The Character of Jesus

by Charles Edward Jefferson

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Genres: Religion

353 pages

Published January 1, 1968

About the author

Charles Edward Jefferson was an American Congregational clergyman.
1860-1937

Reviews

[Josh Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

As Christians we argue over the best methods to evangelize. We debate over the Cessationists vs. the Charismatics, Calvinism vs. Armenianism, Creation vs. Evolution. I've been a part of many of these tense "discussions" and really can't say I've ever seen anyone change their stance on any issue. For time I was reading a lot of Creationist literature and found myself astounded by the scientific evidence for Creation. I thought, 'if only Evolutionists, atheists and the like knew this stuff, surely they would change their mind.' However, in instances where I saw these 'silver-bullet' Creationist ideas being used, I was surprised to see the opponent not only unchanged, but seemingly even more stalwart in their stance. Finally I realized (with the help of other writers, etc.) that a mountain of evidence in any debate means nothing when someone has a presupposition toward something (they will simply interpret all evidences through the lens of their presupposition). So I wondered, 'if the most amazing scientific facts can't convince someone, what can?'. The answer, I believe, is something like this from this unheard-of preacher, published in 1908. It's simply looking deep into this Jesus we claim to believe is the Son of God. It is a methodical, piece by piece study of every attribute of the Lord that we can possibly garner from scripture. When we quit practicing our Christianity looking horizontally human to human and look heavenward toward the Christ, our batteries are finally recharged, we are set ablaze and we actually WANT to share our faith. Books like this (and AW Tozer's The Attributes of God) revive my love for Jesus.

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Next to scripture, this book has brought me closer to Christ, helped me to understand Him as a Man, and strengthened my relationship with Him more than anything else I've ever read in my life.

But more than this, it's hands down the absolute best leadership and business book I've ever read in my life.

Jefferson has a gift for bringing the Man to life in such a way that you yearn to incorporate his qualities and characteristics into your own life.

As Jefferson writes,

"Jesus is a name, but as a person he is shadowy and unreal. His face has become obscure. Our heart does not feel his power. We are not indifferent to him, but we have no keen sense of loyalty to him, no purifying consciousness of adoration. We need to study him afresh. It may be that as we study him he will step out of the picture and take his place by his side.

"Not until we know him as a comrade do we get from him what he has to give. Because his face is dim we are often depressed and defeated. We are always faint in life's hard places unless we are close enough to catch the light of his eye and feel the strong beating of his unconquerable heart."


After reading this book, I've never been more motivated by be like Christ in every aspect of my life.

And I can't think of a better book to help people improve as leaders and make better business decisions.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series of lectures, published in 1908, is a wonderful introduction to Jesus, the man and His character. Jefferson brings out many details that I just hadn't noticed. Seeing Jesus as my Savior, it can sometimes be difficult to see his humanity. This book does an excellent job bringing out the various facets of Jesus' life and character that I can strive for. As these are a series of lectures, there is some repetition of content, but not overmuch.

[Pattimoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

exceptional and moving

[Barry Mower · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed the depth of each of the attributes delved into by the author. The majesty of his words match his deep reverence for Christ and wrap themselves around you with warm comfort.

"The Character of Jesus" has been out of print for a number of years, but would be a wonderful and welcome discovery as a used book.

[Stanley Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

An old book with spectacular insights into Christ's character