John Stott, with precision and palpability, puts forth a comprehensive look at the cross and the substitutionary atonement that it achieved. And this is what Stott argues throughout the course of the whole work; namely, that “the biblical doctrine of atonement is substitutionary from beginning to end.” He achieves this goal, and in doing so, offers not only a theological work that enflames the intellect, but inspires the heart to worship God for the sacrifice and love that he has so graciously demonstrated and effected. Though it is difficult to review such a magnum opus on the topic and reality of the cross, I will seek to review the work in terms of its overall structure, rhetorical prowess, and offer a few minor critiques, or questions for further exploration.
Structure of the Work
Before setting out on his detailed explication of the cross of Christ, Stott sets up the parameters within which he will work: “In developing my theme, I have had in mind the triangle of Scripture, tradition, and the modern world” (17). I hold that in this approach, Stott seeks to be Biblically faithful, traditionally responsible, and culturally sensitive. This approach will be sure to make this a work of lasting influence for the study of Christology and the worship of Christ. This work, presented in four parts, demonstrates a key feature of Stott’s ability to write and sustain a comprehensive and cogent argument. The overall flow of his presentation begins with “Approaching the Cross,” moving to “The Heart of the Cross,” on to “The Achievement of the Cross,” and concluding with “Living Under the Cross.”
Within Part I, readers are made aware of the necessity and centrality of the cross. Christ’s death was central to his mission, and it was central to his mission because at the cross he achieved the bloody and messy work of redemption. Stott then moves on to Part II where he will discuss the heart of the cross. At the beginning of Part II, readers can observe our plight in human sinfulness through Stott’s careful biblical exegesis, as well as his treatment of the Church tradition (ie. his engagement with Anselm on p.90). Always keen to provide thorough and biblical definitions for key terms, Stott starts to bolster his position on a satisfaction theory of the atonement that is held in conjunction with the self-substitution of god. Again, in a way that only Stott can, he strikes a nerve when he writes the words on the dual manifestations of substitution. In Part III, I was hard pressed to not type out all of my underlinings and notations—chiefly because Stott was talking about me, a sinner, and the salvation offered to us. I found this Part of the work to preach right through me. And I appreciated Stott’s inclusion of the resurrection alongside the crucifixion in his section on the conquest of evil. And naturally, in Part IV, Stott moves on to the implications that the cross has for those who live under it. And while I did not enjoy all sections in this particular portion of the work, he offers up great contributions for corporate worship, the celebration of the sacraments, and the fellowship within the body. And he concludes his work in a wonderfully encouraging fashion. He acknowledges our sufferings, and magnificently rearticulates our union with Christ: “It is wonderful that we may share in Christ’s sufferings; it is more wonderful still that he shares in ours” (326).
Rhetorical Prowess
This work was anything but drudgery. Stott all throughout showcased wonderful narrative leading and retelling of key Biblical events. He also heavily employed rhetorical questions to inductively draw in the reader. This contributed to his overall engaging style and logical progressions. In addition, he employs the use of rich imagery and helpful analogies. I especially enjoyed the imagery that juxtaposed the world and the cross where he writes, “Apathy, selfishness and complacency blossom everywhere in the world except at the cross. There these noxious weeds shrivel and die” (85). But Stott’s rhetorical sophistication does not end with his narrative abilities—they are also expressed in his sophisticated logical orderings and presentations. These would not be possible without his established definitions (ie. imputation, propitiation, substitute, representative, etc.). And he employs these as building blocks for the structuring of his arguments (especially in my favorite section on the images of salvation on pp.166 ff). After he makes these sophisticated and faithful assertions, he is always mindful of the reader and offers his rearticulations that help to prod the reader along.
Critiques
I do not have much to offer by way of criticism on this work, but there are a few things that I would have liked to have seen explained more thoroughly. The first area has to deal with the scope of the atonement. I was able to only detect one instance where he alluded to the scope of the atonement, and it needed more explanation: “But the beneficiaries change from ‘us’ to ‘the world’ to show the universal scope of reconciliation…” (196). He could have offered an explanation on his definition of “the world.” However, like Anselm, it could have been an intentional avoidance of addressing for the sake of the overall contribution, but one that I would have liked to have seen nonetheless. There was only one section in the entire volume that I did not care for and it was the section in Part IV that dealt with the state (pp.296-301). It seemed a little forced in this section and seemed to operate out of the presupposition that the state is intrinsically an enemy (by virtue of its placement in the chapter “Loving Our Enemies”). I would love to do some comparative analysis on this point to see if this section was added after the original edition was published. Even in light of these minor critiques, Stott still achieved the goal that he set out to accomplish: he provided a clear and comprehensive look at the cross. This work has marks and elements present that will make it an enduring classic, filled with enough content for the academy as well as the pulpit.
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
There is a newer edition of this item:
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now
Frequently bought together
This item: The Cross of Christ
$17.94
Get it Mar 12 - 14
Only 2 left in stock - order soon.
+
$11.84
Get it as soon as Thursday, Mar 13
In Stock
+
Total price: $00
To see our price, add these items to your cart.
Choose items to buy together.
Frequently purchased items with fast delivery
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
From the brand
-
Women's History Month
-
Prepare for Lent
-
Meet Saint Patrick
-
Start a New Bible Study
-
Recommended Books
-
Books to Read with Your Kids
-
Ebooks on Sale
-
Who Are We?
Since 1947, InterVarsity Press (IVP) has been publishing thoughtful Christian books that shape both the lives of readers and the cultures they inhabit. Throughout these seventy-five years, our books and authors have established a legacy of speaking boldly into important cultural moments, providing timeless tools for spiritual growth, and equipping Christians for a vibrant life of faith.
About the author
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
- Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2014
- Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2025
- Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2018
- Reviewed in the United States on July 20, 2009
- Reviewed in the United States on December 12, 2024
Top reviews from other countries
- Suraj LamaReviewed in India on September 30, 2020
If I have to beg you to read one book...
- Amazon CustomerReviewed in Canada on September 22, 2022
A must read for any serious student of Christ
