Customer Reviews

Joshua (Concordia Commentary)

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At nearly 900 pages this fine commentary provides of course commentary on inspired Word of God but also on a vital bridge between the Torah and the Entry/Conquer of Promised Land. Who better to lead this than one who bears typology in name and faithfulness to God's Word (i.e. spy report which only Joshua and Caleb countered with God's word of promise Num 14)and the one whose name prefigures Jesus?

Harstad provides commentary utilizing best in philogy and hermeneutics from a Confessional Lutheran perspective which sees Christ crucified for sins throughout the pages of the OT.

Highlights for this reviewer's use of this volume thus far are: Excellent Excurus on Divine Warfare, quoting one example: "Without this divine warfare, mankind would have been doomed to eternity in hell, but God's warfare enabled Israel to inherit the promised land, and his victory on the cross has made all believers heirs of eternal life in the new heavens and new earth;" Also excellent comments on archaelology and historical aids, especially helpful in Bible Study classes with questions about Joshua fighting the battle of Jericho. Harstad provides resource of size of city and size of circling Israelites that makes sense, both with archaeological/historical data and Biblical account.

Certainly precious is Joshua's exhortation in 24, which Harstad has fine advice: "Josh 24:14-24 should not be thought of as a model for the evangelism of unbelievers. ... Hence it is Josh 24:2-13 that is a salutary model for Christian evangelism. Josh 24:14-24 is an example of how a preacher can spur God's believing people to a deeper appreciatin of what the Lord has already done for them, and to increase their repentance and commitment to the Lord alone."

Real preacher aid with a two page listing of "Preaching Texts from Joshua," as well as fine map section, glossary and excellent documentation of Scriptural references, index.

Interacting with the existing body of Joshua work, this Lutheran contribution should be utilized and referred to by Christ's church.

Thank you for the excellent condition of this book and for getting it to me in such a timely manner. I WILL be ordering more books from you. The People's Bible series are my favorite and most helpful Bible study books!