New Interview Series from Nijay Gupta
October 9, 2026
I almost screamed with joy when I saw this interview had dropped. These are two of my favorite scholars talking about their lives of study. Inject this into my veins.
You will enjoy this if you are a seminary student, have a general interest in theology, or want to understand the life of a biblical scholar.
I have long admired Tremper Longman III. His works How to Read Proverbs, Proverbs (Baker Commentary on the Old Testament), and The Fear of the Lord Is Wisdom: A Theological Introduction to Wisdom in Israel were very helpful in my sermon preparation when preaching through Proverbs. He has a profound and clear writing style.
This interview had some great and unique insight. First, Tremper seems like an absolute delight. Sometimes you read someone then hear an interview which does not match up to your expectations. I really enjoyed his personality. Second, he has a lot of projects in the pipeline. Even though he is retired, he is staying busy. I am really looking forward to his The Old Testament in Its World. This will be a companion to The New Testament in Its World by Bird and Wright (see my Mike Bird interview on this book). Third, I learned he is friends with John Kasich.
Nijay is an incredible interviewer. I am really excited for the future of the series. There is only one question I would like to see added. I would love to hear why those individuals chose academia as a way to serve Jesus. As someone who has benefited greatly from their work, I am curious how they decided on this path for them.
Go watch the interview and make sure to subscribe to Nijay’s YouTube while you are there.
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About David Wesley Donnan
I write online about Methodism, devotional insights, and personal reflections. My primary goal is to organize my thoughts and explore meaningful topics. Along the way, I hope my writing inspires and encourages others on their journey.
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Two Commentaries to Go Even Deeper in Philippians
October 8, 2026
Yesterday, I shared an observation on Philippians being one of the most quotable parts of Scripture.
As I continue through Philippians, there are two primary Bible commentary resources I am using.
The first is Brian Russell’s chapter on Philippians from the Wesley One Volume Commentary. I recently shared about Brian’s recent book on Exodus. So far, I have enjoyed his work on Philippians in the one-volume commentary.
I have also been using Philippians New Cambridge Commentary Series by Michael F. Bird and Nijay Gupta. Mike Bird is a part of the two-timers club on my podcast! I interviewed Mike for Jesus and the Powers and for his The New Testament in its World Book. Nijay is also one of my favorites. I tried to get him on the podcast. It just has not worked out yet. But he did give some travel tips for Portland!
Do you have any other Philippians commentaries I should consider?
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means I may receive a small commission if you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!
About David Wesley Donnan
I write online about Methodism, devotional insights, and personal reflections. My primary goal is to organize my thoughts and explore meaningful topics. Along the way, I hope my writing inspires and encourages others on their journey.
More From David
Follow Me on Social Media
Is Philippians the Most Quotable Book of the Bible?
October 7, 2026
Preaching through books of the Bible opens your eyes to new insights.
I am currently starting a journey through Philippians. Last week, I invited our church to memorize Philippians 1:6 from the New Living Translation, which says:
And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
I picked this passage out not because it is the most famous but because it was from our opening passage. It also ties into our theme of holiness as Wesleyans.
However, there are some great verses for memorization, including one of the most quoted passages in scriptures.
I could have invited the church to memorize these passages (from the New International Version):
Philippians 3:20
But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ
Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:13
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Concluding Question
Friends, there are only four chapters in this letter. Yet, we see some of the most quotable parts of the New Testament. Is this the most quotable letter or portion of the Bible in proportion to the number of chapters? Or is this just pastoral enthusiasm for where I am studying?
