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The Hope of Glory: Reflections on the Last Words of Jesus from the Cross
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jon Meacham explores the seven last sayings of Jesus as recorded in the Gospels, combining rich historical and theological insights to reflect on the true heart of the Christian story.
For Jon Meacham, as for believers worldwide, the events of Good Friday and Easter reveal essential truths about Christianity. A former vestryman of Trinity Church Wall Street and St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, Meacham delves into that intersection of faith and history in this meditation on the seven phrases Jesus spoke from the cross.
Beginning with "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" and ending with "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit," Meacham captures for the reader how these words epitomize Jesus's message of love, not hate; grace, not rage; and, rather than vengeance, extraordinary mercy. For each saying, Meacham composes an essay on the origins of Christianity and how Jesus's final words created a foundation for oral and written traditions that upended the very order of the world.
Writing in a tone more intimate than any of his previous works, Jon Meacham returns us to the moment that transformed Jesus from a historical figure into the proclaimed Son of God, worshiped by billions.
For Jon Meacham, as for believers worldwide, the events of Good Friday and Easter reveal essential truths about Christianity. A former vestryman of Trinity Church Wall Street and St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, Meacham delves into that intersection of faith and history in this meditation on the seven phrases Jesus spoke from the cross.
Beginning with "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" and ending with "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit," Meacham captures for the reader how these words epitomize Jesus's message of love, not hate; grace, not rage; and, rather than vengeance, extraordinary mercy. For each saying, Meacham composes an essay on the origins of Christianity and how Jesus's final words created a foundation for oral and written traditions that upended the very order of the world.
Writing in a tone more intimate than any of his previous works, Jon Meacham returns us to the moment that transformed Jesus from a historical figure into the proclaimed Son of God, worshiped by billions.
144 pages, Hardcover
First published February 18, 2020
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2002 people want to read
About the author
Jon Meacham
69 books3,045 followersJon Ellis Meacham is an American writer, reviewer, historian and presidential biographer who is serving as the Canon Historian of the Washington National Cathedral since November 7, 2021. A former executive editor and executive vice president at Random House, he is a contributing writer to The New York Times Book Review, a contributing editor to Time magazine, and a former editor-in-chief of Newsweek. He is the author of several books. He won the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography for American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House. He holds the Carolyn T. and Robert M. Rogers Endowed Chair in American Presidency at Vanderbilt University.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 287 reviews
April 6, 2020
Not as scholarly as I was hoping, but I found this slim book helpful nonetheless. Meacham comes across as very endearing; he is not afraid to admit to the mystery of Faith, and he supports a critical study of the scriptures. I appreciate his dismissal of literalism; "light can neither emanate from, nor enter into, a closed mind." Evangelicals will not like this book.
As in all things, extremism ends more conversations than it begins, and I found it refreshing to read the thoughts of a reasonable, yet hopeful man like Meacham.
A few passages I highlighted:
"We must make our peace with mystery or else go mad. Faith is not magical but mysterious. Magic means there is a spell, a formula, to work wonders. Mystery means there is no formula- only shadow and impenetrability and hope."
"Fact is what we can see or discern; truth is the larger significance we extrapolate from those facts."
"Humility is the beginning of wisdom. Reason's last step is the recognition that there are an infinite number of things beyond it."
I would recommend this book to doubters who are curious to learn more about Faith.
As in all things, extremism ends more conversations than it begins, and I found it refreshing to read the thoughts of a reasonable, yet hopeful man like Meacham.
A few passages I highlighted:
"We must make our peace with mystery or else go mad. Faith is not magical but mysterious. Magic means there is a spell, a formula, to work wonders. Mystery means there is no formula- only shadow and impenetrability and hope."
"Fact is what we can see or discern; truth is the larger significance we extrapolate from those facts."
"Humility is the beginning of wisdom. Reason's last step is the recognition that there are an infinite number of things beyond it."
I would recommend this book to doubters who are curious to learn more about Faith.
September 23, 2022
I don't give out 1 stars often, but this one deserves it. The author writes about the last quotations of Christ on the cross, but he prefaces his book with the statements that 1) Jesus isn't the only way to be saved, and 2) he didn't want to push his beliefs on anyone. He later challenges the historical reliability of Scripture. These things undermined anything else he had to say. Why write the book at all? Why should I read anything he wrote about it?
My recommendation is that you don't.
My recommendation is that you don't.
June 1, 2021
The Hope of Glory is a very reflective book by one of my favorite historians and a Pulitzer-prize winner, Jon Meacham. In this intimate book, Meacham addresses Jesus as an historical figure and discusses the historical grounds and beliefs upon which Christianity is based, including its deep roots in Judaism. It comes from a series of meditations first written for delivery at St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, New York City, on Good Friday in 2013. While very different for Jon Meacham, it was a very powerful book as he reflects on The Seven Last Words from the Cross by Saint Robert Ballarmine, an Italian Jesuit priest and published in 1618.
"The Last Words have inspired composers (Haydn's eighteenth-century work is perhaps the most celebrated), writers (John Donne, Gerard Manley Hopkins, and James Joyce, among others), and preachers. The collection of sayings gives us occasion to turn not only our hearts but our minds toward the cross--an opportunity to think as well as feel on the darkest of days, Good Friday."
March 21, 2023
I genuinely have no idea why a person would write a book om the Seven Last Words of Jesus and spend this much of it explaining that Jesus didn't say these things.
January 22, 2020
The hope of glory by Jon Meacham is a very deep book that looks at the seven last sayings of Jesus. I found the book to be very solid. It has helped me to grow in my faith and understanding as I study the person and work of Jesus.
The books description says:
For Jon Meacham, as for believers worldwide, the events of Good Friday and Easter reveal essential truths about Christianity. A former vestryman of Trinity Church Wall Street and St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, Meacham delves into that intersection of faith and history in this meditation on the seven phrases Jesus spoke from the cross.
Beginning with "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" and ending with "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit," Meacham captures for the reader how these words epitomize Jesus's message of love, not hate; grace, not rage; and, rather than vengeance, extraordinary mercy. For each saying, Meacham composes an essay on the origins of Christianity and how Jesus's final words created a foundation for oral and written traditions that upended the very order of the world.
Writing in a tone more intimate than any of his previous works, Jon Meacham returns us to the moment that transformed Jesus from a historical figure into the proclaimed Son of God, worshiped by billions.
I highly recommend this book. Anyone who wants to study Jesus and the cross more deeply will find this book to be a very helpful tool.
The books description says:
For Jon Meacham, as for believers worldwide, the events of Good Friday and Easter reveal essential truths about Christianity. A former vestryman of Trinity Church Wall Street and St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, Meacham delves into that intersection of faith and history in this meditation on the seven phrases Jesus spoke from the cross.
Beginning with "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" and ending with "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit," Meacham captures for the reader how these words epitomize Jesus's message of love, not hate; grace, not rage; and, rather than vengeance, extraordinary mercy. For each saying, Meacham composes an essay on the origins of Christianity and how Jesus's final words created a foundation for oral and written traditions that upended the very order of the world.
Writing in a tone more intimate than any of his previous works, Jon Meacham returns us to the moment that transformed Jesus from a historical figure into the proclaimed Son of God, worshiped by billions.
I highly recommend this book. Anyone who wants to study Jesus and the cross more deeply will find this book to be a very helpful tool.
February 24, 2020
I have a great respect for anyone willing to put themselves out on a ledge and be vulnerable by sharing the nuances of their beliefs that open themselves to criticism the way this book does. It will be polarizing for many.
Evangelical Christians might take issue with, what they might see as his lukewarm defense of the divine nature of scripture among other issues.
Non believers (of which I am one) might take issue with his acknowledgment of the many issues they have with religion and God but failure to actually address them outside of the “Pascal’s wager” defense.
However he is very upfront about the purpose of this book in the prologue. It is not to convince those needing convincing. It is to inspire those looking to be inspired.
I enjoyed the detail and energy throughout. I listened to this on audible and was delighted to see he read it himself. You get a better sense of his passion and even his struggles when you hear it in his own voice.
If you choose to read this, and I think you should. I suggest tempering your expectations. Take this book as an opportunity to get into the mind of someone who thinks differently about God, religion and scriptures than you do. Instead of looking for areas you disagree, I suggest you enjoy the experience of seeing a man and his beliefs put out into the world in all its nuance and vulnerability.
Evangelical Christians might take issue with, what they might see as his lukewarm defense of the divine nature of scripture among other issues.
Non believers (of which I am one) might take issue with his acknowledgment of the many issues they have with religion and God but failure to actually address them outside of the “Pascal’s wager” defense.
However he is very upfront about the purpose of this book in the prologue. It is not to convince those needing convincing. It is to inspire those looking to be inspired.
I enjoyed the detail and energy throughout. I listened to this on audible and was delighted to see he read it himself. You get a better sense of his passion and even his struggles when you hear it in his own voice.
If you choose to read this, and I think you should. I suggest tempering your expectations. Take this book as an opportunity to get into the mind of someone who thinks differently about God, religion and scriptures than you do. Instead of looking for areas you disagree, I suggest you enjoy the experience of seeing a man and his beliefs put out into the world in all its nuance and vulnerability.
February 23, 2021
I really wanted to love this book. Meacham writes beautifully and profoundly about agape love, God's mysterious mercy, Jesus's participation in our pain, the Lord's Supper, and myriad other aspects of the Christian faith. The problem is that he can't seem to decide if he actually believes it. The Hope of Glory begins and ends with expressions of uncertainty and ambiguity that starkly contrast with the conviction Meacham writes with for much of the book. He makes good points that reason should not be abandoned for blind faith, that the Bible should not necessarily be taken literally, and that there are things about God we will never, at least in this world, fully know or understand. He takes this further than many Christians are comfortable with, however, declaring he does not believe in biblical inerrancy nor that Jesus is the only way to salvation.
