Professor Jack R. Lundbom's commentary on Jeremiah 1-20 represents the first volume of what is universally recognized as the definitive scholarly treatment of Jeremiah available today, establishing itself as an essential replacement for John Bright's landmark 1965 Anchor Bible commentary. As an internationally respected authority on Jeremiah with extensive teaching experience at UC Berkeley, Yale Divinity School, and other prestigious institutions, Lundbom brings unparalleled expertise in Hebrew rhetoric and ancient Near Eastern studies to bear on the opening chapters of this most colorful and passionate of the ancient Israelite prophets. His comprehensive three-volume work draws on thirty additional years of biblical scholarship while providing over three times the detail of previous treatments.

Lundbom's groundbreaking contribution lies in his demonstration that Jeremiah's seemingly mysterious oracles, judgments, and visions speak with remarkable relevance to contemporary concerns, effectively dispelling the notion that a seventh-century B.C.E. prophet has nothing to say to modern readers. His detailed analysis reveals how Jeremiah was every bit as concerned as contemporary society with issues like terrorism, hypocrisy, environmental pollution, and social justice, making the prophet's passionate personality and scathing judgments against sin and hypocrisy surprisingly relevant for today's world. His treatment of Jeremiah's reluctant call to prophecy, his witness to Israel's abandonment of their covenant relationship with God, and his foresight regarding the tragic fall to the Babylonians provides essential insights into the prophetic understanding of divine justice and historical consequences.

This substantial scholarly achievement serves as an indispensable resource for pastors seeking to understand the exegetical foundations necessary for faithful preaching from Jeremiah, seminary students pursuing advanced Old Testament studies, and scholars working in Hebrew prophecy and ancient Near Eastern literature. Reviewers have praised Lundbom's work as "the best commentary on Jeremiah" and "a treasure trove of valuable information," noting his ability to provide exhaustive detail while maintaining readability and clear exegesis. His magisterial scholarship, combined with his gift for demonstrating contemporary relevance, makes this commentary essential for anyone seeking comprehensive engagement with the weeping prophet and his enduring message to the world.