Ivan Friesen provides a solid commentary that is concerned with how the interpretation of the Book of Isaiah is implemented in today’s communities of faith. His strongest contribution is the connection he makes between the significant themes in Isaiah and the traditional themes in Anabaptist thought such as justice, service, reconciliation, and peace. This commentary blends in well with the other volumes of the Believers Church Bible Commentary series.
David A. Leiter, Green Tree Church of the Brethren, Oaks, Pennsylvania
Ivan D. Friesen’s commentary is a most valuable resource. It makes no apology for its firm location in the Anabaptist tradition and its author has taken seriously various types of feedback from the Christian community. The book is a delight to read and is strongly recommended for pastors, church leaders, and anyone wishing to engage with the prophetic tradition in a way that makes for peace and for the ethical living without which communities cannot be built or sustained.
Patricia M. McDonald, Ushaw College, Durham, England
Few things are more thrilling to a reader than authors who know their subject so intimately that they seem to inhabit the world they write about. This is the case with Ivan Friesen’s commentary on Isaiah. Friesen’s portrayal of the mind of the prophet is truly insightful. Friesen’s insights into the text are written in such simple and rhythmic prose that they make the Word of God come to life for any serious reader.
John D. Rempel, Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Indiana
Ivan Friesen’s commentary portrays so beautifully Isaiah’s astonishing vision of just peace – a vision that encompasses not only the people of Israel, but all the nations and, indeed, all creation. Friesen’s commentary is a powerful call to the church today to embrace and embody the ancient message of Isaiah to practice justice and pursue peace. My hope is that readers will take this call to heart.
Esther Epp-Tiessen, Mennonite Central Committee Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba