How Do You Use Bible Commentaries?

Bible commentaries are helpful tools that further explain and interpret Scripture for us.

We recommend only going to commentaries after doing some digging yourself. That's why, in each of our studies, you'll find the "Commentary" section at the end of our deep dive into each verse.

It can be tempting to run immediately to study notes (another form of commentary) or to commentaries themselves when reading a passage. We get it! We feel that same pull. But our desire is to help all of us grow in our ability to understand and even interpret Scripture on our ownwith the Holy Spirit in us as our guide.

After putting in the work, we double-check what reliable commentators and sources have to say. This can then change, improve, or affirm what we observed on our own.

Finding and Using Reliable Commentaries

1. In addition to the helpful "commentary" found in the notes of a Study Bible like the ESV, we have recommended a few that we use in our study.
2. If you'd like to look at more options, here is a helpful blog article about some top commentaries you may want to consider.
3. There are many free commentary resources online or through apps like Blue Letter Bible. (We love using Matthew Henry's commentary.) Here's a quick video tutorial to help you know where to find this tool and how to use it:

Want real training and practice with commentaries? Get both in our "How to Study the Bible" course! Click the link to learn more.

Let's Abide,

Jason and Kate