Evangelical Biblical Theology Commentary: 1-2 Timothy and Titus
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.
This review was originally published on May 18, 2021. I received a media copy of 1-2 Timothy and Titus and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.