Best Commentaries on 1, 2, & 3 John

This slightly older commentary is superb and a must-read for readers at all levels. In his signature fashion, Stott clearly explains the meaning and structure of the biblical text without losing sight of the theological and ethical truths John is concerned to explain, defend, and commend. Reading Stott carefully is like attending a mini-seminar that reinforces familiar convictions and stirs up fresh ones. He does a wonderful job identifying John’s theological convictions and makes valuable applications for Christian living.

Thompson’s work demonstrates responsible exegesis of the Johannine Epistles. She begins each section with a summary of the text’s main ideas then examines one or two verses with more detail. Thompson’s writing is accessible, her arguments incisive, and her theological explanations are reasonable.

Akin’s commentary concentrates on theological exegesis. It will enrich all readers’ understanding of the original text and its historical context. This is a mid-level work that emphasizes the main points of passages and doesn’t delve into the details tediously. The author provides practical, applicable exposition by demonstrating the letters’ relevance for Christians today.

Kruse draws extensively on the contemporary discussion to shed light on John’s meaning, and he goes into depth with numerous excurses. He consistently excels at laying out options, giving teachers what they need to make their own best decisions.

An older and solid commentary. Marshall carefully follows the wording of the biblical text and does a fine job of tracing the argument of the letters, naturally interweaving insightful reflection. However, TGC readers should note Marshall’s Arminian standpoint leads him to the conviction that a Christian can apostatize and forfeit salvation.

Derickson’s conservative volume carefully defends Johannine authorship and a traditional understanding of the letter’s recipients and date. Following a discussion on genre, theological emphases, and literary design, Derickson provides a superb commentary on the text. He gives both the Greek and English of each phrase, interprets each thoroughly, and offers ample textual notes and quality commentary for every passage. Coursing through the entire work is Derickson’s warm-hearted commitment to the gospel.

Given John’s dense diction which bears painstaking dissection, Jobes’s careful breakdown and outline of each verse and clause are invaluable. Her deft and clear explanations of the sometimes gnarly Greek uncover nuances English translations conceal. She’s in touch with scholarly literature but fresh and independent in her own analysis.

Yarbrough’s is a gem of a commentary. Carson says this work “is the place to start for pastors with functioning Greek.” He interacts thoroughly with Greek and also theologically rich and deeply pastoral. There is humor, zest, and deep devotion. Although it is a substantial and technical work, readers who aren’t as familiar with Greek may also find this a useful resource.