Edward Fudge Ministries

Bible scholars and church leaders endorse HEBREWS:
Ancient Encouragement
for Believers Today
by EDWARD WILLIAM FUDGE

Foreword by Haddon W. Robinson

click names below to see endorsements

  1.   2.   3.   4.   5.
           1. Will Willimon -- Bishop, The United Methodist Church, Birmingham, Alabama
           2. David B. Capes -- Prof. Christianity, Interim Dean of Honors College, Houston Baptist University
           3. Simon J. Kistemaker -- Prof. New Testament (Emeritus), Reformed Theological Seminary
           4. David Fleer -- Prof. Bible and Communication, Annual Conference on Preaching, Lipscomb University
           5. David Bartlett -- Prof. New Testament, Columbia Theol. Seminary; Emeritus, Yale Divinity School

  6.   7.   8.   9. 10.
           6. Sarah Sumner -- Prof. of Theology and Ministry, Graduate School of Theology, Azusa Pacific University
           7. Brian McLaren -- Author, Networker
           8. Chris Marshall -- Prof. Christian Studies, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
           9. Jeff Schreve -- Pastor, First Baptist Church, Texarkana, Texas; From His Heart Ministries
          10. Ben Wiebe -- Pastor, Mennonite & Churches of Christ, Ontario, Canada; Union Biblical Sem., India

11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
          11. Landon Saunders -- Founder & President, "Heartbeat"
          12. Desmond Ford -- Theologian, Author, Director "Good News Unlimited" - Australia
          13. George H. Guthrie -- Prof. Bible, Union University; Author, NIV Application Commentary: Hebrews
          14. Gerald Kendrick -- Translation Officer (Ret.), United Bible Societies
          15. Matt Soper -- Senior Minister, West Houston Church of Christ, Houston, Texas

16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
          16. Neal Punt -- Author, Pastor (Retired), Christian Reformed Church
          17. Rubel Shelly -- President, Rochester College
          18. Foster Eich -- Associate Priest, St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, Florence, Alabama
          19. David L. Eubanks -- President Emeritus, Johnson Bible College
          20. David F. Watson -- Assistant Prof. New Testament, United Theol. Seminary

21. 22. 23. 24. 25.
          21. John J. Voss -- Chaplain, Children of Promise, Inc.
          22. Flavil R . Yeakley, Jr.. -- Prof, College of Bible and Religion, Harding University
          23. Dan Hubbell -- Underground evangelist, international house church planter
          24. Stan Reid -- President, Austin Graduate School of Theology
          25. Wyatt A. Fenno -- Preaching Minister, Montgomery Church of Christ, Albq., N.M.; Living Waters

26. 27. 28. 29. 30

          26. Roy R. Matheson -- Prof. Emeritus New Testament, Tyndale Seminary, Toronto, Canada
          27. Dwight Robarts -- Senior Minister, Skillman Church of Christ, Dallas, Texas
          28. Frank Coats -- Elder, Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
          29. Steve Farmer -- Pastor, Christian Gospel Temple, Cross Plains, Tennessee
          30. Tom Seals -- Professor of Bible and Ministry, Lipscomb University

31. 32. 33. 34. 35.
          31. Mark Hahlen -- Department Chair and Prof. Bible, Dallas Christian College
          32. Roger McCown -- Preaching Minister, Brentwood Oaks Church of Christ, Austin, Texas
          33. Donn Leach -- Prof. Emeritus of Bible, Manhattan (Kansas) Christian College
          34. Mark Moore -- Preaching Minister, Springfield Church of Christ; Missioner to Uganda
          35. Terry Rush -- Senior Minister, Memorial Drive Church of Christ, Tulsa, Oklahoma

36.
          36. Jonathan M. Watt -- Prof. Biblical Studies, Geneva College; Adjunct Prof, Reformed Presby. Theol. Sem.

for ordering information, click anywhere in this yellow area

WILL WILLIMON, Bishop,
The United Methodist Church,
Birmingham, Alabama
blog

"Fudge's commentary is a strong, theologically-informed exposition of one of the most challenging -- and ultimately encouraging -- books of the New Testament, that will be of especial help to preachers seeking to encourage contemporary believers."

return to top

DAVID B. CAPES
Professor in Christianity,
Interim Dean of Honors College,
Houston Baptist University
homepage

"Despite the great cloud of unknowns swirling about the book of Hebrews, Edward Fudge masterfully distills modern scholarly discussions into readable, elegant prose, putting top-shelf scholarship at eye-level, making it available to all. Saturated in covenant language and adept in biblical and non-biblical sources, Fudge is uniquely qualified to help his readers appreciate the rhetoric, heed the warnings and follow in the steps of the true saints."

return to top

SIMON J. KISTEMAKER
Professor of New Testament Emeritus,
Reformed Theological Seminary
homepage

"Written by a scholar for lay people, this volume presents an interpretation that is clear and transparent. I heartily recommend this commentary as true to Scripture and balanced in explanation of Hebrews."

return to top

DAVID FLEER, Special Asst. to the President,
Professor of Bible and Communication,
Director, Annual Conference on Preaching,
Lipscomb University
bio

"Edward Fudge promises reverent scholarship written for serious Bible students who seek scholarly content in non-technical terms. He holds true to his promise on every page. This book should be within arm's reach for every preacher, elder, Bible class teacher and student. I've just added this book to my short list of essential preparations for preaching Hebrews."
return to top

DAVID BARTLETT
Professor of New Testament, Columbia Theological Seminary,
Professor of Preaching, Emeritus, Yale Divinity School
homepage

"The Epistle to the Hebrews provides one of the most original theological perspectives in the New Testament, and one of the least accessible. Edward Fudge goes a very long way toward aiding its accessibility. Through his study of the text, his attention to the long history of interpretation of this writing and his own wise pastoral applications, Fudge has written a guide to Hebrews that I am happy to commend to students and pastors alike."
return to top

SARAH SUMNER
Professor of Theology and Ministry
Graduate School of Theology
Azusa Pacific University

profile

"The book of Hebrews is such a tribute to Jesus, the man, the Son of God who accomplished 'so great a salvation' for us. If you've never studied Hebrews because you think it's too hard, you will be delighted by this book."
return to top

BRIAN McLAREN
Author, Networker
blog

"An expositor of Scripture needs to have a true love for the text and its author. Edward Fudge's love for Scripture shows on every page of this readable and accessible commentary, as does his skill in the art of interpretation."
return to top

CHRIS MARSHALL
Professor in Christian Studies,
Religious Studies Programme,
Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
homepage

"The Letter to the Hebrews is, theologically, aesthetically and pastorally, one of the richest writings penned by the earliest Christians but one of the most difficult to appreciate. With tremendous clarity and sensitivity, in what is plainly a labour of love, Edward Fudge invites modern believers to rediscover this ancient word of encouragement and its abiding relevance for the church of every age."
return to top

JEFF SCHREVE
Pastor, First Baptist Church,
Texarkana, Texas
From His Heart Ministries
homepage

"Finally, there is a commentary on the often-neglected Book of Hebrews that combines meticulous scholarship with readability and practical understanding. This work is sure to be a favorite of preachers, teachers, and Bible students alike."
return to top

BEN WIEBE
Pastor, Mennonite and Churches of Christ, Ontario, Canada;
Adjunct Professor, Union Biblical Seminary, India
news

"This commentary takes account of the best in scholarship to serve ordinary thoughtful people, who will find here an important and helpful resource. The commentary is clear not only in language but also in discerning what is central to the book of Hebrews -- the human Jesus who is, at the same time, the very Son of God. In the process the author illumines the unique contribution of Hebrews in understanding the way and work of Christ."
return to top

LANDON SAUNDERS
Founder & President, "Heartbeat"
website

"Scholarly, refreshing, and packed full of encouragement for today's Christian. Eminently readable, this book is like having an enlightened friend walk with us through the challenges of life as reflected in this ancient book, all the while pointing us to the faithful Friend who will never leave us or forsake us. Coming out of the author's deeply spiritual heart, this book inspires greater spirituality in the heart of the reader. It is a joy to recommend it!"
return to top

DESMOND FORD
Theologian, Author, Director
"Good News Unlimited" - Australia
website

"Here is nourishing food for the soul. But behind the apparent simplicity of this commentary lies a meticulous examination of the original text, as well as judicious consideration of the conclusions of other exegetes."
return to top

GEORGE H. GUTHRIE
Professor of Bible, School of Christian Studies,
Union University; Author of NIV Application Commentary: Hebrews
website

"Hebrews is not an easy book; in fact it often has been called a 'puzzle.' Yet, this difficult book contains a depth of teaching and a breadth of exhortation and of encouragement that can help Christ-followers endure, and stand in faith, in our very difficult world. Thus, we need more teachers and tools that clearly unpack the message of Hebrews, bringing that message to bear in relevant ways to the church today. While many will find points at which to differ with the interpretations offered, Edward Fudge writes clearly and applies the text pointedly in this engaging, accessible commentary."

