| Literary Content | Concise discussion of how the passage functions in the broader literary context of the book. |
| Main Idea | A one- or two-sentence statement of the big idea or central thrust of the passage. |
| Translation and Graphical Layout | A graphical layout of the commentator's translation with the purpose of helping the reader visualize the flow of thought within the text. |
| Structure | The flow of thought in the passage and explanation concerning certain interpretive decisions regarding the relationship of clauses. |
| Exegetical Outline | Detailed exegetical outline of the overall structure. |
| Explanation of the Text | Using the Greek text to interpret the meaning of the text with an effort to make the commentary as readable and useful as possible even for the nonspecialist. |
| Theology in Application | The theological message of the passage is summarized in terms of its place in terms of the book and the broader biblical-theological context. |
In Schreiner's introduction he presents the background material for the book leading with the arguments regarding the long-disputed recipients and date (South Galatia, pre-Jerusalem council; North Galatia, post-council). The arguments are given fair treatment on both sounds with an acknowledging that the theological understanding of the book will be based partially on the decision, but leaning toward the early, southern view. Following this, various views are given concerning the source of opposition coming on the church of Galatia. The epistle's date has bearing here as well, since the regions were variously affected by Jews, Romans, and other pagan influences. The book's structure and outline are presented last with no real surprises and form the remaining commentary's chapters with the divisions.
The given outline of Galatians is given in three major divisions with a fourth as summary. The first and fourth are as expected (1:1-2:21 and 6:11-18 respectively). The unique break came between divisions two and three with the latter beginning at 4:12 with the change of language from chastisement for being led astray to beseeching of fellow brethren. The argument for placing the break here seems sound.
The book clarifies how Galatians was written not only to demonstrate that justification is by faith, but that sanctification also comes through the same way. Works are unnecessary, and even counter-productive, for a right standing before God whether initially at salvation or anytime thereafter. Works are a result of grace, not the vehicle for gaining it.
Schreiner's conservative understanding of the text manifests itself in his complementarian handling of the relationship between men and women in 3:28. He does so gracefully by showing how "Paul affirms the oneness of males and females in Christ, but he does not claim that maleness and femaleness are irrelevant in every respect" and "the equality of men and women in Christ does not cancel out, in Paul's mind, the distinct roles of men and women in marriage…or in ministry contexts" (259).
I found the commentary to be enjoyable with several good thoughts, the graphical layout of the translation being a particularly useful feature. Those who use Logos software know the value of the sentence diagramming offered in the exegetical tools. The book uses less technical language for diagramming and is more readable. Though it claims to be directed to someone with some Greek training, I found the explanatory sections to be sufficient in overcoming any lack of training one might have. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for the library of anyone desiring to teach in the local church.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Zondervan. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
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