Resurrection and Renewal: Jesus and the Transformation of Creation” by Murray A. Rae is a compelling exploration of the significance of Jesus’s resurrection. Rae, a professor of theology at the University of Otago, delves into how the resurrection serves as the pivotal moment in history, fulfilling Old Testament promises and reshaping the life and theology of the apostle Paul. 

Unlike many works that focus on defending the resurrection’s historicity, Rae’s book assumes its reality and examines its theological implications. He discusses how the resurrection influences our understanding of Christ, salvation, the future, mission, the church, and the unfolding purpose of history. The book also addresses its impact on Christian living, ethics, community, and hope. 

Overall, “Resurrection and Renewal” offers a fresh and invigorating perspective on a foundational Christian doctrine, making it a valuable read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the resurrection’s transformative power.

This book reminds me of a mirror ball. Murray Rae explores how God brought and is bringing renewal through resurrection. Each chapter of this book reflects the truth from different angles. The book involves biblical studies, theology and ethics – all expanding on the central premise of the renewal of the resurrection.

The author wisely sidesteps the quicksand of historical debates and apologetics, instead celebrating the many ways that the cross brings liberation to the world. The book is easy to read and thoroughly researched. Most of all it is edifying, encouraging hope and faith for the present and the future.

I find that this book enriching my theological knowledge by exploring the demand of bodily resurrection of Christ. This is important issue in a digital age like now that undermine the meaning of body. Thankful to God, that resurrection means the new era of transformation of all things in the history of humankind.