The Resurrection of Jesus Christ: Exploring Its Theological Significance and Ongoing Relevance

by Ross Hastings

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the best-attested facts of history. But believing in the resurrection is one thing. Knowing what it means is another. Although much has been written about the apologetics of the resurrection, little has been written about its theological meaning. This book reveals the hidden depths of the theological significance and ongoing relevance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ for our being, our salvation, Christian life, ethics, and our future hope.

Genres: Theology

190 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 8, 2022

About the author

Ross Hastings, a Zimbabwean Scot, holds PhDs in organometallic chemistry (Queen’s University, Kingston) and theology (University of St Andrews, Scotland). His teaching interests include Trinitarian theology, pastoral theology, theology and spirituality of mission, ethics, and the interface between science and theology.

Reviews

[Sanjuro · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book really epitomizes my ongoing struggle with theological explorations that do not feature exegetical analyses of the passages that are used in order to validate and solidify certain claims. As a constructive theological work, the book certainly contains some valuable insights and meaningful observations. However, too often verse references are tacked on to the end of theological statements where, upon reflection, I do not think those are always used appropriately. I found myself often disagreeing with Hastings' comments about individual passages, such as Romans 8, or some of the parables, because, it seems to me, Hastings evaluated them based upon the surface of the language rather than a deeper exploration into the historical/social/cultural/linguistic backgrounds of those passages. Too often, I believe, a deeper exploration helps guide us to more astute conclusions about the real meaning and function of texts that mere theological interpretation fails to identify. I rarely disagreed with Hastings' central arguments, but I often had misgivings about the verses he uses to reach certain conclusions.

I should also say that I found the book oddly organized. I sometimes struggled to see the inherent connections between supposedly related sections, and I often asked myself, "Wait, how did we get onto this topic?"

Overall, I liked a lot about this book, but I also found reading it a frustrating experience. I'll likely revisit my notes, and refresh on some of the better moments, but I would have enjoyed the book much more had it coupled its theological explorations with exegetical analysis.

[Jeff Hillier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely brilliant book! Hastings provides meaning with clarity to the resurrection that connects to our daily way of life. The book is thorough, meaningful, and rich theologically.

[Jonathan Craig · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great deep dive into some theology that I often take for granted. it is a bit dense at times but a great way to reframe the truth and cosmic implications of a bodily resurrected Jesus!