1 & 2 Kings - Paperback

by Peter J. Leithart (Author), R. Reno (Editor), Robert Jenson (Editor)

1 and 2 Kings, like each volume in the Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible, is designed to serve the church--through aid in preaching, teaching, study groups, and so forth--and demonstrate the continuing intellectual and practical viability of theological interpretation of the Bible.

Back Jacket

Leithart's theological conclusions about the book of Kings are diverse and interesting. He demonstrates a breadth of reading and knowledge of theological matters and brings that knowledge to bear upon the book of Kings. . . . For the biblical scholar, this volume is a fitting reminder that the text should be read holistically and theologically. . . . For the pastor, Leithart's commentary provides a succinct summary of each chapter or section that is most helpful in preaching through the book. For the theologian, Leithart shows how even the book of Kings makes weighty theological statements based upon a text-imminent, Christian reading of the book. Moreover, for all, it is a delightful read.
--Randall L. McKinion, Review of Biblical Literature

"Both content and structure contribute to the value of the commentary for sermon preparation and lay use. Chief among the distinguishing features of Leithart's work is the way he travels from the text to multiple disciplines that benefit from the narrative theology described therein. . . . [Leithart's] aspiration of bringing the OT to the church as an ongoing source of revelation is refreshing. In a discipline felt by many to have become increasingly distant from the church, theology, and even exegesis, biblical studies is in need of 'reform.' Like Elijah, Leithart attempts to address the problem from within, rather than casting aspersions from a distance. For this, as well as for his engaging style and challenging observations, his contribution is welcome."
--Amber Warhurst, Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society

"Leithart's work [is] stimulating in its unabashedly theological interpretive stance. Such a starting point for the exegetical task inquires differently of the text and renders fresh applications and observations. The two disciplines of biblical and theological studies can only benefit from cross-disciplinary engagement and, certainly, Leithart demonstrates that both disciplines can be used critically and in service of the Church."
--Lissa M. Wray Beal, Toronto Journal of Theology

"[Leithart's] introduction, '1-2 Kings as Gospel, ' is well worth reading and will be a great help in preparing to preach through these books, which are not often chosen for expository series. This commentary will be a great supplement to other tools when preaching in 1-2 Kings."
--Preaching

Author Biography

Peter Leithart (PhD, University of Cambridge) is professor of theology and literature at New Saint Andrews College and pastor of Trinity Reformed Church in Moscow, Idaho. He is the author of a number of books, including A House for My Name: A Survey of the Old Testament, Against Christianity, and a forthcoming commentary on 2 Peter. A contributing editor for Touchstone, he has also written articles for First Things, Modern Theology, Journal of Biblical Literature, and Pro Ecclesia.