Randy Singer has seen the inside of many a courtroom as a trial lawyer. In fact, over the last few years, he's translated that experience into some of the best legal thrillers around. This time, he pulls out all the stops and delivers a novel and a nonfiction work that go hand-in-hand, providing evidence of Jesus for his jury, the readers. Although the books can be read independently, they are connected by a set of codes and ciphers which, if broken, can lead the codebreaker on a free trip for two to sunny shores. No joke. See details in the back of the books.
Sounds like a gimmick, right? A clever one. A wish-I'd-thought-of-that premise. But a gimmick nonetheless, sure to draw many, and dissuade a few, from reading the book(s).
Let me put your mind at ease. These books are worth reading, each on their own. "The Cross Examination of Oliver Finney" is entertaining, thought-provoking, and brilliant in its use of the codes. It deals with contestants on a reality TV series, representatives of major religions who must prove the validity of their faith through a number of tests. But not everything is as it seems, and one of them may end up being a martyr for the cause.
As for "The Cross Examination of Jesus Christ," does it stand on its own? Does it give courtroom-type evidence of Jesus' claims and resurrection?
I cannot tell you, a fellow juror, what to think. In my own careful deliberation, I found this to be Singer's tightest, most passionate prose yet. He uses facts and logic, Scripture and history, to guide us toward a desired verdict. He plays on our intellects, while also pulling at our emotions with personal confessions and moments of humor. Most stirringly, he strips away the religious veneer and reveals the true heart of Jesus.
While this book may not sway every staunch nonbeliever, it will certainly raise questions in many minds. In the end, faith is still based on things not seen. And, as in the courtroom, a juror might cast a vote on the trustworthiness of the primary witness. In this particular trial, Jesus Christ is as trustworthy as they come.
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