The Letters of John

This slightly older commentary is superb and a must-read for readers at all levels. In his signature fashion, Stott clearly explains the meaning and structure of the biblical text without losing sight of the theological and ethical truths John is concerned to explain, defend, and commend. Reading Stott carefully is like attending a mini-seminar that reinforces familiar convictions and stirs up fresh ones. He does a wonderful job identifying John’s theological convictions and makes valuable applications for Christian living. [Full Review]

I am a huge fan of John Stott. Some of his books have greatly impacted me. Unfortunately this commentary does not. I found it hard to follow and badly organized. If you want Stott at his very best, read THE CROSS OF CHRIST or his wonderful commentary on ROMANS.

A fine commentary that has depth but also explains the letters in a way that the layperson can understand. The intro is strongly pro-John the Apostle as the author and does a fairly in depth look at the first letter and the epistle sharing much in the way of thought and language. This is followed by the second and third epistles showing similarities to the first. The meat of the book is the commentary which requires thought but is accessible. One notable suggestion was that the heresy mentioned was that of believing that Jesus became Christ at his baptism and ceased to be Christ before the cross. This John combated by writing specifically that Jesus was Christ through, not at, water (baptism) and through, not just before, the blood (crucifixion). There are quite a few well explained concepts such as this in the volume.

Certainly worth reading, but too dependent on the “tests of life” idea. The source of 1000 sermons, I’m sure, but a commentary more focused on what John actually says would be better.

A classic.

John Stott is always an able commentator and his volume in the TNTC is no exception. Carson praises it as “one of the most useful conservative commentaries on these epistles, so far as the preacher is concerned” and says “it is packed with both exegetical comments and thoughtful application.” The TNTC is targeted squarely at a general audience, so both pastors and interesting general readers will find it tremendously beneficial. If you are looking for a commentary to guide you as you read John’s epistles devotionally, this is probably the one you want. [Full Review]

This and Kruse are great resources.

A standard that won't go away [Full Review]

[Full Review]