Fall 2024 · Vol. 53 No. 2 · pp. 203–205
Book Review
1 & 2 Kings
Lynn Jost. Believers Church Bible Commentary. Harrisonburg, VA: Herald, 2021. 526 pages.
Lynn Jost's Commentary is a thoughtful and accessible examination of 1 and 2 Kings in which he masterfully invites his readers into the ancient contexts of the biblical stories. The commentary is part of the Believers Church Bible Commentary series, which aims to provide church-focused and academically sound biblical resources for lay readers, pastors, and students. Jost is an Old Testament scholar with a deep commitment to the Anabaptist tradition, having served as a professor of p. 204 Old Testament and the dean of the Biblical Seminary at Fresno Pacific University.
The commentary is divided into three sections centered on the eras of Solomon, the divided kingdom, and the southern kingdom. Jost emphasizes the importance of examining the historical and cultural context of the narrative, particularly the political turmoil and the religious apostasy that characterized the period of the divided kingdom in Israel and Judah. His approach is both exegetical and theological, seeking to draw out the meaning of the text in its original context while also applying its lessons to contemporary Christian faith and practice.
Jost pays close attention to literary structures and narrative techniques, highlighting how these elements contribute to the overall message and theology of the books. For example, Jost explores the complexities of Solomon's wisdom, wealth, and eventual downfall, providing a nuanced interpretation that highlights the tension between human ambition and divine fidelity. Similarly, his discussion of the ministries of Elijah and Elisha explores the prophetic critique of Israel's kings, offering reflections on the role of prophetic voices in challenging corrupt and idolatrous leadership and calling the people back to covenant faithfulness.
One of the strengths of Jost's commentary is its ability to balance scholarly rigor with pastoral application. While he engages with critical scholarship and provides in-depth analysis, he remains mindful of the church's needs and his readers' spiritual questions. Jost frequently includes practical applications and reflections, enabling readers to connect the ancient text with their lives and the life of the church. This makes the commentary a valuable academic resource and an effective tool for both discipleship and sermon preparation.
Jost's work reflects an Anabaptist perspective on the biblical narrative. His emphasis on themes such as peace, justice, and the critique of power aligns with the core values of the Anabaptist tradition, offering a distinctive voice within the broader field of biblical studies.
Compared to other commentaries on 1 and 2 Kings, Jost's work is notable for its accessibility and church-centered approach. Although it may not replace more technical commentaries in academic settings, it is a complementary resource, filling the gap between scholarly analysis and practical application, similar to the works of Walter Brueggemann. Commentaries like those by Richard Nelson or Iain Provan offer more in-depth critical analysis, but Jost's contribution lies in his ability to make complex ideas understandable and relevant to a broader audience. While the commentary is grounded in Anabaptist theology, its insights are broadly applicable and will be valuable to Christians from various denominational backgrounds. p. 205
In conclusion, Jost's commentary on 1 and 2 Kings is a valuable addition to the Believers Church Bible Commentary series. It offers a thoughtful, theologically rich exploration of these important biblical books, balancing careful exegesis with contemporary application. Jost’s work is an excellent resource for pastors, students, and serious lay readers seeking to engage more deeply with the text of 1 and 2 Kings and wrestle with its implications for Christian faith and practice today.
