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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Valuable Addition to the Bible Students Library, October 27, 2010
This review is from: Insights on John (Swindoll's New Testament Insights) (Hardcover)
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This commentary on the Gospel of John is part of the "Insights" series of New Testament commentaries by Charles Swindoll. It is divided into five sections and an Epilog, each covering part of the Gospel of John: The Prologue John 1:1-18 Presentation of the Word John 1:19-4:54 Authentication of the Word John 5:1-12:50 Confirmation of the Word John 13:1-17:26 Vindication of the Word John 18:1-20:31 Epilog John 21:1-25 The book begins with an "Author's Preface" followed by an "Introduction." The introduction provides an overview of the book and the Gospel of John. It includes a two page graphic overview of the book which shows the divisions noted above along with the theme, key terms, emphasis, audience, and the time frame in the ministry of the Lord for each section. The sections include the specific verses in the section and various study aids which include maps, side notes on items of special interest, photographs or drawings that might be helpful, and many points where applications are made based on the material just covered. Each section has a page that contains "Key Terms." This part provides an extended definition of the key Greek word in Greek, followed by a transliterated English version, followed by Strong's number for the word. Even if one does not have any facility with Greek, the extended English definition can provide valuable insights into the original meaning of important words in the text. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise noted, are taken from the New American Standard Bible. I found this commentary to be well thought out and user friendly; it is doctrinally conservative and honors the Lord Jesus Christ. The inclusion of many pages of applications will aid both the reader and the Bible study teacher.
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent Resource on the Book of John, July 28, 2010
This review is from: Insights on John (Swindoll's New Testament Insights) (Hardcover)
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Chuck Swindoll is an author I've come to respect and trust as one who write worthwhile material. Swindoll's New Testament Insights: Insights on John is no exception. This is the perfect commentary to read alongside the Book of John. The book combines brilliant scholarship with an easy-to-understand storytelling style. The book covers themes, key terms, maps, photographs, timelines, and applications in addition to the verse by verse exposition. I am understanding the Book of John as never before. This book is excellent for the average person- most commentaries I've found are geared more to the seminary student. One other aspect I really like about the book: it is hardcover. It's a personal preference but I like books I will use for a long time to be sturdy. This book is highly recommended!
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A very good, non-academic, and warm commentary, December 15, 2010
This review is from: Insights on John (Swindoll's New Testament Insights) (Hardcover)
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I have always enjoyed listening (and reading) Swindoll's sermons and books. His style is warm, insightful, and highly practical. And his commentary series is no exception. While not a scholarly commentary, he refers to scholarly commentaries for the discussion. A Sunday school teacher or a Bible Study leader would benefit much from his series. And this particular volume, Insights on John is excellent and engaging. (NOTE: Swindoll's theological framework is Dispensationalism. But in his commentaries, he is not overtly dispensational. Even though I am not a dispensationalist, I found his commentary useful if you are mindful of his theological background). 1. The commentary is organized in sections. This is not a verse by verse commentary, but a passage by passage commentary. Swindoll paints the big picture of the passage and then he follows through the pertinent details in the passage. It has enough details to capture the sense of the passage. 2. The commentary has helpful charts, diagrams, maps, time-line, photos and word study notes. The visual aid is indeed helpful and makes you understand the passage better. The word study (called "Key Terms") is also helpful, especially by using a Strong's number to identify the original Hebrew or Greek word. 3. The commentary also includes Swindoll's personal journal notes (called, "From My Journal") includes stories and experiences of his encounters and conversations of his life. These journals illustrate & discusses the point of the passage well. 4. The commentary is practical. Swindoll being a pastor, always has his congregation in mind. In each section, his commentary of the passage ends with "Application" section to help believers to practice the passage at hand. All in all, I like this commentary. Not dry, but interesting and insightful. Highly recommended for all believers.
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