1-3 John: Reformed Expository Commentary [REC]

Douglas Sean ODonnell (MA, Wheaton College; MA, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is senior pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Elgin, Illinois. Previously, he was senior lecturer in biblical studies and practical theology at Queensland Theological College in Brisbane, Australia.

Reading Douglas O'Donnell's commentary on John's letters is a delight and a challenge. It is a delight, for we are reminded of the gospel that assures us that we are the children of God. And it is a challenge for we also learn about the qualities that characterize God's children. O'Donnell's work is marked by solid exegesis, a knowledge of church history, and faithful theology. I was particularly struck by the pastoral spirit infusing the book. I was helped and encouraged by this commentary, and I commend it gladly.
“What do you preach not only to plant a church but to help it to survive the invasion of false teachers, loveless strife, and immorality? This enduring question points up the vital relevance of John’s letters for churches in every time and place. Written by a pastor for pastors, Douglas O’Donnell’s commentary offers a rich feast for the servers as well as their diners.”
Douglas O'Donnell's commentary on 1, 2, 3 John in the Reformed Expository Commentary series is intended "for people who want to experience the Word of god in all its power." It blends a scholarly approach with practical exposition. The content of O'Donnell's Commentary was originally presented in a series of sermons, and is replete with helpful illustrations and applications of the text which will make it attractive to those who have the privilege of expounding these letters to Christian congregations today. The commentary is written from a Reformed theological perspective and as such reflects a strong regard for the authority of Scripture and a conviction that these letters have a message that needs to be heard again today.
Written with wit, learning, and savvy, this is a commentary to read and savor, not just to “use” to find out what difficult verses say. Each chapter amounts to an informative, uplifting and challenging appeal. If more pastors preached like this, and more believers saw these truths in Scripture, both church and society would be moving in far better directions. Read this book! You’ll find in John’s holy Epistles fresh meaning, life, hope, and direction.
“Creative storytelling and contemporary references combined with careful examination of the text make Douglas O’Donnell’s commentary on 1–3 John an essential resource for understanding and teaching these oft-neglected epistles.”