The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus

by John R. Cross

It's been called the most misunderstood book in history. Wars have been fought in its name, scandals have been precipitated by it, politics shaped and reshaped at its word. Theologians have both defended and reviled it. Skeptics have done the same. If you are a typical member of the human race, you have often been perplexed by all the fuss surrounding the Bible. The question remains, What does it really say? Here is a book that explains the greatest of Bible themes clearly and logically. Rather than focusing on one part and missing the whole the author chronologically binds together the entire text into one great universal drama, looking at events from the perspective of those who experienced history in the making. The results are sometimes comical, sometimes frightening but always true to the intent of the text. When you are done reading it, you may find yourself believing the Book like you never have before. Or you may decide not to. The author's objective approach leaves that decision up to you.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Christianity, Religion, Nonfiction, Discipleship, Christian Living

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped me understand salvation. The reason Jesus had to die on the cross for my sins. Why I was forgiven when He died.

[Dan Sr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hate tracts! They try to take the amazing good news of salvation and sell it as a cheap 30-second or less advertisement... not enough for true seekers; just enough to annoy like junk mail. This book is a great contrast! - it gives a simple and yet complete explanation of the main messages of the Bible! The neatly-packaged chapters build one principle at a time to give the real seeker the purpose of Christ and the cross. The book is good for individuals and group studies.

[Tobin]

I read this as school

[Doğan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitap Eski Ahit ve Yeni Akit'i anlaşılır bir şekilde bize anlatıyor. Anlatıyor diyorum. Çünkü yazar kitabı o kadar başarılı bir dille yazmış ki kendimi yazarla sohbet ediyormuşum gibi hissettim. Kitap bana bilmediğim veya yanlış bildiğim şeylerin doğrularını öğretti. Hristiyanlığa karşı bakış açınızı değiştirecek bir kitap. Kitabı dinsel açıdan çok başarılı buldum. Ancak bilimsel konularda yazar çuvallamış. Örnek verecek olursak: Dinozorların ve insanların aynı zamanda yaşadığını iddia etmesi ve bunun bilimsel olarak da kanıtlanmış olduğunu iddia etmesi. Evrim konusunu geçiştirmesi gibi...

[John Brackbill · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very complex three-star rating. There were many places that it was a 5. There were some important areas that it was a 1.

Though the concerns I have are just large enough outweighing the positives that I would not give this book to an unbeliever for evangelistic purposes, here are the reasons I would give it to a believer in order to help them communicate the Word of God evangelistically.
1. The author has an engaging writing style that brings clarity.
2. Though the book is not a big picture tie Scripture together kind of book, it is rather comprehensive. In other words, it is not a fly by the night quick evangelistic book. It deals with a great majority of the Bible with a focus on gospel themes.
3. The book is faithful theologically. The author's theological instincts are biblical even though there are a few important secondary issues that rear their heads.
4. The book is a helpful example of addressing an unbeliever personally with the truths of the gospel and its threads throughout all of the Scripture.
5. As a believer, I found that it was edifying and caused me to rejoice in the gospel.
6. The book is full of Scripture and often very skillfully woven together to present the gospel.

Here are my reasons for not giving to an unbeliever even though that is the design of the book (from most serious to less)
1. The author basically warns against those that teach that repentance and faith are gifts from God. In my view, that is a warning against what Scripture itself plainly teaches.
2. The role of the church in a new believer's life is relegated to a subpoint of resources on how to keep focus in one's walk with the Lord. Even then, the church is only included under the resources of other believers. In addition, the bulk of the section dealing with the church warns against false churches (a necessary point but...) without magnifying the role of a biblical church in the life of all believers. In addition, after carefully following the storyline of all of Scripture up to and past the historical events of the gospel the author completely skips over the start of the church in Acts and speaks of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus like an island in the middle of a sea of no context.
3. Almost every other passage quoted is from a different translation. It is distracting and I would think confusing for an unbeliever to see that. At the end of the book there is a short article on choosing a translation and it might be the point was to display various good translations and subtly guard against a KJVO position, but all in all, I think it would have been better to choose one primary translation throughout the book.
4. The author speaks of "free will." I can handle that and define it as I believe it would need to be defined biblically, but I personally think it would be better to speak of real choices that God holds us accountable for rather than "free will." My suspicion is that the author would want to add more autonomy to that definition than I believe Scripture allows.
5. Connected to #1 and #4 there was a complete dearth of exalting God's sovereign grace in salvation. Grace is clearly taught, but with the emphasis of Jesus even evangelistic situations upon God's sovereign grace in salvation it would seem to be a mistake not to emphasize that. Of course, one's theological commitments might bring a kind of blindness to that need.

