Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible: Matthew to John

Overview of "Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible: Matthew to John"

Author and Context

Matthew Henry (1662-1714) was a renowned English nonconformist minister and theologian. His six-volume "Complete Commentary" on the Bible, originally written between 1706 and 1710, provides an exhaustive verse-by-verse study of the Bible. The commentary covers the whole of the Old Testament and the Gospels and Acts in the New Testament.

Key Themes

1. Exegetical Focus: Henry's commentaries are primarily exegetical, focusing on the literal interpretation and explanation of scripture. His intention is to provide practical and devotional insights, rather than textual research.
2. Historical Context: Henry's commentary is rooted in his understanding of the historical context in which the biblical texts were written. He often provides background information to help readers better understand the original intent of the authors.
3. Practical Application: Henry emphasizes the practical application of biblical teachings. He aims to guide readers in their spiritual journey by explaining how the scriptures can be applied to everyday life.

Plot Summary (for the specific volume covering Matthew to John)

The volume covering Matthew to John includes detailed commentary on the Gospel of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, as well as the Acts of the Apostles. Here is a brief summary of each section:

• Matthew: Henry provides a detailed explanation of Jesus' life, teachings, and miracles as recorded in Matthew. He highlights themes such as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the call to repentance.
• Mark: Henry's commentary on Mark emphasizes the action-packed nature of the Gospel, focusing on Jesus' ministry and the events leading up to his crucifixion.
• Luke: Henry's discussion of Luke highlights the Gentile perspective, emphasizing Jesus' teachings and miracles as they relate to non-Jews. He also explores the themes of love, compassion, and redemption.
• John: Henry's commentary on John focuses on the divine nature of Jesus Christ, emphasizing themes such as the pre-existence of Christ, his divinity, and the importance of faith in him. He also discusses the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers.

Critical Reception

Matthew Henry's commentary has been widely praised for its clarity, depth, and practical application. It has been a beloved resource for many generations of Christians, including notable evangelical preachers like George Whitefield and Charles Spurgeon. Whitefield reportedly read the commentary through four times, the last time on his knees, while Spurgeon recommended it as essential reading for every minister.

In summary, "Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible: Matthew to John" offers a comprehensive, practical, and devotional guide to understanding the New Testament. Its exegetical focus, historical context, and emphasis on practical application make it a valuable resource for both scholars and lay readers seeking to deepen their understanding of scripture.