| Jon Weatherly has written for us a commentary on the Thessalonian letters semi-popular in style and conservative in tradition. Greek syntax and it's effect on the flow of the text is given special attention. The standard Thessalonian textual questions are handled with no fear. Application is sometimes given. Overall, the soundness of the exegesis is fair (if the reader can handle some Arminian intrusions from time to time). The negative aspects of this work are as follows; interaction with secondary commentaries and monographs is kept to a low throughout the work. A quick skim of the (up to date) bibliography reveals a sad lack of any of the major critical works on Thessalonians, i.e, E. Best-(BNTC). Finally and most important, Weatherly's pride on this work, his argument on the 'Man of lawlessness' issue I found unconvincing and rather strained. He does manage to dismantle the argument that views the man of lawlessness as a future oriented (only) figure. Moreover, Weatherly's critique of the NIV' blatant interpretive based translation of the target passages dealing with this issue is justified. In the end, this work should be relegated to the shelves of Thessalonian scholars who seek to find further insight into the text, only to be dissapointed. The beginning serious student should first consult Leon Morris-(NICNT). For the scholar, there is still the choice between either Wanamaker-(NIGTC),Bruce-(WBC) or Malherbe-(AB). Rick E Aguirre Reader in New Testament Studies, Southern California |
| While this was an assigned textbook, by the author himself, I feel no obligation to patronize him or other potential readers. Dr. Weatherly himself has said this book was hastily written - and frankly, if he had more time he might have more developed the theological and historical implications of the letter to the Thessalonians instead of focusing so heavily on the Greek words contained within the scripture. It is not a book for someone wanting a quick and practical tool to learn about these epistles - but for the scholar, it is a well researched commentary dissecting word by word and phrase by phrase what Paul intended. Buy it, because Dr. Weatherly deserves it. :) |
