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The Final Days of Jesus: The Most Important Week of the Most Important Person Who Ever Lived
Walk With Jesus During His Last Week on Earth
On March 29, AD 33, Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem and boldly predicted that he would soon be put to death--executed on a cross, like a common criminal. So began the most important week of the most important person who ever lived.
Nearly 2,000 years later, the events that took place during Jesus's last days still reverberate through the ages. Designed as a day-by-day guide to Passion Week, The Final Days of Jesus leads us to re-examine and meditate on the history-making, earth-shaking significance of Jesus's arrest, trial, crucifixion, and empty tomb.
Combining a chronological arrangement of the Gospel accounts with insightful commentary, charts, and maps, this book will help you better understand what actually happened all those years ago . . . and why it matters today.
On March 29, AD 33, Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem and boldly predicted that he would soon be put to death--executed on a cross, like a common criminal. So began the most important week of the most important person who ever lived.
Nearly 2,000 years later, the events that took place during Jesus's last days still reverberate through the ages. Designed as a day-by-day guide to Passion Week, The Final Days of Jesus leads us to re-examine and meditate on the history-making, earth-shaking significance of Jesus's arrest, trial, crucifixion, and empty tomb.
Combining a chronological arrangement of the Gospel accounts with insightful commentary, charts, and maps, this book will help you better understand what actually happened all those years ago . . . and why it matters today.
257 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
198 people are currently reading
758 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
December 29, 2014
I remember the first time I found a problem in my Bible. It was quite accidental. I had just read about Judas's death. Racked with remorse, he hung himself. But then I read in another passage that he fell off a cliff and burst open. What in the world?! I went to my trusted leaders and asked that very question. The responses I received were attempts to "harmonize" the accounts. e.g., maybe Judas hung himself, the rope broke, and he fell.
Later I learned there is a whole body of literature dedicated to harmonizing difficulties with the Gospels. Kostenberger's book is one such enterprise. He focuses on the final week of Christ's life, and he parallels the passages so we get the best feel for what really happened. He attempts to take us into Matthew's mind to see why his account might differ from Luke's. He discusses some of the famous controversies like the number of angels at the tomb.
My view of Scripture has evolved over the years. I certainly believe that the Bible is the word of God, but there is a simplistic, Sunday-school understanding that can set us up for disillusionment. There is an emerging academic movement of which Kostenberger is a part, that shows us how to better reckon with God's word. For anyone struggling with this, Final Days of Jesus is a good place to begin your search.
Later I learned there is a whole body of literature dedicated to harmonizing difficulties with the Gospels. Kostenberger's book is one such enterprise. He focuses on the final week of Christ's life, and he parallels the passages so we get the best feel for what really happened. He attempts to take us into Matthew's mind to see why his account might differ from Luke's. He discusses some of the famous controversies like the number of angels at the tomb.
My view of Scripture has evolved over the years. I certainly believe that the Bible is the word of God, but there is a simplistic, Sunday-school understanding that can set us up for disillusionment. There is an emerging academic movement of which Kostenberger is a part, that shows us how to better reckon with God's word. For anyone struggling with this, Final Days of Jesus is a good place to begin your search.
April 26, 2025
I enjoyed this book so much! The Gospel is just the best story ever, so diving deep into each verse of this story was so powerful for my faith! Thank you Jesus for the cross, your intentionally and love toward us, and ultimately saving us by defeating death! This book can change lives because it’s the story of how Jesus changed everything! Wish I would have started it earlier and read it slower, but I know this will be a book I will revisit in Holy Weeks to come! Love how this helped scripture come alive and be able to visualize the Gospel more! It was so helpful how it broke down all the stories and shared the different Gospel views and then had commentary and pictures! This is such an approachable book for someone who wants to dive deeper into scripture but doesn’t always know all the context and feels overwhelmed by some commentaries. Cannot recommend this book enough!
February 20, 2014
Source: Free copy from Crossway in exchange for a review. The review is of my opinion, and in no way coerced, or reflected by another.
Summary:
The introduction begins by defining "how to use this book," then a short introduction to the Gospels, belief in the Gospels, and how to deal with "contradictions". A time-line of the last week is given from the Gospels. Chapters are divided in to the day's of the week, and by what events happened each day. Sunday through Wednesday the Bible verses are given only, then a summary. Thursday through Sunday the Scripture passage is written in complete and given first, followed by a brief commentary. The Thursday through Sunday section is lengthier. Bible passages are from the English Standard Version, Crossway. An epilogue, teaches the "later appearances of Jesus". The last chapter directs the reader to the most important question which will ever be asked:
"Who Do You Say That He Is?"
My Thoughts:
There are several reasons for giving this book 5 stars for excellent.
Organized timeline of events of the last week of Jesus's life on earth.
All the Gospels are studied and presented.
Graph representing Jewish method of time, for example: fourth watch.
Six color illustrations are given. These are published in the ESV Crossway Study Bible.
A graph of "The Last Seven Sayings of Jesus." Representing all four Gospels.
Several black and white small maps are given to give the reader an idea of where Jesus was taken on Friday, for example: when Jesus was taken from "the Sanhedrin to Pontius Pilate", and the road to Golgotha.
