Psalms: An Expositional Commentary : Psalms 1-41 (Expositional Commentary)

Rating:
Summary: Expository and devotional
Review: I have to confess I an already a real fan of JMB. Recently my sunday school class decided to embark on a study of Psalms. Since I was the somewhat reluctant but blessed teacher I needed a resource other than my limited knowledge. I have always enjoyed Boice's writings...amazingly to the point,yet providing enough background to be used as a study guided in many cases. Psalms is NO exception. The best blend of a devotional work with basic scholarship and exposition. I recommend the whole series.

Rating:
Summary: One Of The Best Psalms Commentary Out There
Review: It is very difficult to find very good commentaries on the Psalms that are spiritually illuminating, devotional, and practical. Indeed, for some, they name, Calvin (Commentary on Psalms) and Spurgeon (The Treasury of David) to be among the best. I agree. And I also think that Boice's Expostional Commentary on Psalms is ranked up there.
1. It is SPIRITUALLY ILLUMINATING. Boice approaches each Psalm by emphasizing the main points of the Psalm without digressing into peripheral issues. He organizes and outlines each Psalm logically according to main points. Therefore he makes readers actually understand what Psalmist is saying. In many cases, he illuminates the text by simple but well thought-out exposition and modern illustrations.
2. It is HIGHLY DEVOTIONAL. This commentary is written for spiritual growth. It is not written for the mind alone, but also the heart. Boice comments in his preface, "It is my prayer that these studies may be a source of rich spiritual nurture, grace, instruction, and comfort to you as you read them (p.10)." He wrote these commentaries with that goal in mind. Therefore a reader can actually sense that devotional character of the book.
3. It is RICHLY PRACTICAL. On each Psalm, Boice addresses application to the reader. Throughout the commentary Boice generally and specifically brings the message of the Psalm to today's situation and life. So every reader will be able to use the Psalm and apply to their lives.

In sum, both pastors and lay believers can benefit greatly from this series. I use it all the time for my own personal edification and also for the teaching. I also recommend Spurgeon's "The Treasury of David."