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Evangelical Biblical Theology Commentary
1-2 Timothy and Titus
The Biblical Theology for Christian Proclamation Commentary series explores the theology of the Bible in considerable depth, spanning both Testaments. Authors come from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, though all affirm the inerrancy and inspiration of Scripture. United in their belief in the underlying unity of Scripture, each author explores the contribution of a given book or group of books to the theology of Scripture as a whole. All volumes provide a discussion of introductory matters, including the book’s historical setting and the literary structure.
Also included is an exegetical treatment of all the relevant passages in succinct commentary-style format. The major contribution of each volume, however, is a thorough discussion of the most important themes of the biblical book in relation to the canon as a whole. This format, in itself, would already be a valuable contribution to biblical theology. But there are other series that try to accomplish a survey of the Bible’s theology as well. What distinguishes the present series is its orientation toward Christian proclamation. As a result, the ultimate purpose of this set of volumes is not exclusively, or even primarily, academic. Rather, we seek to relate biblical theology to our own lives and to the life of the church. Our desire is to equip those in Christian ministry who are called by God to preach and teach the precious truths of Scripture to their congregations.
The author of Commentary on 1-2 Timothy and Titus is Andreas J. Köstenberger.
“Andreas Köstenberger is a first-rate New Testament scholar, and his commentary has much to commend it. Pastors and teachers will greatly benefit from this fine exegetical and theological tool.”
- Armin D. Baum, Professor für Neues Testament und Prorektor für Forschung, Freie Hochschule für Theologie, Giessen, Germany
“Köstenberger is to be commended for his careful biblical-theological method. I know no other major attempt to catalogue the theology of the Pastoral Epistles in this way.”
- Craig S. Keener, F. M. and Ada Thompson Professor of Biblical Studies, Asbury Theological Seminary
“While there are a number of good commentaries on the Pastoral Epistles, there are few that cover all the bases: scholarly, theological, pastoral, insightful, practical, and encouraging. But Andreas Köstenberger’s new volume is all of these. It is now my go-to commentary on these important books and is sure to be the standard resource for pastors and scholars in generations to come.”
- Michael J. Kruger, president and professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte, NC
“This commentary makes a contribution both to scholarship and the church’s mission, a resource that will enrich the messages and messengers who support and sustain our experience of Christian existence. As a biblical scholar and a parish priest, I most heartily recommend this book.”
- Philip H. Towner, director and dean of the Nida Institute for Biblical Scholarship at American Bible Society; assistant rector, St. Ignatius of Antioch Episcopal Church, NYC
“This should become a first go-to resource for advanced students in their research and for pastors concerned to do full justice to these writings in their ministerial labors and exposition of the Scriptures.”
- Robert W. Yarbrough, professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary
Also included is an exegetical treatment of all the relevant passages in succinct commentary-style format. The major contribution of each volume, however, is a thorough discussion of the most important themes of the biblical book in relation to the canon as a whole. This format, in itself, would already be a valuable contribution to biblical theology. But there are other series that try to accomplish a survey of the Bible’s theology as well. What distinguishes the present series is its orientation toward Christian proclamation. As a result, the ultimate purpose of this set of volumes is not exclusively, or even primarily, academic. Rather, we seek to relate biblical theology to our own lives and to the life of the church. Our desire is to equip those in Christian ministry who are called by God to preach and teach the precious truths of Scripture to their congregations.
The author of Commentary on 1-2 Timothy and Titus is Andreas J. Köstenberger.
“Andreas Köstenberger is a first-rate New Testament scholar, and his commentary has much to commend it. Pastors and teachers will greatly benefit from this fine exegetical and theological tool.”
- Armin D. Baum, Professor für Neues Testament und Prorektor für Forschung, Freie Hochschule für Theologie, Giessen, Germany
“Köstenberger is to be commended for his careful biblical-theological method. I know no other major attempt to catalogue the theology of the Pastoral Epistles in this way.”
- Craig S. Keener, F. M. and Ada Thompson Professor of Biblical Studies, Asbury Theological Seminary
“While there are a number of good commentaries on the Pastoral Epistles, there are few that cover all the bases: scholarly, theological, pastoral, insightful, practical, and encouraging. But Andreas Köstenberger’s new volume is all of these. It is now my go-to commentary on these important books and is sure to be the standard resource for pastors and scholars in generations to come.”
- Michael J. Kruger, president and professor of New Testament, Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte, NC
“This commentary makes a contribution both to scholarship and the church’s mission, a resource that will enrich the messages and messengers who support and sustain our experience of Christian existence. As a biblical scholar and a parish priest, I most heartily recommend this book.”
- Philip H. Towner, director and dean of the Nida Institute for Biblical Scholarship at American Bible Society; assistant rector, St. Ignatius of Antioch Episcopal Church, NYC
“This should become a first go-to resource for advanced students in their research and for pastors concerned to do full justice to these writings in their ministerial labors and exposition of the Scriptures.”
- Robert W. Yarbrough, professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary
- GenresTheology
605 pages, Hardcover
Published January 13, 2021
34 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
June 24, 2025
Good. Substantial and scholarly, with hints towards application. The commentary sections are shorter than the bulk of the book would suggest, because the final 200 pages are devoted to seven substantial chapters on biblical-theological themes of the Pastoral Epistles.
2025: Read introduction and 2 Timothy commentary.
2025: Read introduction and 2 Timothy commentary.
November 27, 2021
A solid commentary from a seasoned scholar. The extensive section on biblical-theological themes was especially useful.
Read
May 9, 2023Classic seminary read
May 7, 2017
This second release in the Biblical Theology for Christian Proclamation (BTCP) series by B & H Publishing is a home run. Andreas Kostenberger has produced a conservative, thoughtful, and winning commentary on the Pastoral Epistles. I anticipated a good volume based on what he has written and edited on the highly-debated passages of these books in the past, and if anything, this volume exceeds my expectations. You have to love a book that holds to biblical inerrancy, has a complementarian viewpoint, and does not run off the rails with esoteric or pointless scholarly misconceptions.
His Introduction covers much of the typical information that you would find in any substantial commentary on the Pastoral Epistles, which he prefers to call LTT, or Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus. Authorship, date, relation between the three letters, and the roles of Timothy and Titus (he sees them as apostolic delegates rather than pastors). He further discusses canonicity, authenticity (which he fully accepts), chronology, and historical context. He has an interesting section on literary analysis and structure as well.
Still, the commentary proper is what I loved. Even better, he always did his best work in the harder passages. Passages on pastoral qualifications, women in ministry, and household code were handled with aplomb. As is an aim of the series, he beautifully draws out theology too. Can you tell I’m really high on this commentary? I couldn’t imagine not using it in any future study in the Pastoral Epistles.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
His Introduction covers much of the typical information that you would find in any substantial commentary on the Pastoral Epistles, which he prefers to call LTT, or Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus. Authorship, date, relation between the three letters, and the roles of Timothy and Titus (he sees them as apostolic delegates rather than pastors). He further discusses canonicity, authenticity (which he fully accepts), chronology, and historical context. He has an interesting section on literary analysis and structure as well.
Still, the commentary proper is what I loved. Even better, he always did his best work in the harder passages. Passages on pastoral qualifications, women in ministry, and household code were handled with aplomb. As is an aim of the series, he beautifully draws out theology too. Can you tell I’m really high on this commentary? I couldn’t imagine not using it in any future study in the Pastoral Epistles.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
April 18, 2017
It's not often you find a commentary of this quality in such a readable format.
August 30, 2017
Andreas J. Köstenberger is sin or professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Köstenberger is a world-class New Testament scholar and one of the leading voice in the biblical theology movement. He is the author and contributor to numerous books and articles, including a number of influential commentaries, and the editor of several important series, such as Biblical Theology for Christian Proclamation and Exegetical Guide to the Greek New Testament. Most recently, Köstenberger has produced the second volume in the former series, a commentary on the Pastoral Epistles—Biblical Theology for Christian Proclamation: Commentary on 1-2 Timothy & Titus.