Meacham does take seriously the Bible (despite questioning whether Jesus said everything the Gospels say he did), and the beliefs and writings of the early church. He does not disparage his more conservative Christian brethren or their views on controversial issues such as salvation and judgment, and he critiques at times mainstream theology, even that of his own Episcopal tradition. The tone of the book is humble, and it is refreshing to read a non-evangelical Christian's perspective on the Christian faith. The way the book ends, however, is frustrating, as Meacham wavers between certainty and ambiguity. "We don't know" seems to be his conclusion. We can't really know if God exists, or if Jesus is divine. He concludes that we should love each other, care for the poor and weak, keep communion, and "remain open, always open, to the mysterious grace of God." I can't decide if this tension between certainty and ambiguity, between reason and faith, is profound and inescapable or a refusal to commit, a desire to have both God and the world. Either way, this is a poignant book, sometimes confusing, sometimes beautiful, often contradictory, reflecting perhaps (intentionally or unintentionally) how Meacham himself views the Bible.
Meacham does take seriously the Bible (despite questioning whether Jesus said everything the Gospels say he did), and the beliefs and writings of the early church. He does not disparage his more conservative Christian brethren or their views on controversial issues such as salvation and judgment, and he critiques at times mainstream theology, even that of his own Episcopal tradition. The tone of the book is humble, and it is refreshing to read a non-evangelical Christian's perspective on the Christian faith. The way the book ends, however, is frustrating, as Meacham wavers between certainty and ambiguity. "We don't know" seems to be his conclusion. We can't really know if God exists, or if Jesus is divine. He concludes that we should love each other, care for the poor and weak, keep communion, and "remain open, always open, to the mysterious grace of God." I can't decide if this tension between certainty and ambiguity, between reason and faith, is profound and inescapable or a refusal to commit, a desire to have both God and the world. Either way, this is a poignant book, sometimes confusing, sometimes beautiful, often contradictory, reflecting perhaps (intentionally or unintentionally) how Meacham himself views the Bible.
December 13, 2021
An Episcopalian, Jon Meacham considers the seven last words of Jesus in "The Hope of Glory." Meacham leans hard into the mystery of the cross in both beautiful and befuddling ways. I love, for instance, this reflection, "Humility is the beginning of wisdom. Reason's last step is the recognition that there are an infinite number of things beyond it."
On the other hand, Meacham's unwillingness to accept the infallibility of the Bible. Regularly, Meacham suggests that the words of the Bible may not be the words spoken by Jesus and his followers. Unsurprisingly, he does this particularly at junctures with which he disagrees or struggles to believe.
Ironically, Meacham states at the outset that he does not write the book to proselytize, and yet, he can't avoid the words of Christ and his followers that do that very thing. Some of his most inspiring quotes in the book work against his core belief that we can't be certain that the cross is the only way to God. For instance, he speaks of the encounter the Catholic writer Flannery O'Connor had with a supposedly more open-minded counterpart who suggested that the sacrament was a "great, wonderful, powerful symbol." To that, she responded, "If it's only a symbol, to hell with it.”
If Meacham believes that about the sacrament, how much more ought he (and we) believe that about the cross. The cross is no mere symbol, but the way to eternal life itself.
To that end, I recommend turning elsewhere to consider the mystery of the cross. John Stott's "The Cross of Christ" would be a great place to start.
For more reviews see thebeehive.live.
On the other hand, Meacham's unwillingness to accept the infallibility of the Bible. Regularly, Meacham suggests that the words of the Bible may not be the words spoken by Jesus and his followers. Unsurprisingly, he does this particularly at junctures with which he disagrees or struggles to believe.
Ironically, Meacham states at the outset that he does not write the book to proselytize, and yet, he can't avoid the words of Christ and his followers that do that very thing. Some of his most inspiring quotes in the book work against his core belief that we can't be certain that the cross is the only way to God. For instance, he speaks of the encounter the Catholic writer Flannery O'Connor had with a supposedly more open-minded counterpart who suggested that the sacrament was a "great, wonderful, powerful symbol." To that, she responded, "If it's only a symbol, to hell with it.”
If Meacham believes that about the sacrament, how much more ought he (and we) believe that about the cross. The cross is no mere symbol, but the way to eternal life itself.
To that end, I recommend turning elsewhere to consider the mystery of the cross. John Stott's "The Cross of Christ" would be a great place to start.
For more reviews see thebeehive.live.
March 1, 2020
I'm a Jon Meacham fan so seeing him stretch out of his comfort zone intrigued me, I was not disappointed. It should be noted that I am Catholic and while Meacham is Episcopalian, we speak the same language so to speak. That is to say that this book really only works for you if you are a person of faith but even then you have to have a certain perspective. Fundamentalists and Evangelicals will have their qualms with Meacham. He readily admits that there are inconsistencies in the Bible and notes that Matthew, Mark, Luke and John tailored their messages to reach certain audiences. If you are a person of faith and you approach this book with an open mind you will be rewarded. Meacham is not trying to break new ground, but his reflections and observations are well tailored for the Lenten Season. This book can easily be read in one sitting but it doesn't hurt to pace yourself and reflect on what Meacham has to say.
July 3, 2020
I had high hopes, but finished with some small amount of disappointment. The premise was inviting as I expected that from this reading I might gain inspiration, strengthen my faith and deepen my love of the Savior. There just wasn't enough depth here to get me there. I certainly appreciated Meacham's work. I enjoyed the idea of seeking these outcomes by reading the final words of Christ spoken from the cross. The idea is now planted in my mind and it will cause me to follow up and spend more time in contemplation of these words. This book successfully moves me toward that objective.
February 25, 2020
the best synopsis of Christianity ever written
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2020
Jon Meacham, a Pulitzer Prize winning author, writes biographies, histories, magazine articles and is a frequent television commentator called upon for his opinion on some aspect of American political, social, or cultural life. I have not read all of his books, but I think this is the fourth one I have read. I became a fan when I read his "Franklin and Winston: An Intimate Portrait of an Epic Friendship." It is a wonderful book.
This one – not so much. It’s not a bad book; just kind of a middling one, unusual for him. It’s also a departure from the kind of books he usually writes. As the title tells us, the book contains his personal reflections on the seven sayings from the cross. Reflections, meditations, some historical context, not much theology and what theology there is, is decidedly in the liberal direction. But, in a central way, orthodox as well. And, as in all of his books, his erudition is on display. I don’t mean that he’s showing off. Just that references and allusions and quotes from a wide variety of sources flow copiously and easily.
He has a short chapter on each of the seven sayings, beginning with “Father, forgive them: for they know not what they do.” And ending with “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” He discusses each of the seven sayings, not as something Jesus may actually have said and literally meant, but as sayings epitomizing the essential message of Jesus: forgiveness, grace, love, mercy, responsibility for others, doubt and assurance, trust. Within the spiritual and historical context of his reflections, you may find familiar territory and you may find some new nuggets to like.
His Prologue is as important as his individual chapters, if not more so, as is his shorter Epilogue. Maybe what I like most about Meacham’s reflections is his acknowledgement that “now we see through as glass darkly;” the story of Christianity begins “with confusion, not with clarity; with mystery, not with certainty.” He’s referencing here the puzzlement of Mary Magdalene and the two women with her who saw the empty tomb and then the incredulity of the disciples when they related what they had found. Meacham advocates being content in mystery yet affirming hope.
This one – not so much. It’s not a bad book; just kind of a middling one, unusual for him. It’s also a departure from the kind of books he usually writes. As the title tells us, the book contains his personal reflections on the seven sayings from the cross. Reflections, meditations, some historical context, not much theology and what theology there is, is decidedly in the liberal direction. But, in a central way, orthodox as well. And, as in all of his books, his erudition is on display. I don’t mean that he’s showing off. Just that references and allusions and quotes from a wide variety of sources flow copiously and easily.
He has a short chapter on each of the seven sayings, beginning with “Father, forgive them: for they know not what they do.” And ending with “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” He discusses each of the seven sayings, not as something Jesus may actually have said and literally meant, but as sayings epitomizing the essential message of Jesus: forgiveness, grace, love, mercy, responsibility for others, doubt and assurance, trust. Within the spiritual and historical context of his reflections, you may find familiar territory and you may find some new nuggets to like.
His Prologue is as important as his individual chapters, if not more so, as is his shorter Epilogue. Maybe what I like most about Meacham’s reflections is his acknowledgement that “now we see through as glass darkly;” the story of Christianity begins “with confusion, not with clarity; with mystery, not with certainty.” He’s referencing here the puzzlement of Mary Magdalene and the two women with her who saw the empty tomb and then the incredulity of the disciples when they related what they had found. Meacham advocates being content in mystery yet affirming hope.
April 11, 2020
This is an outstanding book on many levels. It is an expression of faith but also an intellectual analysis of Christ's final words in both their meaning to the faithful and import to history. For this reason, I believe Meacham has written a work that is of value to both believers and skeptics.
I found many of Meacham's reflections thought-provoking, especially his commentaries on the Gospel of Saint Luke and the mystery and simple majesty of the Eucharist.
Those who are unquestioning will certainly find fault in some of Meacham's takes, for he writes: "Literalism is for the weak; fundamentalism is for the insecure. Both are sins, too, against God, for to come to believe that we are in exclusive possession of the truth about things beyond time and space, and thus hold the power to shape lives and decisions within time and space, to put ourselves in the place of God. But we are taught that no man has searched the mind of the Lord, or been his counselor."
