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Reformed Thought for Christian Living
Title: Turning the World Upside Down: Lessons for the Church from Acts 1-8 Author: Iain M. Duguid Publisher: Crossway Year: 2025 Reviewer: Mark Powell Every now and again a commentary […]
Title: Turning the World Upside Down: Lessons for the Church from Acts 1-8
Author: Iain M. Duguid
Publisher: Crossway
Year: 2025
Reviewer: Mark Powell
Every now and again a commentary comes along which is immensely readable and spiritual enriching for people who are seeking to follow Jesus in the busyness of the everyday. Ian Duguid’s new commentary on the first eight chapters of the book of Acts is one such example. In short, one cannot but be edified by reading it.
Duguid understands the book of Acts as the acts of the risen Lord Jesus in heaven through His apostles here on earth. All too often we can lose sight of what our Lord and Saviour is continuing to do through His servants (Matt. 28:20). This Christocentric perspective shines through the entire book.
Turning the World Upside Down is broken up into thirteen chapters with each one approximately twelve pages long. I used it as a supplement to my daily devotions and found that it was a rich experience, but it could also be read in two or three sittings. That said, I appreciated being able to slow down and seek to apply what Duguid was saying to my heart and mind.
Each chapter focuses on a ‘big idea’ which unifies a particular part of God’s Word and makes for a memorable and also helpful method of application. Campbell Lakatos has written a really helpful summary which can be found on his Substack here which I would also highly recommend reading.
Duguid is a gifted writer, mature Christian, and careful exegete of God’s Word. Turning the World Upside Down is filled with memorable insights as well as moving illustrations. The greatest strength of all though to Duguid’s commentary is its Gospel focus. This seeps through in every chapter and leaves the reader inspired to trust and serve the Saviour more.
Turning the World Upside Down is not a technical commentary but more what I would refer to as a ‘devotional’ one. That said, if you’re looking for something to read right now which fuels the fire of your faith, then this book will definitely have an impact.