Commentary on 1-2 Timothy & Titus opens with a 54-page introduction to Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus (LTT)—a designation Köstenberger prefers over the traditional identification of the letters as “Pastoral Epistles.” The introduction is well-documented and up-to-date with the latest scholarly discussions surrounding these controversial letters. Köstenberger argues for the traditional Pauline authorship of the letters and does a phenomenal job demonstrating the unity of letters under a Pauline theology. The commentary proper is divided between the 3 letters that Köstenberger aims to cover, namely 1-2 Timothy and Titus. Each book opens with a brief introduction detailing the occasion and purpose of the letter, as well as the opponents, structure, background, etc. As expected, the exposition of the biblical text is firmly established and practically presented. Köstenberger has done the reader a great service in his attention to grammatical detail and his ability to keep the overarching narrative of the letters in view. Lastly, the commentary ends with a 200-page examination of the theology the LTT, including themes such as teaching, the Church, the Christian life, and the LTT and the New Testament canon.
It will be difficult in the space here to articulate the value of Köstenberger’s Commentary on 1-2 Timothy & Titus. Perhaps the fact that Köstenberger executes with excellence on nearly every aspect needed in a commentary on the LTT and does so with scrupulous detail is a good place to start. From the inclusion of a full-fledged biblical-theological examination of the LTT to the pastorally sensitive discovered in the content of the commentary, Köstenberger has excelled on nearly every page. When it comes to controversial matters, such as the role of women in the life and ministry of the Church, Köstenberger is charitable while remaining faithful to the text and message of the LTT and larger biblical narrative. Those familiar with Köstenberger’s work will know where he stands on such issues, so these matters wont come as a surprise. Others may be disappointed, but should appreciate the care that Köstenberger takes in presenting his case. It is also worth mentioning the sheer amount of research that went into the volume. When I say that Köstenberger is a world-class scholar, I mean that his a world-class scholar. This is seen in both the detail discovered in the footnotes and his ability think more broadly about how these controversial letters fit together in Paul’s life and ministry.
Biblical Theology for Christian Proclamation: Commentary on 1-2 Timothy & Titus by Andreas J. Köstenberger is a go-to commentary for students and pastors looking to immerse themselves in the letters to Timothy and Titus. There are numerous commentaries on the market that have functioned as standards for the study of the Pastoral Epistles for many years, such as Mounce, Knight, and Towner. Köstenberger has rightly created shelf space next to these volumes and he will likely be the first to be removed when you have a question. This volume is a joy to read. It is scholarly, informative, engaging, and encouraging. Those looking for a commentary on Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus will do well to end here. It comes highly recommended!
Commentary on 1-2 Timothy & Titus opens with a 54-page introduction to Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus (LTT)—a designation Köstenberger prefers over the traditional identification of the letters as “Pastoral Epistles.” The introduction is well-documented and up-to-date with the latest scholarly discussions surrounding these controversial letters. Köstenberger argues for the traditional Pauline authorship of the letters and does a phenomenal job demonstrating the unity of letters under a Pauline theology. The commentary proper is divided between the 3 letters that Köstenberger aims to cover, namely 1-2 Timothy and Titus. Each book opens with a brief introduction detailing the occasion and purpose of the letter, as well as the opponents, structure, background, etc. As expected, the exposition of the biblical text is firmly established and practically presented. Köstenberger has done the reader a great service in his attention to grammatical detail and his ability to keep the overarching narrative of the letters in view. Lastly, the commentary ends with a 200-page examination of the theology the LTT, including themes such as teaching, the Church, the Christian life, and the LTT and the New Testament canon.
