New 1 Timothy Commentary in the NCCS

Along with Craig Keener, I am proud to be an editor of the New Covenant Commentary Series. The latest volume to come out is by Aida Besancon Spencer on 1 Timothy (I should add that 2 Timothy and Titus are not far from release either!).

Spencer provides a thorough and insightful commentary on Paul’s letter to his coworker Timothy, which the Apostle wrote before and during Nero’s persecution. Spencer carefully examines each part of the letter and relates it to the overall flow of the argument and in light of the larger biblical, historical, social, and cultural contexts. How Paul’s writing related to the ancient communities is highlighted in the light of original data gleaned from her explorations on location in Ephesus and throughout Greece. In addition, Paul’s rhetorical and ministry strategies, especially as they relate to women and their role in the church, are explored. Throughout, Spencer presents an in-depth exegesis in a readable format enhanced by forty years of ministry.

Here are some endorsements:

“By explaining both lexical, grammatical, historical, and theological matters, and by focusing consistently on canonical connections and pastoral application, Aída Spencer has written a lucid commentary that will prove helpful for general readers, students, and pastors alike.”
-Eckhard J. Schnabel

“In 1 Timothy, more than any other New Testament writing, Paul has specific instructions for how Christian women are to present and conduct themselves, and how they are to learn, teach, and minister in the church. How appropriate [it is], then, that a commentary on this book should be written by a woman. Dr. Spencer provides a carefully researched, well-balanced, and well-written exposition with special attention given to the difficult and controversial texts relating to women, men, and to all Christians. Highly recommended.”
-John R. Kohlenberger

“Spencer’s commentary on 1 Timothy provides an articulate defense of Pauline authorship that interacts well with critical scholarship. It is full of valuable grammatical, lexical, syntactical, historical, and theological insights. . . . Theological insights include its discussion of the heretical teaching addressed in 1 Timothy and its outstanding treatment of 1 Timothy 2:15. I enthusiastically endorse this well-documented commentary.”
-Philip B. Payne