Students of the Bible and preachers of the Word will like this commentary on Paul’s Letter to the Philippians. It has a proven record, first published in 1988 as part of the Wycliffe Exegetical Commentary series then published with minor corrections in 1992. This current edition is the second edition of the 1992 edition.
The preface informs the reader how to use the commentary. One map of the Aegean Sea region where the Philippians lived and an introduction to the Letter set it in historical context. Silva discusses the writing style of St. Paul, giving an exegetical history of the Letter. This is followed by a list of authors of other commentaries on this Letter from the fourth century to 2001. Silva includes information from all denominations, although Evangelical Christianity is favored.
There is an outline of the Letter given and a smaller version of it heading each chapter to orient the reader as to where she or he is at in the Letter. The scripture passages are Silva’s own paraphrase of the New American Standard Bible and the New International Bible. At the beginning of each chapter Silva gives a highlighted summary of the chapter. He then gives a scripture passage and proceeds to give a scholarly commentary on the passage. At the end of each commentary section, he has included annotated additional notes that refer to other commentaries or sources like Church Fathers.
At the back of the book is an extensive work cited section. Indices are on subjects, authors, Greek words, and of Scripture and other ancient writings.
Silva holds a Ph.D. from the University of Manchester. He has taught at Westmont College, Westminster Theological Seminary, and at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He has authored or co-authored Interpreting Galatians (2001), Invitation to the Septuagint (2000), Foundations of Contemporary Interpretation (1997), and several other books.
Silva’s book is a great addition to any Scripture commentaries in a theological library or personal library.