The Gospel According to Judas: Is There a Limit to God's Forgiveness?

Why has Judas held such a fascination for the Church? Ray S. Anderson suggests it is in part because most people have a fear that we, too, could be found untrustworthy. Anderson is an Evangelical Reform Church of America pastor and Professor of Theology and Ministry at Fuller Theological Seminary. Grounded in Scripture, with a Christ-centered life and ministry, the author presents an image of Jesus with whom he as a pastor is personally comfortable in conversation. Using short imaginary encounters between the Risen Lord and the deceased Judas, Anderson leads us into his understanding of the love of God in Christ. While never defining `love' the book is completely focused on God's transforming love which knows no limits. In conversation with Judas, Jesus looks deeply into the heart of the betrayer and reveals that Judas' inability to be reconciled to Jesus is due to his sense of shame and the pain of realizing the results of his actions. Jesus says to Judas, "I am not one who comes to cause torment....I tell you that you love Me, and that is the cause of your pain and torment." The message to Judas is, "Judas, come home. All is forgiven." Not until the final chapter do we learn whether Anderson's Judas ultimately is able to receive God's gift of forgiveness. This book is a tantalizing Lenten study book with provocative and searching questions at the end of each chapter. It will stimulate lively discussion and self-exami-nation.

Every Christian I've ever heard or read has condemned Judas to hell...until Anderson. Anderson's examination of both the Biblical story of Judas and Jesus' teaching on forgiveness demonstrate two things. Christians should have undying hope for everyone, even the worst of society; and Christians should minister Christ's love, even when it seem meaningless. This is an eye-opening book, and a must-read for anyone concerned about being Christ-like in today's world.I had Ray Anderson as a seminary professor and his perspective on ministry is life-changing.Maybe (possibly probably?) Judas is in heaven...doesn't that just blow your mind?