Numbers 20–36 by L. Michael Morales Wins Award of Distinction at The Gospel Coalition Book Awards 2025

We are delighted to share that Numbers 20–36, the newest volume in the Apollos Old Testament Commentary (AOTC) series by L. Michael Morales, has been honoured with the Award of Distinction for Biblical Studies at The Gospel Coalition Book Awards 2025.

This prestigious recognition highlights Morales’s exceptional contribution to biblical scholarship. The Gospel Coalition described the commentary as “the fruit of 10 years of labour from one of the best biblical theologians in the church today,” noting:

“Morales’s commitment to biblical theology shines throughout as he situates the message of Numbers within the larger framework of the Pentateuch and Scripture’s storyline. This commentary will help pastors and Christians discover that Israel’s journey through the wilderness is a paradigm for God’s people in every generation.”

Why Numbers 20–36 Matters

Often overlooked or misunderstood, the Book of Numbers can seem distant from contemporary Christian life. Yet its themes, covenant faithfulness, wilderness formation, and the journey of God’s people, remain profoundly relevant. In this magisterial commentary, Morales brings clarity, depth and fresh insight to a section of Scripture that is frequently referenced but rarely expounded.

Within this volume, Morales:

• examines structure, form-critical issues and rhetorical features

• provides detailed exegesis of the historical and theological meaning of each passage

• traces the book’s theological message within the wider framework of biblical theology

• demonstrates the enduring significance of Numbers for the church today

• includes an annotated translation of the Hebrew text, rigorous bibliography and extensive indices

Covering chapters 20–36, this commentary offers pastors, scholars and students an invaluable resource for engaging deeply with the Old Testament.

The Apollos Old Testament Commentary aims to take with equal seriousness the divine and human aspects of Scripture. Written by an international team of scholars, the series provides rigorous, accessible commentary for pastors, preachers and all serious students of the Bible.

Thomas Creedy, Publishing Director for Apollos and IVP, says:

“We are delighted to see our AOTC volume Numbers 20–36 honoured with an Award of Distinction at The Gospel Coalition Book Awards 2025. Following a rewarding and inspiring two weeks representing Apollos and IVP at the ETS and SBL conferences in Boston, I am thrilled to see our commitment to the highest levels of biblical scholarship and rigour recognised in this way.”

Explore the award-winning commentary: