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Thru the Bible Commentary, Volumes 1-5: Genesis through Revelation
Biblical truth comes alive in a unique series of informal commentaries by popular broadcaster, pastor and teacher, J. Vernon McGee.
12513 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 1983
428 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
About the author
J. Vernon McGee
484 books67 followersJohn Vernon McGee was born in Hillsboro, Texas, in 1904. Dr. McGee remarked, "When I was born and the doctor gave me the customary whack, my mother said that I let out a yell that could be heard on all four borders of Texas!" His Creator well knew that he would need a powerful voice to deliver a powerful message.
As a student pastor, Dr. McGee's first church was located on a red clay hill in Midway, Georgia. It was there that he received his greatest compliment: "It was from a country boy wearing high buttoned, yellow shoes. After a morning service he came to speak to me. He groped for words, then blurted out, 'I never knew Jesus was so wonderful!' He started to say more but choked up and hurried out of the church. As I watched him stride across the field, I prayed, 'Oh, God, help me to always preach so that it can be said, I never knew Jesus was so wonderful.'"
After completing his education (earning his A.B. from Southwestern University in Memphis, Tennessee; his B.D. from Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia; his Th.M. and Th.D. from Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas), and after pastoring Presbyterian churches in Decatur, GA, Nashville, TN, and Cleburne, TX, he and his wife came west, settling in Pasadena, where he accepted a call to the Lincoln Avenue Presbyterian Church. He recalls this period as the happiest in his life, with a young family and a young congregation whom he loved.
Dr. McGee's greatest pastorate was at the historic, Church of the Open Door in downtown Los Angeles, where he served from 1949 to 1970. There he began a daily radio broadcast called "High Noon Bible Class" on a single station.
Dr. McGee began teaching Thru the Bible in 1967. After retiring from the pastorate, he set up radio headquarters in Pasadena, and the radio ministry expanded rapidly. Today the program airs on over 400 stations each day in the United States and Canada, is heard in more than 100 languages around the world and is broadcast worldwide via the Internet.
As a student pastor, Dr. McGee's first church was located on a red clay hill in Midway, Georgia. It was there that he received his greatest compliment: "It was from a country boy wearing high buttoned, yellow shoes. After a morning service he came to speak to me. He groped for words, then blurted out, 'I never knew Jesus was so wonderful!' He started to say more but choked up and hurried out of the church. As I watched him stride across the field, I prayed, 'Oh, God, help me to always preach so that it can be said, I never knew Jesus was so wonderful.'"
After completing his education (earning his A.B. from Southwestern University in Memphis, Tennessee; his B.D. from Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia; his Th.M. and Th.D. from Dallas Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas), and after pastoring Presbyterian churches in Decatur, GA, Nashville, TN, and Cleburne, TX, he and his wife came west, settling in Pasadena, where he accepted a call to the Lincoln Avenue Presbyterian Church. He recalls this period as the happiest in his life, with a young family and a young congregation whom he loved.
Dr. McGee's greatest pastorate was at the historic, Church of the Open Door in downtown Los Angeles, where he served from 1949 to 1970. There he began a daily radio broadcast called "High Noon Bible Class" on a single station.
Dr. McGee began teaching Thru the Bible in 1967. After retiring from the pastorate, he set up radio headquarters in Pasadena, and the radio ministry expanded rapidly. Today the program airs on over 400 stations each day in the United States and Canada, is heard in more than 100 languages around the world and is broadcast worldwide via the Internet.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 10, 2014
I can here state that Mr. McGee is an excellent companion to my search thru the Bible. It is not an exhaustive analysis of everything, it would be impossible, but it clarifies lots of subjects that can easily be misinterpreted. It is never boring; he never gets entangled in interpretation issues: he gives us his honest one forcefully when convinced of so, and when he doesn't know he also honestly states so and gives his humble opinion.
