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Talking through the book of Galatians

In discussion with Jonathan Edwards

Good news for non-readers

TALKING THROUGH THE BOOK OF GALATIANS (video)
In discussion with Jonathan Edwards
Authentic/Paternoster

This video and booklet on Galatians is part of the Book by Book Bible Study series. On this video, the series hosts, Richard Bewes and Paul Blackham, invite special guest, Jonathan Edwards, to meander through Galatians in six 15-minute video chats.

It is a very cuddly format. Richard, in his typically relaxed way, gives introductory comments and gently probes the theological thinking of Paul Blackham and the practical wisdom of our most famous Christian and (semi-retired!) athlete. Sitting in easy chairs in the main body of All Souls, Langham Place, church (which, Richard points out is exactly the same length as Jonathan Edwards's record holding triple jump!), the conversational style makes it easy to watch in the comfort of a living room.

I appreciate the fact that this video series aims to use the media in a professional manner (although the title sequence still feels a little 'ham'). I am also appreciative of the non-homiletical, conversational style. In a culture which is unfamiliar or unappreciative of sermons, this could be a useful way into being taught the truth of the text, using a medium which is less threatening.

The danger inherent in such a format is that the discussions on camera tend to talk all around the text rather than make clear, systematic points from the passage. To counterbalance this tendency, the little study booklet offers some insightful observations and poses some useful questions on the text. And, to be fair, what home Bible study (possibly the main target audience for the video) does not meander through the passage making observations on the way, as its main style of teaching.

In summary, there are many helpful insights which emerge from this way of teaching Galatians. I particularly liked the way in which Jonathan Edwards's portrayal of Paul and Peter's confrontation in chapter 1 was dramatically explained as a battle between the theological heavyweights, at odds with each other in the ring! I also liked Paul Blackham's insistence that Paul didn't make up this message but it was taught to him by Jesus.

It does not have the rigour or focus of a sermon - but that's the whole point, isn't it? Find the right context, and you will find a lot of benefit from this video.

Simon Vibert,
St. Luke's, Wimbledon Park