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Philippians: A Theological Bible Commentary on Philippians from Leading Contemporary Theologians - BTC
The Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible encourages readers to explore how the vital roots of the ancient Christian tradition inform and shape faithfulness today. In this volume, a leading theologian known for his expertise on Barth offers a theological reading of Philippians. George Hunsinger draws on patristic and medieval theology and on Calvin, Edwards, Barth, and Torrance as he explores what the biblical text means for ecclesial interpretation today. As with other series volumes, this commentary is designed to serve the church, providing a rich resource for preachers, teachers, students, and study groups.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published March 17, 2020
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About the author
George Hunsinger
37 books12 followersGeorge Hunsinger (PhD, Yale University) is Hazel Thompson McCord Professor of Systematic Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, New Jersey. He is best known for his critically acclaimed work in Barth’s theology and has been president of the Karl Barth Society of North American since 2003.
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May 5, 2025
Quite an enjoyable read! Hunsinger is knowledgeable and draws from the whole of the Christian tradition. He also writes in an understandable and not-too-academic way, allowing for an easier read. I thoroughly enjoyed his Christological and ecumenical emphases. He also aptly addresses different theological controversies, like atonement theories, translation choices, universalism, and more.
I was most impressed by his commentary on Philippians 4:8; he writes that each of the virtues, when centered in Christ, must adopt antithetical modes of thought. Each one is placed in union with its diametrical opposite in order that its opposite might be overcome and abolished (in Christ). For example,
'“Whatever is honorable” (hosa semna) does not just denote the 'moral' excellence of being above reproach. It points to the divine glory that is despised and rejected on the cross, that those who are dishonorable might be made honorable by the Lord of glory, who was crucified in shame for their sakes.'
Other nice quotes:
'Is doctrine, then, not a moldering scrim of antique prejudice obscuring the Bible, but instead a clarifying agent, an enduring tradition of theological judgments that amplifies the living voice of scripture?'
'The tension in scripture between passages that intimate destruction and those that intimate restoration could be read, from a center in Christ crucified and risen, as tilting toward the hope of restoration—and prayers for mercy on all.'
'God is so glorious that he takes the form of the inglorious without ceasing to be glorious, that those who are inglorious might be glorified in the crucified Christ, the incarnate Son.'
I was most impressed by his commentary on Philippians 4:8; he writes that each of the virtues, when centered in Christ, must adopt antithetical modes of thought. Each one is placed in union with its diametrical opposite in order that its opposite might be overcome and abolished (in Christ). For example,
'“Whatever is honorable” (hosa semna) does not just denote the 'moral' excellence of being above reproach. It points to the divine glory that is despised and rejected on the cross, that those who are dishonorable might be made honorable by the Lord of glory, who was crucified in shame for their sakes.'
Other nice quotes:
'Is doctrine, then, not a moldering scrim of antique prejudice obscuring the Bible, but instead a clarifying agent, an enduring tradition of theological judgments that amplifies the living voice of scripture?'
'The tension in scripture between passages that intimate destruction and those that intimate restoration could be read, from a center in Christ crucified and risen, as tilting toward the hope of restoration—and prayers for mercy on all.'
'God is so glorious that he takes the form of the inglorious without ceasing to be glorious, that those who are inglorious might be glorified in the crucified Christ, the incarnate Son.'
Displaying 1 of 1 review