Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ

by Robert Bowman, J. Ed Komoszewski, Darrell L. Bock (Foreword)

The central theological distinctive of Christianity--that Jesus is God incarnate--has repeatedly come under fire from adherents to other religions and scholars who interpret Jesus as a prophet, angel, or guru. Putting Jesus in His Place is designed to introduce Christians to the wealth of biblical teaching on the deity of Christ. Using evidence from the New Testament, this book helps readers appreciate the significance of Christ's deity in a personal relationship with Him, and gives them the confidence to share the truth about Jesus with others. The book is divided into five sections, each corresponding to an aspect of the New Testament's revelation of Jesus as God, and using an acronym based on the letters in the word
Putting Jesus in His Place engages objections to the divine identity of Jesus Christ from Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, Muslims, Unitarians, and other religious perspectives. Its emphasis throughout, however, is on the positive case for the deity of Christ. The book introduces the reader to cutting-edge scholarship on New Testament Christology and makes the information accessible and usable for those who are not biblical scholars or theologians. Endorsed by an impressive lineup of leading specialists in the field including Martin Hengel, Richard Bauckham, I. Howard Marshall, Craig A. Evans, Daniel B. Wallace, Murray J. Harris, and Larry Hurtado, Putting Jesus in His Place is an indispensable introduction and reference on the New Testament teaching about the identity of Jesus Christ.

Genres: Theology, Christian, Christianity, Religion, Nonfiction, Biblical Studies, History

392 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 31, 2007

Reviews

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. It's the only one that I've ever marked up with underlines. And, it's so filled with information that it's the only book (besides the Bible) that I've read more than once and happily had the experience of discovering what is explained next. I highly recommend it! Whether you've been a Christian for a long time or have absolutely no idea what's going on with Christians, it will help you to understand where they're coming from.

[Shane Walters · Rating 5 out of 5]

An easy read that offers depth of insight. A great book to hand a maturing Christian who is looking for further study without the sophisticated theological terms.

[Evan Minton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robert Bowman Jr's and J. Ed. Komozewski's "Putting Jesus In His Place" has been a fantastic read! While it is very scholarly in the sense that it is heavily sourced (it cites the work of numerous other biblical scholars, Biblical passage references, goes into the Greek language), it's not the dry treatise I expected it to be.

The authors presuppose the inspiration and reliability of the biblical text in making their arguments, but I think that's because this book is aimed at those who share that presupposition (e.g Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons). In other words, it's a scholarly work arguing that the deity of Christ is a doctrine found in scripture.

Now, there are some parts in which they mention the reliability of the text, such as the early dating of the Pauline epistles, and the use of extra biblical sources to show that belief in Christ's deity was not something that developed overtime, but was right there since the very beginning of Christianity's movement.

Overall, I find the arguments powerful and persuasive. Of course, one may retort that this is because I already believed Jesus is God. However, I would say that even if I wasn't, I probably would be persuaded even after the second part of the book ((The book is divided up into 5 parts, each representing a letter of the acronym H.A.N.D.S to help people better remember and organize the biblical evidence for Christ's deity)).

"Putting Jesus In His Place: The Case For The Deity Of Christ" is such a great book on the subject of the deity of Christ that if I were a theology professor, this would be required reading. Anyone who is interested in learning how to defend the doctrine that Jesus is God should have this in their library.

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book that shows how the gospels and epistles not to mention the hebrew text is filled with references to the exalted Messiah and how Jesus called and established himself as God Incarnate. The authors give a very helpful way to establish and defend the deity of Christ: Jesus received or declared the following of God was given to him: H.A.N.D.S. (Honors, Attributes, Names, Deeds, Seat). The book is written in a very easy-to-read style and is enjoyable. Chapter titles are fun! Highly recommended!

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very good treatment of the Deity of Christ. Rather than a typical assessment of the standard passages, the author uses 5 lines of Biblical data. He uses the acronym HANDS. Christ receives the Honor due to God; Christ has the Attributes of God; He has the Names of God; does the Deeds of God; and is Seated on God's throne. Bowman does a fine job of balancing between a scholarly approach and a popular one.

[Conrad · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent and detailed dissertation on the person and work of Christ written in a way that is accessible and understandable to the lay person.

[Adam Bloch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recommend this book for any Christian (or Christian-curious person) that questions whether or not the Bible actually teaches that Jesus is God. It does get repetitive, but you can skip to the concluding chapter for a summary.

[Josue · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a solid book to read! Not only is it scholarly, but it is also easy to read.

The big strength of this book is its focus on implicit indications of the deity of Christ throughout the whole New Testament. Thus, rather than focusing on a few verses that are used to both defend and deny the deity of Christ (which is a great endeavor), the authors look to the whole New Testament, where we learn that Jesus shares,

1. The Honors that are due to God
2. The Attributes of God
3. The Names of God
4. The Deeds that God does
5. The Seat of God's throne

In the words of the authors, "Any one of these five lines of evidence would be good support for belief in the deity of Christ. All five lines of evidence, considered together, prove beyond reasonable doubt that Jesus Christ is God" (Kindle Locations 3120-3121).

Amen!

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is worth every cent (although I got it for free during its free teaser period!) The authors concisely and effectively argue from multiple angles the indisputable case for the deity of Christ. The table in the appendix with with every scriptural reference for Jesus' divinity is quite "handy" (an inside pun if you read the book). This book is a must have for those reaching out to groups like Muslims, Jehovahs Witnesses, or others who deny that the bible teaches Jesus was/is God. I have gained a whole new perspective on Jesus and how worthy of worship he is. love the closing: "Here's a sobering thought. This life is short. Soon we will meet Jesus face to face. And we promise you this: none of us will extend a hand to him and tell him it's finally nice to put a face with the name! We'll fall at his feet and worship. The time to start doing that is now."

[Mike Gorski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book strike's an amazing balance between good scholarship and general readability. A rare gem for a confused time. Church members face an increasing amount of ignorant opposition from people who claim that not only is Jesus not God, but the Bible and the early church didn't teach that until after Constantine. Putting Jesus In His Place reveals the plethora of means by which it can be clearly seen that the NT, even Jesus himself, exalt the person of Jesus of Nazareth as being nothing less than God himself.

[Mark Nenadov · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent treatment of the doctrine of the deity of Christ. It is thorough and yet not overly technical. I found it devotionally profitable. The basic layout is represented by the acronym HANDS (honour, attributes, names, deeds, and seat).

[Caleb Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A masterful defense of perhaps THE central Christian doctrine, in a very readable presentation. As far as I can tell, this book covers every relevant biblical text, with great care, and precision. I don’t think that it is hyperbole to say that every Christian should read this book.

[Matthew · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've read dealing with the deity of Christ. Very readable and engaging.

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! Such an easy read and one of my favorites! Magnifies Jesus and presents Him as He is and should be.

[Justin Effler · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best, if not, the very best book on the deity of Christ. Highly detailed exegetical work on the attributes of God, showing how Jesus Christ shares in the divine nature.

[Kolter Sands · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a beautifully written text arguing for the Deity of Christ. It states what should be and is common sense about the claims of the Gospels, Epistles, Prophets, Writings, and Old Testament Histories concerning the Messiah as being and person, Divine and Man.

It is a good beginner theological text, considering its vocabulary is not intensively complex like other theological texts. Just because a theological text's vocabulary may be high, does not mean it is better or worse than one with a lower vocabulary.

If one would like to read an older and higher vocabulary work on the subject, I recommend Chemnitz's The Two Natures in Christ written in 1578.

Chemnitz's Works: The Two Natures in Christ

It is much richer theologically in its language and argumentation, it goes through Church History, Biblical Linguistics, and Scriptural Evidence. It has a thorough argumentation for the reality that Christ is both divine and human based on the Scriptures, and a logical understanding of how Christ's natures work in one person.

[Tom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book, not great formatting

This is such a good book! I had heard the “HANDS” acronym but haven’t seen it presented with such detail. I also appreciate how well the authors present interact with opposing views. Where it could be better is with formatting. Specifically, it would be nice if the footnote links were live. Ideally, they should open a window on the page, showing the footnote. Otherwise, going to the footnote would be acceptable.

[Kevin Megill · Rating 3 out of 5]

An excellent book on the deity of Christ. Rather than just quoting apologetical proof-texts, it manages to focus on the overall heart of the doctrine and the way it's embedded into the gospel. It is both inspiring and helpful apologetically, which is quite a trick. I'd definitely recommend it. But I probably don't need to re-read it.

[Keith Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the absolute BEST book I've ever read on the deity of Christ. Bowman does a masterful job of using atypical verses to prove Christ's deity. Be sure to read with a bible handy and with pen and paper ready. You WILL want to take notes.

[Cameron Cloud · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highlights the five threads of Scriptural evidence for the deity of Christ. The authors demonstrate that this truth is not merely a proof-texted afterthought imposed on the Church centuries later, but a fundamental concept of the entire New Testament. Reaffirming through elements familiar and new.

[Gregory Rothbard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think that this book will be a resource and an aid to my Christian Development.

[Austen Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many say Jesus was just a great 1st century Rabbi who taught love, made claims, and died. Others may ask where did Jesus say he was God? Robert Bowan Jr. does an excellent job of describing Jesus' divine claims and what they meant to his first century audience. His claims may not be obvious at first glance, but when you understand context, it is very clear! His H.A.N.D.S. teaching is such a good way to memorize his points. Overall, this is a fantastic read and has helped me in many conversations.

[Brenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Troy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite possibly one of the most digestible and informative books on the Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ I have ever read. I cannot recommend it enough.

[Jeremy Hopkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book presents an excellent, biblical defense of the deity of Christ. It’s easy to read and full of great truths.

[Daniel Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the best book on the Deity of Christ.

[Sterling · Rating 3 out of 5]

The worst part of this book is the title. How can man put Jesus anywhere? Otherwise, interesting and worthwhile. Jesus is God, a member of the Trinity. Not just a man that lived 2000 years ago.

[Aaron Irlbacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written to be remembered and used as a helpful tool for teaching. The author uses the acronym HANDS. HANDS stands for Jesus is HONORED as God, Jesus has the ATTRIBUTES of God, Jesus is given the NAMES of God, Jesus does the DEEDS of God, and Jesus SITS enthroned as God.

[Gary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been fully convinced of the Deity of Christ for some time now and for most of the reasons outlined methodically and magnificently in the book. But a friend has been led astray by The Way International and has an argument for all the verses I have shared with him, proving Jesus is God. This book will be my next attempt to set him on the right path. It is truly a magnificent effort and though a modern book, it has the feel and flavor of an ancient, solid, study by a Puritan. No fluff, no stories, no modern examples, just Bible and early Christian writings and beliefs. A must-read for those who love friends and family on the wrong path regarding who Jesus is. Here's an ending quote: ""Here's a sobering thought. This life is short. Soon, we will meet Jesus face to face. And we promise you this: none of us will extend a hand to Him and tell Him it's finally nice to put a face with the name! We'll fall at His feet and worship. The time to start doing that is now." #puttingjesusinhisplace

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book and an easy read for a theology book. I really liked the authors approach to a tough topic. The presentation is quite memorable and holds together well. While much of what I read I already knew, it was spiritually uplifting and I feel better equipped to address questions others may ask about the deity of Christ. Definitely a Good Read.