Exact dates are given.
Excellent explanation of "sanctification".
Study of the "High Priestly Prayer".
A sobering view on "mob justice".
Sunday morning and the "empty tomb".
The Final Days of Jesus is not an exhaustive type book. The chapters are short, but meaty. An excellent foundation material for a new Christian, or a Christian wanting a concise study of Jesus's Passion Week.
While reading this book I kept thinking that this is a perfect Easter gift. Easter is April 20.
Summary:
The introduction begins by defining "how to use this book," then a short introduction to the Gospels, belief in the Gospels, and how to deal with "contradictions". A time-line of the last week is given from the Gospels. Chapters are divided in to the day's of the week, and by what events happened each day. Sunday through Wednesday the Bible verses are given only, then a summary. Thursday through Sunday the Scripture passage is written in complete and given first, followed by a brief commentary. The Thursday through Sunday section is lengthier. Bible passages are from the English Standard Version, Crossway. An epilogue, teaches the "later appearances of Jesus". The last chapter directs the reader to the most important question which will ever be asked:
"Who Do You Say That He Is?"
My Thoughts:
There are several reasons for giving this book 5 stars for excellent.
Organized timeline of events of the last week of Jesus's life on earth.
All the Gospels are studied and presented.
Graph representing Jewish method of time, for example: fourth watch.
Six color illustrations are given. These are published in the ESV Crossway Study Bible.
A graph of "The Last Seven Sayings of Jesus." Representing all four Gospels.
Several black and white small maps are given to give the reader an idea of where Jesus was taken on Friday, for example: when Jesus was taken from "the Sanhedrin to Pontius Pilate", and the road to Golgotha.
Exact dates are given.
Excellent explanation of "sanctification".
Study of the "High Priestly Prayer".
A sobering view on "mob justice".
Sunday morning and the "empty tomb".
The Final Days of Jesus is not an exhaustive type book. The chapters are short, but meaty. An excellent foundation material for a new Christian, or a Christian wanting a concise study of Jesus's Passion Week.
While reading this book I kept thinking that this is a perfect Easter gift. Easter is April 20.
April 17, 2022
I finished this within just a couple hours. It's 'easy' in that it breaks down one of the most important and overwhelming sections of the Bible. It's difficult, of course, in its content.
What makes it so accessible is that it presents the Gospel (that is, the accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, one gospel, not four) together, piece by piece. It breaks down Holy Week day by day, first recording what each account says, then providing commentary of what these writings mean, or what can be made of the events.
This is an important text I'm seriously considering purchasing, as something not only to be read specifically during Easter, but as a study throughout the year. It's well-written, with additional readings listed at the end, broken down from easy to advanced. While I certainly would never recommend it as a replacement to Scripture, it certainly can be a valuable supplement. Highly recommended.
What makes it so accessible is that it presents the Gospel (that is, the accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, one gospel, not four) together, piece by piece. It breaks down Holy Week day by day, first recording what each account says, then providing commentary of what these writings mean, or what can be made of the events.
This is an important text I'm seriously considering purchasing, as something not only to be read specifically during Easter, but as a study throughout the year. It's well-written, with additional readings listed at the end, broken down from easy to advanced. While I certainly would never recommend it as a replacement to Scripture, it certainly can be a valuable supplement. Highly recommended.
March 28, 2018
A nice book that harmonizes all of the gospels’ accounts of Jesus’ final week. I learned a bunch from reading this book, things that I never saw before. I good 35% of the book is scripture (as they have you read the verses first and then give commentary on it). The book is well-researched as well.
I’m looking forward to reading “The First Days if Jesus” for Advent.
I’m looking forward to reading “The First Days if Jesus” for Advent.
April 28, 2025
Re-read Easter 2023. Still a solid 4/5 stars. Better than just a basic "liked it," but not quite "awesome" level. Definitely recommended reading!
April 27, 2025
I’ve read this book every year for the past four years leading up to Easter. I find it so helpful having everything laid out so clearly in chronological order, comparing and contrasting the different gospel accounts with the appropriate historical context.
Growing up a Christian means these are passages I have read hundreds of times, and it is easy to read the superficially. I appreciate being led by the authors to see the deeper message of the final days of Jesus.
Growing up a Christian means these are passages I have read hundreds of times, and it is easy to read the superficially. I appreciate being led by the authors to see the deeper message of the final days of Jesus.
April 9, 2025
I loved this book!!! I want to read every year!! My only regret is not taking it slower so I could have read during passion week. 😆
October 15, 2025
Thorough, insightful and just really flipping cool. I will revist at Easter time next year and go through day by day as I think that'll be spiritually refreshing.
January 24, 2016
I was attracted to this book to find a clear, simple outline of the events in the last week of Jesus' life. Kostenberger is a world-class NT scholar and I expected him to provide a clear outline and some explanations of different opinions re: various options for understanding the text. This book is a little different to what I expected.
The book is written as a devotional aid for those wanting to reflect on the events leading up to Easter. It fulfils its purpose admirably. It opens with a helpful summary of the events leading up to the final week. It then provides a full text associated with each day (printing the various passages from the gospels one under the other, rather than in parallel as some authors do) and simple commentary on each section. It then concludes with a helpful summary of the events between Jesus' resurrection and ascension.
On a couple of occasions the book makes brief comments about different possible interpretations for a couple of issues - the authors prefer the date 33AD to the more popular dating of 30AD, the understanding of which order the women and disciples arrived at the empty tomb is discussed. Some significant issues are ignored (Jesus is presented as having cleansed the temple on Monday, March 30, AD33 and there is no mention that the synoptics and John place this event at opposite ends of Jesus' ministry, and no discussion of whether he also cleansed the temple at the beginning of his ministry).
If you are looking for an academic treatment of the events, I would recommend looking elsewhere. If you are looking for a helpful, stimulating devotional this is the book for you.
The book is written as a devotional aid for those wanting to reflect on the events leading up to Easter. It fulfils its purpose admirably. It opens with a helpful summary of the events leading up to the final week. It then provides a full text associated with each day (printing the various passages from the gospels one under the other, rather than in parallel as some authors do) and simple commentary on each section. It then concludes with a helpful summary of the events between Jesus' resurrection and ascension.
On a couple of occasions the book makes brief comments about different possible interpretations for a couple of issues - the authors prefer the date 33AD to the more popular dating of 30AD, the understanding of which order the women and disciples arrived at the empty tomb is discussed. Some significant issues are ignored (Jesus is presented as having cleansed the temple on Monday, March 30, AD33 and there is no mention that the synoptics and John place this event at opposite ends of Jesus' ministry, and no discussion of whether he also cleansed the temple at the beginning of his ministry).
If you are looking for an academic treatment of the events, I would recommend looking elsewhere. If you are looking for a helpful, stimulating devotional this is the book for you.
April 27, 2014
Really enjoyed the narrative approach of this book. Taylor and Köstenberger tell the story but add many historical details that help understand the last week of Christ. The maps and charts are very useful.
There are just two things I was questioning while reading and would have appreciate more explanation from the authors. 1. P. 68: "Peter and the other ten disciples were "clean" (though not yet regenerated) and only needed partial "cleansing"... They wrote this in the context of the washing of the feet. I wonder how could the disciples be clean (I understand justified), but not regenerated?
2. P. 162 concerning some O.T. saints that were resurrected when Christ died they wrote: "These Old Testament or intertestamental believers apparently receive resurrection bodies (unlike Lazarus who came back to life only to die again), bear witness to Christ's resurrection, and ascend to heaven sometime leading up to Jesus's ascension." I have never heard that explanation before, and would like to know more about it but that's all they.
Except these two remarks, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and found it very edifying. Preachers will find it useful for sermon preparation.
There are just two things I was questioning while reading and would have appreciate more explanation from the authors. 1. P. 68: "Peter and the other ten disciples were "clean" (though not yet regenerated) and only needed partial "cleansing"... They wrote this in the context of the washing of the feet. I wonder how could the disciples be clean (I understand justified), but not regenerated?
2. P. 162 concerning some O.T. saints that were resurrected when Christ died they wrote: "These Old Testament or intertestamental believers apparently receive resurrection bodies (unlike Lazarus who came back to life only to die again), bear witness to Christ's resurrection, and ascend to heaven sometime leading up to Jesus's ascension." I have never heard that explanation before, and would like to know more about it but that's all they.
Except these two remarks, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and found it very edifying. Preachers will find it useful for sermon preparation.
April 8, 2020
Great guide for Holy Week devotionals as you take a harmonious look across the four Gospels through Jesus' last week before the Cross!
April 22, 2019
This is a fantastic work that details Jesus' week in Jerusalem from Palm Sunday to Resurrection Sunday (and a brief epilogue that finishes the rest of the Gospel accounts). I liked how the authors took all of the Gospels and blended them all together so that details that may be present in one/some but not all might still be addressed together. I think that worked a lot better than say, analyzing each Gospel separately and offering up to four commentaries on basically the same thing.
It does a good job looking at the details that a Westerner who doesn't know anything about the Jewish culture in the 1st century would miss.
The book is organized by each day of the week, so the bulk of the book deals with the events of Thursday, Friday (about 1/3 of the entire book!), and Resurrection Sunday. The closing of the book fit it perfectly because I chose to read this book during Holy Week, one chapter for each corresponding day. I would highly recommend doing that as well, but it's a good read at any time.
It does a good job looking at the details that a Westerner who doesn't know anything about the Jewish culture in the 1st century would miss.
The book is organized by each day of the week, so the bulk of the book deals with the events of Thursday, Friday (about 1/3 of the entire book!), and Resurrection Sunday. The closing of the book fit it perfectly because I chose to read this book during Holy Week, one chapter for each corresponding day. I would highly recommend doing that as well, but it's a good read at any time.
April 27, 2019
Great devotional reading for Easter week - a day by day synthesis of the four gospels, with commentary. If possible, it would be good to set aside whatever you do for daily devotionals and just read this for Easter week, because it is a lot of content on some days (Köstenberger includes the entire relevant passages from each gospel on each day).
Nothing groundbreaking in the commentary. Though he did help me understand the symbolism and nationalism of Palm Sunday; "the political and religious volatility incited by Jesus’s actions".
Mostly helpful just to be reminded of what happened on which days. I was particularly struck by the amount of important teaching Jesus did on the eve of his death, on Thursday/the Passover. Having it all laid out on the same day helped to emphasize the continuity of thought (instead of divided into successive chapters as we read in the modern gospels). A LOT happens on Thursday of Easter week.
Nothing groundbreaking in the commentary. Though he did help me understand the symbolism and nationalism of Palm Sunday; "the political and religious volatility incited by Jesus’s actions".
Mostly helpful just to be reminded of what happened on which days. I was particularly struck by the amount of important teaching Jesus did on the eve of his death, on Thursday/the Passover. Having it all laid out on the same day helped to emphasize the continuity of thought (instead of divided into successive chapters as we read in the modern gospels). A LOT happens on Thursday of Easter week.
April 19, 2022
Thankful for this educational book to read! Very interesting to read the commentary of each day also for each scenes of time frames. Also pointing out the reasons why each Gospel have a different focus point of view of writing the gospels!
I want to read the First Day of Jesus too that he had written.
I want to read the First Day of Jesus too that he had written.
April 17, 2017
Well organized harmony of the Gospels
I really appreciated the organization of the Gospel accounts of the final week of Jesus' life as well as the commentary provided afterwards. This is an excellent resource to go through the Passion Week while reading.
I really appreciated the organization of the Gospel accounts of the final week of Jesus' life as well as the commentary provided afterwards. This is an excellent resource to go through the Passion Week while reading.
April 3, 2019
I really enjoyed reading about the final days of Jesus. Including all the accounts from each gospel and discussing them was enlightening. Having the opportunity to exam the scriptural account of Jesus last week was fabulous. I found the book to be an easy read. I highly recommend it.
March 10, 2022
Primarily it’s merely a summary of the biblical accounts of each day. The summary is detailed, but this book does not provide any further insights and commentary nor does it offer any pragmatic advice.
March 30, 2024
Me gustó mucho este libro, es siempre bueno refrescar las enseñanzas de esta última semana de Jesús en su ministerio terrenal.
April 16, 2019
Excellent read about the last week of Jesus’ life. Great read for Lent. I recommend it
January 27, 2021
Four Gospels, One Witness
If you’ve been a Christian long enough, you, like me, have probably heard the bold and incorrect assertion that the gospel accounts of Jesus’ life contradict one another. Whether that statement comes from the mouths of liberal theologians, agnostic acquaintances, or atheistic bloggers, we must acknowledge that it is one that has been repeated (and I would argue decisively refuted) for centuries. In The Final Days of Jesus, Andreas J. Köstenberger and Justin Taylor deliver a heart-stirring harmonization of the gospel testimony of Jesus’ final days that is honest, approachable, refreshing, and informative.
While this book is not a a strict technical analysis, it is plainly evident that Köstenberger and Taylor have done their homework. Coming in at right around 200 pages, The Final Days of Jesus is clear and concise (one might call it brief), yet manages to be informative for even seasoned Christians. Beginning with Sunday March 29th, AD 33 and culminating on Sunday April 5, AD 33, Köstenberger and Taylor provide a running commentary on the scriptural testimony of the events that transpired during what many call the “Passion Week.” The general structure of the text is intended to help you understand exactly what happened on each day of Jesus’ final week. Each notable moment of the Passion Week is demarcated by a subtitle and reference to the relevant biblical texts that are being summarized, harmonized, and explained. For the most part, the relevant texts are copied into the book to make the experience as seamless as possible.
A Helpful Devotional Commentary
As alluded to above, it is imperative to note that Köstenberger and Taylor do not set out to provide an academic resource, but an aid to inform worship. They are not overly concerned with defending their dating philosophy (e.g. providing thorough arguments for a 33 AD dating of Jesus’ death), the precise location of sites and buildings, etc. That doesn’t mean they haven’t done the scholarly work to be able to defend their positions – it simply means that the limited scope of this work prevents them from including extensive references and providing lengthy arguments for their convictions. What the two are concerned with is detailing the events that transpired in Jesus’ final week and explaining both the historical and eschatological significance of all that took place. Jesus is the God-man, the Messiah, the second person of the Trinity; this book reminds us of the impact that such extraordinary claims had on the Jews and Romans of the time.
As they summarize, harmonize, and comment on the final days of Jesus, Köstenberger and Taylor provide just enough commentary to help you understand the various narratives at play within the larger arc of the redemptive story. Why does Jesus ride into Jerusalem on a donkey? Who is the Son of Man prophesied in Daniel, and what does that have to do with the high priest tearing his clothes? Why do the Jews so viciously turn on Jesus? Why did Jesus have to appear before both the Jewish and Roman authorities? What is the significance of the inscription over Jesus’ head? Why crucifixion? The authors tackle all of these questions and more as they unpack the various movements in the final scenes of the life of Jesus, the promised Messiah.
Along with the biblical text and accompanying commentary, you’ll find maps, charts, and illustrations all throughout the book, serving to help you visualize and understand the biblical data that the authors are summarizing, harmonizing, and commenting on. I found them to be helpful, overall, and appreciate their inclusion.
Although some of these tables, charts, and related commentary do require the authors to make interpretive judgments, as one would expect in a resource with such features, it is refreshing to see that Köstenberger and Taylor largely draw their conclusions from what the text of scripture itself plainly states. Many authors fall into the error of saying more than the text says, but Köstenberger and Taylor do an admirable job at staying within the bounds of inspired scripture. They deftly weave Old Testament types and prophecies with New Testament fulfillment, and they do so in a way that is easy to follow for both new and seasoned believers – though I am convinced that those at least somewhat familiar with the Old Testament (offices, titles, names, events, etc.) will be better equipped to appreciate the finer details of this work.
Helpful illustrations are also placed throughout the book, making it easier to visualize the data that is being summarized or commented on. Again, some interpretive judgments must be made, so a diagram or two might not match one-to-one with what you have been taught before. Nevertheless, I find that these diagrams are largely profitable and useful and will remark that Köstenberger and Taylor do a fine job at presenting sufficient rationale for the assumptions and interpretations they make.
The Political Significance of Messiah
Perhaps one of the most helpful features of this book is the manner in which Köstenberger and Taylor draw attention to the political aspect of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah / King / Anointed One. I was helpfully reminded that our western eyes don’t always see or understand the nuanced details that the gospel writers provide. What does it mean that Jesus is the Son of God? To what office was Jesus anointed for? It is clear, The Final Days points out, that Jesus was a threat not only to the devil and his demons, but to the political and religious structures of the time as well.
The Jews, for the most part, expected that a “greater Son of David” would appear on the scene and reign over Israel – and eventually the entire world – with might and justice. Expectations around Messiah, then, included the destruction of Israel’s enemies (i.e., the Romans in Jesus’ days). Thus, as Jesus’ earthly ministry is approaching a climax, there are two possible outcomes in the minds of all of the inhabitants of Israel at the time: either Jesus will establish His reign as King over Israel and powerfully and completely eliminate Rome’s occupation, or He will die as a pretender and go down as yet another failed insurrectionist.
No one anticipated a third option. Yet it is the third option – the death, burial, and resurrection of the triumphant Son of God – that the authors assert that the gospels coalesce to present. The King of the universe has come, and His kingdom has invaded earth. This glorious truth has massive implications for both the Jews and the Romans, as well as the entire world.
The Long-Awaited, Yet Unexpected Messiah
It is clear that Köstenberger and Taylor are convinced that not only do the gospels not contradict one another, they complement each other. We are privileged, they argue, to have four accounts rather than just one, and we should celebrate the fact that the authors did not look to sanitize or edit their respective accounts. Instead, the gospel writers faithfully preserved what they saw (or heard), and they did so in a way that is consistent with how eyewitness testimony works.
In the last chapter of the book, the Köstenberger and Taylor ask the most important question of all. They ask the same question that Jesus asked Peter and the disciples, and it is the same question that you have to ask yourself: “Who do you say He is?”
While they might offer distinctive details and perspectives, the gospels agree on this: Jesus is the Son of the living God. He is the lamb of God given and slain for sinners. He was born of a virgin though and lived a perfect, sinless life. He was crucified, died, and was buried. The third day, He rose from the dead, ascended on high, and is now sitting at the right hand of the throne of God having accomplished the work His Father gave Him to do. He will come again to judge the living and the dead, and His kingdom will know no end. Köstenberger and Taylor successfully demonstrate that the gospel writers each say these things in their four unique but complementary accounts.
Now, the question remains: who do you say He is?
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a harmonization of the four gospel accounts of Jesus’ final week, to anyone looking for a devotional aid – especially for one to use during the week(s) leading up to Easter, and to anyone looking to further understand the nuances and details of the most important week of the most important person who ever lived. This 200 page book is a brilliantly executed resource that will help you see how the gospel writers carefully and accurately capture and convey the final week of Jesus in a fresh, inviting, and compelling way. I look forward to revisiting this helpful work in the weeks leading up to Easter and invite you to do the same.
5/5
If you’ve been a Christian long enough, you, like me, have probably heard the bold and incorrect assertion that the gospel accounts of Jesus’ life contradict one another. Whether that statement comes from the mouths of liberal theologians, agnostic acquaintances, or atheistic bloggers, we must acknowledge that it is one that has been repeated (and I would argue decisively refuted) for centuries. In The Final Days of Jesus, Andreas J. Köstenberger and Justin Taylor deliver a heart-stirring harmonization of the gospel testimony of Jesus’ final days that is honest, approachable, refreshing, and informative.
While this book is not a a strict technical analysis, it is plainly evident that Köstenberger and Taylor have done their homework. Coming in at right around 200 pages, The Final Days of Jesus is clear and concise (one might call it brief), yet manages to be informative for even seasoned Christians. Beginning with Sunday March 29th, AD 33 and culminating on Sunday April 5, AD 33, Köstenberger and Taylor provide a running commentary on the scriptural testimony of the events that transpired during what many call the “Passion Week.” The general structure of the text is intended to help you understand exactly what happened on each day of Jesus’ final week. Each notable moment of the Passion Week is demarcated by a subtitle and reference to the relevant biblical texts that are being summarized, harmonized, and explained. For the most part, the relevant texts are copied into the book to make the experience as seamless as possible.
A Helpful Devotional Commentary
As alluded to above, it is imperative to note that Köstenberger and Taylor do not set out to provide an academic resource, but an aid to inform worship. They are not overly concerned with defending their dating philosophy (e.g. providing thorough arguments for a 33 AD dating of Jesus’ death), the precise location of sites and buildings, etc. That doesn’t mean they haven’t done the scholarly work to be able to defend their positions – it simply means that the limited scope of this work prevents them from including extensive references and providing lengthy arguments for their convictions. What the two are concerned with is detailing the events that transpired in Jesus’ final week and explaining both the historical and eschatological significance of all that took place. Jesus is the God-man, the Messiah, the second person of the Trinity; this book reminds us of the impact that such extraordinary claims had on the Jews and Romans of the time.
As they summarize, harmonize, and comment on the final days of Jesus, Köstenberger and Taylor provide just enough commentary to help you understand the various narratives at play within the larger arc of the redemptive story. Why does Jesus ride into Jerusalem on a donkey? Who is the Son of Man prophesied in Daniel, and what does that have to do with the high priest tearing his clothes? Why do the Jews so viciously turn on Jesus? Why did Jesus have to appear before both the Jewish and Roman authorities? What is the significance of the inscription over Jesus’ head? Why crucifixion? The authors tackle all of these questions and more as they unpack the various movements in the final scenes of the life of Jesus, the promised Messiah.
Along with the biblical text and accompanying commentary, you’ll find maps, charts, and illustrations all throughout the book, serving to help you visualize and understand the biblical data that the authors are summarizing, harmonizing, and commenting on. I found them to be helpful, overall, and appreciate their inclusion.
Although some of these tables, charts, and related commentary do require the authors to make interpretive judgments, as one would expect in a resource with such features, it is refreshing to see that Köstenberger and Taylor largely draw their conclusions from what the text of scripture itself plainly states. Many authors fall into the error of saying more than the text says, but Köstenberger and Taylor do an admirable job at staying within the bounds of inspired scripture. They deftly weave Old Testament types and prophecies with New Testament fulfillment, and they do so in a way that is easy to follow for both new and seasoned believers – though I am convinced that those at least somewhat familiar with the Old Testament (offices, titles, names, events, etc.) will be better equipped to appreciate the finer details of this work.
Helpful illustrations are also placed throughout the book, making it easier to visualize the data that is being summarized or commented on. Again, some interpretive judgments must be made, so a diagram or two might not match one-to-one with what you have been taught before. Nevertheless, I find that these diagrams are largely profitable and useful and will remark that Köstenberger and Taylor do a fine job at presenting sufficient rationale for the assumptions and interpretations they make.
The Political Significance of Messiah
Perhaps one of the most helpful features of this book is the manner in which Köstenberger and Taylor draw attention to the political aspect of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah / King / Anointed One. I was helpfully reminded that our western eyes don’t always see or understand the nuanced details that the gospel writers provide. What does it mean that Jesus is the Son of God? To what office was Jesus anointed for? It is clear, The Final Days points out, that Jesus was a threat not only to the devil and his demons, but to the political and religious structures of the time as well.
The Jews, for the most part, expected that a “greater Son of David” would appear on the scene and reign over Israel – and eventually the entire world – with might and justice. Expectations around Messiah, then, included the destruction of Israel’s enemies (i.e., the Romans in Jesus’ days). Thus, as Jesus’ earthly ministry is approaching a climax, there are two possible outcomes in the minds of all of the inhabitants of Israel at the time: either Jesus will establish His reign as King over Israel and powerfully and completely eliminate Rome’s occupation, or He will die as a pretender and go down as yet another failed insurrectionist.
No one anticipated a third option. Yet it is the third option – the death, burial, and resurrection of the triumphant Son of God – that the authors assert that the gospels coalesce to present. The King of the universe has come, and His kingdom has invaded earth. This glorious truth has massive implications for both the Jews and the Romans, as well as the entire world.
The Long-Awaited, Yet Unexpected Messiah
It is clear that Köstenberger and Taylor are convinced that not only do the gospels not contradict one another, they complement each other. We are privileged, they argue, to have four accounts rather than just one, and we should celebrate the fact that the authors did not look to sanitize or edit their respective accounts. Instead, the gospel writers faithfully preserved what they saw (or heard), and they did so in a way that is consistent with how eyewitness testimony works.
In the last chapter of the book, the Köstenberger and Taylor ask the most important question of all. They ask the same question that Jesus asked Peter and the disciples, and it is the same question that you have to ask yourself: “Who do you say He is?”
While they might offer distinctive details and perspectives, the gospels agree on this: Jesus is the Son of the living God. He is the lamb of God given and slain for sinners. He was born of a virgin though and lived a perfect, sinless life. He was crucified, died, and was buried. The third day, He rose from the dead, ascended on high, and is now sitting at the right hand of the throne of God having accomplished the work His Father gave Him to do. He will come again to judge the living and the dead, and His kingdom will know no end. Köstenberger and Taylor successfully demonstrate that the gospel writers each say these things in their four unique but complementary accounts.
Now, the question remains: who do you say He is?
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a harmonization of the four gospel accounts of Jesus’ final week, to anyone looking for a devotional aid – especially for one to use during the week(s) leading up to Easter, and to anyone looking to further understand the nuances and details of the most important week of the most important person who ever lived. This 200 page book is a brilliantly executed resource that will help you see how the gospel writers carefully and accurately capture and convey the final week of Jesus in a fresh, inviting, and compelling way. I look forward to revisiting this helpful work in the weeks leading up to Easter and invite you to do the same.
5/5
December 7, 2019
Crossway recently released a new work from Andreas Kostenberger and Justin Taylor entitled The Final Days of Jesus. Through this work the authors seek to provide an organized and devotional look at the final week of the life of Christ. Kostenberger and Taylor offer the reader a guided tour of Passion Week that is accessible, organized, and stirring.
The structure of this work is basically a harmony of the Gospels focused on the week of His passion with extensive commentary on the biblical text. The Final Days of Jesus does a great job examining, but not exceeding, the text. Oftentimes there is a temptation when commenting on Scripture to be definitive in places that one cannot honestly be definitive. Authors will often also read into motives and mentality in places where the Scriptures do not comment in order to make a point. I was pleased to not encounter these eisegetical events in The Final Days of Jesus.
This book is simple. It is clear. It is basic, both in a common sense and a classical sense. All this book seeks to do is to allow the reader to see and understand what the Scriptures record and it does just that. In doing so, it allows the reader to be gripped by the world changing story of the death and resurrection of the Son of God.
This work is beneficial in a number of ways. The Final Days of Jesus is a great work to introduce someone to the events of Jesus’ week leading up to Jesus’ work on the cross. It also serves as a great work to read in preparation of the celebration of our Lord’s death and resurrection.
Kostenberger and Taylor’s guided tour of the Passion narrative is well worth being read and enjoyed.
I received a review copy of the book from Crossway in order to offer an honest review.
The structure of this work is basically a harmony of the Gospels focused on the week of His passion with extensive commentary on the biblical text. The Final Days of Jesus does a great job examining, but not exceeding, the text. Oftentimes there is a temptation when commenting on Scripture to be definitive in places that one cannot honestly be definitive. Authors will often also read into motives and mentality in places where the Scriptures do not comment in order to make a point. I was pleased to not encounter these eisegetical events in The Final Days of Jesus.
This book is simple. It is clear. It is basic, both in a common sense and a classical sense. All this book seeks to do is to allow the reader to see and understand what the Scriptures record and it does just that. In doing so, it allows the reader to be gripped by the world changing story of the death and resurrection of the Son of God.
This work is beneficial in a number of ways. The Final Days of Jesus is a great work to introduce someone to the events of Jesus’ week leading up to Jesus’ work on the cross. It also serves as a great work to read in preparation of the celebration of our Lord’s death and resurrection.
Kostenberger and Taylor’s guided tour of the Passion narrative is well worth being read and enjoyed.
I received a review copy of the book from Crossway in order to offer an honest review.
August 23, 2020
The Final Days of Jesus is a harmony of the gospels, specifically for the last week of Jesus’ life. The authors state in their introduction that it is intended to be read over the Easter week as a devotional since the book covers the time period from Palm Sunday through to Resurrection Sunday. However, there is no mention of Easter festivities, only what is included in the Gospel accounts.
Beginning from Thursday, the authors include the text of the Gospels for each narrative scene and give both an exegesis and an explanation of how the events fit together into the timeline of Jesus’ particular day. The material on Resurrection Sunday was particularly helpful in suggesting possibilities for the order of the events, especially the appearance of Jesus to Mary Magdalene.
Overall, this book is an easy read that simply and powerfully consolidates what the four Gospels teach on the most significant week in the history of the world.
Beginning from Thursday, the authors include the text of the Gospels for each narrative scene and give both an exegesis and an explanation of how the events fit together into the timeline of Jesus’ particular day. The material on Resurrection Sunday was particularly helpful in suggesting possibilities for the order of the events, especially the appearance of Jesus to Mary Magdalene.
Overall, this book is an easy read that simply and powerfully consolidates what the four Gospels teach on the most significant week in the history of the world.
August 2, 2017
This is a great resource for Christians in pondering Holy Week. Kostenberger and Taylor have assembled all the Gospel material from the week and organized them chronologically by day.
Each collection of readings is followed by a commentary that adds context and elaborates upon the setting and storyline. It is a simple, but very effective format, as it focuses the reader on the week's events, the history leading up to the final week, and then gives a unique kind of focus on the historicity of the events themselves, as it becomes even more alive to the reader to have it all together in one place, organized in such a way to focus upon the text in such an organized manner.
This is great Holy Week reading--it is mainly straight out of the Bible, but the organization and notes make this a great book.
Each collection of readings is followed by a commentary that adds context and elaborates upon the setting and storyline. It is a simple, but very effective format, as it focuses the reader on the week's events, the history leading up to the final week, and then gives a unique kind of focus on the historicity of the events themselves, as it becomes even more alive to the reader to have it all together in one place, organized in such a way to focus upon the text in such an organized manner.
This is great Holy Week reading--it is mainly straight out of the Bible, but the organization and notes make this a great book.
March 24, 2016
Okay. Most useful as a compendium/harmonization of the various Gospel accounts of Holy Week. Very little new or in-depth information added to what is already in the Biblical text. If you're looking for OT connections, historical context, discussion of dating, etc., this is not the book for you. However, if you want a very clear and chronological presentation of the richly textured yet often confusing narratives in Scripture, I would recommend this work. Certainly a good idea to read it at this time of year!
July 12, 2014
I've not read anything else quite like this and I found it helpful. Nothing they say is earth-shatteringly new but that's probably a good thing. It's a quick read but puts the focus on exactly what Jesus did and went through in his final week before Calvary. I'd really recommend it and the glossary at the end is also helpful.
April 19, 2014
A helpful guide, chronicling the "final days of Jesus" with texts from all four Gospels and providing useful charts and commentary for each day. What's missing, however, is a devotional sense, a resource that not only informs the mind but stirs the heart.
April 25, 2015
Inspiring read
I like the way the book is put together - chronologically, by scripture then immediate commentary. It aids the understanding of scripture.
I like the way the book is put together - chronologically, by scripture then immediate commentary. It aids the understanding of scripture.
April 17, 2020
Many historical errors
June 6, 2021
I began reading this book around Easter, and only recently (approximately 2 months later) finished this journey through ‘the most important week of the most important person who ever lived’. Tracing the events of the final week of Jesus’ life leading up to (and including) his death, burial and resurrection, I found this journey through the Easter story to be a refreshing and helpful way to ponder, meditate upon and think through these events which are so central to my faith and the faith of Christians across the globe.
Arranged with two primary elements to each chapter – namely the scripture passages from each of the gospel accounts, broken into appropriate sections and included one after the other for easy comparison, followed by commentary by the authors – this book serves certainly as a harmonisation of the gospel accounts, and also as a tool for bible study/personal devotion. If you have ever wanted to delve deeper into some of the criticisms levelled at the gospels by unbelievers, you will likely find this to be a helpful volume to read and keep in your library!
One drawback which I think could have been avoided by the authors, and would probably have helped me as a reader to progress through the book more quickly, is that the chapter for Good Friday is extremely long. Granted, this is an incredibly pivotal time period within the Easter week; however, the commitment to ‘one chapter per day’ could/should probably have been laid down here for the sake of readability and accessibility (at least for those of us who like to sit down to read at least a chapter at a time).
The only other minor points of constructive criticism that came to mind while reading were that the pages in the centre, detailing the movements of Jesus around Jerusalem and showing diagrams of the temple, etc. seemed lifted from the ESV Study Bible or some similar source and, while not out of place in a book like this, could have been better integrated (they sort of just appeared without much introduction, and typeset in a different font, etc.) Additionally, there were a couple of points of harmonisation I would have liked the authors to push harder into, or for which I would have liked them to reference further external scholarship, but it didn’t feel like major stones were left unturned, so to speak.
In short, this is a helpful, accessible gospel harmonisation and a brilliant way for individuals, families or small groups to walk through the most important week of the most important person who ever lived. If you choose to take it up and read, no matter what time of year, I trust you will be blessed as you look in detail at the greatness of God’s sacrificial death for sinners, through which He redeemed for Himself a people, a remnant, the bride of Christ.
Arranged with two primary elements to each chapter – namely the scripture passages from each of the gospel accounts, broken into appropriate sections and included one after the other for easy comparison, followed by commentary by the authors – this book serves certainly as a harmonisation of the gospel accounts, and also as a tool for bible study/personal devotion. If you have ever wanted to delve deeper into some of the criticisms levelled at the gospels by unbelievers, you will likely find this to be a helpful volume to read and keep in your library!
One drawback which I think could have been avoided by the authors, and would probably have helped me as a reader to progress through the book more quickly, is that the chapter for Good Friday is extremely long. Granted, this is an incredibly pivotal time period within the Easter week; however, the commitment to ‘one chapter per day’ could/should probably have been laid down here for the sake of readability and accessibility (at least for those of us who like to sit down to read at least a chapter at a time).
The only other minor points of constructive criticism that came to mind while reading were that the pages in the centre, detailing the movements of Jesus around Jerusalem and showing diagrams of the temple, etc. seemed lifted from the ESV Study Bible or some similar source and, while not out of place in a book like this, could have been better integrated (they sort of just appeared without much introduction, and typeset in a different font, etc.) Additionally, there were a couple of points of harmonisation I would have liked the authors to push harder into, or for which I would have liked them to reference further external scholarship, but it didn’t feel like major stones were left unturned, so to speak.
In short, this is a helpful, accessible gospel harmonisation and a brilliant way for individuals, families or small groups to walk through the most important week of the most important person who ever lived. If you choose to take it up and read, no matter what time of year, I trust you will be blessed as you look in detail at the greatness of God’s sacrificial death for sinners, through which He redeemed for Himself a people, a remnant, the bride of Christ.
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