The Reformed Expository Commentary is a series that aims to provide a fresh exposition of the Biblical text for today's generation. In the series introduction the series editors (Phil Ryken & Richard Phillips) lay out the four fundamental commitments in this series. They are:

1) To be biblical - that is to pay careful attention to the text and exposit the Scriptures. There is less focus on the original language and structure and more focus on the story that the passage is telling.

2) Unashamedly Doctrinal - this series approaches the text from a Reformed perspective, as found in the Bible.

3) Redemptive-Historical - this means that they believe in the unity and continuity of the Bible, and interpret it in a Christ centered approach for all of Scripture.

4) Practical - by applying the truths found in the Scriptures to contemporary challenges in life.

Bryan Chapell is the contributor for the volume on Ephesians and he has done an outstanding job. His exposition is very readable for pastor and layman alike. This commentary reads like a book. I found that it flowed together nicely and thus would make a wonderful devotional read. Chapell handles the difficult passages really well without "taking shots" at those who disagree. In his exposition on Ephesians 5 concerning headship, Chapell doesn't spend a lot of time addressing the feminist objections but rather lays out that headship does not justify abuse or passivity from the husband. Instead, his focus is on the servant/leader aspect of headship and how this passage relates the husband to Christ, the ultimate servant/leader. His short section on What Headship Does Not Mean provides a concise answer to the problems our world (including many Christians) has with headship, showing that their definition of headship is not the biblical definition.

Chapell's exposition of chapter one was really a treat for me. The stress that Chapell puts on God's sovereign choice in predestination as an assurance, hope and encouragement for a believer sent me away rejoicing. Instead of taking a deep theological approach his was very simple: God chose to set his love on you because he loves you and has before the foundation of the world. What a comfort for believers, regardless of their situation. I thoroughly enjoyed this commentary! I really enjoy the way Chapell writes and the layout of the book. Now for aesthetics. This Commentary looks great. While this isn't a huge selling point, and certainly not a reason to chose one commentary over another, I must say that this one looks really nice on the bookshelf, especially when you have more than one in the series.

If you enjoy studying the Word of God and are looking for a solid commentary that is readable and will profit you greatly, then do yourself a favor and purchase this commentary. It is well worth it.

I received a free copy of this commentary from P&R Publishing in exchange for an honest review.