In response to skeptics, Meacham writes: "When I am asked, as I occasionally am, how it is that I can believe in God, I answer as honestly and straightforwardly as I can. I believe in God on the same evidence I believe in love: Both are invisible forces with visible effects." And he goes on to provide answers, within the context of Jesus's words, to the never-ending questions of non-believers.
Ideally, I read this book on both Good Friday and Holy Saturday. 'The Hope of Glory' will become for me, as I suspect it will for many, a part of annual Lenten journeys, which always culminate in commemoration of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. For every Christian - regardless of whether one is a member of an organized religion or simply a believer in the Word, and irrespective of dogma or doctrine - it always comes down to the cross.
Designed by the Romans for the dual purposes of guaranteeing an excruciating death and perpetual shame, it has now served for two millennia as the symbol of redemption. For as Meacham, a believer, observes: "We know this much: In the shadow of the cross, hope - not certainty, and surely not fear - is the truth that endures despite all the pain and all the heartbreak and all the tears."
I found many of Meacham's reflections thought-provoking, especially his commentaries on the Gospel of Saint Luke and the mystery and simple majesty of the Eucharist.
Those who are unquestioning will certainly find fault in some of Meacham's takes, for he writes: "Literalism is for the weak; fundamentalism is for the insecure. Both are sins, too, against God, for to come to believe that we are in exclusive possession of the truth about things beyond time and space, and thus hold the power to shape lives and decisions within time and space, to put ourselves in the place of God. But we are taught that no man has searched the mind of the Lord, or been his counselor."
In response to skeptics, Meacham writes: "When I am asked, as I occasionally am, how it is that I can believe in God, I answer as honestly and straightforwardly as I can. I believe in God on the same evidence I believe in love: Both are invisible forces with visible effects." And he goes on to provide answers, within the context of Jesus's words, to the never-ending questions of non-believers.
Ideally, I read this book on both Good Friday and Holy Saturday. 'The Hope of Glory' will become for me, as I suspect it will for many, a part of annual Lenten journeys, which always culminate in commemoration of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. For every Christian - regardless of whether one is a member of an organized religion or simply a believer in the Word, and irrespective of dogma or doctrine - it always comes down to the cross.
Designed by the Romans for the dual purposes of guaranteeing an excruciating death and perpetual shame, it has now served for two millennia as the symbol of redemption. For as Meacham, a believer, observes: "We know this much: In the shadow of the cross, hope - not certainty, and surely not fear - is the truth that endures despite all the pain and all the heartbreak and all the tears."
February 27, 2021
My mom sent this book to me. I was a bit surprised as we do not discuss religion very much, but she knows that I do my Lenten reading every year and thought I would enjoy this little book. She was right.
I appreciated the thoughtful approach the author gave to the last words of Jesus from the Cross. He emphasized that the Bible was written by human hands, even going as far as to say that fundamentalism was for the insecure. It was helpful to remember that the Bible should be considered critically and it has its place in helping us figure out the world in all of its complexities and tragedy.
This seems to be a better book to read during Holy Week as opposed to early Lent, but I am glad that I own it so I can do so in the future.
I appreciated the thoughtful approach the author gave to the last words of Jesus from the Cross. He emphasized that the Bible was written by human hands, even going as far as to say that fundamentalism was for the insecure. It was helpful to remember that the Bible should be considered critically and it has its place in helping us figure out the world in all of its complexities and tragedy.
This seems to be a better book to read during Holy Week as opposed to early Lent, but I am glad that I own it so I can do so in the future.
February 9, 2022
A Pulitzer Price winning historian attempts to write a book about the theology behind the last words of Christ from the cross.
As the author himself put forth his qualifications for writing such a book, in the prologue, it became apparent to me that we hold very different beliefs about scripture and how to interpret them. That made this a difficult read to enjoy.
While the author has some great historical Christian sources that provide some good insight on Good Friday.
I can not get around our differences in theology to go about recommending this book.
As the author himself put forth his qualifications for writing such a book, in the prologue, it became apparent to me that we hold very different beliefs about scripture and how to interpret them. That made this a difficult read to enjoy.
While the author has some great historical Christian sources that provide some good insight on Good Friday.
I can not get around our differences in theology to go about recommending this book.
September 28, 2020
Despite all of the theological scholarship and impressive writing style the thinly vailed disdain for the literal interpretation of the Bible is unacceptable. Meachem makes this clear in his introduction when he pulls up short on accepting the inspiration and infallibility of the Bible; his quote from the origin of Alexandria was a hint. Others may disagree but for me this invalidates the rest.
June 6, 2023
I don't understand why Meacham even wrote this book if he doesn't believe that Jesus is the only way nor that the Bible is the complete and perfect word of God. Those views lead him to pick and choose what he believes from the Bible and what not and so I just can't recommend this book.
