The first volume of the Evangelical Exegetical Commentary was just released, and I’m thrilled to be holding it in my hand … uh, I mean seeing it on my screen.

The book was just released ten minutes ago, and it’s already been downloaded and fully integrated into my Logos Bible Software. Ezra/Nehemiah by Israel Loken is the first of 44 volumes that will be produced in this series over the next decade. At first glance, the book looks outstanding.

There are two things that make the EEC truly unique. First is its rich exegetical content. With H. Wayne House as General Editor, the EEC promises a conservative, contemporary, and in-depth approach to exegesis. The editors write in their Preface,

In this series, the biblical books are studied with the tested tools of biblical scholarship, keeping in mind that these books, produced by human authors, come from the very mouth of God (2 Tim 3:16). The EEC reflects the important interpretative principles of the Reformation, while utilizing historical-grammatical and contextual interpretative methods.

Secondly, the EEC is the first of its kind to be published in the digital age and first published in electronic form. Here we see technology at its very best, being used to draw us closer to God and His Word. Again, from the editors:

The EEC is the very first commentary series produced first in electronic form. Doing this has enabled Logos to link each volume to the other resources of their massive electronic library. Additionally, the electronic volumes may contain such items as charts, graphs, timelines, and photos. Another benefit of the electronic edition is that authors will be able to add to their original contribution when new archaeological discoveries or additional insights become available. Thus, the owner of this series can benefit from an expanding resource. The EEC is scheduled for completion in half the time of comparable series. The dedication of the authors and the Logos Bible Software staff make this possible.

How cool is that? These books might actually grow as new research is uncovered.Once again, Logos has exceeded my expectations.

Each section in Ezra/Nehemiah contains the original Hebrew text, textual notes, translation, commentary, applicational and devotional implications, and selected bibliography. Here’s a sample screenshot:

While it’s too late to get the rock-bottom pre-pub discount on the EEC, you can still order the set at a good price.