It books is impossible to arrive at a correct understanding of Jeremiah and Lamentations without an awareness of the historical context and political climate of Judah in the times these books were written. They reveal the close tie between a people’s spiritual and political conditions. Following God ends in blessing, while forsaking Him leads to disaster, both at an individual and a national level.

Although most modern readers have no experience living in a theocracy, the theme of putting God above politics is just as important today as it was thousands of years ago. The books of Jeremiah and Lamentations help us center ourselves in God’s will rather than our own. They call us towards the true righteousness and abundant life which only God can give. These writings are, therefore, extremely useful in keeping us focused on God and His will for us. As you read through these emotionally powerful books, this NIV Application Commentary volume by author J. Andrew Dearman will connect their original meanings with practical, real-life application.

Many Bible commentaries offer us an exciting tour through the ancient world of Biblical times. They give us cultural backdrop and add new, wonderful layers of meaning to familiar stories and passages. But when the time comes to return to normal, everyday life, we are left disconnected from the memories of our trip—without the knowledge of practical, real-life application. This is where the NIV Application Commentary series picks up the task. It merges the original, ancient context with right now, showing us both how ancient readers would have read the Bible and how we can connect to this living word of God from a modern context. Most importantly, however, it helps us begin the life-changing process of true application, showing how God’s word can continue to have a powerful voice in our lives today.

The NIV Application Commentary uses a highly accessible, three-tiered method of bringing readers to a fuller understanding of each Biblical book. Original Meaning will explore a book’s meaning in light of its historical and cultural context. Bridging Contexts, as its name implies, will help the reader link the text’s original meaning to its Contemporary Significance—the final tier that helps you apply the Bible to everyday life.

“This series promises to become an indispensable tool for every pastor and teacher who seeks to make the Bible's timeless message speak to this generation.”

-Billy Graham

“It takes more than interpretation of God's Word to change lives, it takes application.

Application is the bottom line in preaching and teaching. Without it, we've missed the point of the Bible. The NIV Application Commentary is an outstanding resource for pastors and anyone else who is serious about developing ‘doers of the Word.’”

-Rick Warren, Pastor of Saddleback Valley Community Church