Book Review: D.A. Carson, Scandalous

Scandalous: The Cross and Resurrection of Jesus By D.A. Carson / Crossway Books & Bibles D.A. Carson introduces the irony, scandal, and greatness of the work done on the cross. How are Christians to approach the central gospel teachings concerning the death and resurrection of Jesus? The Bible firmly establishes the historicity of these events and doesn't leave their meanings ambiguous or open to interpretation. Even so, there is an irony and surprising strangeness to the cross. Carson shows that this strange irony has deep implications for our lives as he examines the history and theology of Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection. Scandalous is the latest addition to the Re:Lit series, which highlights important theological truths in accessible and applicable ways. Both amateur theologians and general readers will appreciate how Carson deftly preserves weighty theology while simultaneously noting the broader themes of Jesus' death and resurrection. Through exposition of five primary passages of Scripture, Carson helps us to more fully understand and appreciate the scandal of the cross. This book, by the world's leading NT scholar, will be an amazing resource for challenging and education in colleges, and in churches.

One of the scholars that I have come to respect most is D.A. Carson. I am often amazed at his perceptiveness as he approaches various biblical texts. He has such a gift for illustrating observations that strengthen and reinforce either the meaning or the gravity of scriptural passages. Many scholars spend a great deal of time with their own language and analysis whereas Dr. Carson quite often spends much of his pointing out things in the biblical text itself so that the reader is left to encounter the power of the Word itself. Needless to say I had high expectations for this book and he didn’t disappoint.

Carson walks the reader through his exposition of 5 passages of scripture that highlight different elements of the work of Christ on the cross. His selection of texts is superb and he is able to zero in on core issues related to both the theology and the application of the work of Christ in His death and resurrection. As always we must encourage one another to read the word of God directly but if you know someone who is looking for supplementary Christian reading that is Christ focused I highly recommend this little book (168 pgs).