We Review A Violent Grace

Musician and author, Michael Card, demonstrates with uncensored words, pin-point accuracy and sobering honesty. 'Christ Crucified' is where we find grace; it's the lynchpin of the Christian faith, and it's a place of extreme violence which we have censored, brushed aside and sometimes forgotten.

This book seeks to realign the cross in the lives of Christians. With 21 chapters, each titled with a saviour parallel (see contents list below), the book travels through Old Testament prophecy, the Gospel accounts and Michael's personal reflections about the life-changing implications. Each scalding truth finishes with a prayer to centre your thoughts on the cross and the undeserving grace that endured such brutality.

At around 12 pages to a chapter, this book isn’t heavy reading in quantity yet in content it is a much needed punch in the gut. With historical insight and a creative touch, Michael places the cross in the spotlight so readers can re-imagine the moment where violence met grace.

I must offer a word of warning – reading this book in one sitting (like I did) is emotionally demoralising. But used alongside Bible study; a chapter before bed, or perhaps inspiration for reflection in a small group, ‘A Violent Grace’ will rugby tackle your comfortable image of the cross and our so-called ‘easy grace’. It’s a game-changer, spiritually speaking.