Why did you write this commentary (Genesis)?

I now start a series of short posts focusing on the author's preface from commentaries I have found useful. Often, commentaries reveal very little about the author (as it should be) and the only place you get much of an insight in to their joys/pains in writing is in the preface. So without further ado ...

Kenneth A. Mathews writes the following about his commentary on Genesis 1–11:26 (published in 1996 by Broadman & Holman):

My generation has witnessed both the quintessential achievement of human knowledge and the collapse of the tyrannical Soviet empire which had subjugated millions in Western Asia and Eastern Europe for seventy years. My goal has been to present a commentary on Moses' First Book which offers insights but also incites the church to proclaim the Bible's first words to such a world ... In the study of Genesis I have learned anew both how inconsequential humanity is in God's expansive universe and yet the immense value that he has placed on each individual human life ... In a world increasingly made up of affluent technocrats and desperate autocrats, Genesis is God's first word concerning his gracious and faithful purpose to bless all men and women ... Genesis also has a first word that tells us we are sinners and have spoiled the good world, pointing us toward another Word, the full and last Word, who alone achieves for those who trust him the blessing that humanity was created to enjoy. May the words of this volume honor the first words and be acceptable to the last Word.

Kenneth A. Mathews also has written Genesis 11:27-50:26 which was published in 2005.