Beth Kreitzer provides a female perspective on Luke’s
highlight of women.
Reformation Commentary on Scripture, New Testament III:
Luke
Editor: Beth Kreitzer
Publisher: IVP Academic (www.ivpress.com)
Pages: 573
I find myself listening for the voice. Not just the voice
of the many fine commentators found in Luke,
volume III in the Reformation Commentary
on Scripture Series, but the voice of the editor, Beth Kreitzer.
Readers have the opportunity to get a feminine
perspective on commentary derived from Luke’s gospel, which highlights the role
of women. As the general editor, Timothy George, notes, this volume, along with
those in the Ancient Christian Commentary
Series (a related set), makes a special effort to include the voices of
women whenever possible. Part of the challenge lies in the fact that for
various reasons few theological and biblical works were published by women in
an earlier time period.
So for each passage examined, it’s more than a little
interesting to get Kreitzer’s views on the assorted comments that follow. Her
thoughts provide background and clarify the reformer’s overarching concerns.
She is also not afraid to gently chide them, “The Savior
of the World is now present, and all those who hear the good news are saved by
their faith in him—including Mary, who, these preachers are at pains to point
out, is saved by her faith in her son, not by being his mother” (22).
Her brief articulation of Luke by way of an introduction
is excellent. She explains that the majority of comments come from sermons, as
they best fit the purpose of this work. The reformers never wavered in
preaching the gospel. She also covers major themes, controversies and sources.
Timothy George’s extensive introduction to this series is
equally impressive. It’s a joy to start with these two fine summaries.
One of the pleasant surprises is the occasional
appearance of an unexpected voice, William Cowper, the author of the hymn, “God
Moves in a Mysterious Way.” He was a friend of John Newton, the writer of
“Amazing Grace.” It’s not just his spirituality that intrigues, but his
lifelong struggle with depression and despair. Yet despite the valleys he
descended, the words he wrote, some found here, should resonate with those who wrestle
with the complexities of the spiritual life.
His inclusion is representative of many lesser known
lights included in this book. There is plenty here from the likes of Calvin and
Luther, but the other voices are no less profound.
Their perspectives, as well as the others, are sometimes
less common than modern ones. In his thoughts on the healing of Simon Peter’s
mother-in-law, Johannes Brenz writes, “He (Christ) came to this poor cottage to
show that poverty and sickness are not as neglected and condemned by God as
they are by human beings. For in this world there is nothing more abject than
poor people, and no one less regarded than those who are sick. But Christ comes
to these and shows that of everyone he cares the most for them. Therefore,
those who are oppressed with poverty and afflicted by sickness should not faint
or be discouraged, neither should they think that because of their poverty and
sickness they are rejected by God. But let them be sure that the more they are
pressed down with afflictions, the more they are beloved and regarded by God”
(107).
Devotional thoughts like these remind me of Matthew
Henry, a saintly commentator. His godliness shaped his outlook. To read his
words and those found in this volume is like breathing a rarefied air. It’s
refreshing!
A pastoral concern is evident. If modern commentaries
lean towards the academic, this is closer to shepherding the flock. Both
aspects are necessary, and it’s a good reason to have both kinds. There is
wisdom in a multitude of counselors.
Projected volumes in this series will cover the entire
Bible. As of this writing there are seven volumes available. This should not be
confused with the related series, Ancient
Christian Texts and the Ancient
Christian Commentary on Scripture. All three are recommended for the early
perspective that they offer. They will be a great addition to any theological
library, and it helps support this valuable work.
It gives voice to the reformers, who occupy a particular
era of church history. They deserve a place at the table just as much as anyone
else. Though they have passed on to their eternal rewards, they still speak in
these beautifully done volumes.
