Dead Men Rising: The Death of Sin, the Rise of Grace

by Jonathan Williams

Our greatest battle today is not with terrorism, too much government, or secularism – it’s our battle with sin. For centuries, scholars and students of the Word have grappled with Romans 6:1-14 and its key phrases that speak to this battle – dead to sin, old man, body of sin, slaves to sin, and freed from sin. What do these mean? What do they have to do with the battle with sin?

In Dead Men Rising , Jonathan Williams (host of the Heaven and Home Hour Radio broadcast) provides an in-depth analysis of these phrases for the Christian leader searching for an accurate theological basis for holy living and practical help for the growing believer serious about obeying God's Word. This book will clear up centuries-long confusion on this important text for holy living. But this book is about more than overcoming sin, saying no to sin’s desires, or keeping sin in its place so that it doesn’t rule over us. It is about finding grace, growing in righteousness, and living in resurrection power. It is about presenting ourselves to God as people alive from the dead and becoming fully conformed to His image in our character and conduct so that when people see us, they see Christ shining through. Dead Men Rising helps you discover Paul’s thinking and find answers to the questions that have long puzzled and exasperated Christians who want to be faithful to the Word but honest with the condition of their lives. You will resolve biblical dilemmas, but more importantly you will draw near with confidence to the crucified, risen, enthroned, and Spirit-empowering Lord who will enable you to live in a way pleasing to God.

Genres: Christian

271 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2012

Reviews

[Doug Dale · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very thought-provoking look at Romans 6 that puts forth a view of the 'old' man that is very different than what is typically seen. Real implications for understanding both justification and sanctification. Definitely a worthwhile read.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Apostle Paul wrote in an obtuse style that has baffled theologians for centuries. One issue has been his economy of words. As best they can, scholars have interpreted his works consistent with their doctrinal theme, but to my mind, have needed to perform linguistic contortions to squeeze passages into doctrine, rather than seek interpretations more consistent with observed reality. Resulting has been an incoherent and in places, a contradictory message of the process of salvation. It is into this space that Jonathan Williams has ventured. Describing this doctrinal incoherence as a “Contradictory Reality”, he asks the obvious questions: How can we be “dead to sin” yet still sin as much as we do? Why are we exhorted to not let sin reign in our bodies if the Messiah conquered sin? How is it that we put on the new man but the old man is so obviously still present?
Re-examining Scripture with fresh eyes, the author has sought meanings that demystify some of Paul’s more ambiguous statements in Romans 6, and has done a masterful job in demonstrating how his new interpretations better fit what we know to be true. I have long been frustrated by commentaries that resort to “Christian-speak” to get past passages without really addressing them. Reading this exposition by Jonathan Williams, I have been moved to loudly sigh: “At last!” I look forward to further work from this author. He has demonstrated both courage and humility in seeking to challenge traditional interpretations, and to offer alternate explanations that are not only more consistent with the message of the Messiah, but do a far better job of clarifying the writings of the Apostle Paul.
With all my heart I pray that his message is widely spread, encouraging others to put aside the strictures of traditional doctrine and tackle those passages that they know in their hearts, simply make no sense as currently taught. Jonathan Williams has blazed a new trail with intellectual integrity. The title of his book, “Dead Men Rising”, expresses his understanding of Paul’s message in Romans. In it I see another message: dead theology rising to be examined with fresh eyes and purpose. This is a wonderful book: enlightening and encouraging, relevant and accurate, offering insights that can be applied to the exegesis of other passages. Please take time to study this work - you will be rewarded and enriched.