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Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus
The story of Jesus includes all kinds of characters. Some see these people as mere examples to follow or to avoid, and some have only heard about them in Sunday school stories. But their interactions with Jesus reveal much more about the person of Jesus himself and the message he has for us. Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus tells the story of 10 people or groups of people who are integral to the story of Jesus told in the Gospels. Each chapter takes a character off the Sunday school felt board and reveals them as a three-dimensional person with desires, motivations, flaws, and limitations. They are more than examples--they show us a unique angle on the grace available through Jesus for sinners. Each chapter also offers challenging applications to the lives of readers.
240 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2020
166 people are currently reading
1905 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Guthrie
80 books564 followersNancy Guthrie teaches the Bible at her home church, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church in Franklin, Tennessee, as well as at conferences around the country and internationally, including through her Biblical Theology Workshops for Women. She is the author of numerous books and the host of the Help Me Teach the Bible podcast at The Gospel Coalition. She and her husband host Respite Retreats for couples who have faced the death of child and are co-hosts of the GriefShare video series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
June 21, 2023
I am continuously encouraged and convicted by Nancy Guthrie's teachings. I loved the hymns she added to the chapters, the scripture, and how she approaches different Biblical characters. This is one I will definitely revisit.♡
July 21, 2020
I enjoyed Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus by Nancy Guthrie. I like to read Christian literature in the mornings along with my Bible, and this one took me a while. (However, I did go a long time without reading it at all because I lost it.😂)
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Anyway, it’s found now! It’s about saints and scoundrels like John the Baptist, Zacchaeus, Judas, Peter, but more importantly the author shares Biblical history and information that helps us see them clearer. As we meet each Biblical character, we also learn more about God’s grace and transforming power.
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She makes you view these characters in a different, more real way as we examine their motivations and influence. One chapter on Caiaphas gave me a greater understanding of the Old Testament customs and how they prepared the way for Jesus. The chapter on the Pharisees made me examine my heart and see my own hypocrisy. Here’s a quote from that chapter:
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“It makes me wonder: what have I turned into a big deal that really isn’t that big of a deal to God? And what really matters to him that either doesn’t matter to me enough, or doesn’t matter to me at all? What doesn’t come up on my radar? Do I love what God loves and hate what he hates? Am I motivated by what matters to him or more motivated by my own interests, convenience, inclinations, and reputation? Let’s face it, we’d much rather be able to count and measure our way into favor with God than to feel the weight and work of what it means for us to extend mercy to people around us, to figure out how to practice justice when we’d rather enjoy an advantage, and to walk humbly with our God in a world of distraction and misdirection. It wasn’t just hard for them. It’s hard for us too.”
•
Anyway, it’s found now! It’s about saints and scoundrels like John the Baptist, Zacchaeus, Judas, Peter, but more importantly the author shares Biblical history and information that helps us see them clearer. As we meet each Biblical character, we also learn more about God’s grace and transforming power.
•
She makes you view these characters in a different, more real way as we examine their motivations and influence. One chapter on Caiaphas gave me a greater understanding of the Old Testament customs and how they prepared the way for Jesus. The chapter on the Pharisees made me examine my heart and see my own hypocrisy. Here’s a quote from that chapter:
•
“It makes me wonder: what have I turned into a big deal that really isn’t that big of a deal to God? And what really matters to him that either doesn’t matter to me enough, or doesn’t matter to me at all? What doesn’t come up on my radar? Do I love what God loves and hate what he hates? Am I motivated by what matters to him or more motivated by my own interests, convenience, inclinations, and reputation? Let’s face it, we’d much rather be able to count and measure our way into favor with God than to feel the weight and work of what it means for us to extend mercy to people around us, to figure out how to practice justice when we’d rather enjoy an advantage, and to walk humbly with our God in a world of distraction and misdirection. It wasn’t just hard for them. It’s hard for us too.”
June 12, 2020
June 2020 UPDATE: I am rereading the book again, this time with the study guide as well. The study guide adds a whole other layer of depth and I'm enjoying the book even more the second time which I didn't think possible!
Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus is a new book written by Nancy Guthrie. I have such *incredibly* high respect for this author. Her writing is compelling, accessible, thoughtful and direct.
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This book focuses on ten people/groups that intersect with the life of Jesus, showing us the trajectory of his ministry and the flow of his grace towards us. Also during each chapter, Nancy reflects on what this means for the life of a Christian, using thought-provoking applications. To seal the deal she closes each chapter with a hymn. Hymns are new to me within the last ten years and they are PRECIOUS like coffee after a night of no sleep Haha I drink them up with gusto.
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FAVORITE QUOTE:
Real repentance doesn’t come naturally even to, and perhaps especially to, religious people. It takes a great deal of humility to say, “I’ve been wrong. I’ve been going in the wrong direction, and now with all of the strength that God gives me, I intend to go in the opposite direction—toward dependence instead of independence, toward living to please God instead of just using God, toward humble obedience instead of prideful resistance.” Repentance is not just a tweak. It’s not a slight adjustment on the compass. It is a full turn that proves itself to be genuine by the fruit that is borne in a person’s life.
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This is a book I will buy for my forever shelf. Well done! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ without a doubt. Thank you to NetGalley and Crossway for providing this free digital copy in exchange for my honest review. Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus releases April 14th! A perfect Easter present ✝️
Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus is a new book written by Nancy Guthrie. I have such *incredibly* high respect for this author. Her writing is compelling, accessible, thoughtful and direct.
•
This book focuses on ten people/groups that intersect with the life of Jesus, showing us the trajectory of his ministry and the flow of his grace towards us. Also during each chapter, Nancy reflects on what this means for the life of a Christian, using thought-provoking applications. To seal the deal she closes each chapter with a hymn. Hymns are new to me within the last ten years and they are PRECIOUS like coffee after a night of no sleep Haha I drink them up with gusto.
•
FAVORITE QUOTE:
Real repentance doesn’t come naturally even to, and perhaps especially to, religious people. It takes a great deal of humility to say, “I’ve been wrong. I’ve been going in the wrong direction, and now with all of the strength that God gives me, I intend to go in the opposite direction—toward dependence instead of independence, toward living to please God instead of just using God, toward humble obedience instead of prideful resistance.” Repentance is not just a tweak. It’s not a slight adjustment on the compass. It is a full turn that proves itself to be genuine by the fruit that is borne in a person’s life.
•
This is a book I will buy for my forever shelf. Well done! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ without a doubt. Thank you to NetGalley and Crossway for providing this free digital copy in exchange for my honest review. Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus releases April 14th! A perfect Easter present ✝️
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October 6, 2021«Santos y sinvergüenzas» en la historia de Jesús procura mostrarte las excelencias del Salvador al examinar su interacción con algunos personajes que jugaron un papel importante en los relatos bíblicos. En diez capítulos llenos de exposición biográfica fiel y reflexión bíblica, la autora muestra cómo la gracia de Dios en Jesús transforma a los peores sinvergüenzas en santos redimidos de sus pecados.
Lee la reseña completa en Coalición por el Evangelio.
Lee la reseña completa en Coalición por el Evangelio.
August 5, 2023
Quick read. I very much enjoyed the chapter on hypocrisy and the chapter where Guthrie contrasted Judas and Mary. It is very simple, but I’m sure it would be so helpful to a new believer. The reflection questions toward the end of each chapter were convicting and encouraging.
March 13, 2020
When we realize that we exist for God's pleasure and glory, that changes changes how we look at everything. Your will is surrendered to the will of God.
A contrast of how we respond to the Lord. When our eyes have been opened to who He is as the disciples were to how the heart of the Pharisee who rejected him. The text in these contrasts is to open our own eyes in how we respond to the will of the Father. In the example of Judas. His betrayal of Jesus. Would his heart have been softened if he repented? How did his superiority with Mary affect his relationship with Jesus and ultimately led to his suicide. Or the example of Barabbas as he represented the substitution. He was declared by the crowd free and Jesus was crucified.
We can be humbled by the scoundrels of the bible and see Jesus in a new light. One that we can put our hope in and press into as we walk the narrow path. The Saints saw the glory of God during the suffering while the Scoundrels only desired glory for themselves. It is important to our faith to see ourselves in light of the Saints and Scoundrels as it tells our story in Jesus. Highly recommend.
A Special Thank you to Crossway Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
A contrast of how we respond to the Lord. When our eyes have been opened to who He is as the disciples were to how the heart of the Pharisee who rejected him. The text in these contrasts is to open our own eyes in how we respond to the will of the Father. In the example of Judas. His betrayal of Jesus. Would his heart have been softened if he repented? How did his superiority with Mary affect his relationship with Jesus and ultimately led to his suicide. Or the example of Barabbas as he represented the substitution. He was declared by the crowd free and Jesus was crucified.
We can be humbled by the scoundrels of the bible and see Jesus in a new light. One that we can put our hope in and press into as we walk the narrow path. The Saints saw the glory of God during the suffering while the Scoundrels only desired glory for themselves. It is important to our faith to see ourselves in light of the Saints and Scoundrels as it tells our story in Jesus. Highly recommend.
A Special Thank you to Crossway Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 10, 2025
The content of this book was true and good, but I was not a fan of Guthrie’s writing style.
Read
November 18, 2025A fine book to walk through with a non-believer or just for your own reminding of the goodness of God.
August 8, 2023
Encouraging. Fascinating. Convicting. A splendid book about the colorful characters of the gospels and the Lord who gives more grace.
November 23, 2021
Nancy Guthrie has penned a timely book which is not only inspirational but deeply thought provoking. At first it was the title that piqued my interest. Then I read the promotional blurb!
On the spiritual life spectrum there are the spiritual heroes (saints) that are documented in the Bible; on the opposing end of the spectrum are the ragamuffins, outcasts, down and outers (scoundrels) . Exploring these types was compelling!
More intriguing is that God used- and still uses- those of us in the less than spiritual “saint” position on the spectrum. What a unique and meaningful approach Ms. Guthrie has taken to explore our place in God’s kingdom! She presents much wisdom and insight for Christ followers, no matter our spiritual state.
This book encourages and challenges readers to fulfill God’s calling in our life, even when we may fall much closer to the scoundrel end of the spiritual continuum.
In addition to the excellent biblical teaching, I particularly appreciate the following:
Ms. Guthrie makes personal applications for us today through the study of a character in the Bible.
Each chapter concludes with a hymn that underscores the message/application.
Ms. Guthrie provides introspective questions for individual consideration or for group discussion. The questions are located in the back of the book and are not listed in The Table of Contents. I didn’t see them until I had complete the book. Don’t miss this excellent feature!
Also in the back of the book one can find extensive notes and citations and a comprehensive bibliography for further study and reference.
I can’t say enough about the quality of this book: excellent and thorough biblical content, relevancy for today’s reader, and unique, engaging presentation!
I am purchasing a hard cover so I can reread again and mark up! It’s that good! Impactful! Highly recommended as an excellent mainstay for one’s Christian library!
My gratitude to the publisher, NetGalley and Ms. Guthrie for providing a digital copy in exchange for a review.
On the spiritual life spectrum there are the spiritual heroes (saints) that are documented in the Bible; on the opposing end of the spectrum are the ragamuffins, outcasts, down and outers (scoundrels) . Exploring these types was compelling!
More intriguing is that God used- and still uses- those of us in the less than spiritual “saint” position on the spectrum. What a unique and meaningful approach Ms. Guthrie has taken to explore our place in God’s kingdom! She presents much wisdom and insight for Christ followers, no matter our spiritual state.
This book encourages and challenges readers to fulfill God’s calling in our life, even when we may fall much closer to the scoundrel end of the spiritual continuum.
In addition to the excellent biblical teaching, I particularly appreciate the following:
Ms. Guthrie makes personal applications for us today through the study of a character in the Bible.
Each chapter concludes with a hymn that underscores the message/application.
Ms. Guthrie provides introspective questions for individual consideration or for group discussion. The questions are located in the back of the book and are not listed in The Table of Contents. I didn’t see them until I had complete the book. Don’t miss this excellent feature!
Also in the back of the book one can find extensive notes and citations and a comprehensive bibliography for further study and reference.
I can’t say enough about the quality of this book: excellent and thorough biblical content, relevancy for today’s reader, and unique, engaging presentation!
I am purchasing a hard cover so I can reread again and mark up! It’s that good! Impactful! Highly recommended as an excellent mainstay for one’s Christian library!
My gratitude to the publisher, NetGalley and Ms. Guthrie for providing a digital copy in exchange for a review.
November 2, 2020
I was part of a buddy read on instagram. I followed along with the reading plan, but never actively joined the conversation! Even though I never talked about this book with the group, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and had lots of personal relfections.
The people surrounding Jesus were definitely some interesting folks. There were some saints who proved to be scoundrels, and some scoundrels who proved to be saints. It was neat to read more into the history of people like John the Baptist, Peter, Judas, Stephen and Paul. The last two chapters were personally my favorite. They talked about Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and Paul, who persecuted Christians before having a life changing transformation on the road to Damascus. This book was just fantastic. Nancy Guthrie is a great teacher and author and I learned so much. There were questions at the back of the book that related to each chapter. There was also a great study guide that I purchased online on Nancy's website that I was not able to work through, but hope to someday. All in all, this was a great study and would be a welcome addition to any womens bible study groups in the church.
The people surrounding Jesus were definitely some interesting folks. There were some saints who proved to be scoundrels, and some scoundrels who proved to be saints. It was neat to read more into the history of people like John the Baptist, Peter, Judas, Stephen and Paul. The last two chapters were personally my favorite. They talked about Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and Paul, who persecuted Christians before having a life changing transformation on the road to Damascus. This book was just fantastic. Nancy Guthrie is a great teacher and author and I learned so much. There were questions at the back of the book that related to each chapter. There was also a great study guide that I purchased online on Nancy's website that I was not able to work through, but hope to someday. All in all, this was a great study and would be a welcome addition to any womens bible study groups in the church.
October 25, 2025
Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus showcases what can be learned from the supporting cast of The Greatest Story Ever Told. From the Pharisees to the thief on the cross, from Peter to Judas, from John the Baptist to Zacchaeus, even the most minor character has something to teach us. Guthrie did a lovely job delving into each of these figures as well as tying their experiences into those we have today. She made each of character feel more fleshed out and real than we often see them, and thus more relatable. Because sometimes we forget that these names on the pages of Scripture were real people, not works of fiction.
This is an enjoyable read, though I did think that some of the chapters had a tendency to drag a bit. I found Guthrie’s writing fairly engaging, even if it wasn’t brimming with personality. Personalities, yes, as Guthrie did a great job presenting and addressing each of her chosen figures. She did take some poetic license with them, but I found everything largely in keeping with what we know from Scripture. However, nothing about her style really stood out to me; instead, it was solid and never distracting. There were a few theological points lightly referenced upon which I think Guthrie and I would differ. I think she is likely more Reformed in her doctrinal approach than I am in mine. But apart from those minor differences of opinion, I found her work largely theologically sound, especially where it matters most. One aspect of this book that I did especially enjoy was Guthrie’s inclusion of so much lyrics from hymns, both as a capstone to each chapter and embedded within the text. There’s also a beautiful presentation of the Gospel in its final chapter. Overall, Saints and Scoundrels was solid, and is well worth reading.
“Don’t hold on so tight to whatever sin you think you can’t live without that you do not take hold of Jesus.”
This is an enjoyable read, though I did think that some of the chapters had a tendency to drag a bit. I found Guthrie’s writing fairly engaging, even if it wasn’t brimming with personality. Personalities, yes, as Guthrie did a great job presenting and addressing each of her chosen figures. She did take some poetic license with them, but I found everything largely in keeping with what we know from Scripture. However, nothing about her style really stood out to me; instead, it was solid and never distracting. There were a few theological points lightly referenced upon which I think Guthrie and I would differ. I think she is likely more Reformed in her doctrinal approach than I am in mine. But apart from those minor differences of opinion, I found her work largely theologically sound, especially where it matters most. One aspect of this book that I did especially enjoy was Guthrie’s inclusion of so much lyrics from hymns, both as a capstone to each chapter and embedded within the text. There’s also a beautiful presentation of the Gospel in its final chapter. Overall, Saints and Scoundrels was solid, and is well worth reading.
“Confidence in the glory of the future enables us to endure the suffering of the present.”
August 26, 2020
In "Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus" Nancy Guthrie walks us through the streets that Jesus walked and shows us glimpses of the people who surrounded Him, giving new color to stories we all know so well. My favorite chapters were the ones about Peter and Zacchaeus -- such hope they give to scoundrels like me! A wonderful read for Christians and non Christians alike. (If you can listen to the audiobook you'll get the perk of listening to the author singing the Hymns that close each chapter!)
June 23, 2024
4.5🌟
This was a really interesting book and made me rethink some of the familiar stories from the life of Jesus. I liked how she interspersed hymns throughout the chapters to drive her point home. I came away with a new appreciation of Jesus' love for me and His great mercy! I think I would eventually like to get a hard copy and do a Bible study along with it.
This was a really interesting book and made me rethink some of the familiar stories from the life of Jesus. I liked how she interspersed hymns throughout the chapters to drive her point home. I came away with a new appreciation of Jesus' love for me and His great mercy! I think I would eventually like to get a hard copy and do a Bible study along with it.
June 5, 2025
i definitely enjoyed this read. there were lines where it was clear that nancy and i disagree on some things, BUT this was still a great book to dive deeper into specific people in the Bible and learn more about their contexts and actions. i did appreciate a lot of the discussion of grace and mercy, of change being possible through God, and the way we all fit into the dozens of stereotypes that we see in the Bible. i’d recommend this to anyone looking to see the characters of the Bible as more three dimensional, but i’d take some of the one-liners with a grain of salt (wink wink)
April 11, 2025
so much to learn! written in a way that anyone can grasp. a keeper for sure.
April 11, 2023
4.5. Nancy Guthrie knows how to teach the BIBLE!!! This book had so much scripture in it … stories of grace!! These pages are a gift to me
June 17, 2020
A careful reading of the New Testament bears faithful witness to the blurred lines between the saints and the scoundrels–and who gets to be remembered in which category. With head-spinning frequency, the biblical narrative boldly portrays disciples who become betrayers alongside victorious conversions in which taxpayers become philanthropists and murderers become apostles.
Nancy Guthrie is one of my favorite Bible teachers, and in Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus, she challenges readers’ two dimensional reading of scripture by bringing depth to the characters who interacted with Jesus. As the fears, failures, and desires of these real-life human beings show up in the context of story, I see the heart of Jesus more clearly as he held out hope to saints and scoundrels alike.
The stories of Peter, Stephen, and Paul conjure sunny Sunday school images of faithful following, while simply the names of Judas and Caiaphas suggest “bad guy” vibes. Zacchaeus broke the mold, though, when he left behind his dishonest pursuit of riches and began to follow Jesus. Even the thief on the cross found welcome and transformation. This is good news, for the truth is that we’re all adopted, and fit right into the family of God.
God bent over backwards to make this clear even in the family he chose for Jesus’s earthly pedigree:
"The family of Jesus is made up of people who come from less-than-respectable backgrounds and have less-than-perfect records.” Kindle Loc 554
Peter, Jesus’s most outspoken disciple, derived all his solid Rock-like qualities from his relationship with Jesus. The man we find leading the fledgling church in Acts is truly a new creation.
Paul went from devoted Christian-killer to devoted Christian, and his story bears out the truth that the difference between a saint and a scoundrel is an encounter with the risen Christ. Guthrie (and the Bible!) make it clear that it’s not the presence of sin in a life that condemns us, but, rather, the refusal of God’s grace and forgiveness for that sin.
The only hope for saints and scoundrels alike is the mercy of God, available because of the blood of Christ. It is only by grace that any of us is empowered to become “sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.“
Many thanks to Crossway for providing a copy of this book to facilitate my review, which, of course, is offered freely and with honesty.
Nancy Guthrie is one of my favorite Bible teachers, and in Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus, she challenges readers’ two dimensional reading of scripture by bringing depth to the characters who interacted with Jesus. As the fears, failures, and desires of these real-life human beings show up in the context of story, I see the heart of Jesus more clearly as he held out hope to saints and scoundrels alike.
The stories of Peter, Stephen, and Paul conjure sunny Sunday school images of faithful following, while simply the names of Judas and Caiaphas suggest “bad guy” vibes. Zacchaeus broke the mold, though, when he left behind his dishonest pursuit of riches and began to follow Jesus. Even the thief on the cross found welcome and transformation. This is good news, for the truth is that we’re all adopted, and fit right into the family of God.
God bent over backwards to make this clear even in the family he chose for Jesus’s earthly pedigree:
"The family of Jesus is made up of people who come from less-than-respectable backgrounds and have less-than-perfect records.” Kindle Loc 554
Peter, Jesus’s most outspoken disciple, derived all his solid Rock-like qualities from his relationship with Jesus. The man we find leading the fledgling church in Acts is truly a new creation.
Paul went from devoted Christian-killer to devoted Christian, and his story bears out the truth that the difference between a saint and a scoundrel is an encounter with the risen Christ. Guthrie (and the Bible!) make it clear that it’s not the presence of sin in a life that condemns us, but, rather, the refusal of God’s grace and forgiveness for that sin.
The only hope for saints and scoundrels alike is the mercy of God, available because of the blood of Christ. It is only by grace that any of us is empowered to become “sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.“
Many thanks to Crossway for providing a copy of this book to facilitate my review, which, of course, is offered freely and with honesty.
April 25, 2022
La autora escribe con fluidez su propio pensamiento y con claridad nos narra detalles históricos para poder comprender de mejor forma las historias de estos personajes que han pasado de sinvergüenzas a Santos a través de la gracia de Jesús. Recomendado!
April 28, 2021
As someone who has heard Bible stories all my life, I was very familiar with each of the saints and scoundrels discussed in this book; however, Nancy brought new information and a new perspective that helped pull me out of the surface level story and imagine the complexity of each life that was touched by Jesus.
June 12, 2023
Oh, how I loved this book. I bought seven more to give as gifts and a subscription to the videos that go with each chapter. Themes in this book are: Election, Repentance, and Transformation as told through real people in the Bible. This book is amazing!
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July 15, 2025Nancy Guthrie has a way of expounding on the simple and making it profound. My faith always deepens as the result of one of her books.
April 15, 2020
People are complicated. No one likes to be stereotyped on the basis of one event. it is also unfair to caricature them in one image, for whatever the reason. The same applies for characters in the Bible. Typically, in many story-telling contexts, including Sunday School classes, we use labels such as "Peter the rock," "Brilliant Paul," "Doubting Thomas," "Gentle John," or "Sacrificial Stephen" on the basis of significant events and behaviors recorded. Understandably, it is a case of oversimplifying for kids' sake. During such times, we can go deeper into the study of the character and discover more truths about the person beyond the superficial labels. When people grow up, they would realize that people do change over time, and their different emotions and reactions will also change. Driven by curiosity, author Nancy Guthrie takes a deeper look at some common characters in the gospels and Acts to nuance the same kind of person under different circumstances. Whatever "saints" or "scoundrels" behaviour in any one person, they all need Christ. This makes this book a powerful Bible Study series on ten biblical characters found in the gospels and Acts.
We start with John the Baptist as "The Voice" who for all the good things he had done with regard to proclaiming and baptizing Jesus, he fails to affirm Jesus directly when he was asked specifically in prison whether Jesus was the Messiah. In "The Family," Guthrie traces both Matthew's genealogy and the family of Jesus. Other than Jesus, all the other members have their share of ups and downs. They spend a long time not believing in Jesus until the end. Such imperfect records should bring loads of encouragement to those of us who feel discouraged or down with regard to our own spiritual records. When we think of the "rock," we would immediately think of Simon Peter. The author looks at his life and shows us the gradual transformation from fear to fearless. There are the hypocrites, the ones Jesus use on the Pharisees and religious leaders. After a long exposition on the flaws of these leaders, Guthrie floats up some glimmers of hope in the person of Nicodemus. The "crook" might make us think of Judas Iscariot, but Guthrie shows us that there are more in the gospels. As again Zacchaeus the unscrupulous tax collector was transformed from scoundrel to saint when he met Jesus. In contrast, Judas Iscariot is seen as "the opportunist" who gets from bad to worse. Guthrie makes an interesting insight that sees Judas as one who had all the opportunity to be saints, but squandered everything and chose "scoundrel" instead. Calling "Caiaphas" the "wicked, corrupt judge," Guthrie highlights other priests in the Bible as well to show us the spectrum of priestly types, eventually leading us to the Perfect Priest of all. Then there are the two sides of "criminal," the obvious and the insidious. We are reminded that we too as sinful people are guilty of it, and because it it, we need Jesus.
Guthrie closes the book with a "Group Discussion Guide" that not only summarizes the chapter's main points, but leads us toward deeper implications.
My Thoughts
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Each of the ten chapters presents to us a triple challenge: To identify who it is the author is speaking about; to expand our understanding beyond any one person, and to see how many of these categories we fit in. In identifying what the person is, readers would be piqued to try to guess exactly who is the voice, the hypocrite, the criminal, the opportunist, and so on. In some cases, we would be surprised when our answer differs drastically from Guthrie's. When that happens, I would urge readers to try to understand from the author's perspective. Like an experienced Bible teacher, Guthrie begins each chapter with a story or an illustration before bridging it to the biblical story. I would advise readers not to be hasty about linking the title to the suspect too quickly. We might be surprised at the conclusion. This makes the reading quite intriguing with the twists and turns.
