First and Second Peter, James, and Jude have existed on the edges of the canon throughout the centuries. In this volume in the Interpretation series, Pheme Perkins casts light on these often neglected writings. She ably demonstrates that these "catholic epistles" have, in fact, much to offer to today's readers.
Pheme Perkins (PhD, Harvard University) is professor of theology at Boston College in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. She is the author of numerous books, including Introduction to the Synoptic Gospels, Reading the New Testament, Peter: Apostle for the Whole Church, Gnosticism and the New Testament, and several commentaries.
I found the commentary on 1st Peter very unhelpful, when compared with other text on 1 Peter. However, the stuff on 2 Peter, James, and Jude was pretty helpful.
The insights offered in this book were often heady and intellectual, focusing on nuances of the Greek, etc… more so than I needed for my class. But it was still a helpful read for my preparation.
I enjoyed the tone and completeness of this commentary which reflects the whole Interpretation series. The tone is not heavy academia but is full of information and readable. The author provides informed information about the text with an overview of other opinions where helpful. The author shared some personal stories which at first caught me off guard but I came to enjoy - so commentators have their own lives!