Matthew
Matthew (Kerux Commentaries), Darrell L. Bock and Timothy D. Sprankle. Kregel Ministry (ISBN: 9780825458255) 2025.
Summary: A Kerux Commentary combining exegesis of Matthew with communication insights for teaching and preaching.
The Kerux Commentary series is designed for pastors and teachers. First, an accomplished exegetical scholar unpacks the literary structure and theme of a text, offering a brief expository overview, verse-by verse discussion of the text, and a theological summary of the text. Then, a skilled preacher focuses in on a “Big Idea” from the exegesis, offers contemporary connections and creative ideas for presentation. This part concludes with a succinct preaching outline and discussion questions. In the case of this volume, New Testament scholar Darrell L. Bock (Dallas Theological Seminary) combines with Timothy D. Sprankle, senior pastor at Leesburg Grace Brethren Church in Northern Indiana.
Like most commentaries, this offers an introductory section. Reflecting its conservative character, it favors Matthean authorship, written for an audience of churches near Judea, and a date prior to the fall of the temple. It notes the prophetic claims of Matthew, which the commentary traces, suggesting an apologetic purpose. Unlike proposals that Matthew draws on Mark and is the source for Luke, this commentary accepts the more traditional proposal of Matthew’s dependence on Mark, a shared source with Luke (some form of the hypothetical Q?) and unique materials to which Matthew had access.
A few highlights from this lengthy commentary. The birth narrative (2:1-23) recognizes God’s providential leading and protection. The temptation passage (4:1-11) highlights Israel’s wilderness history and Jesus qualification to reverse Adam’s sin. Within the Sermon on the Mount, the discussion of 5:21-48 highlights the love that goes beyond the law, that righteousness is about more than being right. The commentary on 8:1-9:38 highlights the three triads of miracles and how they reveal his authority and call for a choice.
Then, as opposition intensifies, Jesus turns to parables (13:1-58). Specifically, disciples are distinguished as those who listen, discovering the power and preciousness of the kingdom. However, opposition continues to intensify as Jesus extends God’s compassion in 15:1-16:12. Then, I appreciated particularly the contrast drawn in the commentary on 19:3-30 between the humility of children and the obstacles wealth create to knowing God.
Finally, we turn to the Passion narratives in Matthew. I loved how the authors connected the healing of the blind in Jericho with the Triumphal entry (20:29-21:11). The commentary shows the intensifying opposition, how Jesus met every challenge. The commentary on the Olivet Discourse (24:1-25:46) both reflects and an awareness of Matthew’s original audience, and the contemporary need to be watchful and about the work of the kingdom. The trial and death narratives focus on Jesus innocence and messianic identity.
The exegetical commentary emphasizes readability over extended discussions of minutiae with lots of Greek text and footnotes. Yet, the engagement with scholarship shows in references to other scholars and the concluding bibliography. Also, sidebars on other Jewish sources relating to a particular text offer good background. However, I found the preaching material less helpful. Although it suggests helpful directions in contemporary application of the text, I thought it could become a substitute for prayer for reflection and exegesis of one’s congregation or audience. Nevertheless, the suggestions of visual media and other creative actions helpful in breaking out of preaching ruts.
In sum, I think many pastors will find this a solid and accessible resource for study, preaching and teaching.
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for review.