DEUTERONOMY
An expositional commentary
By Paul E. Brown. Day One. 250 pages. £8.00
ISBN 978-1-84625-112-2
Paul Brown provides us with a faithful, ‘no frills’ guide to Deuteronomy, the second preaching of God’s law. If the reader already has enough motivation to make a first serious study of this great OT book, here is a handbook ‘setting forth the truth plainly’. As well as working steadily through the text, section by section, each chapter closes with three questions for further reflection.
Perhaps the most valuable contribution for the reader of Deuteronomy (as well as for the preacher) is the regular practical application — made always in the light of the New Covenant. While evidently faithful to the original setting of the book at the end of Moses’s life, Brown’s exposition helps us learn its lessons for Christians in the light of Christ.
There are probably no surprises for Day One readers here. This is clearly the work of an experienced conservative evangelical pastor, writing (as no doubt he would preach to his own congregation) within the context of a shared understanding of the application of God’s law. Though that is perhaps assumed rather than demonstrated. The thoughtful student will want to return to the text and ‘keep digging’ as he goes on reading the Scriptures. But, as in a good sermon, Pastor Brown leads us constantly to the text, gives us his clear understanding of it, and feeds us with biblical truth.
Alistair Hornal,
minister at Fairfield — Northwood Hills Evangelical Church, London
