One yearns for the day when all commentaries would be as beautiful and edifying as this one. It was produced by a team of skilled editors through the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship — but the word “produced” seems misleading. Creation is a better way to describe the careful integration of text, image, prayer and reflection with every detail designed to draw the reader into the riches of Scripture, and a deeper communion with God. Is this a book of art, spanning centuries and numerous styles focused on themes of a biblical text, or is it a theological commentary? Is it an exegetical study of words and images that emerge from careful study of Paul’s most intimate epistle? Perhaps, it’s best to say it is a devotional whose primary purpose is cultivating a life of Christian discipleship after the manner of the most famous of Philippians passages, where Christ is described as the One who emptied himself of God to become a humble human servant. Or is it an introduction to a vast company of saints down whose insights, hymns, prayers, poems and artwork encourage the church seeking to walk in the way of Christ. The book fits all these descriptions and more.
The editors write, “This book is not a substitute for traditional Bible commentaries or study guides. But we are convinced that a book like this can be an instructive supplement to these kinds of studies harnessing the considerable power of artworks to help readers grasp Philippians’ gospel message.” They may be correct, but one who sits with this text will no longer be satisfied with commentaries that provide only information without a hint of imagination or questions to BooK in stir the heart’s desire and illuminate the mind. This book is designed to provide for preachers “ideas that knock one’s thinking sideways.” Its
hope is “to set the homiletical imagination on fire” without losing the precision of exegetical research and word studies necessary for preaching and teaching. It is an invitation to “Rest. Read. Look. Listen.” Dwelling
is suggested by the title. This is an apt word for how best to use this book. In order to do this, the authors have laid out a color-coded legend that alerts the reader to sections in each chapter for praying, praising, Scripture reading, reflecting and professing. At the end of each major section is a list of questions and suggestions that can be used with a group.
What is even more astonishing is the ecumenical range of contributions, drawing upon Christian reflection and prayers from the first century to the present. All of which draws the reader toward a fresh understanding of the Apostle Paul’s greatest witness to joy at the heart of Christian discipleship. Dwell with this book.
Roy W. Howard is pastor of Saint mark Presbyterian church in rockville, md., and Outlook book editor.
