EBTC Galatians
Galatians reveals how Christ changes everything.
Matthew S. Harmon traces the argument of Paul’s most polemic letter. In Galatians, Paul defends his authority and attacks his opponents’ arguments—and in both cases, the decisive factor is the Gospel. History and Scripture must be interpreted in light of Christ’s arrival. The new creation has broken in, leaving nothing unaltered. Harmon plumbs Galatians’ theological depth, including its view of sin and exile, apocalyptic antitheses, the Trinity, Isaiah’s servant figure, the law, righteousness, and faith(fulness).
About the Author
Matthew S. Harmon is professor of New Testament studies at Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. He is the author of the The Servant of the Lord and His servant people (New Studies in Biblical Theology) and Rebels and Exiles: A Biblical Theology of Sin and Restoration (Essential Studies in Biblical Theology.
Harmon’s commentary on Galatians offers a scholarly yet accessible exploration of Paul’s epistle. His commentary stand out for its meticulous exegesis. He carefully examines the text of Galatians, paying close attention to linguistics details, historical context, and literary structure. Harmon writes to shed light on the urgency and passion behind Paul’s writing.
The flesh is portrayed as a hostile power that works in humanity to produce sinful desires that lead to disobeying God.
One of Harmon’s strength is his theological depth that is included in this commentary. He navigates major themes of justification by faith, the role of the Law, and Christian freedom with ease. He also discusses hard and debatable topics such as historical and contemporary debates with a balanced perspective that respects the diversity of interpretation while clearly articulating his own views on the topic.
When Paul says that he no longer lives, he means that he is no longer the one directing and controlling his life.
Another strength of this commentary is Harmon way of connecting the New Testament with the Old Testament. He uses the topic of adopting and connects verses from Genesis and Exodus to verses in the New Testament. This shows that not only does Harmon have a deep understanding of the New Testament but rather he is able to see the bigger picture of the gospel.
Before he encountered Christ, Paul’s life was defined by his progress in Judaism; now his identity is defined by his union with the crucified Christ.
One of my favorite parts of this commentary is towards the end of the commentary when Harmon brings up the debate regarding faith. This is in refence to do they refer to “faith in Christ” or the faithfulness of Christ.” Harmon is convinced that this phrases refers to the believers’ faith in Christ. Harmon handles this debate with ease and because of that it was interesting to read and this made it my favorite part.
Christians should not thing that the have the choice to do ‘whatever they want’ ; whether conscious of it or not, their actions at every point are governed by the flesh or the Spirit.
Harmon’s commentary on Galatians in the EBTC series is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this pivotal New Testament book. His combination of theological depth, exegesis, practical application, and engagement with biblical theology and contemporary scholarship makes this commentary standout. This commentary will offer rich insights that will enhance your study of Galatians, whether you are a student, pastor or someone seeking a deeper understanding of Galatians.
I was not paid to write a positive review. My thoughts are my own.
