Commentaries on Hebrews for Pastors and Teachers

Abstract

Hebrews provides a significant challenge to the pastor or teacher. There is first the task of properly understanding the structurally and theologically complex letter. Then the communicator must find ways to help the modern audience connect with the ancient message. This article surveys seven commentaries which may assist in this process, focusing on three significant exegetical commentaries: William Lane's two volume contribution to the Word Biblical Commentary series, Paul Ellingworth's commentary in the New International Greek Testament Commentary series, and Harold Attridge's volume in the Hermenia series. Four additional works are examined: Edgar McKnight's recently released work in the Smyth & Helwys Bible Commentary series, David deSilva's socio-rhetorical commentary, George contribution in the NIV Application Commentary series, and Thomas Long's work in the Interpretation commentary series. The article concludes that pastors and teachers should consult at least one of the three major commentaries and then select from the others to assist in application.