The author speaks from the vantage point of experience, in his life and what he has observed in the lives of many people who have looked to him for counsel. One of the valuable things that I learned from his commentary is that there must be a lot of false teachers in our churches, so-called Christians (they call themselves Liberals) who are watering down the real faith. The same way as the scribes used to shoot questions at Jesus once, trying to get Him in trouble -definitely not searching for truth-, now we have many people among us who attack our faith from within. In Spain we have the old saying that goes: Tell me whom you go out with, and I'll tell you who you are. Well, we are save alright if we go out with Mr. McGee, after we've been first with the Gospel. Lucky me that I have found a church that preaches the real Word, and is not ashamed of one word in it. Mr. McGee is right in making us aware of the dangers that some phony Christians can create by their examples in our churches. Better stay out than do us harm from within. Faith shows by acting upon it: We need to do more, ask more of ourselves, love more, help more. Talk is cheap. It's something like when we complain about our politicians but we, Christians, don't get into politics, so what can we expect?
The truth is simple because it aims at the hearts of men, not at their intelligence. So it is not so difficult to understand once we read it in its context (which Mr. McGee perfectly supplies). The commentary is spread with rich anecdotes and real life applications, making its reading a vivid experience, and not a dull or abstract mental exercise.
Here's a good example of Mr. McGee's style. Talking about when Jesus enters the home of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42):
"...Mary had done her part; then she went to sit at the feet of Jesus. Martha, her sister, was a dear soul and if it had not been for her they would not have had that lovely dinner: She got busy, however, and became frustrated. Possibly she reached for a pan, thought it was not big enough, then reached for another, and a pan fell off a top shelf. It was too much for her and she came walking out of the kitchen, and said something she would not have said under normal conditions. Our Lord was very gentle with her, but said: "Mary has chosen the best part." My frustrated, confused friend, are you at that corner of life where you don not know which way to turn? Then, for goodness sake, sit down. Sit at Jesus' feet. Look in His Word, and see what He has to say. It will help you with your housework." (Volume IV, page 294)
Wonderful advice.
I like this set overall because it comes honest and forcefully, from the heart of a man whose devotion for the Lord Jesus cannot be denied.
The author speaks from the vantage point of experience, in his life and what he has observed in the lives of many people who have looked to him for counsel. One of the valuable things that I learned from his commentary is that there must be a lot of false teachers in our churches, so-called Christians (they call themselves Liberals) who are watering down the real faith. The same way as the scribes used to shoot questions at Jesus once, trying to get Him in trouble -definitely not searching for truth-, now we have many people among us who attack our faith from within. In Spain we have the old saying that goes: Tell me whom you go out with, and I'll tell you who you are. Well, we are save alright if we go out with Mr. McGee, after we've been first with the Gospel. Lucky me that I have found a church that preaches the real Word, and is not ashamed of one word in it. Mr. McGee is right in making us aware of the dangers that some phony Christians can create by their examples in our churches. Better stay out than do us harm from within. Faith shows by acting upon it: We need to do more, ask more of ourselves, love more, help more. Talk is cheap. It's something like when we complain about our politicians but we, Christians, don't get into politics, so what can we expect?
The truth is simple because it aims at the hearts of men, not at their intelligence. So it is not so difficult to understand once we read it in its context (which Mr. McGee perfectly supplies). The commentary is spread with rich anecdotes and real life applications, making its reading a vivid experience, and not a dull or abstract mental exercise.
Here's a good example of Mr. McGee's style. Talking about when Jesus enters the home of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42):
"...Mary had done her part; then she went to sit at the feet of Jesus. Martha, her sister, was a dear soul and if it had not been for her they would not have had that lovely dinner: She got busy, however, and became frustrated. Possibly she reached for a pan, thought it was not big enough, then reached for another, and a pan fell off a top shelf. It was too much for her and she came walking out of the kitchen, and said something she would not have said under normal conditions. Our Lord was very gentle with her, but said: "Mary has chosen the best part." My frustrated, confused friend, are you at that corner of life where you don not know which way to turn? Then, for goodness sake, sit down. Sit at Jesus' feet. Look in His Word, and see what He has to say. It will help you with your housework." (Volume IV, page 294)
Wonderful advice.
I like this set overall because it comes honest and forcefully, from the heart of a man whose devotion for the Lord Jesus cannot be denied.
December 27, 2010
The best biblical commentary/exposition I have ever read.
September 25, 2021
This kindle edition contains the transcribed and edited version of the Thru the Bible radio broadcasts by J. Vernon McGee. Simple, straightforward commentary in plain language. An excellent resource.