April 30, 2020
I enjoyed the historical context of this book, but found it very much lacking in theological depth. Meachum uses broad brush explanations to gloss over some of the deepest questions of faith, by simply saying 'its a mystery and no one has the answers". That is, of course, true; but entire books are written on one of those subjects alone. It's like he couldn't decide if this book was about reflections of the cross, or about big faith questions, and the result came across as unfocused. He doesn't need to answer every single question that a believer or an unbeliever might have about faith in order to accomplish his supposed purpose. Lastly, at the very end, the way he lumps all theistic religions together as being fundamentally the same is extremely problematic and shows lack of true understanding of the world religions which are, as Ravi Zacharias says, "only superficially the same and fundamentally different". In short, this isn't a bad devotional read for a believer but I would not recommend it for someone who is still searching.
March 8, 2020
Jon Meacham approaches Scripture from such an interesting place — he begins by placing it in a historical context: who wrote it, when, and why? The most interesting use of this is Meacham’s approach to the Gospel of Luke.
Then he starts dissecting it from a literary perspective: what language was it originally written in, and how have translations altered it? What was the original intended meaning? How does the earliest Greek translation of a verse ascribe new meaning to the text?
Finally, Meacham then runs it through a theological lens: how does this influence our faith? What does this say about God? About Christianity? The most worthwhile sermons come from Meacham’s discussion of the sixth word: “It is finished.”
I found this book to be well worth the price of admission, even with such a small page count. While it can be read in a single setting or two (as I read it this first time), I believe I’ll switch to reading one sermon a night the next several times I engage with it, so that I might better contemplate each individual Word from Christ more fully before moving on.
I think the book can be enjoyed even if you’re not a Christian for its analytical value alone, but this was certainly written for the faithful. Though Meacham does offer a critical eye to Scripture, he’s not doing so to renounce his faith but to reaffirm it. My pastor from my youth always said “challenged faith is strengthened faith” and this book is a wonderful example of that — indeed, I walked away from this reading with a stronger connection to my faith than I’ve had in quite some time.
Then he starts dissecting it from a literary perspective: what language was it originally written in, and how have translations altered it? What was the original intended meaning? How does the earliest Greek translation of a verse ascribe new meaning to the text?
Finally, Meacham then runs it through a theological lens: how does this influence our faith? What does this say about God? About Christianity? The most worthwhile sermons come from Meacham’s discussion of the sixth word: “It is finished.”
I found this book to be well worth the price of admission, even with such a small page count. While it can be read in a single setting or two (as I read it this first time), I believe I’ll switch to reading one sermon a night the next several times I engage with it, so that I might better contemplate each individual Word from Christ more fully before moving on.
I think the book can be enjoyed even if you’re not a Christian for its analytical value alone, but this was certainly written for the faithful. Though Meacham does offer a critical eye to Scripture, he’s not doing so to renounce his faith but to reaffirm it. My pastor from my youth always said “challenged faith is strengthened faith” and this book is a wonderful example of that — indeed, I walked away from this reading with a stronger connection to my faith than I’ve had in quite some time.
August 5, 2023
Despite its elegant prose and high level of readability, I feel that “The Hope of Glory” falls flat in several ways. First, Meacham’s personal theological beliefs, which he references throughout the book, are not compatible with the topic that the book purports to be about. For instance, Meacham expresses how he is a Christian and a believer in Jesus while simultaneously stating how he also believes that Christianity is simply one mode among many of apprehending God. Unfortunately, you can’t have your cake and eat it too. Either you believe in Jesus, including his statement in John 14:6 that “None come to the Father except through me,” or you don’t. Spending a book discussing the beauty of the cross while simultaneously undermining its very purpose (creating a way for those who believe) is contradictory and frankly seems purposeless.
Further, though each chapter of the book is supposed to be about one of the last seven sayings of Jesus before his crucifixion, this is not really the case. Instead, Meacham quotes a Jesus saying at the beginning of each chapter and then the rest of the chapter is a quite loosely related tangent.
Meacham clearly has a lot of a wisdom to give which shines through at multiple points in the book. However, he undermines his own work by knocking its legs out from underneath it.
Further, though each chapter of the book is supposed to be about one of the last seven sayings of Jesus before his crucifixion, this is not really the case. Instead, Meacham quotes a Jesus saying at the beginning of each chapter and then the rest of the chapter is a quite loosely related tangent.
Meacham clearly has a lot of a wisdom to give which shines through at multiple points in the book. However, he undermines his own work by knocking its legs out from underneath it.
April 11, 2023
A Lovely Read
If you're looking for a thoughtful and thought-provoking exploration of Jesus' final moments, then this is the book for you.
Meacham brings his trademark historical insight and theological expertise to bear on this powerful subject, providing a fresh perspective on the words of Jesus from the cross.
Meacham's reflections on the last words of Jesus are truly inspiring and offer a profound glimpse into the heart of the Christian faith.