return to top

GERALD KENDRICK
Translation Officer (Ret.),
United Bible Societies

"Readers at any level will profit from this author's always clear elucidation of the ancient Greek text and its English translations. I have read this commentary as critically and as carefully as any I've ever examined, and I have seen with fresh eyes how Jesus our high priest has gone outside the gate to serve and to heal a hurting world, and how he beckons us anew to follow him. If I had more classes to teach, more sermons to preach, or more translation teams to guide, this book would be high on my recommended list."
return to top

MATT SOPER
Senior Minister, West Houston (Texas) Church of Christ
homepage

"This new commentary on Hebrews is a delight to read. Edward Fudge deftly handles the weightiest of theological material in a fresh and invigorating way, reminding us that Hebrews is indeed an encouraging word to Christians of any era. This book will be a staple for preachers and teachers of adult Bible classes."
return to top

NEAL PUNT
Author, Pastor (Retired)
Christian Reformed Church
website

"Fudge's skill as a biblical scholar, his pastoral love for people, and his career-long special interest in the book of Hebrews make this commentary a mandatory asset for both the scholar and the casual reader. My wife and I regularly use it as part of our devotions, something we do with no other commentary."
return to top

RUBEL SHELLY
President, Rochester (Mich.) College
website

"In reading through this commentary, I have been impressed anew with a first- century preacher's ability to bring a positive word from God to Christians under stress. But it is in the nature of things for faith always to be under assault. Therefore I am grateful for this practical and readable study of Hebrews for this generation. Read it, and take heart for your own struggle."
return to top

FOSTER EICH
Associate Priest, St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, Florence, Alabama

"Much imagery in the Epistle to the Hebrews is obscure to moderns. It is a book I try to avoid preaching on! But Edward Fudge clarifies the imagery and Hebrews makes a lot more sense to me now. I won't be so afraid of preaching on it!
return to top

DAVID L. EUBANKS
President Emeritus,
Johnson Bible College
website

"This is one of the finest works on Hebrews that I have read. Fudge writes with a clear focus, steers clear of tangents, and captures the spirit of the letter. Demonstrating extensive research and sound scholarship, he writes for both the ordinary and the more accomplished student of Hebrews. Not shying away from controversial passages, he addresses them forthrightly, generally including his view with a careful acknowledgment of differing opinions."
return to top

DAVID F. WATSON
Assistant Professor of New Testament,
United Theological Seminary
bio

"This work is informed by scholarly research but communicates clearly to the non- specialist. Laity and clergy alike will find it to be an accessible and informative guide through the rich and complex message of Hebrews."
return to top

JOHN J. VOSS
Chaplain, Children of Promise, Inc.

"God has gifted Edward Fudge as a teacher to make His word understandable to the student and challenging to the scholar. This commentary is the result of that gifting."
return to top

FLAVIL R. YEAKLEY, JR.
Professor, College of Bible and Religion,
Harding University
homepage

"This commentary on Hebrews achieves the author's purpose of providing 'Ancient Encouragement for Believers Today.' While the writer demonstrates familiarity with recent scholarship and rich insights, he has written in a style that does not require a terminal degree in theology to understand. The reader may disagree with some of the author's conclusions, as I do, but this commentary is well worth reading."
return to top

DAN HUBBELL
Underground evangelist, international house church planter
website

"Fudge's commentary on the Book of Hebrews is a momentous accomplishment that the Lord has given him the wisdom to write for His glory! It is a scholarly work, yet written in a simple, understandable and refreshing way, for believers today to be encouraged in their walk with Jesus and to fulfill all that He has called and gifted them to be and to do in His Kingdom."
return to top

STAN REID
President, Austin Graduate School of Theology
homepage

"Believing that the biblical book of Hebrews has been pushed back in a corner and largely forgotten, Edward Fudge brushes away the dust and reopens this ancient 'word of encouragement.' Those who stand in the pulpit, those who sit in the pew and the non- Christian seeker all will benefit from his exegetical insights and relevant contemporary applications."
return to top

WYATT E. FENNO
Preaching Minister, Montgomery Church of Christ,
Albuquerque, New Mexico; author Living Waters
homepage

"Insightful and reflective, this commentary makes the book of Hebrews a touchable, tangible word of encouragement for today. Throughout the journey, Edward Fudge keeps the spotlight shining on Jesus Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith."
return to top

