Description
The Gospels record Jesus’ last days leading up to his crucifixion, but how attentive are we to the details of the account? Should we speak of Palm Sunday, or Monday? Have we misunderstood the Pharisees? Why do the four Gospels present the resurrection in different ways? Were the Jews really “fickle?” Varner focuses carefully on the details of the Gospels that we often overlook. This lively and carefully nuanced account of the Passion Week will bring you to a renewed sense of devotion for the Savior.
Sample Chapter
Table of Contents
Introduction
1. The Beginning of the Via Dolorosa
2. Palm Monday?
3. How Did He Get Away With It? The Cleansing of the Temple
4. A Pharisee is Not Sad-You-See
5. Trouble in the Temple
6. Singing for Your Supper
7. No “Garden of Gethsemane!” Is Nothing Sacred?
8. Jesus Barabbas or Jesus Messiah? Those “Fickle” Jews!
9. There Was No “Mount” Calvary! Who Was Forsaken and What Was Finished?
10. What Day Is It?
11. Different Viewpoints of the Resurrection
12. He’s Gone! There He Is!
Epilogue: Prophecy and the Passion
Endorsements
“A rich blend of historical insight, devotional reflection, and theological pondering. While you might not agree with everything in the book, all of it will compel you to think more deeply about the week that changed the world and history, the Passion of our Lord.”
Abner Chou (PhD), John F. MacArthur Endowed Fellow, The Master’s University
“William Varner’s book on Jesus’ last week is filled with fresh insights resulting from years of study and first-hand observation in the Holy Land itself. Beautifully written, Passionate about the Passion Week will make an excellent resource for laity and clergy. Scholars, too, should read this well-informed book, for I suspect many will have to update their lecture notes! Varner’s little book is a gem and very much worth the read. Highly recommended.”
Craig A. Evans (PhD), Houston Baptist University
“Will Varner is an experienced and trusted guide both to the Bible and to the Holy Land. I can’t think of a better person to lead us through the Scriptures and geographical details of the final days of Jesus’ earthly ministry. This volume will both educate your mind and nourish your soul.”
Robert L. Plummer (PhD), Collin and Eveyln Aikman Professor of Biblical Studies, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
“This unpretentious little book is full of good things. Dr. Varner set us straight on a number of historical points, while at the same time emphasizing the devotional dimensions of the passion narative. In effect, reading this book can become a spiritual exercise, especially appropriate during Passion Week but, given the central importance of these events, useful at any time in the liturgical year.”
Donald A. Hagner (PhD), George Eldon Ladd Professor Emeritus of New Testament, Fuller Theological Seminary
“Tradition reigns during Holy Week, but with gentle prodding Will Varner pokes at what we think is true about Jesus’ final week on earth and guides us into better ways of understanding. By questioning accepted interpretations and reminding us what the biblical texts actually say, this book illuminates the most important week of human history. After you rethink your assumptions and consider new ideas, you will discover that the author’s passion for our Lord Jesus Christ has deepened your own.”
William L. Krewson (PhD), School of Divinity, Cairn University
“Your book is a masterpiece of fresh examination and insights. It is scholarly, uplifting, Christ-exalting, and God honoring.”
Dr. Gary Cohen, Retired Seminary Professor and Army Chaplain
“Your book has helped me read the Gospels with greater detail, looking at the complete harmony of the Passion Week. I believe it is of great value to anyone looking to preach or teach through this important part of Jesus’ life and ministry.”
Adam Waller, Pastor of Grace Life London
“Have you ever found yourself wondering about certain things in the Passion story that never seemed to line up with the actual biblical text? If so, you’re not alone. William Varner comes to our rescue, carefully sifting through the biblical records to bring out the actual story of our Savior’s passion. Buy it, read it, believe it and share it. The story is too important to miss.”
Dr. David Hegg, Pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Santa Clarita, CA
About the Author
William Varner teaches Bible exposition and Greek exegesis at The Master’s University. He has led more than fifty trips throughout Israel and has written more than a dozen books, some for laymen and some for scholars.
Reviews
“This short book is highly recommended for anyone interested in thinking more deeply about the Passion of Jesus. To those who read it, I hope some of Varner’s characteristic passion for this crucial subject will rub off.” —Chris McKinny, Gesher Media, Near Eastern Archaeology Society Bulletin 65
“In sum, Varner seeks to clarify the details of the Passion Week by being provocative but not belligerent. Each chapter is filled with devotional thoughts that pursue our hearts during Holy Week. He wants to clear away the false or assumed concepts, so that the beauty and power of Jesus’ death and resurrection may become clearer. The work is illustrated with helpful photos in each chapter. Included at the end of each chapter are scholarly resources for the reader to pursue. Because this a work for head and heart alike, each chapter concludes with a suggested prayer. I highly recommend adding this work to your library now, since you will no doubt use it every year hereafter.” —William Krewson, Books At a Glance
Bulk Orders
Bulk order discounts can be requested through todd@fontespress.com. E-mail with the quantity and type desired. Default bulk discount is 30% off retail price.