His analysis is both scholarly and accessible, making this book a great choice for both theologians and lay readers alike.
What I particularly enjoyed about "The Hope of Glory" was Meacham's ability to draw connections between the past and present, showing how the message of the cross is just as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago.
His insights on the transformative power of the gospel are truly uplifting and offer a sense of hope and purpose to readers.
In short, "The Hope of Glory" is a beautifully written and deeply moving book that deserves a place on the bookshelves of Christians everywhere.
I highly recommend it. A lovely read!
4.6/5
If you're looking for a thoughtful and thought-provoking exploration of Jesus' final moments, then this is the book for you.
Meacham brings his trademark historical insight and theological expertise to bear on this powerful subject, providing a fresh perspective on the words of Jesus from the cross.
Meacham's reflections on the last words of Jesus are truly inspiring and offer a profound glimpse into the heart of the Christian faith.
His analysis is both scholarly and accessible, making this book a great choice for both theologians and lay readers alike.
What I particularly enjoyed about "The Hope of Glory" was Meacham's ability to draw connections between the past and present, showing how the message of the cross is just as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago.
His insights on the transformative power of the gospel are truly uplifting and offer a sense of hope and purpose to readers.
In short, "The Hope of Glory" is a beautifully written and deeply moving book that deserves a place on the bookshelves of Christians everywhere.
I highly recommend it. A lovely read!
4.6/5
March 22, 2020
Not really sure what the point of this book was. A complete disappointment. I don't think Mr. Meacham understands what Christianity is and teaches. I was hoping this would be a great Lent season read; I was wrong.
April 13, 2020
"Without Good Friday, there is no Easter; without Easter, there is no deliverance from evil; without deliverance from evil, there is no victory of light over dark, of love over hate, of life over death."
Happy Easter!
Happy Easter!
March 14, 2020
After checking this book out of the library, I bought a copy to rearead. Jon Meacham puts forth his very deeply personal statement of faith in the prologue.
August 25, 2023
Sad. More de-mythologizing textual criticism drivel dressed up in Christian platitudes. Using mystery to say "I want to believe what I want about God, not what he says", is weak.
June 27, 2020
While I am with his progressive theology a la Tillich, Borg, etc., and found he included some thoughtful or at least poignant-enough quotations from some of the popular minds throughout the history of the Church, I did not find much particularly compelling about this book. Granted its stated purpose was that of devotion and contemplation and not critical thought regarding theology, I might have to agree in part with some of the reviews I've seen elsewhere essentially saying this book didn't offer much that necessarily warranted publishing.
However, the devotions are simple enough for beginners in religious writing to contemplate and that is the success of this work— its usefulness for laypeople at the beginning and intermediate development of their faith, and a light resource in working out their theologies of that which may be divine— what that is or may mean for us as human beings, as mortals and as citizens of an earth where our action and inaction bears consequences.
As for the physical book itself, it is compact enough to be suitable for a small gift appropriate especially for Easter, or the Lenten season in general, but also for Christmas as we begin to approach Lent with post-Advent hearts meditating on the historical ministry of a poor man whose life and death has affected the course of history and civilizations to come and whose Resurrection has implications for every soul on earth.
This book is useful and it is not unworthy of being read, but let those who wish to grapple more vigorously with the theological implications of their faith use this as a stepping stone to more academic, or at least rigorous, theological literature.
Disclaimer: I finished this book over a month ago so it is not the most fresh in my mind and I have finished numerous books since then.
However, the devotions are simple enough for beginners in religious writing to contemplate and that is the success of this work— its usefulness for laypeople at the beginning and intermediate development of their faith, and a light resource in working out their theologies of that which may be divine— what that is or may mean for us as human beings, as mortals and as citizens of an earth where our action and inaction bears consequences.
As for the physical book itself, it is compact enough to be suitable for a small gift appropriate especially for Easter, or the Lenten season in general, but also for Christmas as we begin to approach Lent with post-Advent hearts meditating on the historical ministry of a poor man whose life and death has affected the course of history and civilizations to come and whose Resurrection has implications for every soul on earth.
This book is useful and it is not unworthy of being read, but let those who wish to grapple more vigorously with the theological implications of their faith use this as a stepping stone to more academic, or at least rigorous, theological literature.
Disclaimer: I finished this book over a month ago so it is not the most fresh in my mind and I have finished numerous books since then.
April 7, 2020
Jon Meacham explores the seven last sayings of Jesus as recorded in the Gospels, combining rich historical and theological insights to reflect on the true heart of the Christian story. Writing in a tone more intimate than any of his previous works, Jon Meacham returns us to the moment that transformed Jesus from a historical figure into the proclaimed Son of God. I started reading this book shortly after it was released in February and set it aside after a friend recommended that he was going to read his copy during Holy Week. I finished the book this afternoon and will be reading highlighted excerpts throughout the week. Hopefully, I will turn to this book not only during Holy Week but also in the weeks to come during the pandemic of 2020. Meacham states what I have often said, (although he says more eloquently): "...religion is not for the faint of heart; it is a hard business. It is more courageous to hope than it is to fear, more taxing to be selfless, more humbling to hold that there is more to the universe than the eye can see or ear can hear."
