Last Words of Jesus

As we head into the Lenten season, a lot of us begin to turn our thoughts toward the cross of Christ, what happened there, and all that it means. This book is another chance to take a fresh look at what are often called the "seven last words of Christ," those excruciating cries from the cross.

I was not familiar with Stu Epperson before receiving this book. He is, according to the biography, a radio host and founder of "The Truth Network." As such, his desire in writing this book is to reach those who have not yet had a chance to respond to Jesus by somewhat devotionally thinking through these "last words." I do not know if that goal was reached, as much of the language seemed to be "insider language" without a lot of explanation for those who might not have before encountered these "last words."

Epperson's writing is easy to read and, despite putting snatches of poetry and hymnody in odd places, catches the spirit of the material quite well. There are things that are left out that, as a pastor, I would have liked to see included (such as more attention to the setting of the saying, and why each Gospel writer included what they did), but those issues may have been distracting from the overall narrative.

There is not much new here, but when you're approaching Lent and the Cross, perhaps "new" is not what one is looking for. I do appreciate his focus on these "final words" being "words of life from the tree of death," a reminder that this cross is not the end. It is only a beginning. That is a theme that echoes clearly throughout the book.

Each chapter ends with a couple of pages of selected Scripture verses (without context) and a page of questions, presumably for personal reflection or for group discussion. For someone looking for an easy-to-read reflection or devotional guide for the season of Lent, this book would be a welcome addition.

FULL DISCLOSURE: I was provided a copy of this book for an unbiased review. No only compensation was provided.

This book can be purchased here.