Here are the three latest volumes in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (each published within the last month or so):
- Eckhard J. Schnabel. Acts. 1162 pp. 12-page PDF sample available here.
- David W. Pao. Colossians & Philemon. 462 pp. 12-page PDF sample available here.
- Gary S. Shogren. 1 & 2 Thessalonians. 375 pp. 14-page PDF sample available here.
I haven’t read these particular volumes yet, but I don’t know of another commentary series whose format is better suited for sermon preparation. ZECNT combines the strengths of BECNT and NIVAC; its format is ideal for sermon preparation because commentators address each biblical passage’s
- literary context,
- main idea,
- translation and graphical layout,
- structure,
- exegetical outline,
- meaning, and
- application.
I’ve found items 3, 4, and 5 in that list most helpful in the ZEC volumes I’ve consulted.
Andy,
I’ve been preaching through Colossians at my new charge and have found Poa’s volume to be extremely helpful in my sermon prep. Kudos to Zondervan for publishing these!
Jason
This is my favorite new commentary series right now! Thanks for heads up!
Hi,
I bought ZECNT on Acts today. I am impressed, I think its one of the best ZECNT volumes out yet ( I have 5 volumes thus far). I compared it to BECNT (Bock) and Pillar (Peterson). I think this one is up to the standard to both these.Schnabel seems to fit between the two – a little more theology than Bock a little more historical information in places than Peterson. Even though in places they go a little deeper than ZECNT. I think it’s a little more user-friendly for sermon idea and prep too. It seems to have a missional flavor too, which I love. Exegesis should move your head but heart also into action.
Cheers,
Steve