Best Commentaries on 1 and 2 Chronicles

Selman’s commentary is a strong resource that concisely introduces readers to these historical books and situates them within the larger biblical canon.

Hill contextualizes Chronicles for his readers, and he highlights the sermonic and historical aspects of these books. As Mathison says, “The strength of the NIV Application series is in bridging the gap between the original audience and today’s audience. Hill accomplishes this goal nicely, resulting in a work that will prove especially valuable for pastors and teachers.”

McConville’s writing illuminates the text with clear exposition. His writing reveals a sensitivity to theology and a pastor’s heart for application.

Wilcock’s commentary is a strong preaching commentary because of its emphasis on the sermonic intention behind Chronicles. His work is insightful for those seeking preach these texts to a congregation.

This is a highly recommended resource for anyone interested in the theological implications of these historical books. Pratt explores the historical and theological significance of Chronicles not only for its original hearers but also in the context of the whole Bible.

Braun and Dillard’s commentaries on First and Second Chronicles are both technically serious and theologically insightful. These volumes also boast of the Chronicles’ many New Testament connections, which can be rare in a more critical scholarly commentary. These volumes will be a helpful resource for serious evangelical pastors and scholars looking to explore these inter-biblical connections.

Japhet’s commentary is meticulous and intelligent, asking new and relevant questions of the text and answering by making broad appeals to relavent literature, history, and philology. Challies observes, “Japhet’s commentary is written from something of a critical perspective, so an extra measure of discernment will be necessary when consulting it. But most experts still recommend it, because of its thoroughness in many areas.”

This revised version of Williamson’s commentary has much insight to offer readers seeking to learn more about the post-exilic context of 1 and 2 Chronicles. Though this is a critical commentary, Williamson sees the narrative as primarily historical, and as a result, he provides some helpful theological reflection.