It will be difficult in the space here to articulate the value of Köstenberger’s Commentary on 1-2 Timothy & Titus. Perhaps the fact that Köstenberger executes with excellence on nearly every aspect needed in a commentary on the LTT and does so with scrupulous detail is a good place to start. From the inclusion of a full-fledged biblical-theological examination of the LTT to the pastorally sensitive discovered in the content of the commentary, Köstenberger has excelled on nearly every page. When it comes to controversial matters, such as the role of women in the life and ministry of the Church, Köstenberger is charitable while remaining faithful to the text and message of the LTT and larger biblical narrative. Those familiar with Köstenberger’s work will know where he stands on such issues, so these matters wont come as a surprise. Others may be disappointed, but should appreciate the care that Köstenberger takes in presenting his case. It is also worth mentioning the sheer amount of research that went into the volume. When I say that Köstenberger is a world-class scholar, I mean that his a world-class scholar. This is seen in both the detail discovered in the footnotes and his ability think more broadly about how these controversial letters fit together in Paul’s life and ministry.
Biblical Theology for Christian Proclamation: Commentary on 1-2 Timothy & Titus by Andreas J. Köstenberger is a go-to commentary for students and pastors looking to immerse themselves in the letters to Timothy and Titus. There are numerous commentaries on the market that have functioned as standards for the study of the Pastoral Epistles for many years, such as Mounce, Knight, and Towner. Köstenberger has rightly created shelf space next to these volumes and he will likely be the first to be removed when you have a question. This volume is a joy to read. It is scholarly, informative, engaging, and encouraging. Those looking for a commentary on Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus will do well to end here. It comes highly recommended!
September 23, 2017
There are many phenomenal commentaries, yet they usually fall into a segmented categories, yet the new series Biblical Theology for Christian Proclamation, breaks the mold. For it is not only scholarly, pastoral, and insightful, but also extremely practical. This series is a planned 40 volume series, produced by B&H Academic and is edited by T. Desmond Alexander, Andreas J. Köstenberger, and Thomas R. Schreiner, and has just added its second entry.
This second entry is titled, 1-2 Timothy & Titus, and is written by Andreas J. Köstenberger. Divided into five main sections this commentary becomes a must have for every Pastor who plants and teaching through the Pastoral Epistles. The first of these five sections is that of the introduction. The introduction of this work deals with the traditional introductory matters of a commentary. While being a relatively small commentary Köstenberger dedicates 54 pages to these introductory matters. It is been a long time since I have wholeheartedly agrees with everything and introductory section of a commentary, it was a pleasant surprise. Furthermore Köstenberger make sure to place these Pastoral Epistles in their proper context. This is not only helpful but necessary to understand the author’s original intent, the original understanding, and original meaning. Each of these parts shape the context to which a person can expositors from.
In matters relating to the commentary itself commentary on 1st Timothy weighs in at just under 150 pages long while the commentary on 2nd Timothy is around 85 pages followed by the commentary on Titus at around 50 pages. Despite their short length the amount of thoroughness and depth that Köstenberger places on the exposition of the text makes each page in this commentary worth its weight in gold.
Lastly, the greatest part of this commentary is not in the standard commentary section but rather in the last section of the book which deals with Biblical and Theological themes. This section of the book which takes up a third of the book is worth the price of the book itself. Köstenberger explain the themes of each of these three Epistles in great detail giving practical comment on each as well as theological death so that no stone is left upturned. When I next preach on the Pastoral Epistles this commentary will be at the top of my list. I do not know how I have taught through these books of the Bible’s without utilizing this super commentary supplicate bye personal exegesis of the text so that I’m owed proclaim the gospel in the correct Orthodox light while being able to reach the most people for Christ. I therefore highly recommend this commentary to all pastors who devote themselves to exegetical preaching while seeking to further their understanding through commentaries.
This book was provided to me free of charge from B&H Academic in exchange for an unbiased, honest review.
1-2 Timothy & Titus (BTCPC)
© 2017 by Andreas J. Köstenberger
Publisher: B&H Academic
Page Count: 560 Pages
ISBN: 978-0805496437
This second entry is titled, 1-2 Timothy & Titus, and is written by Andreas J. Köstenberger. Divided into five main sections this commentary becomes a must have for every Pastor who plants and teaching through the Pastoral Epistles. The first of these five sections is that of the introduction. The introduction of this work deals with the traditional introductory matters of a commentary. While being a relatively small commentary Köstenberger dedicates 54 pages to these introductory matters. It is been a long time since I have wholeheartedly agrees with everything and introductory section of a commentary, it was a pleasant surprise. Furthermore Köstenberger make sure to place these Pastoral Epistles in their proper context. This is not only helpful but necessary to understand the author’s original intent, the original understanding, and original meaning. Each of these parts shape the context to which a person can expositors from.
