"Scheck's introduction is clearly written and lucid, containing fine theological observations as well as a clear historical context for Jerome's commentary. Scheck's excellent translation comes at a most opportune time given that interest in partistic exegesis is high and Jerome is among the best of the ancient commentators on Galations."---Joseph T. Lienhard, S.J., Fordham University
St. Jerome is regarded as one of the four great doctors of the western Christian Church, with St. Ambrose, St. Augustine, and St. Gregory. Termed by the Council of Trent "the greatest doctor in explaining the Scriptures," the Latin Church regards St. Jerome as its preeminent scriptural commentator. Nevertheless, much of his prodigious exegetical output has never been translated into English. In this volume, Thomas Scheck provides the first translation in English (and in any modern language) of Jerome's important commentary on Galatians, with two shorter commentaries on Titus and Philemon.
Jerome's exegesis is characterized by extensive learning, acute historical and theological criticism, lively and vigorous exposition, and homiletic exhortation. It is noteworthy that throughout, Jerome, like his contemporary St. Ambrose and his theological mentors St. Basil and St. Gregory Nazianzen, carefully and thoroughly assimilates Origen of Alexandria's Greek exegesis into his own work. Indeed, Scheck regards Origen as the fountainhead of Jerome's exegesis. As an interpreter of these three Pauline epistles, Jerome exhibits a deeply Christian sensitivity. He articulates the necessity of both faith and good works found in Pauline theology and interprets St. Paul to mean that post-baptismal good works are a necessary out-flowing of paschal grace. This is the grace that enables the Christian to merit God's favor and to achieve the blessings associated with Christian asceticism and discipleship.