January 14, 2013
Dr. J. Vernon McGee,in his native Texas home-spun style, artfully illustrates the great truths of the Bible thoughout these five volumes. His fast-paced, radio-message manner holds your attention and puts the cookies on the lower shelf where everyone can reach them. These commentaries are from a fundamental Christian stand point and the reading level is where the rubber meets the road; you don't necessarily have to be a theologian to understand them!
February 25, 2015
A fantastic timely Bible . Commentary
This commentary written in the 1980's, might as well been written 30 years later. It is written in a conversational style that is as amusing as it is profound. It is a valuable book in my library!
This commentary written in the 1980's, might as well been written 30 years later. It is written in a conversational style that is as amusing as it is profound. It is a valuable book in my library!
September 20, 2013
Vernon McGee is a conservative expositor of the Scriptures. This five volume set examines the Bible at a high level that reaches into everyday life. Because I only agree with 95% of its content you might expect me to give it less than five stars. This in no the case. I have read too many Bible commentaries that have numerous internal contradictions to not fully value this work.
Thu the Bible presents a consistent and self supporting commentary on the Scriptures that is both educational and thought provoking. Its length and declarative tone might not make it for everyone, but those that make the investment will not be disappointed.
Thu the Bible presents a consistent and self supporting commentary on the Scriptures that is both educational and thought provoking. Its length and declarative tone might not make it for everyone, but those that make the investment will not be disappointed.
February 21, 2017
Wonderful Word of God explained by a great preacher, John Vernon McGee!
Anyone interested in delving deeper into the Word of God should read Dr. McGee's very good explanation of each chapter. I highly recommend this book. We now have the eBook version as well as his paper versions, both hardback and soft back.
Anyone interested in delving deeper into the Word of God should read Dr. McGee's very good explanation of each chapter. I highly recommend this book. We now have the eBook version as well as his paper versions, both hardback and soft back.
January 15, 2021
Rated: B+
Enjoyed reading the Bible while reading the old Texas teacher's great works. Homey. Simple. Fundamental. Sound doctrine. Enjoyable. Fun. Insightful. Dallas Theological Seminary surely turns out preachers who know the Word of God.
Enjoyed reading the Bible while reading the old Texas teacher's great works. Homey. Simple. Fundamental. Sound doctrine. Enjoyable. Fun. Insightful. Dallas Theological Seminary surely turns out preachers who know the Word of God.
August 19, 2009
Looking forward to meeting him in heaven
still on the radio in over 100 countries
still on the radio in over 100 countries
June 19, 2012
Great basic commentary on the whole bible.
March 31, 2016
A scholarly account. Should be read by everyone who wants to better understand the Bible.
March 13, 2013
Love it,will read again and again!
February 9, 2017
One of my favorite commentaries! A must have resource for anyone who teaches, speaks, or writes about faith.
January 12, 2015
Best bible commentary
I have had this bible commentary for many years. One of the best purchases I ever made. I use it for my daily reading and for Sunday school lessons. Every verse is covered. Sometimes James Vernon McGhee will share old memories that happened in his life and it makes me realize that not a whole lot has changed. We have been sinners forever, nothing new under the sun. I liked this so much, I bought the 7 book hard copy for a dear friend that lead me to the Lord many years ago. She also loves this commentary that covers every book in the bible.
I have had this bible commentary for many years. One of the best purchases I ever made. I use it for my daily reading and for Sunday school lessons. Every verse is covered. Sometimes James Vernon McGhee will share old memories that happened in his life and it makes me realize that not a whole lot has changed. We have been sinners forever, nothing new under the sun. I liked this so much, I bought the 7 book hard copy for a dear friend that lead me to the Lord many years ago. She also loves this commentary that covers every book in the bible.
March 5, 2014
Simple where the rubber meets the Word verses by verse teaching. Everyone should read through at least once.
May 25, 2024
Technically I listened to the radio version, but I did the whole 5 year program of Gen-Rev in a year! The audio is also on YouTube, and they are in a longer format than the daily radio program. The YouTube audio is the same as the free downloadable MP3 files on the TTB website, which are around 1-2 hours each.
When I saw that there are 350 MP3 files for the whole study, I realized I could listen to one each day and finish it in a year! So that was my plan of action for 2023 - read/listen to the 5 year thru the Bible study in one year! It was hard, but it was really fun and helpful. McGee is like listening to a grandpa, explaining the Bible in simple language that's really relatable. He tells a lot of personal stories to emphasize points, but I really love that he explains a lot about ancient culture to help us understand the context, as well as defining Hebrew and Greek words to show what ideas meant in the original languages. It has been really eye-opening and edifying.
When I saw that there are 350 MP3 files for the whole study, I realized I could listen to one each day and finish it in a year! So that was my plan of action for 2023 - read/listen to the 5 year thru the Bible study in one year! It was hard, but it was really fun and helpful. McGee is like listening to a grandpa, explaining the Bible in simple language that's really relatable. He tells a lot of personal stories to emphasize points, but I really love that he explains a lot about ancient culture to help us understand the context, as well as defining Hebrew and Greek words to show what ideas meant in the original languages. It has been really eye-opening and edifying.
September 28, 2018
Understanding that this commentary series is a typed version of Dr. McGee’s Radio broadcasts it is no secret to why it can be wordy at times. That being said many times Dr. McGee has a different angle than most of the mainline commentaries. Not my personal favorite but still a great go to reference tool.
November 23, 2012
An EXCELLENT, plain spoken, Bible commentary. In hard cover, this set is very expensive, but you can get it on Kindle for about $5. A steal.
April 2, 2021
TTB Commentary great addition to audio version!
I’ve been listening to Dr. McGee’s 5-year Bible study for several decades and have used both the hard cover and the e-version (necessary after some of the volumes were lost during hurricane Harvey). The commentary allows me to both read ahead or to review what was said in each day’s study. The highlight feature is a great tool for quickly finding Dr. McGee’s comments on a particular chapter or book of the Bible. The commentary also citing the sources used at the precise location, which allows the reader to dig further into a subject. This digital version works well across my MacBook, iPhone, and iPad and gives me the option to sync to the farthest place read whenever I change devices. Handy to have for a Bible study whenever and wherever you are. Also is a great tool for my hearing impairment for my eyes to catch what my ears missed. I highly recommend this for the TTB Bible bus riders traveling through the 5-year study!
I’ve been listening to Dr. McGee’s 5-year Bible study for several decades and have used both the hard cover and the e-version (necessary after some of the volumes were lost during hurricane Harvey). The commentary allows me to both read ahead or to review what was said in each day’s study. The highlight feature is a great tool for quickly finding Dr. McGee’s comments on a particular chapter or book of the Bible. The commentary also citing the sources used at the precise location, which allows the reader to dig further into a subject. This digital version works well across my MacBook, iPhone, and iPad and gives me the option to sync to the farthest place read whenever I change devices. Handy to have for a Bible study whenever and wherever you are. Also is a great tool for my hearing impairment for my eyes to catch what my ears missed. I highly recommend this for the TTB Bible bus riders traveling through the 5-year study!
January 22, 2020
This is a tried and true pastoral resource for any Bible student and any Bible scholar alike. McGee just knew Jesus so well. Everything else flows naturally out of his studies and his teaching. Stylistically warm, loving and inviting without ever being compromising or rigid. It is a rare occasion when I will teach a passage without consulting this series and Warren Wiersbe. What a gift to the body of Christ.
June 23, 2021
Dr. McGee's commentaries are some of the best starter studies around. Giving his readers subject history, language, customs, and political landscape in that era of study as he explains words and subjects in great detail for better understanding. I so enjoyed reading all 5 commentaries over a 5 month period of time with great enjoyment.
April 6, 2024
Loved this! Would only be better if it used a more modern translation, preferably the NKJV or NASB 95. I read it rather unconventionally; started with the New Testament, then the Old Testament up to the poetic books, skipped those and read through the prophets, then finished up with the poetic books. I'm sure I'll read back through parts of this many times. Highly recommended!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 18, 2024
Wonderful Commentary
Dr. McGee writes in a way that is so easy to understand. His tone is perfect. You can almost hear him speaking the words. He gives his commentary on the Bible life and keeps you engaged throughout. I went to his website in order to get the order he taught each book on his Bible Bus program. It is a wonderful addition to you Bible reference books.
