Best Commentaries on Jonah

Alexander’s devotional commentary provides a fresh and penetrating analysis of Jonah. He considers the book’s historical setting, composition, structure, and authorship, carefully emphasizing important themes and issues in the text, such as God’s sovereignty, justice, and mercy. As Mathison observes, “It is clear and concise, and Alexander also argues for the historicity of the events described in the book.”

Ferguson’s commentary provides a brief exposition of Jonah that highlights Jonah’s discovery of God’s true character. Mathison says this work “will be a treasure trove for preachers and teachers. Ferguson exhibits a rare combination today—the insights of one who is both a pastor and a scholar.”

Nixon explores the book of Jonah’s artful construction. Readers will find her careful reading of the text rewarding. She encourages readers to meditate on God’s judgment and grace, and to apply the truths gleaned from Jonah to today’s world.

Timmer is incredibly helpful for the lay leader or devotional reader of Jonah. His accessible explanation of the Hebrew literary structure will yield great dividends in understanding the purpose of each segment of this rich narrative.

Butler’s verse-by-verse commentary walks through Jonah, underscoring biblical principles and specific contemporary applications for readers. The resource offers discussion starters and teaching plans.

This exposition of Jonah is accessible for both pastors and lay readers. Phillips gives careful attention to the biblical text, is doctrinally Reformed, focuses on Christ through the lens of redemptive history, and applies the Bible to our contemporary setting.

Sklar provides a solid and clear analysis of the text, offering biblical insight and pastoral wisdom on Jonah and showing readers the hope God offers even amid judgment. Pastors and teachers will find a globally minded commentary rich in biblical theology and broadly Reformed doctrine. Sklar demonstrates sensitivity to the Hebrew word plays within the story and helpfully explains them to the English reader. His treatment of the text also includes theologically deep and Christ-centered application.

Longman highly recommends this commentary: “Walton has a wonderful knowledge of ancient Near Eastern background and great exegetical sensitivity. . . He understands the book’s main purpose as teaching that the prophets’ prophetic pronouncements are by no means irreversible and may be forestalled or avoided by repentance that elicits God’s compassion.”

In this volume, Hoyt examines the theological themes of divine justice, mercy, judgment, and repentance in-depth, revealing the complexity of the relationship between God and his people. Throughout her commentary, Hoyt closely examines the text, giving us a scholarly and applicable exploration for the church.

Sasson gives us an exciting volume on Jonah. The author employs the relevant information in biblical scholarship of his time to interpret the many nuances in Jonah’s seemingly simple story. He provides Greek, Hebrew, Latin, Aramaic, and, occasionally, Syriac and Arabic translations. Longman praises Sasson’s work: “This provocative commentary on the literary gem Jonah is well worth adding to a reference library. It not only rehearses previous views but suggestively presents its own reading of the book.”

Stuart is a commentator’s commentator. He is particularly helpful for seeing how the literary structure of Jonah is signaled in the Hebrew text. This in turn leads his readers to a strong and clear understanding of the didactic purpose of each passage. Longman asserts, “It is a must-buy for everyone preaching on [the minor prophets]. . . It is intelligently conservative and emphasizes theology without ignoring the other aspects of the text.” Stuart provides clear analysis, interacts judiciously with secondary literature, and stays focused on what’s most important.

Youngblood’s second edition serves pastors and teachers by providing them with a careful analysis and interpretation of Jonah’s Hebrew text. The commentary will help pastors to quickly grasp the big idea of the passage and how it fits in its larger context.