Second, we learn to see the label applied to more than one person. For example, when referring to the "disciple," we see different examples of people who follow Jesus. The using the life of Stephen as an illustrative point, we learn about the cost of discipleship that following Jesus is not about obeying a set of rules but living out a life of conviction in Christ, whatever it takes. Or to try to do guesswork on who is the "worst" person of them all. Is it some atheist or is it a tyrant in history? Alas, Guthrie uses the story of the transformation of Saul to Paul, using the words of Paul as launchpad, that he considers himself the worst of all sinners.
Finally, perceptive readers will recognize that the study on saints and scoundrels could very well be a mirror of our best and worst selves. Those who think they are saints might be guilty of scandals and unscrupulous behaviour. Or they might think they are the worst of sinners like Paul, only to find themselves forgiven in the grace of God.
I enjoy this book because it is not only challenging but forces us to look at ourselves and especially into our own quadrants of the Johari window.
Nancy Guthrie teaches the Bible to women at her church, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church in Franklin, Tennessee, and at conferences worldwide. She and her husband, David, are the cohosts of the GriefShare video series used in more than 10,000 churches nationwide and also host Respite Retreats for couples who have experienced the death of a child. Guthrie is also the host of Help Me Teach the Bible, a podcast from the Gospel Coalition.
During this launch, there is a special 6-day video devotional by the author here. In mid-May, readers may download the Personal Bible Study and Leaders' Guide at her website here.
Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Crossway Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
We start with John the Baptist as "The Voice" who for all the good things he had done with regard to proclaiming and baptizing Jesus, he fails to affirm Jesus directly when he was asked specifically in prison whether Jesus was the Messiah. In "The Family," Guthrie traces both Matthew's genealogy and the family of Jesus. Other than Jesus, all the other members have their share of ups and downs. They spend a long time not believing in Jesus until the end. Such imperfect records should bring loads of encouragement to those of us who feel discouraged or down with regard to our own spiritual records. When we think of the "rock," we would immediately think of Simon Peter. The author looks at his life and shows us the gradual transformation from fear to fearless. There are the hypocrites, the ones Jesus use on the Pharisees and religious leaders. After a long exposition on the flaws of these leaders, Guthrie floats up some glimmers of hope in the person of Nicodemus. The "crook" might make us think of Judas Iscariot, but Guthrie shows us that there are more in the gospels. As again Zacchaeus the unscrupulous tax collector was transformed from scoundrel to saint when he met Jesus. In contrast, Judas Iscariot is seen as "the opportunist" who gets from bad to worse. Guthrie makes an interesting insight that sees Judas as one who had all the opportunity to be saints, but squandered everything and chose "scoundrel" instead. Calling "Caiaphas" the "wicked, corrupt judge," Guthrie highlights other priests in the Bible as well to show us the spectrum of priestly types, eventually leading us to the Perfect Priest of all. Then there are the two sides of "criminal," the obvious and the insidious. We are reminded that we too as sinful people are guilty of it, and because it it, we need Jesus.
Guthrie closes the book with a "Group Discussion Guide" that not only summarizes the chapter's main points, but leads us toward deeper implications.
My Thoughts
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Each of the ten chapters presents to us a triple challenge: To identify who it is the author is speaking about; to expand our understanding beyond any one person, and to see how many of these categories we fit in. In identifying what the person is, readers would be piqued to try to guess exactly who is the voice, the hypocrite, the criminal, the opportunist, and so on. In some cases, we would be surprised when our answer differs drastically from Guthrie's. When that happens, I would urge readers to try to understand from the author's perspective. Like an experienced Bible teacher, Guthrie begins each chapter with a story or an illustration before bridging it to the biblical story. I would advise readers not to be hasty about linking the title to the suspect too quickly. We might be surprised at the conclusion. This makes the reading quite intriguing with the twists and turns.
Second, we learn to see the label applied to more than one person. For example, when referring to the "disciple," we see different examples of people who follow Jesus. The using the life of Stephen as an illustrative point, we learn about the cost of discipleship that following Jesus is not about obeying a set of rules but living out a life of conviction in Christ, whatever it takes. Or to try to do guesswork on who is the "worst" person of them all. Is it some atheist or is it a tyrant in history? Alas, Guthrie uses the story of the transformation of Saul to Paul, using the words of Paul as launchpad, that he considers himself the worst of all sinners.
Finally, perceptive readers will recognize that the study on saints and scoundrels could very well be a mirror of our best and worst selves. Those who think they are saints might be guilty of scandals and unscrupulous behaviour. Or they might think they are the worst of sinners like Paul, only to find themselves forgiven in the grace of God.
I enjoy this book because it is not only challenging but forces us to look at ourselves and especially into our own quadrants of the Johari window.
Nancy Guthrie teaches the Bible to women at her church, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church in Franklin, Tennessee, and at conferences worldwide. She and her husband, David, are the cohosts of the GriefShare video series used in more than 10,000 churches nationwide and also host Respite Retreats for couples who have experienced the death of a child. Guthrie is also the host of Help Me Teach the Bible, a podcast from the Gospel Coalition.
During this launch, there is a special 6-day video devotional by the author here. In mid-May, readers may download the Personal Bible Study and Leaders' Guide at her website here.
Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Crossway Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
May 11, 2020
First sentence: The story of Jesus includes all kinds of characters—a second cousin who recognized him, parents who loved him, disciples who misunderstood him, fastidious law-keepers who tried to trap him, a friend who betrayed him, priests who plotted against him, and followers who died for him. While some embraced him, others hated him. While some wanted to serve him, others wanted to use him. Some who claimed to be saints proved to be scoundrels. And, some who began as scoundrels were transformed into saints.
Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus is a lovely read. Each chapter chooses one (or two, possibly three) characters to focus on. Guthrie writes in the introduction, "I hope to add to, deepen, refine, or perhaps correct your grasp of the various people I feature in the following chapters. I hope to show them to you from an angle you may not have seen before or at least to show them through a more intense lens than you may have previously examined them." She continues, "But mostly, I want to help you to see Jesus more clearly through delving into these stories and these people. Over and over again, we’ll see how Jesus interacted with people—people with hopes, dreams, hurts, and disappointments. We’ll hear what Jesus said to those who welcomed him and wanted him, as well as to those who rejected him and ridiculed him. We’ll also get a sense of what Jesus wants from us and what he offers to us."
This isn't a book to be read on its own. She encourages you--as do I--to read this one alongside the Bible itself. B
But the book also uses people to explore topics and themes. The chapter on hypocrisy was great.
I would definitely recommend this one. I think it could even be a profitable book to reread every few years.
Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus is a lovely read. Each chapter chooses one (or two, possibly three) characters to focus on. Guthrie writes in the introduction, "I hope to add to, deepen, refine, or perhaps correct your grasp of the various people I feature in the following chapters. I hope to show them to you from an angle you may not have seen before or at least to show them through a more intense lens than you may have previously examined them." She continues, "But mostly, I want to help you to see Jesus more clearly through delving into these stories and these people. Over and over again, we’ll see how Jesus interacted with people—people with hopes, dreams, hurts, and disappointments. We’ll hear what Jesus said to those who welcomed him and wanted him, as well as to those who rejected him and ridiculed him. We’ll also get a sense of what Jesus wants from us and what he offers to us."
This isn't a book to be read on its own. She encourages you--as do I--to read this one alongside the Bible itself. B
But the book also uses people to explore topics and themes. The chapter on hypocrisy was great.
If you’ve ever said, “I’ll pray for you,” and didn’t actually pray, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If you’ve ever said, “I forgive you,” but continued telling others how you’d been wronged, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If you’ve ever said, “Amen,” to someone’s prayer even though you’d actually been making a mental grocery list during the prayer, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If your lips have uttered the words, “Your kingdom come, your will be done,” with no intension of submitting to God in a particular area of your life, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If you regularly watch explicit programs that you’d never watch with church friends lest they think you are not as holy as you want to appear, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If your words to your family on the way to church are often harsh or unkind, but then friendly to everyone once at church, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If you’ve ever been glad to be observed donating money to your church, a mission project, or a “Go Fund Me” page for a particular cause, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If you have judged others for their judgmental attitudes and actions, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If you’ve ever hoped people would think that you’re reading the Bible on your phone during church when in reality you were scrolling through social media, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If you’ve ever used phrases like “the Lord led us” or “God told me” simply to make a decision sound more spiritual, you might be a religious hypocrite.
If you’ve ever posted something on social media hoping that viewers will think you are more virtuous, more compassionate, more “woke, ” more “with-it,” than you really are, you might be a religious hypocrite.
I would definitely recommend this one. I think it could even be a profitable book to reread every few years.
October 6, 2022
This book was amazing! Made me think a lot deeper about the characters in Christ’s atoning death, leading up to it and shortly after, like Paul and Stephen . I really enjoyed the history and explanation of the time and their roles in society. Made me think of what it REALLY might have been like. We have read the scriptures, but this book really set the scene and made you think about what it would have been like witnessing these scenes and people.
A couple of bits of theology I don’t agree with, but really appreciated the author’s insight into the history. (Named Jesus as a prophet, but in the context of the High Priests who killed all past prophets but did not recognise Christ- this was my main point of disagreement and want to make you aware if you are planning to read! It was at the end of a list and I understand what the author was trying to get across. However, take that line on its own and it doesn’t sit well with me, or more importantly, scripture! This would make me wary about recommending to someone who was not strong in their faith or a new believer. )
I started reading this book casually but stopped and purchased the accompanying Bible study and I am so glad I did. Made it an even richer read when accompanied by scripture!
A couple of bits of theology I don’t agree with, but really appreciated the author’s insight into the history. (Named Jesus as a prophet, but in the context of the High Priests who killed all past prophets but did not recognise Christ- this was my main point of disagreement and want to make you aware if you are planning to read! It was at the end of a list and I understand what the author was trying to get across. However, take that line on its own and it doesn’t sit well with me, or more importantly, scripture! This would make me wary about recommending to someone who was not strong in their faith or a new believer. )
I started reading this book casually but stopped and purchased the accompanying Bible study and I am so glad I did. Made it an even richer read when accompanied by scripture!
December 7, 2025
This book has challenged me to look at my own life as a Christian. It has compelled me to question and test my motives and driving forces in all that I do, lest I become self-righteous.I love how the author, Nancy, dissected each character so well, putting a powerful spotlight on their journeys: She exposed the shortfalls of even those in ministry (like 𝐉𝐎𝐇𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐈𝐒𝐓),She put to light the misgivings about Christ and Scripture of some, such as 𝐒𝐀𝐔𝐋, the 𝐇𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐰 of 𝐇𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐬,She powerfully showed how grace found some of the most discarded persons in society (𝐙𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐞𝐮𝐬) & She highlighted the tragic reality of how some who were in close proximity to Christ allowed Satan to take center stage in their life (𝐉𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐬).
This book has taught me so many things about the character of Christ and has left me with so much to ponder over.
I strongly advise everyone to pick up this book.Read it.Follow with Scripture.Question your own motives in alignment with what God desires from us.
This book has taught me so many things about the character of Christ and has left me with so much to ponder over.
I strongly advise everyone to pick up this book.Read it.Follow with Scripture.Question your own motives in alignment with what God desires from us.
April 3, 2025
El libro analiza a varias personas con las que Jesús interactuó durante su vida en la tierra. Se nota que la autora estudió en detalle sus vidas porque ofrece un montón de datos que mientras leemos la Biblia nos pueden pasar desapercibidos pero pueden cambiar un poco cómo nos posicionamos frente a sus hechos y actitudes.
La selección es bastante variada. En algunos capítulos me resultó confuso el hecho de que iba y venia con muchas historias buscando abarcar toda la vida de la persona. También por momentos partes del libro me resultaron demasiado obvias y se me hacia un poco tedioso. Igualmente como buena nerd me llené de datos que terminé anotando en mi Biblia y creo que es un buen material de consulta para estudio a fondo de alguno de los personajes.
Considero que es un libro que puede aplicar tanto a nuevos creyentes como a aquellos que ya tenemos varios años de caminar con Dios. Me gustó que cada capítulo termine con una estrofa de un himno. Me parece que le faltó un poco más de trabajo a las preguntas de reflexión ya que eran más para repasar lo que se habló en el capítulo que para pensar cómo aplicarlo a la vida personal. En la introducción se menciona una guía de estudio online pero no está disponible.
La selección es bastante variada. En algunos capítulos me resultó confuso el hecho de que iba y venia con muchas historias buscando abarcar toda la vida de la persona. También por momentos partes del libro me resultaron demasiado obvias y se me hacia un poco tedioso. Igualmente como buena nerd me llené de datos que terminé anotando en mi Biblia y creo que es un buen material de consulta para estudio a fondo de alguno de los personajes.
Considero que es un libro que puede aplicar tanto a nuevos creyentes como a aquellos que ya tenemos varios años de caminar con Dios. Me gustó que cada capítulo termine con una estrofa de un himno. Me parece que le faltó un poco más de trabajo a las preguntas de reflexión ya que eran más para repasar lo que se habló en el capítulo que para pensar cómo aplicarlo a la vida personal. En la introducción se menciona una guía de estudio online pero no está disponible.
July 3, 2020
I loved this book so much. I loved Guthrie's last book, Even Better than Eden, and I didn't think this could top it, but decided to read it anyway. It blew away my expectations. This book is insightful and observant. It is a book about the life of Jesus that actually zooms in on the other characters (and in doing so, ultimately zooms in on Christ). It is quick to make practical (and at times super convicting) applications. And yet is overwhelmingly gentle and hopeful. (Also, if you listen to the audiobook, Nancy herself sings the hymns she puts at the end of each chapter which is just wonderful). I cannot recommend this book enough.
June 10, 2025
I read this book as part of a women's ministry small group.
Nancy Guthrie, the author, has really done her research and presents 10 Biblical figures or groups that featured saints, scoundrels, and some of both!
The people you will meet here?
John the Baptist. Peter. Paul. Stephen. Caiphas, the Pharisees, the criminals who were crucified with Jesus, Jesus's own family, Zaccheus, and Judas Iscariot. The chapters are very readable and engaging, and the author usually ends each chapter with a relevant hymn.
This book lends itself to some great group discussion. A great read to pursue alone or in a group!
Nancy Guthrie, the author, has really done her research and presents 10 Biblical figures or groups that featured saints, scoundrels, and some of both!
The people you will meet here?
John the Baptist. Peter. Paul. Stephen. Caiphas, the Pharisees, the criminals who were crucified with Jesus, Jesus's own family, Zaccheus, and Judas Iscariot. The chapters are very readable and engaging, and the author usually ends each chapter with a relevant hymn.
This book lends itself to some great group discussion. A great read to pursue alone or in a group!
October 15, 2025
I enjoyed how this cut across the grain of the gospels to follow specific figures in depth. We meet Zaccheus, Herod, Caiaphas, Stephen and more, and get the pith of them. They're characters I've often overlooked, or thought of almost as props for the narrative, rather than living, breathing individuals.
Nancy Guthrie is brilliant at tracing their trajectories, and excavating the beating hearts beneath their brief appearances. She brings us right into application, too - hope and challenge for modern-day scoundrels and reluctant saints.
Wished I'd twigged that there were discussion questions at the end - would've been great for a book group
Nancy Guthrie is brilliant at tracing their trajectories, and excavating the beating hearts beneath their brief appearances. She brings us right into application, too - hope and challenge for modern-day scoundrels and reluctant saints.
Wished I'd twigged that there were discussion questions at the end - would've been great for a book group
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