In matters relating to the commentary itself commentary on 1st Timothy weighs in at just under 150 pages long while the commentary on 2nd Timothy is around 85 pages followed by the commentary on Titus at around 50 pages. Despite their short length the amount of thoroughness and depth that Köstenberger places on the exposition of the text makes each page in this commentary worth its weight in gold.
Lastly, the greatest part of this commentary is not in the standard commentary section but rather in the last section of the book which deals with Biblical and Theological themes. This section of the book which takes up a third of the book is worth the price of the book itself. Köstenberger explain the themes of each of these three Epistles in great detail giving practical comment on each as well as theological death so that no stone is left upturned. When I next preach on the Pastoral Epistles this commentary will be at the top of my list. I do not know how I have taught through these books of the Bible’s without utilizing this super commentary supplicate bye personal exegesis of the text so that I’m owed proclaim the gospel in the correct Orthodox light while being able to reach the most people for Christ. I therefore highly recommend this commentary to all pastors who devote themselves to exegetical preaching while seeking to further their understanding through commentaries.
This book was provided to me free of charge from B&H Academic in exchange for an unbiased, honest review.
1-2 Timothy & Titus (BTCPC)
© 2017 by Andreas J. Köstenberger
Publisher: B&H Academic
Page Count: 560 Pages
ISBN: 978-0805496437
January 26, 2024
Première fois avec cette série et cet auteur et c'est une très bonne première impression.
Cette série se veut différente d'autre série en se focalisant sur la théologie qui découle du texte. Ce qui signifie bien sûr que l'auteur tranche et prends position. Ce qui change de bien des commentaires où l'auteur se contente parfois de faire une discussion sur la grammaire sans vraiment dire ce que le texte implique.
Cependant celui qui cherche un commentaire détaillé sur le texte devra chercher ailleurs. Mais celui qui cherche à comprendre la pensée générale du texte et surtout la théologie qu'il véhicule y trouvera son compte.
Cette série se veut différente d'autre série en se focalisant sur la théologie qui découle du texte. Ce qui signifie bien sûr que l'auteur tranche et prends position. Ce qui change de bien des commentaires où l'auteur se contente parfois de faire une discussion sur la grammaire sans vraiment dire ce que le texte implique.
Cependant celui qui cherche un commentaire détaillé sur le texte devra chercher ailleurs. Mais celui qui cherche à comprendre la pensée générale du texte et surtout la théologie qu'il véhicule y trouvera son compte.
December 30, 2024
A well-balanced blend of passage-specific commentary and broader theological themes - all in one volume. Not as detailed and thorough as works specifically devoted to one or the other purpose (i.e., traditional commentary or book on theological interpretation), but overall a worthwhile resource... especially for those looking for both kinds of resources in a single work.
November 10, 2021
The commentary is fine as a basic pastoral commentary. I'm not sure how much benefit the biblical theology portion really provides.
May 18, 2021
What do the small books of 1-2 Timothy and Titus have to say to us today? By examining 1-2 Timothy and Titus, Andreas J. Kostenberger shows how these three books provide the church with excellent and timely direction and instruction.
Clear Writing, Directly Engaging
This commentary allows Kostenberger to write clearly and engage directly with the Greek. In regards to women in 1 Timothy 2:9-15, he takes the time to go through the key words of “quietly,” “permit,” “teaching,” “exercise (or have) authority,” “full submission,” and “over a man.” By studying the text and understanding Paul’s arguments for God’s design for both man and woman at creation as well as what happened at the fall, Kostenberger comes to the conclusion that the man, not the woman, functions in roles of ultimate leadership and responsibility for the church.
