The document from the PBC that you refer to says that there is no one method that can be used for understanding scripture, but that often a combination of viewpoints may be enlightening.
One of its recommendations, you should remember, is to read scripture alongside a commentary. So, which commentary to use, you’re wondering.
First, it’s important to be familiar with the catechism of the catholic church (CCC). This present the faith more in a topical, logical fashion, with many references to the Bible. But, it is not itself an exhaustive commentary on the Bible.
John Bergsma and Brant Pitre have just had The Catholic Introduction to the Bible: Old Testament published by Ignatius. I’m almost finished reading its 970 pages. It is an excellent introduction and has lists of books for further reading. There is no word yet as to when they may publish the second volume on the New Testament. (I also notice that they use the RSV-2CE edition of the Bible from Ignatius Press – it has different verses than my old NAB.)
Commentaries are more thorough than study Bibles, in that they expand more on the text, usually one book at a time. A recent series that is worthwhile is the Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture series from Baker Academic.
I haven’t found any commentary that answers all my questions. You just have “to jump into the pool” with the rest of us and start reading. You have to think “budget” here and how much it is worth to you. I’m sure I’m past the $3,000 level of spending on books. Proceed slowly and selectively. I use The Jewish Study Bible, 2nd Ed, Oxford Press for a different translation; this volumes has 400 pages of essays on the Jewish scriptures.
My local public library has The New Interpreter’s Bible ← I think that’s the title. My study Bible etc. and the CCC doesn’t have a good definition or discussion of “prophecy” (see 1 Co 14 ), so I went to that series for a good discussion.
Catholic study Bibles often have references to Jewish and Protestant books and articles for further study. You should keep in mind that they have a different point of view – and that’s what you may want, once in a while.
