Best Commentaries on Deuteronomy

An unparalleled starting point on Deuteronomy. Wright’s work is fresh, faithful, and beautifully applied to new covenant believers. He writes clearly and shows how passages fit into the larger context of the whole Bible. His commentary shines as a superb study partner for popular-level readers.

In this commentary, Currid shows that Deuteronomy’s purpose is to teach the people of God how to obey him in every area of life. His excellent exegesis is followed by a section of helpful application.

Reverent, careful, fresh, and stimulating. Block is perhaps the foremost voice on Deuteronomy, and though he tends to flatten the distinctions between the Old and New Covenants, readers will benefit from his engaging style. Block discusses the original context of Deuteronomy with clarity, and he underscores the importance of this book for the Christian life today. This will resonate with local church congregations.

A comprehensive yet succinct commentary. Readers will recognize Grisanti’s evangelical commitment to the authority of the Scriptures, the church, and the pastoral dimension of biblical interpretation.

In addition to its exposition and teaching outline, Kalland includes notes on textual questions and special problems for each expository unit. The commentary makes the more technical matters accessible to readers who may not be acquainted with Hebrew. In matters where marked differences of opinion exist, Kalland provides reasons for his views and deals fairly and irenically with opposing views.

Craigie achieves a balance between technical information and devotional interpretation. While he’s cognizant of the Ancient Near Eastern cultural context of Deuteronomy, he doesn’t devote his attention to discussions surrounding textual criticism.

McConville thoroughly engages the Scriptures with care for the original language and context as well as Deuteronomy’s place in the biblical canon. McConville also takes seriously the relevance and authority of Scripture for the Christian life. He’s mindful of historical issues where these bear on what can be known about the settings in which the text emerged.

Tigay’s highly technical commentary dives into source criticism and provides a number of fresh perspective. He’s generally judicious and creative, and also delightfully concise.