And Now For Something Completely Different by Matthew Martin, Book review

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Hopkins Publishing (February 14, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-1620809662

SYNOPSIS:



“And Now for Something Completely Different” is a verse-by-verse, in-depth consideration of one of the most important books of the Bible. The book of Hebrews is often under-studied because many Bible readers are unfamiliar with its purpose.

This commentary (written less like a textbook and more like a novel) expands on the narratives and arguments of its original, inspired author in order to walk the reader through the epistle, step-by-step. Thus the book will (1) show the purpose, functions and limitations of the Old Law, (2) explain the greatness of Christianity in contrast to the Israelite Covenant and (3) offer encouragement to Christians who may be (as the original readers were) considering abandoning Christ for an "easier" (temporary) life.

Unlike many other books devoted to the study of this great letter, this commentary avoids relying on cross-referencing other writers and their works. Instead, it keeps the focus on the 303 verses that comprise the epistle, with only occasional references made to related passages of Scripture.


My Thoughts:


Although the authorship of the Book Of Hebrews is not yet determined, we have none the less attributed it to Paul and other Christians writers of the late first Century.

A verse by verse commentary on the Book of Hebrews in the New Testament, 'And Now For Something Completely Different' is presented in a simple, understandable format for those of us who wish to add to our understanding of God's Word without the constraint of too much vernacular and includes space for additional notes.

In his introduction the author emphasizes most Christians lack a proper understanding of the Old Testament or even the Bible: not to be read like a novel, it is in fact a collection of 66 different writings (written by different people at different time and in different places). 
Matthew Martin goes on to explain the Book of Hebrews proves that to understand the people, events and history as outlined in the Old Testament is necessary to appreciate the whole of Christianity. 

And Now For Something Completely Different reflects Matthew Martin's opinion of his own study of the text of the Book Of Hebrews. His commentaries highlights the entire epistle, written more like a sermon,  which provided encouragement and stern warnings to the Jewish Christians yet speaks even today to those who contemplate following Christ.

Finally, Matthew Martin reminds us the 303 verses of the Book of Hebrews stands as one of the most important writings in Inspired Canon and as such merits a more thorough grasp if we are to be fully cognizant the Way of Christ IS the only life worth living worth.

4 Stars and a good addition to church libraries or as a gift to Bible students.


About the Author:

Christ is not only better, 

He is best.

He is not only greater;

He is greatest of them all.

-Matthew Martin-

Matthew Martin is a 2005 graduate of the Memphis School of Preaching. He began preaching soon after becoming a Christian and after graduating High School, enrolled in MSOP. 

After graduation he served as the Associate Evangelist for the Forest Hill church of Christ (home of the Memphis School of Preaching) for three years before returning to Arkansas. He preached four years for the Higden church of Christ and now serves as the preacher for the brethren in Guy, Arkansas. 

He maintains a YouTube page featuring sermons, classes and online studies of various topics and books the Bible. Matthew has authored numerous tracts on a variety of Bible issues and founded and co-organize the Central Arkansas Gospel Crusade, which is a large area-wide Gospel Meeting designed to reach the lost in the Natural State.
(Source Amazon)


Disclaimer: I received a copy of this study book courtesy of BOOKCRASH as part of this book promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.