Dr. McGee writes in a way that is so easy to understand. His tone is perfect. You can almost hear him speaking the words. He gives his commentary on the Bible life and keeps you engaged throughout. I went to his website in order to get the order he taught each book on his Bible Bus program. It is a wonderful addition to you Bible reference books.
October 14, 2018
Bible Commentary
If you are looking for a wonderful Bible study I highly recommend this one. You will learn so very much. Dr. McGee is a very good teacher. He teaches directly from the word of God.
If you are looking for a wonderful Bible study I highly recommend this one. You will learn so very much. Dr. McGee is a very good teacher. He teaches directly from the word of God.
July 6, 2019
Excellent resource for the serious Bible students
January 20, 2023
Worth reading the whole Bible while reading all this on top of it. I suggest it to anyone to read.
March 25, 2025
Reading Thru the Bible commentary by J. Vernon McGee offers several compelling benefits for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Scripture. McGee, a well-respected Bible teacher and pastor, is known for his approachable, practical, and insightful style, which makes his commentary a valuable resource for both new and seasoned readers of the Bible. Here are some reasons why you might consider diving into his work:
Clear and Accessible Explanations: McGee had a unique ability to break down complex biblical concepts into simple, everyday language. His commentary is designed to be understood by the average person, not just scholars or theologians. He often said he aimed to "put the cookies on the bottom shelf" so everyone could reach them, making it an excellent tool if you're seeking clarity without getting bogged down in academic jargon.
Comprehensive Coverage: The Thru the Bible series takes you through every verse of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. McGee’s systematic approach ensures you get a broad, cohesive understanding of Scripture, connecting the dots between Old and New Testaments. This makes it ideal for anyone wanting a thorough, guided journey through the entire Bible.
Practical Application: McGee doesn’t just explain what the text means—he ties it to real-life situations. His commentary is filled with insights on how biblical truths apply to daily living, helping you see the relevance of Scripture in a modern context. His folksy, relatable style often includes anecdotes and humor, keeping the reading engaging and memorable.
Trusted Biblical Perspective: With a strong background in theology (degrees from Columbia Theological Seminary and Dallas Theological Seminary) and decades of pastoral experience, McGee brings a reliable, conservative Christian viewpoint. His commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture and focus on the gospel provide a solid foundation for readers seeking sound doctrine.
Enhanced Bible Study Experience: Whether you’re studying solo, preparing a sermon, or teaching a group, McGee’s commentary offers detailed outlines, historical context, and verse-by-verse insights that enrich your exploration of the Bible. It’s like having a knowledgeable guide walking you through each chapter, pointing out key themes and lessons.
Timeless Appeal: Even though McGee originally delivered these teachings via his radio program starting in 1967, his insights remain relevant today. His focus on the unchanging truth of God’s Word transcends time, making the commentary a resource that speaks to contemporary challenges and questions.
Encouragement in Faith: McGee’s passion for Scripture and love for Christ shine through his writing. His commentary not only informs but also inspires, encouraging readers to grow in their relationship with God and trust in the Bible as a living, transformative text.
In short, reading Thru the Bible by J. Vernon McGee is a worthwhile endeavor if you’re looking for a blend of accessibility, depth, and practical wisdom to enhance your study of Scripture. It’s a resource that can help you know the Bible better, apply it to your life, and draw closer to its Author.
Clear and Accessible Explanations: McGee had a unique ability to break down complex biblical concepts into simple, everyday language. His commentary is designed to be understood by the average person, not just scholars or theologians. He often said he aimed to "put the cookies on the bottom shelf" so everyone could reach them, making it an excellent tool if you're seeking clarity without getting bogged down in academic jargon.
Comprehensive Coverage: The Thru the Bible series takes you through every verse of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. McGee’s systematic approach ensures you get a broad, cohesive understanding of Scripture, connecting the dots between Old and New Testaments. This makes it ideal for anyone wanting a thorough, guided journey through the entire Bible.
