Confessing Jesus as Lord
Terry Chrisope
Christian Focus Publications
352 pages, £12.99
ISBN: 978-1-84550-962-0
Star Rating : 3
This book is a fascinating exploration of the significance of the first and simplest of all Christian statements of faith: ‘Jesus is Lord’. The argument of the book can be stated in three points. First, God is Lord of all. Secondly, man in rebellion refuses to acknowledge that lordship and asserts his autonomous right to do what he wants. Finally, God acts redemptively to reclaim man’s submission to his lordship.
This argument unfolds by following the whole biblical revelation from Genesis to Revelation. This is theology with a light touch (though I admit to speed-reading some portions where multiple Scriptures are quoted and discussed to prove a point). It is also theology with a continual personal challenge.
Who of us does not struggle every day with our desire to assert our own autonomy against the lordship of Christ? After each section the author adds ‘applicatory observations’, to highlight personal application.
Some biblical events are especially illuminated in the light of the main theme. For example, in the temptations of Jesus, he is displayed as the second Adam. He could have asserted his autonomy by commanding the stones be made bread. But, unlike the first Adam, he resisted temptation and submitted to his Father’s will and lordship over his life.
This book began in the context of the lordship controversy. Some theologians assert that the confession: ‘Jesus is Lord’ introduces works into salvation, rather than faith alone, and that ‘Jesus is my Saviour’ is the initial confession of faith. Terry Chrisope does not let this controversy dominate the book, and deals with it in a chapter towards the end.
The book begins and ends most helpfully. The introduction summarises in simple terms the theme and argument that follows. Then, after reviewing the Scriptures in Old and New Testaments, two chapters explore the significance of ‘Jesus is Lord’ for the believer.
Read this book and you will immerse yourself in the greatness and glory of Christ, and constantly be challenged to bow to his lordship over every area of your life.
Richard Atherton
Whitby
