Summary
We find John Brown’s Galatians a vigorous defence of the gospel of free grace. He reads Paul as a pastor contending for Christ’s honour and the believer’s liberty, not as a cold disputant.
Brown is clear on justification by faith and firm on the dangers of legalism. He helps us see how false additions to the gospel wound assurance and distort Christian living.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We should own this commentary because it equips us to preach Galatians with both courage and care. It helps us expose the subtle forms of self righteousness that still cling to the church.
We also benefit from Brown’s warmth. He does not merely dismantle error, he directs us to the sufficiency of Christ, and that keeps our preaching from becoming combative.
It is not a modern scholarly treatment. Yet it is deeply pastoral, and it remains remarkably apt for present day pressures.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend this as a strong Reformed commentary for preaching Galatians, especially for churches needing fresh confidence in Christ alone.
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.
John Brown
John Brown was a Scottish minister and theologian of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, writing within the Reformed and evangelical tradition.
He is remembered for careful exposition that aims to serve the pulpit and strengthen the faith of ordinary believers. In Galatians, Brown helps pastors keep the gospel clear, justification by faith, union with Christ, and the freedom of the believer, while also addressing the dangers of legalism and spiritual pride with pastoral directness.
He remains valued for warm clarity and doctrinal steadiness, with application that guards consciences rather than burdens them. Recommended titles include Galatians in the Geneva Series, his Expository Discourses on 1 Peter, and his works on the atonement and the believer’s standing in Christ.
Theological Perspective: Reformed