Galatians

Summary

We find Scot McKnight’s Galatians in the NIV Application Commentary series a helpful guide for preaching Paul’s gospel clarity into confused hearts. He keeps Paul’s argument in view, showing how justification by faith safeguards the church from adding law to Christ, and from turning grace into a badge of spiritual status.

The commentary also helps us read Galatians as a letter to real churches, not merely as a set of slogans for controversy. That supports preaching that is both doctrinally clear and pastorally directed.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this commentary when we want help holding together theological precision and church application. McKnight helps us see the pastoral stakes of the letter, so we are equipped to warn against legalism, moral pride, and false assurance, while still calling for Spirit shaped holiness.

We also benefit from the consistent bridge work. It shows how the same pressures surface today, in subtle forms of self righteousness, tribal identity, and fear driven religion, and it keeps returning us to the freedom that belongs to those who are in Christ.

For preaching and teaching, it supports a tone that is firm on the gospel and warm toward struggling believers.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this as a strong mid level commentary for preaching and teaching Galatians, especially when we want help applying gospel truth to contemporary church instincts. Pair it with a more technical commentary if you need deeper treatment of detailed exegetical questions.

As pastoral next steps, we can visit the Bible Book Overview, browse Top Recommendations, and use the Reformed Commentary Index to build a wiser working library.