See my fuller review at my blog Spoiled Milks (02/01/19)

Schreiner's "aim in writing [this commentary] is to explain the text before us" (xi).Rather than five interpretations, Schreiner presents his own view, occasionally presenting other views. The reader wants to understand 1 Corinthians, not what everyone else says.

Beginning each section, Schreiner summarizes the text. Then, with each subsection, he provides the context, verse-by-verse comments, and ends with a theological recap. With each verse, Schreiner gives a one sentence comment on how this particular verse fits within Paul's argument. Schreiner explains the whole letter in under 350 pages. Most verses rarely receive more than two paragraphs, though a verse like 11:3 receives just over six pages.

Whether you are a pastor, a student, a biblical scholar, or simply a layperson who would just like to understand 1 Corinthians, pick up this book. Schreiner writes clearly and succinctly. He draws out the theology of 1 Corinthians with ease, and his humility shows throughout the book. Not every point can be explained (e.g., what does it mean that the Son delivers the kingdom to God the Father in 1 Cor 15:25?), but for that you can move on to larger works. If you wanted to pair Schreiner with a larger, exegetical commentary, you could go with Ciampa/Rosner (PNTC), Garland (BECNT), Gardner (ZECNT), or Thiselton (NIGTC).

Thomas Schreiner provides us an ideal commentary of the type aimed at pastors or Bible students rather than scholars. It's part of the celebrated Tyndale New Testament Commentary (TNTC) series that's been a favorite for decades. In fact, the value of this series becomes especially apparent when Schreiner confesses that it was a distinct help in his younger days. Talk about coming full circle!

His task, however, was daunting as he gets to replace the redoubtable editor and writer Leon Morris. Morris was exceptionally gifted for these type of commentaries, so I can see why the current editors went after a heavy hitter like Schreiner. For my money, Schreiner, who had already proven adept with major exegetical works, scored a home run here. (That's high praise from one who will never part with Morris!)

After a nice bibliography, Schreiner turns out a thoughtful, well-constructed Introduction. He surveys the city of Corinth, Paul's ministry there, and the occasion of the epistle. His description of the letter's occasion was perceptive and was strengthened by several appropriate tables. Next, he delves into the nature of the letter, which is a sane look at the letter's unity. In the section on major theological themes, he begins with the Trinity and spreads to the church. Other themes include salvation, resurrection, the Christian life, food offered to idols, and spiritual gifts. He ends with a nice outline.

The commentary itself is outstanding. If you want to see the quality of his work, look at a controversial passage like, say, I Corinthians 7 on marriage issues. Words like gentle and gracious come to mind. On the other hand, words like brave and certain come to mind as well. In other words, you will get the kind of things you are looking for when you pick up one of this kind of commentary.

This commentary is a winner all around. It's inexpensive too. What more could you ask for?

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.