Craig S. Keener presents fascinating, wonderfully useful information on the historical and cultural backgrounds of nearly every verse in the New Testament.

This unique commentary provides historical, social and cultural background for each passage of the Old Testament. From Genesis through Malachi, this single volume gathers and condenses an abundance of specialized knowledge, and includes a glossary, maps and charts, and expanded explanations of significant background issues.

John H. Walton and Victor H. Matthews provide an accessible passage-by-passage commentary on the archaeological and cultural background of the first five books of the Bible.

We are far removed from the time and culture of the biblical world, and this distance easily leads to misunderstanding and misinterpretation. Our understanding and appreciation for God's Word increase exponentially when we know about the context in which the biblical books were written. So while many Bible commentaries explain the theological meaning of the text, The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary provides fascinating cultural and historical insights into God's Word. Richly illustrated with full-color photos throughout, this one-volume background commentary includes articles by leading Old and New Testament scholars on subjects such as - countries, cities, and cultures of the Holy Land and the Greco-Roman world - warfare and execution - religious groups and customs - fashion, athletics, feasts, and celebrations - honor, shame, and hospitality - and much more This colorful, informative volume is an essential companion for pastors, teachers, and laypeople who want to enhance their personal Bible study and help others do the same.

Exploring the major themes and issues of the Pentateuch, this encyclopedic work offers authoritative overviews, detailed examinations and new insights from the world of the ancient Near East. Edited by T. Desmond Alexander and David W. Baker.

Pastors with a passion for sound exposition and scholars with a heart for pastoral leadership have joined forces to produce this exciting commentary series, now in paper and with all new covers! Each volume, informed by the best of up-to-date evangelical scholarship, presents passage-by-passage commentary based on the NIV along with background information on authorship, setting, theme and various interpretive issues. A unique format allows the main commentary to focus on the vital message of the New Testament for today's church, while bottom-of-the-page notes include valuable scholarly information to support those who use the volumes as a resource for preaching or teaching preparation. Seldom have such readable commentary and reliable research helps been available in the same volume! Preachers, teachers, students and other individuals who want to dig deep into the heart of the New Testament will find an indispensable companion in the IVP New Testament Commentary Series.

This commentary edited by Catherine Clark Kroeger and Mary Evans is an attempt to answer the question, What happens when we look at Scripture through women's eyes? New and helpful insights from an international team of scholars show how Scripture is relevant to women and men alike, making it a wonderful complement to other commentaries.