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Let's study GalatiansKey NT letterLET'S STUDY GALATIANS With its focus on justification by grace through faith alone, Paul's Letter to the Galatians remains a key New Testament document, particularly in addressing issues of how we are saved, and the place of good works in the Christian life. Derek Thomas's readable commentary provides an excellent way into Galatians, offering help where needed, while always showing concern to keep the reader abreast of the 'big picture'. The Let's Study series of books claims to combine explanation and application, with the aim of helping 'ordinary Christian people by encouraging them to understand the message of the Bible and apply it to their own lives' (p.ix). In other words, it falls broadly within the same range as the 'Focus on the Bible' (Christian Focus) and 'Bible Speaks Today' (IVP) series, although this contribution is far less wordy than its BST counterpart. The author divides the text into 24 sections for comment, although, somewhat confusingly, he offers (on p.xix) an outline of 'Galatians' that does not correspond with these divisions! At the back of the book there is a group study guide, with a suggestion for covering the material in 13 sessions. The English Standard Version is used throughout. The introduction is brief, but manages to address the usual 'when' and 'where' issues, as well as the so-called 'New Perspective' on Paul. The author returns to the latter at several points during his commentary. The author has a pleasing, chatty style, which quickly engages the reader. At the same time, he keeps us focused on the text and is succinct in explanation. Given the claim in the publisher's preface (mentioned above), the application is sometimes rather light. The study guide questions often presuppose that the book has been read, which might limit their value in some group contexts. Who would benefit from this book? Preachers may want something which comments on the text in greater depth; they may, however, still find this a stimulating 'primer'. On the other hand, there is probably too much here for the average Christian's daily devotional time. Its greatest value may be to the home-group leader, who would find it valuable background reading, regardless of which study material was being used. Andrew Wilson,
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