Hebrews

New International Biblical Commentary

by Donald Hagner

The Understanding the Bible Commentary Series helps readers navigate the strange and sometimes intimidating literary terrain of the Bible. These accessible volumes break down the barriers between the ancient and modern worlds so that the power and meaning of the biblical texts become transparent to contemporary readers. The contributors tackle the task of interpretation using the full range of critical methodologies and practices, yet they do so as people of faith who hold the text in the highest regard. Pastors, teachers, and lay people alike will cherish the truth found in this commentary series.

Genres: Theology, New Testament, Nonfiction, Biblical Studies, Religion

292 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1990

About the author

Donald A. Hagner (PhD, University of Manchester) is George Eldon Ladd Professor Emeritus of New Testament and senior professor of New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. He is the author of Encountering the Book of Hebrews, The Jewish Reclamation of Jesus, New Testament Exegesis and Research: A Guide for Seminarians, and commentaries on Matthew and Hebrews. He is also coeditor of the New International Greek Testament Commentary and an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA).

Reviews

[Stephen Bedard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this commentary. Scholarly but accessible. The perfect commentary for sermon or Bible study prep.

[LiterarySparrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

An accessible commentary for the layperson on a complex and technical book. Hebrew and Greek terms are transliterated into English, enabling those of us who cannot read those alphabets to follow the nuances of vocabulary. Hagner explains the OT rituals surrounding the Day of Atonement, the NT application of those rituals, and how the author of Hebrews employs key OT texts to interpret Jesus’ work as the final and perfect high priest. This commentary worked quite well as a guide for my private study of this profound and often puzzling entry in the NT canon.

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hagner's short commentary of Hebrews is to be especially recommended to the Bible study leader who wants a quick review of words and ideas in the text. After my own study of Hebrews, it was the first commentary I approached, before diving into thicker tomes (including Koester and Attridge, both recommended). It is tied to the NIV, but is quick to comment on imperfect translation (an earlier reading helped me to move to the NRSV).