Christ on Trial

The trial, conviction, and death of an innocent man 2000 years ago has particular resonance today. Atrocities from around the world shake us nearly every day, and each of us also experiences trials in our own lives. In this book the new Archbishop of Canterbury looks in depth at the trial of Jesus, using it to teach readers how to face the challenges of life in a world like ours. Bringing the biblical accounts of Jesus' trial vividly to life, Rowan Williams highlights what is to be learned about Jesus from each of the four Gospel portraits. Mark shows a mysterious figure revealed as the Son of God. Matthew describes the Wisdom of God tried by foolish men. Luke presents a divine stranger. John speaks of the paradox of divinity submitting to judgment. These illuminating discussions are followed by a meditation on Christian martyrdom and a reflection on tyranny, freedom, and truth. Drawing not only from the Bible but also from contemporary fiction, film, theater, and current events, William's book highlights the ways society continues to put Christ on trial today.

Rowan Williams is the Archbishop of Canterbury