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The Message of the Song of Songs

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingUseful supplement
7.6
Author: Tom Gledhill
Bible Book: Song Of Songs
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

We are thankful to have Tom Gledhill’s The Message of the Song of Songs on our bookshelves, a concise, engaging guide to one of the Bible’s most poetic and perplexing books. Gledhill invites us into the rich imagery and romantic dialogue of the Song of Songs with an eye for both its beauty and its theology.

From the initial awakening of desire to the celebration of committed love, Gledhill walks us through the text with clarity and pastoral sensitivity. He helps the preacher face the text’s eroticism, its sacred secular borderlines and its deeper message about covenant love in a way that both honours Scripture and addresses contemporary church life.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

This volume stands out for two primary reasons. First, Gledhill speaks from experience in ministry and in teaching the church, so his reflections are grounded in the realities of preaching, pastoral care and discipleship. That means you will find sermonable insights, group session suggestions and ways to bridge ancient poetry with modern life without trivialising the text.

Second, the book takes a wisely moderate path between being overly devotional and being academically forbidding. It gives enough substance to keep a pastor honest, to respect the Hebrew poetry, structure and narrative flow, while remaining accessible to non specialists. In a world where ministry time is short and demands are high, this is a commendable fit.

It should be noted: Gledhill does not aim primarily at advanced Hebrew semantics, nor does he develop deep systematic theology around the Song’s typology. If your aim is heavy original language work or exhaustive theological systematics, you will need additional tools. But for typical sermon or small group preparation, this commentary serves very well.

Closing Recommendation

In short, we recommend The Message of the Song of Songs to pastors, teachers and lay leaders who want a readable, faithful and ministry aware commentary on this fascinating book. It may not cover every technical avenue, but it builds a strong bridge between the text’s poetic wonder and the church’s preaching and teaching task.

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.


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The Message of Ecclesiastes

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
7.8
Author: Derek Kidner
Bible Book: Ecclesiastes
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

We welcome Derek Kidner’s The Message of Ecclesiastes, a tightly-focused and pastorally attuned guide to one of Scripture’s most challenging wisdom books. In a compact space, Kidner navigates the Preacher’s reflections on meaning, time, labour and the fear of God—helping the preacher engage Ecclesiastes not as a curiosity, but as a vital word for the church today.

Kidner brings a steady hand: he honours the text’s nuances, acknowledges its tensions and invites the reader into honest reflection about life’s vanities and God’s sovereignty. Though brief, the volume is marked by clarity and depth; it speaks to our generation without sacrificing the book’s ancient pulse.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

If you serve in pastoral ministry or teach adult Bible-classes, this commentary has significant value. First, Kidner’s style is uniquely accessible—he writes with the heart of a pastor, making the sometimes elusive wisdom literature intelligible to sermon-preparation or small-group teaching. You will find clear mapping of Ecclesiastes’ structure, practical application points and a theological horizon that draws our gaze to God rather than self.

Second, the commentary sits well in the “mid-level” category: it is more than a devotional sketch yet stops short of heavy technical exegesis. That means it is ministry-friendly: you can pick it up when time is tight and still derive solid sermon ideas and teaching directions. Third, Kidner’s theological credentials are dependable—he belongs to the evangelical tradition and brings this confidence into his treatment of Ecclesiastes with integrity.

That said, if you are looking for exhaustive Hebrew lexical study, extended critical-historical reflection or advanced systematic theology, you will need to supplement. But for the purpose of preaching and teaching in church life, this volume meets a genuine need.

Closing Recommendation

In conclusion, we recommend The Message of Ecclesiastes to pastors, teachers and Bible-study leaders who desire a clear, theologically grounded and readable commentary on Ecclesiastes. It may not cover every academic avenue, but it faithfully connects text and life—and that is precisely the bridge ministry demands.

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.


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The Message of Proverbs

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
7.8
Bible Book: Proverbs
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

We are grateful for David J. Atkinson’s The Message of Proverbs, an inviting and thoughtful guide to the book of Proverbs from the Bible Speaks Today series (IVP). With a pastor’s heart and scholar’s mind, Atkinson helps us engage the ancient wisdom of Solomon and his circle in ways that speak into the daily life of church, home and workplace.

Atkinson traces the rhythms of the book of Proverbs—its contrasts of wisdom and folly, the personifications of Lady Wisdom, the warnings and the promises—with clarity and pastoral sensitivity. He does not aim to be encyclopedic or technically dense; rather, he walks alongside the preacher and teacher who wants to bring this wisdom text into contact with contemporary Christian discipleship.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

For pastors, Bible-teachers and lay leaders, this volume offers a strong serviceable resource. First, Atkinson succeeds at balancing accessible exposition with spiritual depth: he remains anchored in the text of Proverbs while opening doors into its ethical and theological implications. This makes it practical for sermon preparation, small-group leadership and personal reflection alike.

Secondly, the book occupies a helpful middle ground. It offers more substance than a brief devotional commentary, yet avoids the heavy burden of technical original-language or advanced critical scholarship. That means it fits well when time is limited but faithful engagement is needed. Thirdly, Atkinson’s background as a bishop and his commitment to the authority of Scripture place this volume safely within broadly evangelical boundaries.

That said, readers rooted in strongly Reformed theological frameworks may notice that the book does not repeatedly emphasize covenantal theology, the typology of Christ in Proverbs, or systematic TULIP themes. If those are your primary interests, you may need to supplement with additional resources. But for faithful exposition and ministry use, this commentary serves very well.

Closing Recommendation

In conclusion, we recommend The Message of Proverbs to pastors, teachers and serious lay-readers who want a readable, helpful commentary on Proverbs that bridges Scripture and Christian living. It may not carry the full weight of advanced scholarly exegesis, but it accomplishes its purpose with clarity, heart and integrity.

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.


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The Message of Psalms 73–150

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.0
Bible Book: Psalms
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

We welcome Michael Wilcock’s The Message of Psalms 73–150, a heartfelt and accessible companion to the second half of the Psalter. Wilcock writes as one who has shepherded God’s people and now offers the Psalms as songs for the church—guiding us through lament, praise, trust and confession with wisdom and pastoral sensitivity.

In this volume he moves from the sober reflections of Book III into the soaring praise of Book V, engaging themes of suffering, holiness and worship as they emerge in Psalms 73 through 150. His style is neither dry nor overly technical; rather it blends exposition with reflection in a way that honours the text and speaks to life in the pulpit, classroom or small group.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

For the busy pastor or teacher, Wilcock delivers considerable value. He stays rooted in the text and guides us through each psalm with clarity—drawing out what each one is saying and how it might apply to the people of God today. His pastoral heart is visible: he acknowledges the raw questions the psalmists ask—and helps us face them honestly in our preaching and pastoral care.

In the broader landscape of commentaries, this work sits in the “mid-level” category: more substantial than a devotional sketch, but far more accessible than a heavy technical monograph. If your aim is to teach or preach Psalms 73–150 in a way that is faithful to the text, relevant to your congregation, and manageable in a ministry schedule, this book is a strong option.

From a theological perspective Wilcock operates within an evangelical framework. He affirms Scripture’s authority and brings the Psalms into the life of the church. He is not explicitly Reformed in systematic orientation, so if you desire deep covenantal theology or advanced Hebrew-grammar detail you will need to supplement. But if your goal is to extract faithful exposition and real-world application, this volume fits well.

Closing Recommendation

In sum, we recommend this volume to pastors, teachers and small-group leaders who want a reliable, readable commentary on Psalms 73-150. It may not fulfil every academic desire, but it serves the crucial task of connecting the Psalter with the pulpit and with the people of God.

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.


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The Message of Psalms 1–72

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.0
Bible Book: Psalms
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

We are glad to commend Michael Wilcock’s volume on Psalms 1–72, a thoughtful and accessible guide to the first half of the Psalter. Wilcock writes as a pastor who has spent long years helping God’s people inhabit these songs of faith, and his exposition reflects that steady, seasoned touch. He approaches each psalm with a gentle confidence, drawing out its movement, mood, and message in a way that serves both preacher and congregation.

Wilcock approaches Psalms 1–72 not as a purely academic exercise but as “songs for the people of God”—an anthology of heartfelt human responses to the living God. He moves through each psalm, offering readable exposition, pastoral reflection and occasional suggestions for use in worship or teaching. The tone is accessible, and the orientation is toward the life of the church. At the same time, there is enough substance to assist a busy preaching pastor or teacher in drawing from the text without being bogged down in technical minutiae.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

For pastors and Bible-teachers who value clarity and practical application, this volume offers significant advantages. First, Wilcock’s pastoral experience comes through: he regularly connects the emotional landscape of the Psalms—joy, lament, trust, fear—with our contemporary situation, making it a helpful sermon companion rather than purely academic reference. Second, his exposition—even though not heavy on original-language detail—is sufficiently grounded in the text to lead one to thoughtful reflection and sound application. Finally, this volume fits well in the “mid-level” space: more robust than a brief devotional guide, yet not so technical that it becomes inaccessible for busy ministry contexts.

From a theological standpoint, Wilcock is clearly in the evangelical tradition. His ministry contexts and publishing background affirm his commitment to Scripture being the Word of God. While the work is not overtly Reformed with systematic theological reflection, there is no strong drift into liberal critical territory. That said, for those seeking deep reformed theological reflection—on covenantal structure, psalm-Christology, or canonical theology—this will need to be supplemented. But as a mainstay commentary for teaching and preaching, it serves very well.

Closing Recommendation

In sum, we recommend owning this volume if you serve in pastoral ministry or teach the Psalms in any church-context. Its readability, solid evangelical stance and practical application make it a strong choice for the library of the busy pastor or lay teacher. While not exhaustive in technical detail, it achieves its aim of exposition for the people of God.

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.


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The Message of Job

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
7.8
Bible Book: Job
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

In The Message of Job, David J. Atkinson delivers an accessible and pastor-shaped commentary on the book of Job, guiding us into its heart of suffering, lament, divine encounter and hope. He walks through Job’s trials, the speeches of his friends, God’s response from the whirlwind, and the restoration narrative, all the while pointing to how this ancient text speaks into the pressing life realities of congregations and pastors.

Atkinson combines narrative clarity with pastoral empathy — he is interested not just in what the text says about suffering, but in how the people of God live it out. The book invites us to consider not merely the “why” of suffering but the “Who”-that-stands-with-us, and it encourages a gospel-shaped reflection on loss, integrity and divine presence. Within the Bible Speaks Today series this volume occupies the mid-level space: neither a full technical monograph nor a devotional sketch, but a teaching-friendly commentary that brings Job’s world into vivid connection with our own.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

For the busy pastor or Bible-teacher who is either considering a sermon series on Job or helping a congregation to navigate suffering, this volume offers a well-structured and theologically safe companion. Job is often bypassed in preaching, yet the themes of identification, lament, wisdom and restoration are deeply rich for pastoral ministry. Atkinson equips the reader with clear outlines, thematic reflections and practical questions that enable preaching, teaching or small group use.

Theologically, Atkinson writes from within the evangelical tradition of the Bible Speaks Today series, and his pastoral sensitivity aligns well with Reformed convictions of God’s sovereignty, human need and gospel hope. While it does not engage every critical-historical or original-language issue, it holds Scripture’s authority, attends to suffering honestly, and does so with generous pastoral tact. It aids the Reformed pastor who seeks a readable yet serious commentary that integrates theology and ministry concerns.

That said, if one’s need is for advanced original-language exegesis, full lexical and textual criticism of Job, or extensive interaction with high-end scholarship, this commentary will not be the only resource you need. It is best considered as a strong teaching and preaching tool, rather than a specialist academic volume.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend The Message of Job as a **strong recommendation** for pastors, pastors-in-training and lay-teachers seeking a faithful, readable and ministry-oriented guide to Job. It will serve sermon preparation, teaching series and pastoral reflection with clarity, theological soundness and practical warmth.

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.


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The Message of Esther

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
7.8
Bible Book: Esther
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

In The Message of Esther, David G. Firth presents a thoughtful and accessible commentary on the book of Esther, highlighting its somewhat surprising theological riches and pastoral relevance. Firth navigates the narrative—set entirely in diaspora and without the explicit mention of God—with keen insight into how divine providence works beneath the surface and how God’s people are called to faithfulness in a world of opposition and invisibility.

The work is structured to serve the preacher and teacher: each section combines exposition of the text with theological reflection and application. Firth pays attention to the historical-narrative setting, the role of key figures such as Esther, Mordecai and Haman, and draws out how themes of identity, courage, divine sovereignty, and communal integrity speak to fifteen generations of the church. In doing so, he brings this often under-utilised Old Testament book into fruitful conversation with the local congregation.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

For pastors and teachers seeking a well-grounded, readable guide to Esther, this volume is a strong fit. The book of Esther receives less attention in pulpit and classroom alike, yet Firth’s commentary persuades us that it bears great weight for the believing community in every era. The commentary equips us to bring out Esther’s challenge: to live under the unseen hand of God, to act faithfully when the stakes are high, and to trust that our God is present even when unseen.

Firth’s approach is neither lightweight nor deeply technical—he does not engage in heavy original-language or textual-critical debates, but chooses instead to provide substance that will directly speak into sermon preparation, teaching series and small-group leadership. The commentary weaves theological reflection into exposition in a way that honours Scripture’s authority and encourages gospel-centred application—an approach very much consonant with Reformed conviction and evangelical ministry concerns.

While advanced scholars looking for dense technical exegesis or deep archaeological/historical critique will need to supplement, for the busy pastor or the church educator this volume offers a compelling blend of reliability and practicality without being superficial. Firth’s evangelical credentials are clear and provide assurance of doctrinal safety for Reformed ministers seeking trustworthy resources.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend The Message of Esther as a **strong recommendation** for pastors, pastors-in-training and dedicated lay-teachers who wish to mine the theological and pastoral riches of Esther. It will reliably support sermon preparation, Bible-teaching and personal devotions in a congregation eager for biblical depth and faithful gospel application.

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.


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The Message of Nehemiah

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
7.8
Bible Book: Nehemiah
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

In The Message of Nehemiah, Raymond Brown delivers a pastor-friendly yet serious exposition of the book of Nehemiah. He brings out the story of Jerusalem’s wall-rebuilding, the return from exile and the community’s reform under God’s sovereign hand, inviting the church to see in Nehemiah’s leadership, prayer life and dependence on Scripture a pattern for our own life and ministry.

The commentary emphasises the social, religious and historical setting of Nehemiah’s task while making consistent connections to contemporary church-life: life in the workplace, leadership in the congregation, integrity in service, and the faithful re-construction of God’s people. It is rooted in the accessible aims of the Bible Speaks Today series and designed to bridge text and pulpit effectively.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

For pastors and Bible-teachers, this volume offers a reliable guide to a less frequently preached Old Testament book. Nehemiah does not enjoy the same pulpit exposure as Isaiah or the Gospels, yet it overflows with themes of redemption, reform, corporate identity under Yahweh, and God’s perseverance through opposition. Brown escorts us through the canonical text with clarity, providing sermon ideas, teaching reflections and pastoral vehicles for small-group work.

As a mid-level commentary it strikes a good balance: it is more substantial than a devotional sketch but far more accessible than a heavy-duty academic tome. The writing is straightforward and ministry-oriented, enabling busy pastors to glean applications without being bogged down in lengthy original-language discussion. Its orientation fits well within a Reformed and evangelical conviction, affirming God’s sovereignty, the authority of Scripture and the necessity of faithful obedience.

However, we note a caveat: if one is preparing for advanced research into Nehemiah’s Hebrew syntax, syntax of Ezra-Nehemiah or deep critical-historical issues, this volume will not suffice as the scholarly bedrock. It is best seen as an excellent tool for sermon preparation and teaching rather than as a specialist monograph.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend The Message of Nehemiah as a **strong recommendation** for pastors, pastors-in-training and lay-teachers alike who desire a faithful, readable and pastorally rich guide to this Old Testament book. It will serve you well in sermon preparation, Bible teaching and personal reflection alike.

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.


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The Message of Exodus

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Pastors-in-trainingTop choice
8.7
Bible Book: Exodus
Publisher: IVP
Theological Perspective: Broadly Evangelical Reformed
Resource Type: Commentary

Summary

J. Alec Motyer’s The Message of Exodus is a masterclass in pastoral exposition. Motyer brings decades of scholarship and preaching experience to these foundational chapters, guiding readers through the book’s sweeping narrative with clarity, theological depth, and a deep reverence for the God who rescues His people. This is not a technical commentary; it is a carefully crafted exposition that listens well to the text and then speaks with warmth and conviction into the life of the church.

