Lamentations and Ezekiel for Everyone

by John E. Goldingay

Both Lamentations and Ezekiel focus on the destruction of Jerusalem, an act of divine punishment for the city's faithlessness over many years. Lamentations is caught up in the catastrophe that befalls the city, and combines grief, sorrow and pleas for mercy in its few short chapters. Ezekiel reflects on the same events from the standpoint of those living in exile in the city of Babylon, but turns his attention to the future, offering a series of positive visions that speak of God's plans for ultimate redemption. His prophecies are significant for the hope they offer in the wake of Jerusalem's destruction, and for the way their vivid imagery was later taken up and used by John of Patmos in the Book of Revelation. Using personal anecdote, a witty and lively style, and drawing on his considerable theological knowledge, John Goldingay takes us deep into the unfolding story of the Old Testament.

Genres: Old Testament

246 pages, Paperback

First published April 13, 2016

About the author

John Goldingay is David Allan Hubbard Professor of Old Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. An internationally respected Old Testament scholar, Goldingay is the author of many commentaries and books.

Reviews

[Laurel Hicks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some good thoughts on the book of Lamentations. Because of fuzzy eschatology, Goldingay’s notes on Ezekiel were not of much help to me.

[Ethan · Rating 5 out of 5]

(reviewing the Ezekiel section)

From the "For Everyone" series and following the program: a translation of a section of a text, some kind of modern story, a basic interpretation of the section in context, and an application when appropriate.

The Ezekiel addition to the series is serviceable and performs its purposes admirably: the author's translation is good, the interpretations are sound, and most applications understandable and effective.

A good basic level commentary to help a reader understand the text.