The Hodder Bible Commentary: 1 & 2 Kings

In the biblical book of 1 & 2 Kings we meet a vast array of characters and cultures and confront a rich theology all rooted in a history spanning nearly four centuries. In his Acknowledgements, Nathan Lovell shares that the book of 1 & 2 Kings has "mastered me much more than I have mastered it." Anyone who likewise cherishes the Word of God and picks up this commentary will be grateful not only for Dr. Lovell's sure mastery of Kings but also for his evident love to communicate its wealth to the church. The easy to remember chapter titles like "Establishment"(1 Kings 2) and "Faith" (2 Kings 18), reflect the concerns of a teacher. Throughout, Dr. Lovell's wide-ranging academic work on Kings is made accessible with a light touch. The careful and focused interpretation of each chapter concludes with a discussion of the theological significance of the text for the church. As a Kings scholar I have learned much from Dr. Lovell's work. As a pastor-teacher I am pleased to recommend this commentary to those Nathan calls "ordinary Christian readers." Enabled by this commentary, they will begin their own journey of being mastered by Kings.