Nahum-Malachi

Achtemeier’s Nahum–Malachi is one of the finest volumes in the Interpretation series. It cannot replace a technical commentary for detailed Hebrew, textual criticism or verse-by-verse exegesis, but it succeeds remarkably well in integrating historical study, theological interpretation and the needs of teaching and preaching. Achtemeier is especially effective in recovering the theological importance of the neglected book of Nahum, interpreting Habakkuk as a profound witness to God’s providence and the life of faith “in the meantime,” and tracing Zephaniah’s movement from universal judgment through humility and dependence upon God to restoration and joy. She writes with clarity, conviction and a strong homiletical instinct, while drawing fruitfully upon the church’s earlier preaching tradition. Some historical conclusions and contemporary illustrations inevitably reflect the age of the commentary, and her Christian applications occasionally move more quickly than a technical exegete might prefer, but she repeatedly reaches the theological heart of these prophets. An outstanding commentary for ministers, teachers and thoughtful Christian readers.

A concise, non-technical commentary, from an expert in OT prophetic texts. Engaging but sometimes comments on large units without comments on specific features of the text.

 

Achtemeier does well at concisely summarizing some of the main points of the text and letting that lead to practical interpretation. One is of course left wishing she could have had more space to develop some of the ideas, but for the commentary series this is in and the space she was allowed – very well done. Though I would first go with Craigie for a short devotional commentary, this is a solid contribution to the Interpretation commentary.