This book is not a traditional commentary. It does not attempt a full-scale exegesis, nor does it provide explanations of some of the subtle arguments in the Johannine Letters that bind the text together. Rather, it is an exposition of John's Letters — demonstrated, for example, in the way most of the outlines are cast in the second person, often in the imperative, like points in many sermons. The author takes pains to connect the dominant themes of each section of the biblical text with central Christian truths. Each chapter ends with an extensive "Reflect and Discuss" section — one of the strongest features of the book. This work will prove useful for small group study, and may encourage preachers to ponder anew how to move from what the text says to the pointed sermon. D. A. Carson Research Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School Confidence in the truth and power of God’s written Word should prompt pastors and teachers not only to say worthy things about the Bible, but also to preach and teach with faithfulness from the Bible. The Christ-Centered Exposition series helps us to do just that. Theologically rock solid, this series is a clear, practical, and useful guide to the kind of biblical exposition that will please the Lord and build up his church. Timothy George Founding dean of Beeson Divinity School of Samford University and general editor of the Reformation Commentary on Scripture There is nothing more helpful to a pastor than resources that are biblically faithful and pastorally applicable. The Christ-Centered Exposition series hits the bull’s eye. I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to understand the Scripture in its context in order to apply it in real life. Darrin Patrick Lead pastor of The Journey, St. Louis, and co-author of For the City David Platt, Tony Akin, and Tony Merida have launched a series that will give a rising generation of pastors a tremendous resource for seeing how all the Scriptures prepare for and proclaim the ministry of Christ. The pastoral focus, the preaching tools and the redemptive insights make this a series of immediate use and great aid to pastors who want to equip their people to serve the Lord in the joyous power of the gospel – rather than in the vain pressures of servile dread or slavish fear. Bryan Chapell President Emeritus, Covenant Seminary and Pastor, Grace Presbyterian Church Danny Akin’s commentary on 1,2,3 John will be helpful to both the pastor and the layman. He shares great biblical insight and a wealth of meaningful quotes that can enrich anyone’s faith. Bryant Wright Senior Pastor, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GA Danny Akin is not only a gifted commentator but a dynamic communicator. I highly recommend this work from the Epistles of John to the study of every Bible teacher and preacher of the Gospel. This is Truth with conviction and will strengthen the faith of all believers. Jack Graham Pastor, Prestonwood Danny Akin has provided for the many pastors caring for their flocks a precise and passionate survey of John's Epistles. His homiletic approach to each epistle reduces the study time for the busy pastor in their weekly preparation. If you want a commentary that holds to the integrity of Scripture, offers great thought provoking applications, and points you back to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I suggest you add this to your collection. Bryan Loritts Lead Pastor, Fellowship Memphis Author, Right Color/Wrong Culture Few things are more important for faithful biblical interpretation than reading Scripture in light of its master narrative. The Christ-Centered Exposition series aims to do just that. In a postmodern age, these commentaries provide pastors and lay people an invaluable resource that is unswervingly committed to the authority of Scripture and the centrality of the Gospel in the Bible’s storyline.Dr. R. Albert Mohler Jr., President The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary It's one thing to know Bible stories; it's another to know the story of the Bible. It's one thing to be aware of the story's many heroes; it's another to have met the Hero himself. From the Old Testament that anticipates him, to the Gospels that manifest him, to the Book of Acts that proclaims him, to the Epistles that explain him, and to the Book of Revelation that tells of him coming again, your Bible is about Jesus. That's why I love the vision of the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary series. It models for preachers and teachers how to proclaim—with pastoral focus and exegetical care—the beauty of the gospel from every page of Scripture.Matt Smethurst Associate Editor for The Gospel Coalition
