The Pastoral Epistles

The Pastoral Epistles (Tyndale New Testament Commentaries, Volume 14), Osvaldo Padilla. IVP Academic (ISBN: 9781514006733) 2022.

Summary: An updated Tyndale New Testament Commentary giving context, commentary, and theological insights.

The Tyndale New Testament Commentaries have often been my first “go to” in preparing a Bible study or talk. The series was first published between 1956 and 1974. Then it was updated between 1983 and 2003. Now, the series is being updated once again, in light of the latest biblical scholarship.

Osvaldo Padilla, in this commentary on the Pastoral Epistles offering instruction for church leaders. After reviewing arguments for and against Pauline authorship, Padilla comes down on the side of Pauline authorship. He argues that the letters combine paraenesis or exhortation about what to believe with protreptic instruction on the kind of lifestyle expected within the church. He concludes his introduction with a discussion of the theological emphases of the Pastorals. Padilla highlights Christology, the work of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in salvation, the godly life, and the church as the household of God.

The commentary follows the outline in the “Analysis” of the books. Each section offers context, commentary, and theology. I found the context and commentary sections addressed the basic questions of textual exegesis. A few things to highlight:

In 1 Timothy 2:8-15, Padilla argues that the prohibitions with regard to women relate to specific issues in Ephesus rather than a general ban of women in leadership and teaching.

Then, in 1 Timothy 3:-13, he notes the emphasis on character and integrity rather than charisma or skills other than teaching.

In 2 Timothy 2:14-26, Osvaldo highlights what it means for Timothy to be an “approved worker” in light of enemy opposition:. Specifically, this means avoiding false teaching, demonstrating godly character, and showing mercy to opponents.

Titus 2:11-14, in remarkably concise form highlights the work of Jesus in the salvation where Yahweh is the subject of salvation in the Old Testament.

Finally, the depth of scholarship in an accessible commentary surprised me. Padilla draws on the fine commentaries of Philip Towner and Luke Timothy Johnson. However, scholarship walks hand in hand with evangelical conviction. Thus it upholds the high tradition of the TNTC for a new generation.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for review.