"Africa Bible Commentary" by Gen. Ed. Tokunboh Adeyemo. A Review.

Africa Bible Commentary: A One-Volume Commentary Written by 70 African ScholarsAfrica Bible Commentary: A One-Volume Commentary Written by 70 African Scholars by Tokunboh Adeyemo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

For years I have read and contemplated Scripture from within a western framework with my readings reinforced by western scholars and commentators. Overall it has been healthy and wholesome. Yet I know, after experiencing two years in Turkey, that to always see with western eyes and hear with western ears can lead to, at the least, stilted views; and at the worst, self-congratulating groupthink and elevating Americanism. So I was delighted to pick up a copy of the 1632 page hardback "Africa Bible Commentary: A One-Volume Commentary Written by 70 African Scholars." This volume's compilation was led by general editor Tokunboh Adeyemo, who was general secretary of the Association of Evangelicals in Africa, but has since died (may he rest in Christ's peace; and rise, body and soul, on Christ's Day!). It has a view toward instructing fellow Christians, aiding pastors, and giving significant substance to Bible teachers.

"Africa Bible Commentary" is a simply formatted compendium of systematically compiled exegesis on Scripture that takes the Holy Writ seriously. This seriousness is highlighted in the two forwards, one written by John Stott and the other by Dr. Aboagye-Mensah. It has a mild Baptist and dispensational flavor in places, but as Dr. Stott observed, its "foundation is biblical, its perspective African, and its approach to controversial questions is balanced" (vii). I have used it several times when mulling over various passages, and found its tone to be simultaneously gracious and genuine.

If you're interested in adding an important single-volume commentary to your library, or desire to hear from Bible scholars outside of your western and American context, "Africa Bible Commentary" would be a valuable asset. If you're wondering what to get for your favorite pastor, seminarian or Bible teacher as gift "that keeps on giving," then you will want to consider this commentary. I gladly and heartily recommend this book.

(This link will guide you to the publisher to purchase the book)

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