Judges: Such a Great Salvation (Focus on the Bible)

I completed most of this thought provoking study. Judges is a tough book in its subject matter, which has been covered elsewhere so I won't bore you with the details. While reading I thought "This can't get worse," but everything kept getting worse. Which explains how I came to not finishing this, it was that dark.

This commentary is an excellent reading commentary for devotional use, or for help in leading a Bible study on the book of Judges. This commentary is easy to read, avoids interacting with the Hebrew, is filled with illustrations, and makes the text practical. It reads as though it is a collection of slightly edited sermons from the book of Judges put together to form a commentary.The main strong point of this commentary is that it takes the fairly difficult book of Judges and shows how even the obscure stories are relevant to modern life. More than once I had an "ah-ha" moment while reading this commentary, and was grateful to Davis for making the text come alive. Judges is not an easy book to read in a Christ centered way, and Davis is a great help with this. Because it is a collection of sermonic material, it also helps with application, and provides illustrative material. This volume would be excellent for personal use, or for any lay leader in the church.No commentary can accomplish everything, and because this is a lay level commentary, it has some omissions. It does not consider technical details, or matters of introduction. Also, because it seems to have come from sermons, there are occasional themes that are simply not dealt with. This is hardly much of a criticism, considering how much helpful material is in the book. But I have found it helpful to consult Davis together with one or two other commentaries to fill out the picture.

I have repeatedly read that Dale Ralph Davis is the go-to commentator for any of the historical books. I had to find out for myself! When I decided to work through the book of Judges for my devotions, I knew that I wanted Dale Ralph Davis's book, Judges: Such a Great Salvation as my companion. It is part of the imminently practical series of commentaries published by Christian Focus titled "Focus on the Bible." These commentaries are light on academic and exegetical wordiness but heavy on practical and devotional meat. Judges fits well with the other commentaries in this series.Pastor/Professor Davis dives headfirst into the book of Judges, never skirting the queasiness that 21st century Christians often develop when they read it. He shines the light on the sovereignty and grace of God even in the midst of the depravity of God's people. This commentary will aid you in understanding the text of Judges in a way that will equip you to worship the God who is displayed in it. It will not address minute disagreements in Judges. The book intends to help readers understand the message of the book so that they can come to worship the God whom it declares. I enthusiastically recommend it to you!

I like the details given in this book. Such as Ehud the Judge of the Israelites “May have had” a withered right hand. Either way there was a physical reason he used his left hand. There are so many interesting facts given for this blood thirsty book of the Bible. Especially the main topic of Judges are the cycle of disobedience/depending on others for faithfulness or lack there of and the continual love and forgiveness of Yahweh toward His people. The main theme.

I lead a Bible study and was not sure I'd enjoy teaching the book of Judges from the Bible. This author makes the history of Israel during a very "dark" period come alive. His unique perspective includes a touch of humor that makes him a favorite among others searching for Bible commentary. His insight sparked thoughtful discussion in our study. This was the second of his commentaries I purchased because I liked his writing so much - not heavy, lengthy or preachy. Excellent choice.

I liked what author had to say. Wish he had said quite a bit more. Limited value in preparing a Bible study.

This book is an academic book but not written as an academic commentary. It is a very serious study of the book of Judges, not a devotional. Mr. Davis' writing is enjoyable, readable and even humorous at times as he helps us understand God's interaction with the nation of Isreal. Mr. Davis shows us the continuity of scripture. He helps educate us concerning Isreal's responses to what God had asked Isreal to do. The strange, repulsive and evil behavior of a nation who rejects God and his requirements for righteousness. Who will rescue us from such a body of death? God, such a gracious Saviour.

Dale Ralph Davis is an Old Testament Scholar who provides wonderful insights and brings the texts alive. His illustrations, and very 'readable styles,' will help Pastors, Sunday School Teachers and others who desire to dig deeper. Be sure to check out his other commentaries as well. As a pastor for 40 years, and a student of scripture for 46 years, I have found his commentaries to be the best!

An excellent study by a pastor showing that human behaviour is consistently deviant in every generation and it's only hope is in divine salvation found in Christ alone. When there is no king, every man becomes his own regent and chaos ensues.

This is an excellent series. Astonishing to think that it was almost orphaned half way through (see preface to 2 Kings) - astonishingly short sited. Buy them all. You'll never regret it!!

Very readable and digestible study of Judges with plenty of relevant application. I wished he had tackled some of the difficulties rather more fully but accept it is only a slim volume.

An excellent book, as described to me by the person who recommended it, and the description given. It may not SOUND like a gripping read, but it is!

Very good commentary shedding light on this interesting interaction of God with his people demonstrating His love & patience through his chosen leaders.