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 PrintableVersion Let's study the Letters of JohnWhat have you got already?THE LETTERS OF JOHN This is the tenth time that EN has reviewed a book in the Let’s Study series. These reviews have been generally favourable, commenting that the books are brief, clear and faithful to the Bible, but a bit lightweight. Ian Hamilton’s book on 1 John is similar. It has short readable chapters, which explain the text well and provide a lot of cross-referencing to other NT books (although in places I found this frustrating as I wanted to hear what John has to say, not Paul!). The study guide at the end raises good questions, making the reader think more deeply about the passage. How does it compare with other widely used commentaries in print? Both are double the length and so have more freedom to discuss alternative viewpoints (and provide indexes!) John Stott (Tyndale, 1960). This has a more dated feel, but provides the reader with a clear understanding of the logic, structure and purpose of the book. His engagement with the liberal interpretations then in vogue is excellent and still very helpful today, as these old errors are regurgitated again. David Jackman (BST, 1988). Not quite as clear on structure as Stott, but clearer than Hamilton. He is again detailed in his engagement with alternative views and practical in his application to current issues. All three books are good. If you’ve got Stott or Jackman, stick with them because this book does not add a lot to them. How-ever, if you haven’t, then I would definitely recommend it as good for personal Bible study, but not quite good enough to help a preacher or Bible study leader. Tim Horn,
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