Believer’s Bible Commentary

Review – January 2013 – Grace & Truth Magazine

Believer’s Bible Commentary
By William MacDonald

Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, TN, © 1995

Format: Hardcover, 2462 pages, $29.97

Available from: Believers Bookshelf, P.O. Box 261, Sunbury, PA 17801

Readers often ask, “Where can I find help to better understand this book of the Bible?” The Believer’s Bible Commentary (BBC) systematically provides brief, clear and understandable comments on every portion of God’s Word. Many times William MacDonald’s comments take on a devotional emphasis, drawing the reader’s heart toward praising God. Before his death in 2007, MacDonald was for many years a teacher at Emmaus Bible College, Dubuque, Iowa. During his lifetime, he wrote over 80 books and booklets on various Bible subjects.

In a day when we frequently look for comments on various books of the Bible that are short and to the point, this 2462 page volume provides a quick introduction to every section of Scripture. An added value comes because the author presents his thoughts from a contemporary point of view. In his own words, he wrote that “the purpose of the Believer’s Bible Commentary is to give the average Christian reader a basic knowledge of what the Holy Bible is all about.”

This significant Bible study tool provides introductions to both the Old and the New Testament, as well as to each section of the Bible. And each book begins with an outline and a description of the book’s unique place in the Bible. The dates of its writing, its history and its purpose are included. Next is the main body of the commentary, followed by indexed end notes that give side comments, sources of information or different interpretations.

William MacDonald is not afraid to discuss differences of opinion that exist among godly scholars. The author frequently quotes other well-known, conservative writers, including some from the 19th century such as J. N. Darby and William Kelly. This gives confidence that there is enduring agreement in the major doctrines explained. He also includes many crisp sayings that explain a portion and are easy to remember.

The BBC also contains many maps, charts and photographs that help the reader better understand the text. Although the author quotes primarily from the New King James Version, it is easy to follow with any English translation because of the numerous references throughout. His sources of information are presented at the end of each book. This is helpful for those who desire to do further study.

Along with his general commentary, this volume also contains an essay that discusses the time period between the Old and New Testaments (the 400 years from Malachi to Matthew), a list and description of significant people and places referred to in Scripture, a general bibliography, and numerous other charts, including fulfilled prophecies.

I highly recommend this reference book to anyone who wants to have a thorough, yet easy-to-read Bible commentary that turns often complicated theology into practical understanding.

What Is More Important? More important than any commentary is the Word of God itself, as illuminated by the Holy Spirit of God. Without it there is no life, growth, holiness, or acceptable service. We should read it, study it, memorize it, meditate on it, and above all obey it. As someone has said, “Obedience is the organ of spiritual knowledge.” — William MacDonald, Author’s Preface