Bestselling author John Ortberg shares how Jesus' influence has swept over history and how his vision of life continues to impact humanity today.
Jesus' impact on our world is highly unlikely, widely inescapable, largely unknown, and decidedly double-edged. It is unlikely in light of the severe limitations of his earthly life; it is inescapable because of the range of impact; it is unknown because history doesn't connect dots; and it is doubled-edged because his followers have wreaked so much havoc, often in his name.
He is history's most familiar figure, yet he is the man no one knows. His impact on the world is immense and non-accidental. From the Dark Ages to Post-Modernity he is the Man who won't go away.
And yet . . . you can miss him in historical lists for many reasons, maybe the most obvious being the way he lived his life. He did not loudly and demonstrably defend his movement in the spirit of a rising political or military leader. He did not lay out a case that history would judge his brand of belief superior in all future books.
His life and teaching simply drew people to follow him. He made history by starting in a humble place, in a spirit of love and acceptance, and allowing each person space to respond.
His vision of life continues to haunt and challenge humanity. His influence has swept over history bringing inspiration to what has happened in art, science, government, medicine, and education; he has taught humans about dignity, compassion, forgiveness, and hope.
Video study and study guide also available, as well as a Spanish edition.
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"Even though a life-long Christian, I failed to grasp what John Ortberg so eloquently wrote. Powerful story and one which I hope my book club buddies embraced with open mindedness, tolerance and wisdom. "All of the wonders that we have been exploring in this book turned out to find their fullest expression in Him: all roads meet." For me, this book reveals the Divinity of His truth."
— Steve (4 out of 5 stars)
" Brilliant as usual from John Ortberg -- my favorite Christian author and speaker. The book's title describes it perfectly: the impact of the inescapable Jesus. Read and see. "
— Laura, 2/7/2014" Great look at the life of Jesus and the impact He has made on this world in so many ways we haven't thought of before. "
— Roger, 2/6/2014" Another great book by John Ortberg. "
— Lance, 2/4/2014" This is an excellent different perspective on the impact of Jesus. I love Ortberg's writing style, and the way he approaches his subjects. I'm looking forward to re-reading this book soon. This book is recommended for any follower, and especially for those who question the whole story. "
— Brian, 1/24/2014" I really enjoyed this book. I loved that Ortberg gives historical context for many of the stories from and about Jesus in the New Testament. Seeing where Jesus is coming from compared to culture and current events of his day has such an impact on the way you will read the gospels. I recommend it. "
— Rachel, 1/23/2014" Thought provoking! I read it in one sitting. "
— Jennifer, 1/17/2014" This is a very fascinating book...one of the better books of this genre as it is easily accessible and informative all at the same time "
— Jeremy, 1/15/2014" One of my new favorite authors. Excellent book especially for those trying to figure out just who Jesus is and why He has such an impact on our world. "
— Ann, 1/9/2014" Amazing book about the life of Jesus. "
— Richard, 12/31/2013" An amazing book. Like much of Ortberg's work, if the Christian reads only one book this year (besides the Bible), this is the one. "
— Tony, 12/1/2013" I loved the way this book brings out the phenomenal impact that Jesus has made on the world! "
— John, 11/14/2013John Ortberg is a popular speaker and widely respected teaching pastor. Formerly at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois, he is now senior pastor of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church in California. He creatively brings scripture to life through his use of practical application and humor. He’s the author of numerous books including The Life You’ve Always Wanted, Love beyond Reason, and If You Want to Walk on Water, You’ve Got to Get out of the Boat.
Arthur Morey has won three AudioFile Magazine “Best Of” Awards, and his work has garnered numerous AudioFile Earphones Awards and placed him as a finalist for two Audie Awards. He has acted in a number of productions, both off Broadway in New York and off Loop in Chicago. He graduated from Harvard and did graduate work at the University of Chicago. He has won awards for his fiction and drama, worked as an editor with several book publishers, and taught literature and writing at Northwestern University. His plays and songs have been produced in New York, Chicago, and Milan, where he has also performed.