Ephesians

“Here is a gift to the church—the richest example of theological commentary on Paul’s letter to the Ephesians that we now have, from one of our finest contemporary theologians. Drawing on the Reformed exegetical and theological vision of John Webster, Michael Allen here presents the fruit of his patient listening to the apostolic witness, and it is nourishing fruit indeed.”—Wesley Hill, associate professor of biblical studies, Trinity School for Ministry

“This volume is an admirably compact example of a theologically focused commentary—celebrating what Paul celebrates and wrestling where the epistle wrestles. Allen is a fitting substitute for the late John Webster as the volume’s author, since he seeks fundamentally to be a student of Paul and of the risen Christ, who speaks through the apostle by the Holy Spirit.”—Daniel J. Treier, Knoedler Professor of Theology, PhD program director, Wheaton College Graduate School 

“Anchored in and responsive to the scriptural text, listening to and engaged with the history of doctrine and biblical interpretation, and always reading with an eye on the personal, political, and pastoral horizons, Ephesians by Michael Allen is a model of theological commentary. Without ever overlooking historical and contextual information about the letter, Allen’s ear is principally tuned to the good news proclaimed by Ephesians: God, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ. My highest praise is a personal report: having read this commentary, I immediately read the letter to the Ephesians.”—Jonathan A. Linebaugh, University of Cambridge; Faculty of Divinity, Jesus College 

“Allen has given us what anyone should desire from a good theological commentary: closeness to the biblical text, judicious engagement in critical issues, charitable attention to the tradition, and alertness to perennial as well as less perspicuous theological concerns that arise from the scriptures. Throughout we hear the voices of Irenaeus, Augustine, and Thomas; Luther, Calvin, and Owen; Barth, Webster, and others. Yet, above all we hear the voice of Paul, as Allen allows scripture to speak as God’s word. This is an excellent commentary that displays the best of Reformed-catholic exegesis. Highly recommended!”—Uche Anizor, associate professor of theology, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University