This observation by T. Desmond Alexander succinctly explains the problem with most modern commentaries: Studying the biblical texts by means of commentaries can be compared to looking at the separate pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Though we may find something of interest in each piece, it is only when all the pieces are put together that we get the complete picture…. By atomizing the text and considering each unit independently, there is ever present the danger of misinterpreting these shorter passages. While I was in seminary, I overheard a pastor saying, “If I could go through seminary again, I’d buy fewer commentaries and more theological works.” I now understand what he meant. Commentaries don’t really help you preach, or teach. If you want a…