From the Publisher:
For Jon Meacham, as for believers worldwide, the events of Good Friday and Easter reveal essential truths about Christianity. A former vestryman of Trinity Church Wall Street and St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, Meacham delves into that intersection of faith and history in this meditation on the seven phrases Jesus spoke from the cross.
Beginning with "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" and ending with "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit," Meacham captures for the reader how these words epitomize Jesus's message of love, not hate; grace, not rage; and, rather than vengeance, extraordinary mercy. For each saying, Meacham composes an essay on the origins of Christianity and how Jesus's final words created a foundation for oral and written traditions that upended the very order of the world.
From the Publisher:
For Jon Meacham, as for believers worldwide, the events of Good Friday and Easter reveal essential truths about Christianity. A former vestryman of Trinity Church Wall Street and St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, Meacham delves into that intersection of faith and history in this meditation on the seven phrases Jesus spoke from the cross.
Beginning with "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" and ending with "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit," Meacham captures for the reader how these words epitomize Jesus's message of love, not hate; grace, not rage; and, rather than vengeance, extraordinary mercy. For each saying, Meacham composes an essay on the origins of Christianity and how Jesus's final words created a foundation for oral and written traditions that upended the very order of the world.
April 15, 2020
Meacham offers a concise, thoughtful read, much an outgrowth of devotions developed while a parishioner in NY. Each chapter is based on the scriptural references of the crucifixion than anchor Holy Week services in the Christian faith, but gives a contemporary interpretation, along with brief links to historic context.
This would be an excellent addition to church book group's Lenten sessions.
Meacham, quoting an aged Ben Franklin on Christianity: "I think the system of morals and his religion as he left them to us, the best the world has, or will likely ever see; but I apprehend it has received various corrupting changes , and I have...... some doubts as to his (Christ's) divinity, though I do not dogmatize upon, having never studied it, and think it needless to busy myself with it now, when I expect soon an opportunity of knowing the truth with less trouble."
Think many of us echo Meacham's initial response: "Let's hope that worked out for him."
This would be an excellent addition to church book group's Lenten sessions.
Meacham, quoting an aged Ben Franklin on Christianity: "I think the system of morals and his religion as he left them to us, the best the world has, or will likely ever see; but I apprehend it has received various corrupting changes , and I have...... some doubts as to his (Christ's) divinity, though I do not dogmatize upon, having never studied it, and think it needless to busy myself with it now, when I expect soon an opportunity of knowing the truth with less trouble."
Think many of us echo Meacham's initial response: "Let's hope that worked out for him."
November 29, 2020
Jon Meacham offers a historical and personal approach to one of the most studied and emotional events in Christianity: the death of Jesus Christ on the Cross. Written as a collection of personal essays on the subject of the last words uttered by Jesus Christ, as well as a biography and theologic study of Christianity, it offers an open-ended response to numerous questions that believers and non-believers carry through their lives. However, no real answer is given to the meaning of the Crucifixion and Resurrection, yet faith keeps us guessing as long as we fulfill the dying wish of a martyred messiah and live selfless, loving lives with ourselves, those whom we cherish, and the world around us.
Endless studying on the subject will proceed, but let us not doubt the power of faith and the willingness to achieve a greater version of ourselves by trusting in the teachings of Christ. This book offers an opportunity to reflect and ponder on our own lives.
Endless studying on the subject will proceed, but let us not doubt the power of faith and the willingness to achieve a greater version of ourselves by trusting in the teachings of Christ. This book offers an opportunity to reflect and ponder on our own lives.
April 7, 2020
"Come and see," Jesus called to his earliest disciples, inviting them to his ministry. Come and see, indeed. This collection of essays on the last seven words (really seven phrases) of Jesus by Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer and Episcopalian Jon Meacham is just this call: Come and see what God has for you when you follow his son.
This is a very short book that can easily be read in one or two sessions or as one essay daily for each day of Holy Week. And here is the power of Meacham's writing: The essays are succinct and intelligent but filled with thought-provoking truths that are sometimes comforting, while at other times will lift you out of your comfort zone.
It is one of those rare books that is both intellectually challenging and one that will touch your heart and soul with messages of love and hope. Highly recommended!
This is a very short book that can easily be read in one or two sessions or as one essay daily for each day of Holy Week. And here is the power of Meacham's writing: The essays are succinct and intelligent but filled with thought-provoking truths that are sometimes comforting, while at other times will lift you out of your comfort zone.
It is one of those rare books that is both intellectually challenging and one that will touch your heart and soul with messages of love and hope. Highly recommended!
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