Book reviews
The Scandalous Gospel of Jesus
Review of Scandalous Gospel of Jesus
Peter J Gomes pub. 2007
Gomes writes as a Harvard University professor and minister of the university’s Memorial Church. His book is both a study of Christian hopes and expectations and a criticism of fundamentalism in religion. His background and examples are largely American, and they differ in some ways from the British experience, though there are many points in common. He fears that Christians may become absorbed in the values of their secular society. It is not enough to put our trust in the Bible. To do this is only the first step towards understanding the Bible. God, Gomes reminds us, is always bigger than those who worship Him. Jesus’ teaching is radical. He came it is said, not to confirm but to confront. Gomes argues that faith must be inclusive, and h points out the Church’s failings in it dealings with women and homosexuals. The book is clearly and attractively written and it opens up many new lines of thought.
John Roach May 2010