Saturday, May 28, 2016

Very Good Work on Psalms

Book Review on PSALMS Volume 3

Allen P. Ross, KREGEL EXEGETICAL LIBRARY: A COMMENTARY ON THE PSALMS: Volume 3 (90-15), Grand Rapids MI, Kregel, 2016.



The is the last volume of Ross’s series on the book of Psalms. His work is impressive, but not overbearing. His style is helpful, understandable, and very readable. It is written precisely for the Pastor and teacher of the Psalms. Technical issues and background are found in the footnotes, not the text. The book is clearly not written with those in mind. Its heart is exegetical and expository; of which Ross is a master. He does provide insight to the text and its meaning, as well as the Hebrew language and Old Testament poetry. I found his grammar and syntax helpful.

He stays true to the helpful layout of the other volumes. Each Psalm is treated in a fivefold manner:
(1) He gives his own translation of the Psalm.
(2) Composition and context.
(3) Exegetical analysis.
(4) Expository form in commentary.
(5) Message and application.

I found this very helpful in my study of the Psalms. It saves time over digging the information out of some of the heavily technical treatments. His approach is completely evangelical. He covers each Psalm well and completely. He is thoughtful on how he writes, handles the text, and makes practical applications of the text. It will aid in sermon ideas for the Pastor.  He is enjoyable to read.

I do see two weaknesses in volumes 2 and 3. First, there is no introduction to the volume, which I believe would have been helpful. Second, no overall index, either of subject or scripture. I find this second point troubling. These issues may not be that important to other readers.
In spite of these weaknesses, it does not affect the overall purpose or value of the commentary. I would recommend this commentary be in every Pastor’s and Bible students library. It is well worth it. I recommend this set on Psalms.

 I received this book from Kregel Academic in return for a review but was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.

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