The Bible, both Old Testament and New Testament, is Christian Scripture. Jesus himself taught that “the Scriptures…bear witness about me” (John 5:39). And after his resurrection from the dead, Jesus said to his disciples: “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled” (Luke 24:44).

The Book of Psalms has been a precious gift to believers throughout all of church history. Yet, it seems as though many of us are prone to miss the Christological significance of the Psalms. That is why I am brimming with happiness that Reformed Perspective Press recently published a 4 volume commentary set on the Psalms: “Christ’s Psalms, Our Psalms“.

Written by sixteen individual contributors and edited by Peter Holtvlüwer, this resource was birthed to fill a gap in many Psalms commentaries. As the introduction explains, there is a lack of specific attention to the Messianic predictions and foreshadowing of the Lord Jesus Christ. In “Christ’s Psalms, Our Psalms”, the authors have done a great service to the church in filling that gap.

Now, this isn’t a verse-by-verse exegetical commentary of each Psalm. Rather, it is a comprehensive and convenient explanation of how each Psalm is connected to the Lord Jesus. After all, the Scriptures were written by men carried along by the Spirit of Christ (2 Pet 1:21) to bring about the revelation of the gospel of Christ. Taking efforts to avoid carelessly “jumping to Jesus”, the authors do diligence to the original author’s first meaning and identify proper markers left by Christ’s Spirit. From my reading, the authors have searched the Psalms like Bereans and have presented us with a rich treasure of Christ-exalting commentary.

I was pleased to find a lengthy introduction to the commentary in volume 1 where an overview of the Psalms is given with insightful clarity. The Biblical argument for a Christ-centered focus was compelling and would be a great resource for anyone wanting to learn or teach others about the Christocentric reading of the Psalms.

For each Psalm, the authors write according to a 16 category template:

• Author & Purpose
• Setting
• Type & Structure
• Poetic Elements
• Placement within the Psalter
• Key Words
• Unusual Words or Expressions
• Main Message
• Christ Connection
• Old Testament Links
• New Testament Links
• Confessional References
• Spiritual Themes
• Application
• Occasions For Use
• Questions For Further Study

Each Psalm is given roughly 4,000 words through the helpful categories. Not only can the reader expect a thorough treatment of each Psalm, but also you will find the template quite convenient for locating particular details quickly. For example, you might want quick insight on an unusual expression used in a Psalm, or perhaps some of the poetic elements being used. The format used is quite intuitive and useful for any type of study in the Psalms.

I am particularly impressed with the quality of the set. They are hardcover and sewn bound – sure to stand up to the test of time. The main graphic on the cover isn’t very attractive and seems a little dated in my opinion. It could use a more contemporary design if it gets reprinted. But most importantly, the font and layout inside is very easy on the eyes. Here’s a sample:

It must be highlighted that there are several valuable resources at the end of volume 4. Firstly, a bibliography which not only gives credit to the commentaries used in the writing of this set, but also gives the reader a categorical list to help inform future purchases for his or her library. Secondly, and more significantly, there are the following indexes which are worth their weight in gold:

• Select Scripture Index (OT and NT use of Psalms)
• Confessional Index (Belgic, Canons of Dort, & Heidelberg Catechism)
• Select Subject Index (grouped by explicit and implicit reference)

Overall, I highly recommend this 4 volume commentary for any Christian wishing to understand how the Psalms truly are fulfilled in Christ (Luke 24:44). Pastors, small group leaders, and Sunday School teachers would be particularly helped in their roles and labours by recognizing the pointers to Christ left by His Spirit in each Psalm.

Some smaller independent bookstores appear to be carrying this set, but you can view a sample chapter and order the set here. There is also a daily devotional book on the Psalms available that looks excellent.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this set from Reformed Perspective Press in exchange for an unbiased review. I thank them for their generosity and look forward to how this will bless the church.

[See original post on Jared’s blog]