Scandalous: The Cross and Resurrection of Jesus
Written by D. A. Carson and Douglas Moo Reviewed By Hans MaduemeIn this book, Don Carson focuses on first things. Given that the central message of Scripture is the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, he seeks to help the reader understand what happened surrounding these astonishing events and what they mean for us today. Chapter one, for instance, explains the many ironies of the cross in Matt 27:27–51a. Jesus is mocked as a king, and yet he is the king (vv. 27–31); at the cross, he is perceived as completely powerless, and yet he is powerful (vv. 32–40); he is dismissed for not being able to save himself, and yet he saves others (vv. 41–42); and even as he cries out in despair, he is trusting God (43–51a). Carson is not trying to be creative or original; instead, he draws the reader into a familiar text and then brings out its theological poignancy and surprising riches. So too with the other four chapters in the book (on Rom 3:21–26; Rev 12; John 11:1–53; and John 20:24–31). These five chapters originated as a series of talks given at the Resurgence conference at Mars Hill Church in Seattle in December 2008. And you can tell—the writing preserves a devotional, sermonic, and pastoral style as Carson offers careful exposition of key passages in the NT. All Christians everywhere will benefit from this small but weighty book.
Hans Madueme
Hans Madueme is associate professor of theological studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia.
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