Like the other volumes of the Cambridge Bible Commentary, this contains an introduction followed by the text of the New English Bible divided into sections. Each section of the text is followed by the commentary upon it. The Second Book of Samuel tells how David took full control of both the northern and southern Hebrew kingdoms and consolidated his power throughout the region. Professor Ackroyd's commentary concentrates on interpretation rather than historical reconstruction, and part of his introduction dealing with the theological significance of the Books of Samuel relates the religious tradition stemming from the Bible to present-day ways of thinking.