Miller’s Book Review

This is a review of Patrick D. Miller’s book entitled Deuteronomy: Interpretation - A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching. Miller begins with an introduction to his book by declaring himself and what this book is about, where Miller (2012:1) states, “The aim of this introduction is to ask some typical questions having to do with the background of the literary work and to think about it as a whole.” Miller pointed out that in doing so the book of Deuteronomy may give readers some clues to understanding the book and its purpose. He stated that the title of the book normally gives some indication of the subject matter and that sometimes the title may be clear upon reading the book. Miller claims that Deuteronomy gives readers some indication of the book’s character (Miller, 2012:1-5). The author provides a rich and comprehensive interpretation of the text through the book, describes the revelation of the Book in the New Testament, analyses the blueprint for a moral and just society as prescribed by The Laws of Moses, defines the proper role of leaders and priests from the Biblical perspective, and expounds upon exactly how individuals must interact in a divinely-inspired society.
The book of Deuteronomy self-consciously addresses different generations of readers, creating unusual problems in understanding and interpretation. Miller did a wonderful job of steering preachers and teachers through these difficulties, carefully discussing the nature and character of the law, the nature of the moral life under God, and even the place of Deuteronomy in the New Testament. In this theological explanation of Deuteronomy, Miller seems to be insightful to the character of the book as a part of scripture that clearly addresses different generations. He discusses the nature and character of the law as revealed in Deuteronomy, as well as the