The Lectionary Commentary: Theological Exegesis for Sunday's Texts, The Third Readings:: The Gospels

by Roger E. Van Harn (Editor), Roger E. Van Hern

Preaching pastors, ministers, and priests know how quickly Sundays come and go. "The Lectionary Commentary" will not slow the pace of the weekly calendar, but it will help assure that sermon preparation begins with a solid engagement with Scripture. Designed to "jump start" the difficult task of sermon preparation, this indispensable three-volume work gathers exegetical essays on biblical texts from the Revised Common Lectionary. Covering every Sunday of the three-year liturgical cycle, as well as Christmas Day, Epiphany, and Ascension Day, the readings are arranged in canonical order so as to be of use to all preachers.

Seventy-eight pastors, priests, and teachers from a variety of Christian traditions have contributed their insights to "The Lectionary Commentary." Designed to answer the question "What does the preacher need to know about this text in order to preach a faithful sermon from it?", each of their essays closely considers its specific biblical text, all the while remaining alert to the contemporary context in which the sermon will be spoken and heard. The result is an invaluable resource that will aid in the difficult task of facilitating a meaningful encounter between Holy Scripture and our modern world.

This volume, "The Third Readings: The Gospels," provides exegetical commentary on the lectionary readings for the witnesses to Jesus Christ written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Also unique to this volume is an excellent essay by C. Clifton Black on Augustinian preaching and the nurture of Christians.

Consulting Editors: Richard A. Burridge, Thomas W. Gillespie, Colin E. Gunton, Robert W. Jenson, James F. Kay, Hughes Oliphant Old, Fleming Rutledge, Marguerite Shuster

Paperback

First published October 1, 2001

Reviews

[Othy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a pity to see that so few people have rated or reviewed this series - I hope it is no reflection on how much these books are used by priests and pastors! There are many good commentaries for knowledge, but these books add a pastoral note that really helps connect the passages we use in the lectionary to the general needs of the people we work and live with (and for me, preach to). It has been my main commentary for years, and I wish more people used it!