10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent., July 20, 2001
What a beautiful book! The striking cover and delicately decorated pages give this expository work on the Cross the appeal of a gift book, but with the depth and insight appropriate for serious Bible study. "The Heart of the Cross" is divided into three parts: "Words from the Cross" (an in-depth look at each of the final words of Christ from the cross, "The Real Last Words of Christ" (a study of the sayings of Jesus during the 40 days after his resurrection), and "The Message of the Cross" (which examines key New Testament verses regarding Christ's work on the cross). Many parts of this book have evangelistic overtones, making it a suitable book for giving to a non-Christian friend open to hearing the Gospel message.
I definitely recommend this book to Christians interested in knowing Christ and his work on the cross more intimately. This high quality book would also make a great gift.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Wonderful Short Sermons, Full of Insights!, December 5, 2010
This review is from: The Heart of the Cross (Paperback)
I know that when I read Boice and Ryken, I will be greatly rewarded. They are both excellent preachers / teachers and their sermons translate into books so well. They are both skilled at saying so much in so few words.
I believe that Ryken is a master at comparisons and contrasts. His message about the thief on the cross is one of my favorite messages. The comparisons between the two thieves only enhance the message all the more. Also, to be dying and to be that close to the Savior and then not to ask for salvation seems incomprehensible to us now.
It is revealing to learn about the several stages of Mary's understanding of Jesus. Ryken takes us from the announcement of Jesus' conception to the time after His resurrection. We learn about the wide range of emotions that Mary went through. Mary herself has come to know Jesus as the Christ and her Savior.
The chapter on "I thirst" is much more significant than I had realized. It speaks of all the human suffering He went through for us. And it talks about how we will not have to be like the rich man in Hades, whose thirst will never be quenched. In Christ, we have the water of life.
The chapter on "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me" adds light to this great mystery. Who can ever fully understand that?
We are reminded how much was "finished" on the cross. Not only was His suffering finished, but His work of salvation was finished as well.
And then we find that Jesus commends His spirit to the Father. The Son was working with the Father and the Holy Spirit. God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit have been in control from start to finish.
These sermons are short, and they are packed with doctrine, emotions, contrasts and insights. They are easy to read and very rewarding. I have long over looked this book. This is a keeper and one I will use when teaching Sunday School Classes.
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