The Passion of Jesus Christ book review

In light of the recent Christian and secular excitement over Mel Gibson’s movie, John Piper has responded in a small book (128 pages) entitled, “The Passion of Jesus Christ.”

The goal of this book was to answer the many questions of people who may have seen Gibson’s movie and/or have been contemplating the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. However the book does not depend on the movie itself, but stands on its own.

“My aim is to let the Bible speak. This is where we hear the Word of God. I hope that these [scripture] pointers will set you on an endless quest to know more and more of God’s great design in the death of his Son.” (pg. 12)

The violence and enormity of Christ’s death will eventually lead one to ask the question, “why did he have to suffer so much?” This is the very question that Piper aims to answer.

However, it must be noted that Piper qualifies this question by saying that instead of answering the cause of why Christ suffered and died, we must see the purpose to His suffering and death. In his own words he says, “when all is said and done, the most crucial question is: Why? Why did Christ suffer and die? Not why in the sense of cause, but why in the sense of purpose. What did Christ achieve by his passion? Why did he have to suffer so much? What great thing was happening on Calvary for the world? ” (pg. 17)

The remainder of the book is 50 purposes to why Christ suffered and died. These purposes are masterfully expounded from the Scriptures. He gives the reader a doctrinally sound theological answer to many questions that believers and unbelievers may ask regarding the death and suffering of Jesus Christ.

Having not seen the movie myself, I find this book a very valuable read for Christians who want to have a greater understanding of their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It not only prepares them for discussion but enriches their soul regarding the death of Jesus Christ. It magnifies the love of the Father for His redeemed, that He would kill His own Son Jesus Christ.

Furthemore, this book is a great way for unbelievers to get an up close and personal look into why Jesus Christ Died and why he suffered. This book is no mere tract, but a thought provoking defense of the great doctrines of the Christian faith. These doctrines are unfolded as the question of Christ suffering is answered within each chapter. It fulfills its aim to let the Word of God speak to the reader, by basing every argument from the Scriptures.

For example, he tackles common questions like: