Millions of readers have found these distinctive commentaries the ideal help for both devotional reading and serious Bible study. The Complete series furnishes a comprehensive commentary and devotional study guide on the New Testament for individuals or groups who want to discover what the messages of the New Testament writers really mean for their lives.
WIlliam Barclay was a Scottish author, radio and television presenter, Church of Scotland minister, and Professor of Divinity and Biblical Criticism at the University of Glasgow. He wrote a popular set of Bible commentaries on the New Testament that sold 1.5 million copies.
I find myself often at odds with Barclay's more liberal takes on things like Universalism. But at the same I find myself indebted to him for his ability to weave history and context into the words of Scripture to make them come alive in a way few authors can. I'll continue to use his invaluable Daily Study Bible series both for personal devotions as well as sermon preparation.
Scholarship and person spiritual insight all in one.
In all of his commentary, William Barclay’s love for and passion for Jesus shine through. Each lesson moves the ready to become close to Jesus and moves one to self- examination. As a pastor, I glean much from his writings, and appreciate both his scholarly approach as well as his personal applications to the life of the believer..
Another great Bible study in the series by William Barclay. Barclay is excellent at presenting the book of the New Testament in a study from that makes a person think and learn.
Barclay was a master at making the complex comprehensible, and interesting at the same time. Brilliant work, here. All of his New Testament works are worth reading, if you are interested in understanding the Bible.
Again, read this in tandem with Michael Card's Biblical Imagination commentary. Each author was helpful; together they were powerful.
Barclay's insights into the vocabulary and background of the books is always impressive. He explains away rather a lot of the elements, but does not impose his views.
Now, for the hard part: Having worked through the four gospels, which title next? Since these have been part of my morning reading, I guess I have a day to decide!
I've gotten so much from Barclay's commentaries on Matthew, Mark and Luke, that I gave each a 5-star rating. Can I add an extra star for the Gospel of John? If I had to choose which volume to keep, it would be this one. Barclay's detailed coverage of history, politics, Judaism, ancient philosophy and culture gives a whole added dimension to John's gospel.
William Barclay is one of the sharpest minds to have written biblical material. no one knows the original languages and culture like he does. all his books are excellent resources for Bible teachers and those seeking to deepen their understanding of scripture.
Barclay is thorough and profound in his presentation and analysis of the Gospel of John. His historical, literary, and theological references help clarify John’s words and meaning. Barclay is patient with the reader, breaking up his commentary into sections short enough that even those with limited biblical knowledge are able to understand. Most importantly, Barclay knows what it means to be a good Christian and spells that out clearly. Spending time with his commentary has certainly enriched my personal spiritual journey.