Pennington’s Expository Work on the Sermon on the Mount: A Review by Ardel B. Caneday

Pennington’s expository work on the Sermon on the Mount offers a fresh perspective on this well-known biblical text. By delving into the structure and key terminology of the Sermon, Pennington provides readers with a deeper understanding of its message. His focus on terms like “blessed” and “perfect” sheds new light on the Sermon’s teachings.

One of the key points Pennington makes is the importance of reading the Sermon in the context of Jewish wisdom literature and Greco-Roman virtue ethics. By placing the Sermon within these broader traditions, Pennington argues that it addresses the universal human quest for flourishing. This connection to human flourishing is particularly relevant in today’s culture, where the concept is widely discussed.

Pennington’s use of new terminology, such as “flourishing” instead of “blessed,” helps readers grasp the nuances of the Sermon’s teachings. By drawing on the Septuagint and other sources, Pennington makes a compelling case for his interpretations of key terms in the Sermon.

While Pennington’s work is rich with insights, there are some areas where further clarification may be needed. For example, his distinction between divine blessings and human macarisms could benefit from more nuance. Additionally, his treatment of the relationship between Jesus, Moses, and the giving of the law covenant could be more fully explored.

Overall, Pennington’s work on the Sermon on the Mount is a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of this important biblical text. Despite some areas that may require further examination, Pennington’s insights offer readers a fresh perspective on the Sermon’s teachings.