But I Say to You...

by John R.W. Stott

Jesus Christ has a way of cutting right across our logic and opinions, just as he did while on earth. Who God is, the authority of Scripture, the way of salvation, morality, and worship are just some of the areas where he turns things on their heads - Are you willing to follow this controversialist Christ?

226 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1983

About the author

John R. W. Stott is known worldwide as a preacher, evangelist, and communicator of Scripture. For many years he served as rector of All Souls Church in London, where he carried out an effective urban pastoral ministry. A leader among evangelicals in Britain, the United States and around the world, Stott was a principal framer of the landmark Lausanne Covenant (1974). His many books, including Why I Am a Christian and The Cross of Christ, have sold millions of copies around the world and in dozens of languages. Whether in the West or in the Two-Thirds World, a hallmark of Stott's ministry has been expository preaching that addresses the hearts and minds of contemporary men and women. Stott was honored by Time magazine in 2005 as one of the "100 Most Influential People in the World."

Reviews

[Jonathan Downing · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous stuff

[Harry · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sadducees did not believe in the supernatural world, and attempted to make its implications ridiculous in Luke 20:27-38, the debate concerning marriage in heaven. The second issue concerns source of authority--tradition or Scripture? As you can imagine, the Pharisees were the cause of this debate (see Mark 7:1-13), which is still with us today in inter-denominational dialogue. Speaking of which, Stott spends an introductory chapter defending evangelical Christianity, properly understood. He points out that it is theological, biblical, original, and fundamental, and therefore ought not to be rejected. This essay alone was worth the price of admission.

Third is the debate concerning bibliolatry (perhaps the opposite of the last debate). See John 5:39-40. In other words, is Scripture the ends or the means of Christian faith? This is challenging to those, like me, who are careful to get their theological ducks in a row but risk doing so at the expense of piety. Fourth is the classic debate on salvation--is it based in merit or mercy? The parable of the publican and the Pharisee (Luke 18:9-14) is a great jumping-off point.

Fifth Stott considers morality--it is outward or inward focused?--based again on Mark 7, this time focusing on verses 14-23. Stott does a wonderful job of balancing the fact that it is ultimately a matter of heart with the fact that the law is still valid and binding on the Christian. Nevertheless, the moral takes precedence over the ceremonial, and people over persons. Stott walks this fine line well. He similarly addresses worship in the sixth chapter--lips vs. heart (see Mark. 7:6-7, as well as the discussion with the woman at the well).

A final chapter address the last debate--that of the responsibility of the believer in the world--is it one of withdrawal, or one of involvement?

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book dealing with Jesus' clashes with the religious leaders, explaining why they were wrong, how Jesus answers them and how we may fall into the same traps today, as they did. Very clear and encouraging.