ROY R. MATHESON
Professor Emeritus of New Testament,
Tyndale Seminary, Toronto, Canada
bio

"We need more commentaries like this one, which is characterized by careful exegesis on the one hand and sound exposition on the other. It will be a significant help to both pastors and teachers."
return to top

DWIGHT ROBARTS
Senior Minister, Skillman Church of Christ,
Dallas, Texas
homepage

"If your congregation faces an aging membership, declining numbers, a shortage of volunteers, tension over a variety of issues and confusion over your neighbor's apparent apathy toward the church, then Hebrews has a good word for you. Edward Fudge's fresh version and interpretation faithfully witness to Jesus, the Ground Breaker of our faith, who is still working for us. This is the church's hope."
return to top

FRANK COATS
Elder, Texas Annual Conference of the
United Methodist Church
website

"Blending accessible scholarship with a remarkable piety, Fudge addresses opposing interpretations of Scripture with fairness and balance. I plan to use this commentary for personal devotions as well as a reference for preaching."
return to top

STEVE FARMER
Pastor, Christian Gospel Temple,
Cross Plains, Tennessee
website

""Edward Fudge has highlighted the book of Hebrews in such an encouraging and accessible style that this book could be called a 'devotional commentary.' Fudge's passion for preaching Jesus in a manner that is easily understood shines through on each page."
return to top

TOM SEALS
Professor of Bible and Ministry,
Lipscomb University
bio note

"Fudge has written a concise, informative and thorough commentary. In 'problem' areas of the biblical text, he offers solutions, yet does not try to force his judgments upon the readers, challenging them all the while to think 'outside the box.' I commend this book to all serious students of the word of God."
return to top

MARK HAHLEN
Department Chair and Professor of Bible
Dallas Christian College
bio

"Edward Fudge has skillfully bridged the gap between the world of the ancient text and the world of the contemporary believer who seeks to hear the voice of God through the pages of Scripture. He successfully conducts serious exegetical exploration without introducing overly-technical jargon or explicit citations of Greek vocabulary and syntax. Both the non-biblical studies specialist and the preacher-teacher will find his approach refreshing and helpful. Readers also will find valuable his concise, clear, and cogent discussion of thorny theological issues raised by the text of Hebrews."
return to top

ROGER McCOWN
Preaching Minister,
Brentwood Oaks Church of Christ,
Austin, Texas
website

"If you seek a commentary to strengthen your confidence in God's saving grace by the powerful example of Jesus raised and glorified, Edward Fudge on Hebrews will satisfy. With personal insights that address conditions in today's world, this commentary is thorough without being wordy. Avoiding a less-than-helpful dependence on what others have said, the author's adept use of original sources results in a reading of the text that is both theologically responsible and practically helpful. The one who wrote Hebrews did so to encourage. Edward Fudge has done the same."
return to top

DONN LEACH
Professor Emeritus of Bible,
Manhattan (Kansas) Christian College
brief bio

"Edward Fudge has written a very insightful, non-technical, devotional commentary on the Book of Hebrews. His recurring 'Why and Wherefore' sections provide excellent summaries of the text and explain the logical connections of sections to context. Today's Christian will find much helpful light in Fudge's commentary in opening up the meaning of a book often thought to be dark and difficult."
return to top

MARK MOORE
Preaching Minister, Springfield Church of Christ
Springfield, Virginia;
Former Missioner to Uganda
church website

"I have long looked to Edward Fudge's writings and advice to assist me in the difficult job of presenting relevant biblical messages to our congregation week to week. I am thrilled that he has tackled Hebrews and left his wisdom in such a useful format for all of us to use in the years to come. This commentary is brilliant."
return to top

TERRY RUSH
Senior Minister, Memorial Drive Church of Christ,
Tulsa, Oklahoma
website

"Edward Fudge dissects the mysterious book of Hebrews with a stirring combination of practicality and scholarship. His goal seems to be the simplicity of depth. I think he hit his target!"
return to top

JONATHAN M. WATT
Professor of Biblical Studies, Geneva College;
Adjunct Professor of Biblical Studies,
Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary
bio

"Fudge balances personal reflection with orderly analysis, and often proffers the reader with succinct summaries of different positions on particularly difficult passages. Though the author has worked through the Greek text, he writes in a manner consistently accessible to the layman -- the result being a pleasant blend that readers of all backgrounds today can welcome and absorb."
return to top

for ordering information, click anywhere in this yellow area