Motyer manages to hold together the drama of the narrative, the structure of the book, and its rich theology—covenant, redemption, holiness, worship, and the presence of God among His people. His careful handling of law and grace, judgement and mercy, and the shaping of God’s redeemed community makes this a particularly strong resource for those preaching through Exodus or teaching it in pastoral settings.

Readers will find this volume accessible but never shallow, devotional yet grounded, and richly informed without drifting into academic detachment. Motyer writes with the heart of a pastor and the precision of a scholar, offering a commentary that is both readable and deeply nourishing.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

First, Motyer gives preachers a reliable sense of the book’s structure. He traces the movements from bondage to deliverance, from wilderness to Sinai, from salvation to worship, helping us see how each passage contributes to the unfolding work of God. His sections on the plagues, the Passover, and the giving of the law show an expositor who understands both the text and the God who stands behind it.

Secondly, Motyer excels at theological clarity. His exposition draws out the character of the Lord—His holiness, compassion, patience, and covenant love. He treats the tabernacle material with unusual care, showing how God’s presence with His people is both the climax of Exodus and a key to the whole Bible’s story. Preachers will find here not only helpful structure but deep wells of theology that enrich pulpit ministry.

Thirdly, Motyer models pastoral application without forcing the text. He applies Exodus in ways that honour its historical setting while showing how its themes—redemption, obedience, worship, leadership, and community life—speak into the Christian walk today. His reflections on suffering, complaint, trust, and perseverance are especially useful for shaping sermons that engage the heart as well as the mind.

Finally, this commentary pairs beautifully with more technical works (such as Childs or Stuart). Motyer gives the theological and pastoral backbone; a technical volume provides the detailed footnotes. For many pastors, this makes BST: Exodus the ideal first stop in weekly study.

Closing Recommendation

We warmly commend The Message of Exodus as one of the standout volumes in the BST series. Motyer’s wisdom, clarity, and pastoral instinct shine on every page. For those preaching through Exodus—or simply wanting to understand God’s saving grace and covenant faithfulness afresh—this commentary is a richly rewarding guide.

For busy pastors, thoughtful readers, and Bible study leaders seeking a trustworthy exposition that lifts the heart and sharpens the mind, this is an excellent addition to any library.

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.


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The Book Of Ruth

Mid-levelBusy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
8.4

Summary

Robert L. Hubbard Jr.’s Ruth in the NICOT series is a beautifully crafted, academically responsible, and pastorally sensitive exposition of this cherished Old Testament book. We find it a commentary that combines rigorous linguistic work with warm theological insight, helping readers appreciate the narrative artistry and covenant theology that shape the story of Ruth. Hubbard writes from a broadly evangelical standpoint, offering a faithful and engaging treatment that serves pastors, teachers, and thoughtful Christians alike.

The commentary highlights the literary sophistication of Ruth while situating it firmly within the larger redemptive storyline. Hubbard’s attention to structure, character development, and the book’s theological themes gives readers a rich understanding of how God’s providence and kindness are woven through the narrative.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

Hubbard excels at showing how Ruth is far more than a simple love story. He demonstrates its theological depth—its portrayal of loyal love, covenant faithfulness, and the surprising grace of God reaching into the margins of Israel’s life. His exposition helps preachers appreciate how each scene contributes to the book’s movement from emptiness to fullness.

The commentary is especially strong in its analysis of Hebrew narrative technique. Hubbard’s careful work on the text brings clarity to key words, literary motifs, and structural features that shape the book’s impact. Yet he never loses sight of the pastoral importance of the story: the hope it offers to the suffering, the dignity it gives to the overlooked, and the assurance it provides of God’s steadfast commitment to His people.

Hubbard’s engagement with scholarship is balanced and discerning. He interacts with alternative views without overwhelming the reader or distracting from the message of the book. Pastors will benefit from his clear explanations, thoughtful thematic summaries, and sensitivity to the theological richness of Ruth.

Closing Recommendation

We strongly commend Hubbard’s volume as one of the finest evangelical treatments of Ruth available. It offers depth for the preacher, clarity for the student, and warmth for any believer seeking to understand God’s redeeming grace in the everyday details of life.

For those preparing to preach or study Ruth, this commentary provides a trustworthy and illuminating guide—rich, careful, and consistently edifying.

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.


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