Why did Jesus have to die?

I loved this book! It is short, readable and very clear. None of the questions Christians tend to ask about the cross are ducked and are answered with both Old Testament background and New Testament fulfilment. This book is a gem and I will be buying copies to pass on to others. | Accessible, readable and crystal clear … this excellent treatment of the cross provides Biblical explanation, contemporary illustration and spiritual nourishment for every reader. It is particularly valuable in dealing with common misunderstandings and objections. Buy it, read it and give it away! | Christians should never tire of thinking about the cross of Christ and its many implications. Marcus Nodder will stimulate you to understand and appreciate the big issues as they are presented in Scripture and have been debated by believers throughout the ages. His careful attention to detail is matched by an easy and persuasive style of writing, making this a helpful book for personal reading or group study. | How refreshing to once again hear the message of the cross through the fresh and faithful mind of Marcus Nodder. I'm struck that the great danger of writing or preaching about the cross is that so much has been already been said. What more is there? And therein lies one of the most salient points that Marcus is making - we must never give in to the danger of assuming the cross. What I appreciate about this book, and indeed the whole series, is that while being brief, accessible and unassuming, there is historical, biblical, theological and pastoral comprehensiveness: from the holiness of God; to the Old Testament preparation, promise and prophecy of the cross; to the necessity of the cross, to the justice of the cross. His clarity on penal substitutionary atonement and justification by grace alone combine with a pastoral heart that shines brightly when dealing with the problem of guilt and ongoing sin. There is also an evangelistic edge in the final chapter on responding to the cross and sharing it with others. This book will challenge you afresh; and will cause you to again be grateful and cherish the greatest act of love ever seen. It will delight you to be reminded of “The Great Truth” that - for those at the cross, there is “No guilt in life, no fear in death This is the power of Christ in me | One of the things I especially appreciated about this book is the clarity and simplicity of illustrations helping us to grasp the significance of Jesus’ death. Nodder uses stories, images, and ideas to help us understand the importance of the cross. For some, like myself, who’ve heard about the death of Jesus again and again, this book will offer you a fresh insight into the absolute heart of God’s love. It’s only 92 pages long—so do yourself a favour, pick it up and read it. | Marcus Nodder is senior pastor of St Peter's Barge, a floating church in London's Canary Wharf which reaches out to workers in the financial district. He worked in banking before training for Christian ministry at Oak Hill College. He is married to Lina and has four children, and is the author of What happens when I die?