Real people. Real sin. Transformed lives. A compilation of heartfelt letters written from a pastor to his people that explains Jesus’ work on the cross.
Death by Love is a unique book on the cross of Jesus Christ. While many books debate the finer points of the doctrine of the atonement, what is often lost are the real-life implications of Jesus’ death on the cross for those who have sinned and have been sinned against. Written in the form of pastoral letters, Death by Love outlines the twelve primary effects of Jesus’ death on the cross and connects each to the life of a different individual.
Driscoll, one of America’s most influential pastors, and Breshears, a respected theologian, help readers understand, appreciate, and trust in Jesus’ work on the cross in a way that will transform their lives. Both deeply theological and intensely practical, this book shows how everyone can find hope through the death of Jesus Christ.
A good look at how the truth of the cross applies to life| Posted November 25, 2009
In death by love Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears attempt to apply the truths of the cross to real life. It draws some material from Mark’s Christ on the cross sermon series. Each chapter is made up of an introduction to a person’s situation, a letter to them outlining how what took place at the cross makes a difference to them, and then answers to some questions that may come up about the chapters material. This approach of applying the various aspects of the cross to different situations is a really good one because some books on the topic can sometimes seem worthy but a bit detached from real life. The book would be especially helpful if you are counseling someone going through difficult times. Especially helpful is that the book includes letters addressing both Christians and non-Christians.
I do have a few concerns. Some of the situations addressed in this book are horrendous- rape, child abuse ect. Because of this it is sometimes not an easy read. It also means it is one I would hesitate to give to a younger reader. I’m also not quite sure what to make of the chapter of unlimited-limited atonement- Mark’s take on the predestination issue.
Overall, a good but sometimes quite heavy book that I would recommend to mature readers.
