Book Reviews

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Geza Vermes is one of today's foremost Gospel scholars, known for his work on the Dead Sea Scrolls and the historical figure of Jesus. In this book he takes a close look at the Passion of Jesus using historical, literary and comparative analytical techniques and comes up with a reasoned coherent account of the events surrounding the crucifixion. He conducts a straightforward comparison of the Gospel accounts of the events of Holy Week. He deals with the apparent contradictions between the Gospels and dispels some myths about the Jews and Romans using insights from other historical sources and all this in language that is both accessible and interesting. I read this as my Lent book last year and found myself looking forward to the next day's session with eager anticipation. As Vermez addressed each issue or point of disagreement, the story emerged with more clarity and coherence. As he compared the doctrinal statements of the four evangelists with contemporary historical sources, Roman provincial government and Jewish legal systems, I found myself drawn closer to those world-changing events of Holy Week. It is an extraordinary mix of expert knowledge, common sense and warmth.

This is a truly fascinating book. The author, David Midgley, is a Local Preacher who has had to give up Preaching due to suffering from motor neurone disease. He now writes instead of preaching. His version of the gospel story is quite amazing. He tells the gospel story in a down to earth and up to date fashion that is most compelling. It is simple and yet profound. Questions are asked and answers are not always given. It made me look at the gospel story again in a different light as it is like no other account of the gospel story. David Midgley points out that faith has a part to play when questions go unanswered. Faith in God, and faith in eternity. He states the need to begin somewhere and he begins by saying he believes there is a God. The whole of the rest of the book hinges on this fact.

I was not sure what to expect when I began to read this book and I was pleasantly surprised. I have already read it for a second time and will no doubt read it again and again ­ it is that type of book. As I progressed in reading this book I found it more and more compelling ­ I found that I couldn't put it down.

To sum it up ­ this enchanting little book touches parts that others do not. To feel the full impact of this book for yourself you will need to read it. I highly recommend it.

Reading this book has done two things for me. It has reinforced some thoughts and made me think more deeply about love and what it means to let go of something or somebody you love. True love for someone is, surely, to allow them freedom? If we hold on too tightly to loved ones we restrict their growth, spiritually and even physically, but to give up, to let go of that we love, is not easy. God loves enough to give his children, the beings he created, freedom. He took an awful risk giving us freewill but, in His love for us, He could do no other.

Charlotte Methhuen suggests we may be tempted to shut out the 'wicked' world, shut ourselves in with the security of our faith. But that is not Christ's way. He said, 'be in the world, but not of it!' Christ's way for his followers is to speak up and live up to his teaching. To do this may mean letting go of our own way, the way we would love to follow, and following the teaching of our Saviour.

This book taught me that just as Christ was changed after the resurrection (his disciples did not always recognise him for He was scarred) and yet the mystery is there, He is the same Christ! When we come face to face with Jesus we too are different, changed in that mysterious way which is the working of the Holy Spirit in our lives. I found this book inspiring and thought provoking and strongly recommend it for personal study or group study during Lent and beyond.

Pat Marsh will be known to many of you from her earlier writings and her retreats. This collection of poems/ meditations is, as the sub-title explains, "an exploration of the Easter story from the triumphant entry into Jerusalem through the empty tomb and beyond."

The presentation is in six sections, entitled "Preparation" ­ the triumphant entry to the upper room; "Submission" ­ Gethsemane to Golgotha; "Sacrifice" ­ the crucifixion; "Surrender" ­ the last few hours; "Resurrection" ­ the empty tomb and the risen Lord; "Implications" ­ postscript for today.

Pat's imagery is wide ranging and her language, with one small exception ­ the wrong use of `crescendo' in "Arrest" ­ is both descriptive and moving. Whilst the pieces are intended, as the title page suggests, "A resource for reflection, worship and personal prayer", at least three items ­ Golgotha Paradox", "Promise" and "Dancing in me" lend themselves for very effective multiple readers in public worship. With the exception of just eight items this is all new, and powerful, work.

There is a full biblical index. This short, concentrated, economic and excellent book is a must for all Christians and especially those who will lead worship in any way during Lent and indeed at other times.

It has been a particular delight for me to read Grainger's autobiography. Firstly because for some six years in all I worked in the laboratories of the School of Pharmacy initially in Bloomsbury Square and later in Brunswick Square in London. Secondly because much of the ordinariness of working-class family life is so lovingly portrayed and finally because he is a Local Preacher.

This is the story of a boy from very humble background ­ a poor family in a mining village. Who, taking advantage of his academic abilities, through hard work and Christian character, rose to international position in his chosen profession ­ pharmacy.

Grainger's style is lively and free flowing. His recounting of events gives a vivid picture of the wide variety of people and circumstances that were encountered on his way through life.

I have only one, very minor caveat, he has ignored the valuable research undertaken in the cramped laboratories of Bloomsbury Square. To give flavour of the book, I can do no better than quote (page 280)
Admission to a profession is far more than a ticket authorising one to earn a living by its practice. It is a window that gives a special perspective on the world. It is a challenge and a privilege to exercise responsibility on behalf of the well-being of the community it serves. It is a fellowship which carries a duty of care for one another, tolerant of differences and having respect for, and pride in the contribution of others.
From his beginnings in a Salvation Army based family he moved, via courtship, into Methodism. He became one of a very few Methodist Local Preachers to lead meditation on a Sunday evening in Westminster Abbey.

This book is worth the reading for the witness of a Christian in the world.