Ephesians 1-3

The Anchor Yale Bible Commentaries

by Markus Barth

Encompassing the body of Pauline theology, Ephesians (volumes 34 and 34A of the acclaimed Anchor Bible series) has been called "the crown of St. Paul's writings," yet both its authorship and addressees are the subject of continuing dispute. Through line-by-line examination of its vocabulary, its difficult style, its Qumran and Gnostic affinities, its parallels with and distinctions from the undisputed Pauline corpus, its use of the Old Testament, and its dialogue with orthodox and heretical Judaism, Markus Barth demonstrates that Paul was almost certainly the author.  And, after exploring previous explications of this hymnic and admonitory epistle in detail, he concludes that it was intended for Gentile Christians converted after Paul's visits to Ephesus.

On this basis, Barth reexamines the relationship between Israel and the church, discounting the thesis that Ephesians suggests an "early Catholic," or high-ecclesiastic or sacramental doctrine.  Instead, he finds in this letter a statement of the social reconciliation which conditions the salvation of the individual.  And reevaluating the section describing the relation between husband and wife, he offers an alternative to the traditional notion that Paul degrades women or belittles their rights and their dignity.

In these two volumes Barth has followed the structure of Ephesians: upon the praise of God (chapters 1-3) are based the admonitions (chapters 4-6). But just as the epistle is an integral whole, so is the author's commentary.  Through his special understanding and love of the apostle Paul, Markus Barth reopens to modern man the ancient message of love, worship and joy.

Genres: Biblical Studies, New Testament, Reference, Fiction, Theology, Biblical

464 pages, Hardcover

First published August 6, 1974

Reviews

[Steve Pylkas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Best commentary on Ephesians, both volumes. Have worked through its pages several times.

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barth's commentary on Ephesians is an interesting animal. Barth argues for Pauline authorship, interacts heartily with the previous generations of NT scholarship (something I admire but which is less useful for me forty years on), and is wonderful for his description of OT usage in the book and relationships to Judaism. He has distinct conclusions that are not always supported by other commentators (read more than one commentary), but which are provocative in good ways. My liking and use of this book has been hindered by the used copy of it I purchased online which apparently was kept in a moist basement for several years before sale. This first volume only makes my eyes water after a short reading, the second volume you can almost see the spores rise when you open it. They were purchased from two different vendors (good and very good copies) - I would recommend only getting it new or almost new if purchasing from online sources.

[Rob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible commentary that is useful and helpful to pastors and preachers who take the time to read it. Barth's work is one of the best in the Anchor series.