Best Commentaries on Colossians & Philemon

The ZECNT has become a favorite series of myself and many others. I have used this volume, though only sparsely, and found it solid.

The REC is an excellent and trustworthy sermon-based series that is easy to read and highly recommended for pastors and other interested readers.

Arnold’s volume takes the place of Peter O’Brien’s withdrawn Word Biblical Commentary, and the endorsements are now in. Tom Schreiner says, “This commentary will be a classic for years to come and is the fruit of Arnold’s many years of study on Colossians.” Todd Still goes further: “I know of no better commentary on Colossians.” It is a large and technical work on the Greek text, so it will serve the study better than the pulpit, and it sits comfortably alongside Moo.

Moo’s commentary is quite recent and, therefore, reviews have not yet caught up to it. However, Keith Mathison penned a short review while making his way through and said, “If anyone is going to give O’Brien a run for his money, it is Moo. Moo has the advantage of having written in the Pillar series–a much more reader-friendly series than the WBC. His commentary is also able to take into consideration studies published since 1987.” He places it as a close second behind O’Brien. I wouldn’t be surprised if before long, as reviews catch up, if I need to bump it up as well. (Note that Moo thoroughly revised this volume in a 2024 second edition, which is the one to buy now: , .)

Bruce’s work is always worth reading and, according to the commentators on the commentaries, this one is no exception. Plus, you get the extra value of three books in one! It brings less depth than the two that precede it, but is nonetheless said to be excellent.

The NIV Application Commentary set is known for being a little bit uneven, with some volumes being far superior to others. However, Garland’s is regarded as one of the best in the series. Because this series invests heavily in application, the pastor or general reader may find this focus its most helpful addition to the volumes above.

Lucas’ contribution to The Bible Speaks Today series fits my criteria in always wanting to include one commentary geared toward the general or devotional reader. This one may not provide as much fodder for sermon prep, but will be useful to those reading for personal purposes. Jim Rosscup says this work “is not a ‘commentary’ but an accurate, readable exposition keyed to practical life.”