Practical Application: McGee doesn’t just explain what the text means—he ties it to real-life situations. His commentary is filled with insights on how biblical truths apply to daily living, helping you see the relevance of Scripture in a modern context. His folksy, relatable style often includes anecdotes and humor, keeping the reading engaging and memorable.
Trusted Biblical Perspective: With a strong background in theology (degrees from Columbia Theological Seminary and Dallas Theological Seminary) and decades of pastoral experience, McGee brings a reliable, conservative Christian viewpoint. His commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture and focus on the gospel provide a solid foundation for readers seeking sound doctrine.
Enhanced Bible Study Experience: Whether you’re studying solo, preparing a sermon, or teaching a group, McGee’s commentary offers detailed outlines, historical context, and verse-by-verse insights that enrich your exploration of the Bible. It’s like having a knowledgeable guide walking you through each chapter, pointing out key themes and lessons.
Timeless Appeal: Even though McGee originally delivered these teachings via his radio program starting in 1967, his insights remain relevant today. His focus on the unchanging truth of God’s Word transcends time, making the commentary a resource that speaks to contemporary challenges and questions.
Encouragement in Faith: McGee’s passion for Scripture and love for Christ shine through his writing. His commentary not only informs but also inspires, encouraging readers to grow in their relationship with God and trust in the Bible as a living, transformative text.
In short, reading Thru the Bible by J. Vernon McGee is a worthwhile endeavor if you’re looking for a blend of accessibility, depth, and practical wisdom to enhance your study of Scripture. It’s a resource that can help you know the Bible better, apply it to your life, and draw closer to its Author.
July 30, 2024
"on the back cover"
"Specifically writing to meet the needs of lay bible readers as well as clergy, Dr. McGee deliberately avoids "the straitjacket of printed prose and lofty verbiage," His plain writing and lively approach make biblical truth understandable. And bible study more enjoyable."
"comment on the back cover."
I enjoy the easy-to-read font, how the book is made and designed, and the dust cover that protects the book. I had never heard of Dr. McGee or his "thru the bible" broadcast. I did some research on Dr. McGee,
and decided to buy this set of books and have not been disappointed.
The price was reasonable, and this set will come in handy for a long time to come.
"Specifically writing to meet the needs of lay bible readers as well as clergy, Dr. McGee deliberately avoids "the straitjacket of printed prose and lofty verbiage," His plain writing and lively approach make biblical truth understandable. And bible study more enjoyable."
"comment on the back cover."
I enjoy the easy-to-read font, how the book is made and designed, and the dust cover that protects the book. I had never heard of Dr. McGee or his "thru the bible" broadcast. I did some research on Dr. McGee,
and decided to buy this set of books and have not been disappointed.
The price was reasonable, and this set will come in handy for a long time to come.
May 12, 2025
Reading the commentary on 1 Peter.
Finished studying Romans today. Dr. McGee does a good job to break things down so that it is easier to understand. I enjoyed reading the last chapter (16). Especially about the backgrounds of the 35 people mentioned in Paul's greetings. Sept. 2024
Read the commentary on Daniel. Loved the easy insight and the historical references. Daniel has become one of my favorite books of the Old Testament. Oct. 2023
Read the commentary on Revelation. Loved the simple breakdown of this complex book even though I disagreed on some of Dr. McGee's interruptions. Very much a dispensationalist. May 2023
Finished studying Romans today. Dr. McGee does a good job to break things down so that it is easier to understand. I enjoyed reading the last chapter (16). Especially about the backgrounds of the 35 people mentioned in Paul's greetings. Sept. 2024
Read the commentary on Daniel. Loved the easy insight and the historical references. Daniel has become one of my favorite books of the Old Testament. Oct. 2023
Read the commentary on Revelation. Loved the simple breakdown of this complex book even though I disagreed on some of Dr. McGee's interruptions. Very much a dispensationalist. May 2023
November 26, 2021
McGee is about as down on the farm as they get. He know his Bible and God has blessed his ministry by just going through the Bible verse-by-verse every 5 years. He uses simple language and examples to explain profound insights into God's Word. His voice is hard for me to listen to for very long so it is nice to have this book from one of his five year Bible cycles.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews