Dr. Beeke’s Top Commentaries on Galatians

#1 Galatians, by Martin Luther

Considered to be among those works essential to an understanding of Martin Luther’s theology, Luther’s Commentary on Galatians is a timeless exposition of Paul’s central thought in Galatians: “The just shall live be faith.” All readers will benefit from Luther’s doctrinally sound, verse-by-verse exposition. Originally written in Latin, Luther’s Commentary on Galatians is here translated into English by Rev. Erasmus Middleton.

#2 Galatians, by John Brown

Originally published in Edinburgh in 1853 by William Oliphant & Sons and republished by The Banner of Truth Trust in 2001, this commentary on the entire book of Galatians by Dr. John Brown of Edinburgh(1784- 1858) is part of the Geneva Series of Commentaries. Written in the Reformed tradition with an exegetical/application focus, this section by section treatment of Galatians is well suited for students, pastors, and teachers who have a familiarity with Greek and Hebrew. Based on the KJV, this commentary provides indices of principle matters, Hebrew and Greek words, authors, and texts. 451 pages, hardcover from The Banner of Truth Trust.

#3 John Calvin’s Sermons on Galatians, by John Calvin

Kathy Childress, the translator from the original French of this book says, “Calvin exposes human nature with profound insight…he brings this world into sharp focus and enables us to see its frivolity. However, he does not leave us to wallow in despair, but points us to the Saviour…No sinner, having read these sermons, could mistake the remedy…The Lord Jesus Christ is the focal point…There is judgement here, enough to make the sinner quake with fear, but then there is also mercy to warm the heart and lift the fainting spirit”.

#4 A Commentary on Galatians, by William Perkins

#5 St. Paul’s Epistle to the Churches of Galatia, by Herman Ridderbos

Ridderbos’ volume is the original commentary on Galatians from The New International Commentary on the New Testament series.  This book is out of print, but if you are able to find a copy, buy it.  Although the commentary is short in length it provides many helpful redemptive-historical insights. 

#6 Free in Christ: The Message of Galatians, by Edgar Andrews

Paul’s epistle to the Galatians can be summarized by one simple question: What is the gospel? What is the real gospel, as opposed to false gospels or (to use Paul’s own terminology) perverted gospels? One recent commentator has written, ‘Historically, Galatians has been foundational for many forms of Christian doctrine, proclamation and practice. And it remains true today to say that how one understands the issues and teaching of Galatians determines in large measure what kind of theology is espoused, what kind of message is proclaimed, and what kind of lifestyle is practised.’

#7 The Message of Galatians, by John Stott

To enclaves of young converts tucked away in the mountains of Asia Minor, Paul wrote what is perhaps the oldest document in the New Testament–the letter to the Galatians. What problems were they facing? Among a variety of religious authorities espousing different teachings, how were they to know who was right? How were men and women to be put right with God? How could Christians in the midst of a pagan culture live lives truly pleasing to God? ’Only one way–’ ansered Paul, ‘through Jesus Christ.’ His answer holds true for us as well. The details of our struggle have changed since Paul’s day, but the principles he sets forth are as timeless as the Lord he exalts. In this book John Stott helpf us to understand and apply the message of Galatians in the face of contemporary challenges to our faith.