REVIEW OF BOOKS IN PRINT

It is always a challenge for the serious Bible teacher to communicate the eternal truths of God's Word in a way that respects the authority of that Word and transmits the essential meaning of the Word without being trite. In this new book, Harold S. Martin brings his talent for simplicity and clarity to an exposition of Matthew's Gospel. Through twenty chapters--most of them dealing with just one Gospel chapter each--the central message of Matthew shines: Jesus Christ is the promised Messiah of God.

Matthew brings its own particular challenges to the expositor, for it is the most Jewish-oriented Gospel, and as such must be interpreted with a firm grasp of Old Testament teaching and prophecy. For example, the Sermon on the Mount has many references to Old Testament teaching, and Bro. Martin explains them carefully without being tedious. He is also mindful to distinguish what truly the Old Testament teaches and how the first century scribes and Pharisees were misinterpreting it.

This exposition does not shy away from "hard sayings," but puts forth a straightforward approach that should be appreciated by all who love God's Word as it reads. This is especially so in relation to subjects such as the permanency of the marriage relationship, oath-taking, non-resistance, judging sin, and church discipline. He follows the correct view of the parable of the leaven in Matthew 13 (where the leaven is false doctrine that infiltrates and corrupts God's truth). Martin deals with these and other subjects with a direct yet loving approach.

One who reads this commentary carefully--with an open Bible in hand--will gain a wealth of understanding of the Scripture. All good expositors bring the Word to bear in applying it to daily life, and Bro. Martin brings it down to the level most will grasp. The reader will also detect and be challenged with the seriousness that the writer brings to his preaching, teaching, and writing. Finally, throughout the book the reader is confronted with, and invited to respond to, the claims and demands of Jesus of Nazareth. So while the book teaches, it also evangelizes. Faithful Christians will be convicted, comforted, and challenged anew.

Simple Messages on Matthew will be a valuable addition to your personal and church libraries. It has 265 pages, and is available from Brethren Revival Fellowship for $7.95 plus $1.00 postage and handling ($8.95 total). Mailing costs for five or more books will be paid by BRF.