Best Commentaries on Mark

Cole’s commentary is a high-quality, non-technical commentary. Readers will benefit from his work.

Garland provides a clear and concise exposition of the text that’s understandable for readers without technical training in Greek. As the NIVAC series ages, the “Contemporary Significance” sections at the end of each chapter will feel more dated. Nevertheless, there’s enough there in the suggested applications for lay teachers to get the idea and update them for current use.

A theologically solid and reasonably concise tool for pastors to use as a first consult after they’ve done their exegetical study of the text. Because this commentary is unapologetically confessional and rooted in the evangelical tradition, it’s helpful to quickly confirm whether a pastor’s personal exegesis is on the right track early in the sermon preparation process.

Edwards demonstrates clarity in his writing and care in his exegesis. His expertise in Mark’s Gospel is evident, but his writing remains accessible for readers who don’t have expertise in Greek. Tabb highly recommends this volume for its “insightful, responsible exegesis.”

Among our pastoral recommendations, this one is the most massive and technical. But Gundry delivers just what he promises: a cross-centered commentary on Mark. By keeping Jesus at the center, Gundry stays on point in his explanations of the text’s meaning. He will help preachers do the same.

Exegetical emphases live on the surface of this commentary so that a pastor who has done his homework before picking up this book will spot how the comments arise from the text’s grammar. France focuses on Mark’s theological coherence and pastoral vision. Even when he’s dealing with fine shades of meaning, he never loses sight of the why of Mark’s Gospel.

Strauss’s excellent commentary examines Mark’s Gospel in sixty-three units. As Tabb observes, Strauss walks through the Greek, offers his well-informed summaries of passages, and provides theological commentary. This resource will benefit pastors and students.

Stein’s careful exegesis demonstrates his skill in navigating redaction-critical issues. His excellent commentary begins each chapter with an introduction and overview followed by exegesis and exposition. He then concludes with a summary. This structure allows for easy skimming or focused study, whichever is required.