Based on five sermons delivered at a Resurgence conference at Mars Hill, Seattle, Carson explores the absolutely stunning truths of the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each chapter is a treasure unto itself. Together they make up a great meditation for the Easter season. Highly recommended! ( )

NCLA Review - Do you want to see the greatest evidence of the love of God? Go to the cross. Do you want to see the greatest evidence of the justice of God? Go to the cross. It is where wrath and mercy meet. Holiness and peace kiss each other. The climax of redemptive history is the cross. So says D.A. Carson, research professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, in his new book. Scandalous is a collection of sermons given by D.A. Carson at a Resurgence conference. As the subtitle would suggest, they all focus upon the cross and resurrection. This is a small but thought provoking book that requires time to read, absorb and reflect. Would be very good for use in Bible Study groups. Rating: 4 —JD ( )

Don Carson's various books are always appreciated. His latest, the seasonal Scandalous The cross and resurrection of Jesus is no exception. Dedicated to his wife, its 170 pages contain a five sermons on New Testament texts, originally delivered at the end of 2008 at the Resurgence Conference in Seattle. They look at Matthew 27:27-51a, Romans 3:21-26, Revelation 12, John 11 and John 20:24-31. Typically they contain careful exposition, interesting background, mature reflection and always application. Inevitably the sermons vary in quality but they tackle big and important themes, such as propitiation, Christ's resurrection and biblical eschatology in an orthodox but fresh way and are all useful. Not all will share Dr Carson's penchant for poetry but a nose for a good illustration and helpfully told background material is appreciated. Unexpected nuggets include his exposition of John 11 (p 131ff) rejecting the common English translation and a slightly tangential exploration of six kinds of doubt (143-148). Clear headings and two indices add to the book's value. ( )

This is a marvelous book. I've seen the videos from which this book was written. Watching the videos and following along in the book is an added bonus. Dr. Carson is a great writer and makes things very easy to understand. I recommend this book to anyone curious about Jesus and the cross. ( )