The book was so good, apart from these concerns, that I am still tempted to hand it out to unbelievers. But since there are other helpful resources I will likely not do so. I would like to read a similar book like this without these major concerns. If you took these issues out this book it would be a 5-star book hands down.

[Susana Perez · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was displeased with this author from his first words-his attempt to stifle any discussion as to what he had written immediately set a tone of 'I'm the dictator; while you, the reader, are an idiot'. You may not question nor challenge me. I found that this tone continued throughout the book and was equally if not more apparent in the workbook. This is not a book I would recommend even to a beginner/new Christian. It likens our growth in Christ to a second grade workbook exercise that demands repetition of what the book says. It is the opposite of growth. It smothers questions that need to be asked. It disallows discovery and interpretation. You've gotten it completely wrong Mr. Cross. This is not a teaching text. Unfortunately for me, I committed to a bible study, not having become familiar with this text. I stayed with it to meet that commitment, and have regretted each minute spent reading this. Only the fellowship of those in the bible study has given any light to the time spent.

[Sal Lupoli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Gives a story like message to the Bible and helps readers make sense of important events in the Bible. Great for individuals who are looking to start to learn about Christianity or who want to understand what the Bible is talking about.

[Heidi Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good book that I plan on reading several times in my life. Helps to explain the bigger parts of the bible thoroughly and is backed up with lots of evidence and facts.

[Virginia Garrett · Rating 1 out of 5]

A lot of conjectures put forth as truth. I do NOT recommend this book.

[JJ Vancil]

This book is simple, clear & consistent from start to finish. It does not get caught up in the more complex realities of the Bible, but simply communicates the heart of its message. It addresses the problem of sin, the plan of salvation, and the solution in Jesus Christ. While not a riveting read, it does capture the basic tenants of the Christian faith. For anyone seeking to know more about the Bible and what it communicates about Jesus, this is a great read.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book because it allows me to see the Bible as a whole; not as a bunch of stories put into a book. This would be a great book for a new Christian or for someone exploring the idea of Christianity. It is an overview of the Bible in it simplest form. When Christianity starts feeling too complicated, I like to read it to bring me back to the basics.

[Cassey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book entitled "The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus" is an objective book that talks about the Bible. It was written by John R. Cross, he is an author for GoodSeed and a Bible teacher. In 1996, he wrote a book for people who know a little or nothing about the Bible. However, this book, which was published in 2007, is a 3rd Edition of the book I mentioned a while ago. In addition, it is not necessary to read the previous editions before reading this one. The book’s genre is said to be nonfiction. Moreover, the author claims that the outlines and ideas used in his work are from thousands of sources, both ancient and modern. Many of such are common knowledge and not anyone can just claim it as theirs. All sources used were credited in the last pages of the book.

The book records the story in the Bible of two people walking from Jerusalem to the town of Emmaus. They were in deep talk regarding what had happened a few days earlier wherein Jesus of Nazareth had been crucified outside the city walls. Many people were claiming that they had seen Jesus alive. As they were walking and talking on their way home, a stranger joined them. For several hours, the stranger talked and explained about the ancient collection of books, the Bible, and started at the very beginning. The way the stranger explained made incredible sense, and his message drove confusion to their minds. They were so thrilled by what they had both heard from the stranger and hurried back to tell their loved ones, who also needed to hear this message - the message taught by the stranger on the road to Emmaus.

The book talks about how both Old and New Testament stories serve as a key to reveal the identity of God and the nature of sin; moreover, it answers two main questions: “Who is Jesus?” “What is the story of the cross and the tomb all about?”. It addresses the problem and solution of sin, the plan of salvation, and the significance of Jesus’ death. It covers from books Genesis up to Revelation. This book explains important Bible themes logically and clearly. The book chronologically binds together the entire text into one great universal drama, looking at events from the perspective of those who experienced history in the making. The book ends with you believing what you have read like you never had before or may decide not to. The book leaves you with a decision to make. It talks of us being sinful, the book stresses this fact since it is being repeated in almost all the chapters. Moreover, it stated that it is impossible for humans to completely follow the Ten Commandments, since we have a sinful nature that all started from Adam and Eve. With that said, our debts have been increasing each day, to the point that we can no longer pay them, and it is all because of our sinful nature. The third main topic that was discussed in this book is the act of love Jesus showed to us. It also explained in full detail why he had to die for us and what makes Jesus the perfect sacrifice for us all. With just this book and a reasonable amount of knowledge I know about this Bible, I was able to fully understand the Bible in a bigger, clearer and sensible picture. This book was able to answer almost all of my questions and strengthens the knowledge I know about the Bible with more facts. The chapters and its content were neatly arranged and easily understood since they break down each important component that is tackled in the book.

