Many translations of the New Testament tread a challenging line between scholarly accuracy and living, spirit-filled words which will inspire a general reader. This unique version, by a priest of The Christian Community, balances the two in such a way that something of the Holy Spirit, working in the early church, can become part of a reader's experience.

Madsen draws on other translations, including Emil Bock's seminal German translation, as well as the sacramental language of The Christian Community, to present a singular version which uncovers the living wisdom of the Gospels.