Acknowledgments

No project of any magnitude is a solo venture. Certainly not the writing of a book. Most certainly, not a biblical commentary. Numerous people, across many years, are a part of this one. To name just a few:

• My grandfather, William, a simple coal miner who owned only a handful of books, most of them commentaries.
• My grandmother, Rose, whose highest praise for any preacher was “he sure knows his Bible.”
• My father, Byron, whose love for the Bible marked our whole family.
• My wife, Linda, who was so incredibly and sacrificially supportive of my entering and completing seminary.
• My fellow elders at Good Shepherd Church who loyally “put up” with my growing over the years.
• My fellow ministry staff colleagues who so skillfully tend our flock.
• And our entire flock at Good Shepherd who so faithfully allow us to “practice” the ministry.

One ministry staff member deserves special note in conjunction with this project—Brian Smith. Our staff “resident theologian” and pastor of small group ministries for more than a decade now, Brian has not only overseen hundreds of Growth Groups over the years, he has also written most of the curricula. Brian has worked hard for me throughout this project. He has done much deep plowing, turning over the rich soil with his characteristic great care and insight. His attention to scholarly detail and his eye for key principles can be felt throughout this work. “Thanks, Brian” seems so inadequate. We at Good Shepherd are grateful you have chosen to steward your gifts in our midst!

One family member deserves very special note as well—Dr. Rick Taylor. Rick is my brother-in-law. And so much more! We have worked together on writing projects before, and as always is his manner, on this project he has lifted my spirits more than I can express. Rick, you have meant the world to me. You define “trustworthy.” With his mature love for Christ and His Word, his great pastor's heart, and his organizational mind (not to mention his computer dexterity), Rick has picked me up, dusted me off, and set me back on track on this project more than once. Thanks, brother.

And two deeply respected mentors:

Dr. Earl D. Radmacher. As an earnest undergraduate, I heard the compelling preaching of Dr. Radmacher. Following my military service I entered Western Seminary and came under his consistent teaching. I had the privilege of serving him as assistant to the president. Now retired, he graciously consented to read through this manuscript. As usual, his coaching has been incredibly insightful and his friendship exhilarating.

Dr. W. Robert Cook. Dr. Cook brought dignity to the seminary classroom, thoughtful system to theology, and great inspiration to his students. Thank you, Dr. Cook, for reading this manuscript and encouraging me in it.