Genesis: Beginning and Blessing

I worked through Genesis while using this commentary in parallel and benefitted much from it. It is apparent that Kent Hughes did much exegetical background work and has considered many different commentaries and scholars to lay a solid groundwork for his own exposition. Since this is a preaching commentary, he (in most cases) „only“ brings his results to display. This is not meant as a downside, since you never have the feeling, that he passes over something that would have been important for the general reader and also gives reference to further study material in his footnotes. For more detailed lexical discussion or comparison of different exegetical options, one can consult a more detailed and technical work (I myself used Kenneth Mathews 2-volume NAC commentary). The chapters often contain precious observations, helpful quotes and in most cases Hughes gets to issues of practical Christian living. Only few chapters seemed to be a little lengthy, where it felt to be just a kind of retelling the story. Overall then, this commentary is accessible to every Christian and helps to get a solid grasp of Genesis – both in theological aspects (redemptive history), as well as for the implications and requirements for practical living. A minor downside to the complete Preaching the Word series is, that you always have to flip back and forth if you want to consult the footnotes. But that's something you can cope with.

In typical fashion, R. Kent Hughes blends relevant application with solid exposition. Many commentaries on Genesis are filled with technical language that only benefits a few. Hughes recognizes that most pastors and laypersons don't need the extra jargon, they just need the truth of God's Word presented in a way that challenges the lives of its hearers. This is a fantastic commentary for teachers of the Bible.

The book of Genesis lays the groundwork for God’s relationship with humanity and his plan for our salvation. R. Kent Hughes explores this book with the care and insight that are the hallmarks of the Preaching the Word series. [Full Review]