Description
Book SynopsisWithin evangelicalism today it can sometimes seem there are two competing versions of the gospel. There is the gospel of the kingdom with its focus on God's plan to restore the world. And there is the gospel of the cross with its focus on the offer of forgiveness. These two emphases create contrasting models of discipleship and mission.
In Crown of Thorns Tim Chester shows how these two gospels are really one gospel - the message of the King who establishes justice in a surprising way.
Trade Review...a readable, relevant, important, biblically sharp consideration of the current kingdom vs cross dynamics which decide the foundations on which we end up building our life, ministry and discipleship.
-- Colin Buchanan (Christian Children's Recording artist and author, Sydney, Australia)
Is the gospel about the coming of the kingdom of God and its implications for social justice in this world? Or does it centre on the cross, dealing only with personal salvation and the need for forgiveness? ... Chester employs clear exegesis of biblical passages to help build his case, particularly from Mark's Gospel. He writes in a lively style and has produced a helpful little book. It will be particularly useful for young believers and those just beginning as preachers. Its brevity will enhance its appeal. I have pleasure in commending it.
-- Evangelical Times
It is hard to imagine a more needed book today than Tim Chester's Crown of Thorns.
-- Sean Michael Lucas (Senior Pastor, Independent Presbyterian Church, Memphis, Tennessee)
...skilfully integrates and weaves together the two dimensions of Cross and Kingdom towards a healthy, scriptural understanding of Christ's accomplishment.
-- Iver Martin (Principal, Edinburgh Theological Seminary, Edinburgh, Scotland)
... Tim Chester has done a great service in unfolding not just two key biblical themes but how they link and relate, and doing so in a warm and accessible way. The result is a rich and potent picture of Jesus the king who suffered.
-- Graham Beynon (Pastor, Grace Church, Cambridge and Director of Independent Ministry Training, Oak Hill College, London.)
This book is an absolute gift for those who want a holistic discipleship that 'teaches them to obey everything I have commanded you.' (Matthew 28:20)
-- Daniel Montgomery (Founder and CEO of Leadership Reality and author of ‘Leadership Mosaic’ and ‘How to be Present in an Absent World’)
