I am struck by some special markings of this most welcome resource for scripture study. First, there is its clarity and availability. Designed for church use, it can be read and used without excessive jargon or technicality, and strikes a fine balance between faith and scholarship. I see in these pages something of a sober, sophisticated redress of the relation between faith and criticism. Christian faith at its responsible best is not obscurantist or afraid of learning; it is always "faith seeking understanding." Readers will understand more of their faith from the pages of the Mercer Commentary on the Bible.

—Walter Brueggemann
Columbia Theological Seminary

This impressive volume presents the best in contemporary biblical scholarship in the language of the layperson. Contributors include a goodly sprinkling of distinguished veterans together with several younger scholars who bring the fresh insights of a new generation. This volume is distinguished from other one-volume commentaries by its orientation to a church audience and theological questions. Also noteworthy is the inclusion of the Apocryphal and Deuterocanonical Books, which are too often neglected in Protestant commentary series. This volume will be an excellent reference work for pastors and for anyone concerned with the use of the Bible in the Church.

—John J. Collins
University of Chicago