What's the Big Deal about Jesus?: *Why All the Controversy? *Is He Relevant? *Does It Matter to Me?

What's the Big Deal About Jesus by John Ankerburg & Dillon Burroughs is a perfect apologetic book. The authors sift through historical and archaelogical information to give readers the lowdown on what we can really know about Jesus. From Was the tomb really empty to Did Jesus say he was the Son of God? each chapter addresses a specific question raised not only by nonbelievers, but by believers themselves who want to know the truth about Jesus. Did you know that there are LOTS of historical attestations to the character of Jesus outside of the Bible? Or that archaelogists have found Peter's house in Capernaum and Lazarus' tomb in Bethany? Me neither, and this book has not only information you can use to defend your faith, it also has factual tidbits that are fascinating. Sometimes apologetics books lean too heavily on Scripture alone for support or are written for scholars rather than laypeople. The authors are down to earth, at times humorous, and real. This book could easily be used in a Bible study or for youth; it's an excellent resource.

Dr. Ankerberg is my favorite Christian author; I was lucky enough to meet him at the National Conference on Christian Apologetics in November 2007. I have read many of his "Facts On" pamphlets and learned so much about Christianity compared with other religious beliefs. I bought this newest book and again have nothing but high praise for his and Dillon's research, arrangement and presentation of vital information that everyone needs to know. As Jesus Himself said, "I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except by me." This book ought to be required reading as Jesus is the most important figure in human history.

Review by Steven King, MBA In their book, What's the Big Deal about Jesus?, authors John Ankerberg and Dillon Burroughs attempt to answer "why" people should be worried about the life of Jesus today. Maybe you're thinking: isn't there already enough written about Jesus - his followers and his opponents all seem to have something to say about him. This book will help clarify the centrality to which Jesus has in all our lives. Unfettered by the amount of literature currently existing about Jesus, these authors present a great treatise about Jesus Christ. Three main categories are given sufficient exploration: (1) Whatdo we really know about Jesus? (2) Who did Jesus claim to be? and (3) Did Jesus really come alive again? Drawing references made in Scripture and recorded in the writings of the early Church fathers, this book does an excellent job in describing what Jesus' contemporaries said of him. Even those who wrote satirically confirmed the existence of Jesus - which helps corroborate his place in human history. Scoffers have tried for centuries to dispute the fact of the Resurrection. The aim has been to discredit this pivotal event - thereby discrediting the entire Christian faith. Scoffers will have their collective hands full trying to answer the issues raised by Jesus' resurrection. The only plausible conclusion is that Jesus did, in fact, rise from the dead. It seems this book would serve a small group Bible study quite adequately, since it is separated into convenient divisions and includes ample question and answer sections. A few appendices provide excellent fodder for ardent students to discuss the alleged contradictions in gospels or alternative theories as to "what happened to Jesus' body." If that's not enough, the authors include an email address inviting readers to be personally involved in the learning process about Jesus. What's the big deal about Jesus? Plenty! Armchair Interviews says: Thought-provoking book.

Reviewed by Lori Plach for Reader Views (11/07) Have you ever seen the blockbuster hit "Passion of Christ?" Did you want to get a glimpse into what Christ endured for all of us? Did you want to build your faith or was it just Mel Gibson that made you interested in seeing the film? Perhaps you have seen "The Nativity Story." In recent years, Hollywood has certainly been bringing the name of Jesus to the silver screen. Why the sudden interest? For many years the stories of the Bible have been made into movies. Who hasn't heard about Charlton Heston's portrayal of Moses in the classic "The Ten Commandments?" "Jesus was just an ordinary man, wasn't he? Jesus was a magician because he healed people." Maybe you have had someone make comments like these about Jesus. How do you answer comments like this? Maybe you have a few questions of your own about this incredible man. There were hundreds of prophecies about the Messiah. Only one man could fulfill them all. Jesus is more than just a man. He was both true God and true man. If you are constantly being asked questions about Jesus, or are looking for answers to your many questions, look no farther than "What's the Big Deal About Jesus?" John Ankerberg and Dillon Burroughs have created an amazing resource for those who thirst for the knowledge of the truth. With Scriptural references to back up their statements, your answers are here. Some of the questions answered within the pages of this book are: "Did he really believe He was God's Son?, Did His life really fulfill the predictions?, What does the Medical Evidence Suggest?, and Did People Really See Him Alive after His Death?" Is this Jesus just a story told over and over again through the generations? This is truth backed with Holy Scripture. This is a terrific book which could be used for personal Bible study and Bible study groups. This is a priceless book for all people to read and understand the man who changed our destinies on Earth and beyond. This is a MUST read for Christians and those who have many questions about Jesus. After reading "What's the Big Deal About Jesus," you will not have questions in your mind, only confidence in Christ Jesus.

I was not quite sure what I would find between the pages of this book and I have to tell you I was pleasantly surprised. Our authors ask some no-nonsense questions about Jesus and give back answers that are clear, concise and understandable. I know that often as a Christian I am asked some questions that can be uncomfortable because of the difficulty of giving an answer that the asker will fully understand or accept. Many of these questions are covered in this book, such as How Reliable Are The Manuscripts We Have Today?, Where Did Hs Body Go?, What Did Others Say About Him? and Did He Really Believe He Was The Son of God? to name just a few. The answers are not just halfway covered, but are fully examined. This book is of great value for groups and their study of Scripture, but certainly can stand alone for any Christian wanting to sharpen their Spiritual learning. You will also find a discussion guide at the end which is a great asset to reinforce your knowledge and use with others. All in all a work that will enrich your own walk with the Lord and be of an insurmountable help in reaching out to others and being far more comfortable that you will be equipped with answers to some of the questions thrown your way. Recommended, very impressive work.