Kostenberger is prepared to cross-examine texts, and he presents 1 Timothy 3:1-12 alongside other pertinent passages to show the two-tiered structure of overseers/elders/shepherds (first tier) and deacons (second tier). He memorably says that a man’s character, rather than external characteristics, is to be of primary significance in regards to church leaders.
Preach the Word
I was also interested to see Kostenberger showcase Paul’s love for triads. In a standout section, Kostenberger sees the three ministry metaphors in 2 Timothy 2:1-7 of the soldier, athlete, and farmer. While this grouping might seem random or incongruent, Kostenberger explains that they display the importance of persevering in order to gain a reward.
Paul’s final exhortation to Timothy to “preach the word” weighs heavily in his heart, and Kostenberger gives it due diligence by presenting it with the backdrop of false teachers, the expectation of the second coming of Christ, and God’s final judgment.
The Mission of the Early Church
Kostenberger packs in much wisdom in his commentary on Titus, and his treatment of the passages on older and younger men and women is clear. The basics of love and the call to live an exemplary life are highlighted. Towards the close of Titus, he respectfully celebrates the saving grace of God in the life of the believer.
Nearly 200 pages are dedicated to the Biblical and Theological themes in these books. We see how they are grounded in the Pauline mission of the early church and establishing the roles of its apostolic leaders. An emphasis on teaching and the goals of ministry are reflected in Paul’s desire for order in our earthly households as well as in the household of God. We also see the importance that Paul placed on living in light of Christ’s return and the final judgment of God.
Final Days
This commentary provides the clarity we need to see the timeless truths contained in God’s Word that are especially relevant today. It will give you the conviction to lead your church and family as we face danger in the church and the world. And it will call you to courageously live for Christ as we face these final days.
I received a media copy of 1-2 Timothy and Titus and this is my honest review.
Clear Writing, Directly Engaging
This commentary allows Kostenberger to write clearly and engage directly with the Greek. In regards to women in 1 Timothy 2:9-15, he takes the time to go through the key words of “quietly,” “permit,” “teaching,” “exercise (or have) authority,” “full submission,” and “over a man.” By studying the text and understanding Paul’s arguments for God’s design for both man and woman at creation as well as what happened at the fall, Kostenberger comes to the conclusion that the man, not the woman, functions in roles of ultimate leadership and responsibility for the church.
Kostenberger is prepared to cross-examine texts, and he presents 1 Timothy 3:1-12 alongside other pertinent passages to show the two-tiered structure of overseers/elders/shepherds (first tier) and deacons (second tier). He memorably says that a man’s character, rather than external characteristics, is to be of primary significance in regards to church leaders.
Preach the Word
I was also interested to see Kostenberger showcase Paul’s love for triads. In a standout section, Kostenberger sees the three ministry metaphors in 2 Timothy 2:1-7 of the soldier, athlete, and farmer. While this grouping might seem random or incongruent, Kostenberger explains that they display the importance of persevering in order to gain a reward.
Paul’s final exhortation to Timothy to “preach the word” weighs heavily in his heart, and Kostenberger gives it due diligence by presenting it with the backdrop of false teachers, the expectation of the second coming of Christ, and God’s final judgment.
The Mission of the Early Church
Kostenberger packs in much wisdom in his commentary on Titus, and his treatment of the passages on older and younger men and women is clear. The basics of love and the call to live an exemplary life are highlighted. Towards the close of Titus, he respectfully celebrates the saving grace of God in the life of the believer.
Nearly 200 pages are dedicated to the Biblical and Theological themes in these books. We see how they are grounded in the Pauline mission of the early church and establishing the roles of its apostolic leaders. An emphasis on teaching and the goals of ministry are reflected in Paul’s desire for order in our earthly households as well as in the household of God. We also see the importance that Paul placed on living in light of Christ’s return and the final judgment of God.
Final Days
This commentary provides the clarity we need to see the timeless truths contained in God’s Word that are especially relevant today. It will give you the conviction to lead your church and family as we face danger in the church and the world. And it will call you to courageously live for Christ as we face these final days.
I received a media copy of 1-2 Timothy and Titus and this is my honest review.
January 30, 2026
Fantastic exegetical commentary.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews