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The glory of the cross (Didasko Files)AtonementTHE GLORY OF THE CROSS (The Didasko Files) ‘From time to time’, says Sinclair Ferguson, ‘a publication appears of modest size and author, its value greater than a whole bookshelf of contemporary bestsellers. The Glory of the Cross falls into this category.’ These are enormous claims to make for a booklet of less than 40 pages, newly edited and expanded, but first preached almost a generation ago. But the claim is justified. Not only are the contents thoroughly biblical; the writing is filled with warmth and wonder at both the cost and completeness of what the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished for us on the cross. We follow him as awed witnesses at the Last Supper, into the garden, and on to the trial — and so to the cross itself. At each point, the significance is explained in the light of the whole of Scripture, and key texts from the epistles expounded to help us see into the unique events, when God in Christ was reconciling the world to himself. There are many telling phrases — telling, not only because James Philip has a fine grasp of words, but because of the truth they convey — e.g. ‘Christ’s death would not symbolise, but actually materialise human guilt’; and, of the strange accompanying events: ‘Is it surprising that there should have been dislocations in the natural order? This moment is of cosmic importance’. This reviewer hopes that much will flow from this booklet: first, that many Christians will be moved and refreshed by it; secondly, that those at present not believing will also be moved, not only by the contents, but to the Saviour himself (how about the publisher sending a copy, with a courteous note, to the world’s leading atheists?!); thirdly, that it will serve as introduction to The Didasko Files series of beautifully produced booklets… And, fourthly, that it will stimulate some to discover the spiritual riches tucked away in the sermons and writings of James Philip, his brother George, and their redoubtable mentor, William Still of Aberdeen. They all served the cause of Christ so faithfully in Scotland in their generation. They can surely serve the wider church today. Tony Baker,
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