Strobel makes a strong 'Case'

Lee Strobel, a respected journalist and the former legal editor of the Chicago Tribune, pursued an investigation into one of the most debated religious matters of the modern era: Was Jesus of Nazareth Christ, the promised messiah for the Jewish people? In his compelling book "The Case for Christ" Strobel interrogates New Testament experts, archaeologists and other religious scholars in the search for the truth regarding the divinity of Jesus. \nIn the introduction, Strobel said he began his investigation into the divinity of Christ after his wife converted to Christianity. He noted the change in her demeanor and outlook on life was so profound, and he said he had to understand what made his wife shift subtly, but so significantly. Strobel then decided to investigate the claims of Christians with the same interrogative stance he used while reporting, setting aside his own skepticism in the name of the truth. He interviewed Craig Blomberg, a noted New Testament scholar at the Denver Seminary, Bruce Metzger, a scholar at the Princeton Seminary, and other luminaries in the theological field. \nStrobel recounts the interviews with the scholars in "The Case for Christ." The questions he asks are tough, to the point and did not leave the scholars with any leeway in their answers. Strobel pursued weaknesses doggedly, pursuing a question until he believed the answer was satisfying. Not only was the theological consistency of the four Gospels questioned, but also the collaborating evidence of Christ. Secular proof of the existence and works of Christ does exist, but the author was concerned with tampering by fanatical early Christians who were bound and determined to prove that Jesus of Nazereth was Christ. However, the scholars were able to defend their positions to the satisfaction of the author. \nI know this isn't the normal book to just pick up and read, but despite my reluctance it was extremely interesting. I simply took what I was taught in Sunday School as what it was presented to me; I never doubted what I have been taught since my youth. While some have a faith in what is taught, this book is a great suggestion for skeptics of Christianity or religion as a whole. I respect the circumspection that Strobel treated the topic with, but also that he refused to quit questioning until he was fully satisfied with an answer. The most stunning part of the book, however, is that Strobel leaves the reader to draw his or her own conclusion. Since he is now a teaching minister, it is obvious what his conclusion was; however, he makes no judgements on what was being said by the scholars, even when he was still a skeptic.\nI recommend "The Case for Christ" to readers who are searching for an understanding of Christianity, people with an interest in the topic or those who are considering conversion. It is not a quick read, but Strobel was incredibly thorough in both his research and preparation. The book reads well and presents compelling arguments for the historical authenticity of the four Gospels, in addition to other corroborating evidence of Christ's existence and deeds.