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	February 2003
		Philippians Frank Thielman: Zondervan, Grand Rapids: 1995 (256pp $27 hardback) Reviewed by Paul Grayston
			The blurb tells us that... most Bible commentaries take us on a one-way trip from our world to the world of the Bible. But they leave us there, assuming that we can somehow make the return journey on our own. They focus on the original meaning of the passage but don't discuss its contemporary application...the job is only half done! The NIV Application Commentary Series helps bring both halves of the interpretive task together... It explains not only what the Bible meant but also how it speaks powerfully today.' In this contribution, Professor Thielman of Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham Alabama of all places, admirably fulfils his brief. Global issues After a brisk introduction, the commentary works through the book in lectionary-sized chunks. A high awareness of literary (and historical) context and the flow of the argument of the Epistle is demonstrated. While skirting technical minutiae the discussion is grounded in solid scholarship and canvasses the range of views on difficult verses. This is a highly readable yet well-informed commentary. The real delight are the application sections which after all are the series' claim-to-fame. These are skilfully handled, surprisingly confronting, and span individual and corporate matters, applying the texts to the congregation, the church, the wider society and even global issues as appropriate. Thielman is prepared to have a go at the church, tobacco advertising, workaholics, contemporary marriage… and pulls no punches. His application draws at times from Bonhoeffer, Lewis, Ellul and others but is never pat or clichéd. Deceptive Areas of application are discussed and suggested rather than prescribed, leaving us room to think further. The result is helpful and stimulating and the scriptures seem to speak afresh with new force and power, although admittedly some points of application will tend to date. The topic of financial giving in the treatment of the closing section of the Epistle is particularly penetrating, touching on the deceptive allure of wealth, the worship of money in our society, and the spiritual benefit of our giving. This commentary is accessible to the serious general reader and its use as a devotional guide would repay the effort. There is plenty to challenge and inspire any preacher. I found it very good preparation for Bible discussion in our small group as well as for preaching. The NIV Application series will cover the whole Bible (less the Apocrypha!) when completed and is written by American Protestant scholars including some respected names. If this volume is any indication it is a commentary series well worth investing in.