The Pastoral Epistles
in International Theological Commentary (T&T Clark)
Pages
616
Publisher
T&T Clark
Published
2019
ISBN-13
9780567334190
This commentary offers a verse-by-verse theological interpretation of the First and Second epistles to Timothy and Titus. Bray reads the letters as authoritative scripture, moving beyond questions of whether they are pseudonymous, and of whether or not they are post-apostolic, instead looking closely at how they have been understood in the life of the Church.
Bray engages with the history of commentary surrounding these letters, ranging from the Fathers to contemporary theology and exegesis. He reads the epistles as the authoritative word from God to his people, and through his engagement with the history of interpretation shows the constant thread of witness and confession that unites believers across the ages. In so doing, Bray shows why the Pastoral Epistles have survived the passage of time and have retained the canonical authority that they have always enjoyed.
Bray engages with the history of commentary surrounding these letters, ranging from the Fathers to contemporary theology and exegesis. He reads the epistles as the authoritative word from God to his people, and through his engagement with the history of interpretation shows the constant thread of witness and confession that unites believers across the ages. In so doing, Bray shows why the Pastoral Epistles have survived the passage of time and have retained the canonical authority that they have always enjoyed.
Reviews
ThomasCreedy
July 25, 2023
July 25, 2023
Overall, I think Bray has written a fine theological commentary on the pastorals. Well written – and very readable for the most part – it occasionally could have been more tightly edited. For my purposes, it deserves a spot on the shelf, and I will refer back to it not least for careful and sustained engagement with historic interpretation. Where I’m not in agreement with Bray, I’ll need to think harder – and I’ll certainly recommend this volume as an example of theological commentary, and a helpful commentary on the Pastoral Epistles. Whilst it’s price is large, if it can be borrowed or bought on offer, I’d encourage pastors and preachers to access it if possible.
[Full Review]