Ezra-Nehemiah

Throntveit’s commentary is considerably more important than its relatively modest size might suggest. Its great strength is a literary reading of the final form in which structure becomes interpretation: the first major movement is organized around the three restorations of temple, community and city walls, while the second turns to the renewal and reform of what has been restored. His treatment of Nehemiah 7:73b–10:39 is particularly strong, showing that the section is not simply about Ezra reading the Law but about the restoration community renewing its covenant relationship with God. Throntveit openly builds on Williamson in reconstructing the book’s literary history, but his own synthesis of the final narrative is distinctive, coherent and highly fruitful for preaching and theological interpretation. It lacks the philological detail and historical depth of Williamson or Harrington, but few commentaries explain so clearly why Ezra–Nehemiah has been arranged in the form in which we now read it.

Throntveit’s commentary is an easy read, but it’s also theologically-rich. As Longman points out, “It emphasizes and combines literary analysis and theological message, while downplaying the historical issues of the books. It avoids a typical moralistic reading of the books as well.” This commentary will enliven the text for those teaching on Ezra and Nehemiah. [Full Review]

Throntveit’s commentary prioritizes the literary and theological character of the text while still demonstrating awareness of the critical issues. This volume will be of value to both teachers and preachers of these books. [Full Review]

a good hermeneutical resource for the preacher

A more up-to-date discussion of theological and interpretative issues. [Full Review]