars wrestle with. Chronological questions are the trickiest, but whether you finally come down where Mr. Chisholm did or not, you will for sure have the information to decide for yourself. The section entitled “What Is The Point Of Judges?” is exceptionally good. In addition, the section on female characters, of which Judges has many, is fascinating as a backdrop for the abject failure of men in those dark days. Preachers will love his suggestions on how to approach preaching the book as well.

The commentary itself is good. Just look at, for example, his explanation of Jeththah’s vow or of the Levite and his concubine shows he will tackle hard passages with verve. He thoroughly gives the different viewpoints, yet never fails to argue passionately for his point of view. I so prefer that approach whether I agree with the commentator’s conclusion or not.

He is equally as good on Ruth. I was unconvinced on his arguments against Daniel Block on the wrongness of Naomi’s sons marrying Moabites, but feel I know the issues involved like never before. There is no skepticism here.

In this second release in this series, Kregel is batting one thousand. If they can keep this level of quality, I say keep them coming!

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 .

[Rich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is my review:

http://exegete77.wordpress.com/2014/0...

[Jason Gardner · Rating 3 out of 5]

See my review at https://eisdoxan.wordpress.com/2014/0...

[Alex Houston · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read my review here:
http://reformed-at-last.blogspot.com/...