Bible study notes and commentary on the Old Testament books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, and Job. Emphasizes understanding the text with practical applications. Intended to be helpful to all Christians, including teachers and preachers, while avoiding an emphasis on technical issues. Written from the conservative viewpoint of faith in the Bible as the absolute, inerrant, verbally inspired word of God. Comments include discussion of these topics: * The return of the Jews from Babylonian Captivity * The rebuilding of the temple and the walls of Jerusalem * Salvation of the Jews from a plot of annihilation and holocaust * Restoration of worship and service to God * Reasons why people suffer * Patient endurance in time of hardship and trouble * Roles of God and of Satan in human tragedy * Authority and wisdom of God to control His creation

* Bible study notes and comments on the Old Testament books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther* Explanation and practical applications for the average Bible student* Written from the perspective of faith in the Bible as the absolute, inerrant verbally inspired word of God* Examines the return of the Jews from Babylonian Captivity, the rebuilding of the temple and Jerusalem, and the defeat of their enemies

No other book in the Bible compares with the wonder of the sacred collection of inspired worship songs known as the Psalms. Considered by many to be the most loved portion of Scripture, the Psalms have been a bedrock of comfort and a tower of strength for believers in every experience of life. This is the second of two volumes in the Holman Old Testament Commentary given to the Psalms, that provide commentary on Psalms chapters 76-150. Some of the key Psalms receive an added in-depth treatment that includes exposition, illustrations, and teaching plans. - http://www.christianbook.com

"Ezra and Nehemiah address issues that make the front pages of our newspapers - and they speak to the yearnings of our hearts". This is why the author of this volume, Dr. Mark Roberts enthusiastically encourages Christian communicators to explore these somewhat obscure Old Testament texts. For much the same reason the author believes modern pastors and Bible students can benefit from careful study in the often-maligned book of Esther. He emphasizes the book's contemporary relevance, stating, "Esther encourages us to grapple with pressing moral issues in light of God's wisdom". As a pastor with a passion for communicating God's truths to young people and to the unchurched in our world, Dr. Roberts shares his personal success in using the books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther to address contemporary needs. Not only is this commentary well-written and carefully researched, but, as an added plus, Dr. Roberts' deep faith and his dynamic relationship with Christ shine through every page. As Dr. Lloyd Ogilvie says in the editor's preface, the author of this fine volume "is vulnerable, open and honest about how the Scriptures he explains have impacted his own life". Marked by the excellence you have come to expect in the Communicator's Commentary series, this latest volume wrestles with difficult questions, such as the rightful place of Esther in the canon and the puzzling roles of Sheshbazzar and Zerubbabel; provides a wide range of quotations and anecdotes from modern and classical sources to help us communicate God's message today; and offers balance of exegetical, historical, and literary analysis along with penetrating applications of the truths reflected in these texts. "As communicators",Dr. Ogilvie says, "we all long for those magnificent moments in our preparation when we are gripped with an inspired insight into a passage of Scripture that prompts us to exclaim, 'that will preach!' We are filled with excitement and enthusiasm to share what we've discovered. This is exactly what will happen as you study this commentary. It is power-packed and brimming over with new insight into familiar passages".

Continuing a Gold Medallion Award-winning legacy, the completely revised Expositor's Bible Commentary puts world-class biblical scholarship in your hands. A staple for students, teachers, and pastors worldwide, The Expositor's Bible Commentary (EBC) offers comprehensive yet succinct commentary from scholars committed to the authority of the Holy Scriptures. The EBC uses the New International Version of the Bible, but the contributors work from the original Hebrew and Greek languages and refer to other translations when useful. Each section of the commentary includes: An introduction: background information, a short bibliography, and an outline An overview of Scripture to illuminate the big picture The complete NIV text Extensive commentary Notes on textual questions, key words, and concepts Reflections to give expanded thoughts on important issues The series features 56 contributors, who: Believe in the divine inspiration, complete trustworthiness, and full authority of the Bible Have demonstrated proficiency in the biblical book that is their specialty Are committed to the church and the pastoral dimension of biblical interpretation Represent geographical and denominational diversity Use a balanced and respectful approach toward marked differences of opinion Write from an evangelical viewpoint For insightful exposition, thoughtful discussion, and ease of use—look no further than The Expositor's Bible Commentary.

In this introduction and commentary to the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, Derek Kidner's clear prose and theological insight helps readers understand the complex literary and historical issues surrounding these two books and their chief characters.

The chequered story of the Kings, lasting nearly five centuries, ended disastrously in 587 BC with the sack of Jerusalem, the fall of the monarchy, and the removal to Babylonia of all that made Judah politically viable. It was a death to make way for a rebirth. This study of the closely related books of Ezra and Nehemiah charts the Jews' return from exile to Jerusalem and the beginnings of that rebirth. As the drama unfolds, above all and through all, we see the good hand of God at work. The Tyndale Old Testament Commentary is designed to help the reader of the Bible understand what the text says and what it means. The Introduction to each book gives a concise but thorough treatment of its authorship, date, original setting and purpose. Following a structural Analysis, the Commentary takes the book section by section, drawing out its main themes, and also comments on individual verses and problems of interpretation. Additional Notes provide fuller discussion of particular difficulties. In the new Old Testament volumes, the commentary on each section of the text is structured under three headings: 'Content', 'Comment' and 'Meaning'. The goal is to explain the true meaning of the Bible and make its message plain.

Written BY Preachers and Teachers FOR Preachers and Teachers The Preacher's Commentary offers pastors, teachers, and Bible study leaders clear and compelling insights into the Bible that will equip them to understand, apply, and teach the truth in God's Word. Each volume is written by one of today's top scholars, and includes: Innovative ideas for preaching and teaching God's Word Vibrant paragraph-by-paragraph exposition Impelling real-life illustrations Insightful and relevant contemporary application An introduction, which reveals the author's approach A full outline of the biblical book being covered Scripture passages (using the New King James Version) and explanations Combining fresh insights with readable exposition and relatable examples, The Preacher's Commentary will help you minister to others and see their lives transformed through the power of God's Word. Whether preacher, teacher, or Bible study leader--if you're a communicator, The Preacher's Commentary will help you share God's Word more effectively with others.

Bible study notes and commentary on the Old Testament books of 1 and 2 Samuel. Emphasizes understanding the text with practical applications. Intended to be helpful to all Christians, including teachers and preachers, while avoiding an emphasis on technical issues. Written from the conservative viewpoint of faith in the Bible as the absolute, inerrant, verbally inspired word of God. Comments include discussion of these topics: * Lives of Samuel, David, and Saul * End of the period of Judges * Beginning of the United Kingdom in Israel * David's defeat of Goliath * Reign of David * David's sin with Bathsheeba and its consequences