For me personally, I would rate the book a 5 out of 5 because there are times that Christianity can get complicated so this book can help bring me back to the basics of what God wants me to know; however, if we are talking recommending this book to others, I would rate it a 4 out of 5. Only because it can be kind of tricky for unbelievers to read the book because the book is explained in a way wherein only the key important parts were stated. It might be a little difficult for those who know nothing or a little of the Bible because it requires that you have some knowledge, especially in Genesis since almost all the points and facts point to what Genesis is all about and what it is trying to say. I would recommend baby Christians to read books like this or even those who want to know the Bible more in-depth. Overall, the book was really good and I enjoyed reading. I would give it a strong 5 if it weren’t for my other concerns.

[Charlie Lyons · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus by John R. Cross is an enlightening and carefully structured exploration of the Bible’s central message. The book excels in its chronological approach, walking readers through the grand narrative of Scripture in a way that brings clarity to what may seem like disconnected stories. By presenting the Bible as one coherent story, the author invites both believers and skeptics to reexamine the Bible's claims with fresh eyes.

One of the book’s most impressive features is its meticulous attention to detail. Cross uses a logical progression to explain key biblical themes and events, making it accessible to readers regardless of their prior knowledge of the Bible. The use of chronological storytelling allows readers to understand how each event fits into the larger picture, and this approach helps break down complex ideas into something more easily digestible.

The writing style is warm and inviting, making the book feel more like a conversation than a lecture. Cross writes with a genuine care for his audience, offering explanations that are both thorough and easy to follow. This tone helps readers feel comfortable and engaged, even as they are challenged to rethink their understanding of the Bible.

Overall, The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus is a valuable resource for anyone curious about the Bible’s message. Whether you’ve attended church for years or are completely new to its teachings, this book will guide you thoughtfully through the Bible's core themes, leaving you with a deeper understanding of its relevance today.

[Frank Peters · Rating 2 out of 5]

My review will likely seem unfair, as I was absolutely not part of the target audience for this book. The book aims to provide an insight into the teaching of Jesus given when he was walking to Emmaus while incognito following His resurrection. At least that is what I thought. This unfortunately does not accurately represent the book. Instead, the book is a very good overview of the bible with a focus on God’s plan for salvation. The target audience are those who don’t know much if anything about the bible and what real Christianity teaches. As a result, the author introduces each idea, then provides relevant biblical passages, and then rephrases those biblical passages with extra commentary. Thus, for someone who is acquainted with the bible, this is incredibly redundant and dreary. In addition, the commentary provided came across to me as very, very preachy. The author wrote the book in the same way that an evangelist would structure a sermon or talk, and I would prefer not to read books that have been structured in this way. In summary, the book may be excellent to give to someone new to the bible and Christianity, but I do not recommend it for anyone who is already a follower of Jesus and has read through the bible.

[Sue · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a free download for my Kindle. I thought it might be an interesting look - maybe even fictionalised - at the meeting of the risen Jesus with two disciples walking to Emmaus. However that was barely touched upon. Instead, it tried to explain the entire Old Testament, as if this was what Jesus said on this journey - and (in my view) the book did not succeed. The author pushes his own, highly reformed point of view, not giving an overview of how the Bible fits together but a personal theology of which a great deal seems to be based on Genesis.

I'm not the target audience anyway - this is intended for people who don't know how the Bible and its history tie together, but it's much too detailed and rigid for anyone who really is asking that kind of question.

After struggling through about half the book, I decided I was finding it too annoying, and abandoned it.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone needs to read this book, believer and unbeliever alike. For believers, it systematically explains what we believe and why, from the beginning to the end. So many believers don’t understand why they believe what they do. This book makes that clear. For the unbeliever, it’s a very open and honest explanation of what the Bible says to be true. While I do think it’s persuasive because of the facts that are presented, it’s not trying to “sell” anything. Cross lets the Bible speak for itself, simply adding commentary and illustration to make the meaning easier to understand. I also like how it ends. For the believer, it explains what that person needs to be doing in light of that belief, practical steps to follow. For the unbeliever, it gives a consideration, still allowing the Word of God to do the speaking. This is the clearest explanation of the Christian faith I have ever read.

[Damon Hawkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. A great overview of how Jesus is the central theme throughout the Bible. However, I think the author missed an important opportunity at the end to emphasize the responsibility of discipleship. He did mention several spiritual disciplines and the necessity of becoming a member of a good local church and even briefly touched on a Christian's responsibility to share the gospel with others. But I get a sense that the conclusion tends to promote the idea of Jesus as Savior without giving equal value to the idea of Jesus as Lord. A Disciple is one who follows Christ, is changed by Christ, and is committed to the mission of Christ. (See Matthew 4:19). This book, although a great resource, is lacking in developing the 3rd element of discipleship.

[Don Incognito]

I like this book as an introduction to Christianity. There's no good reason to snub an introduction just because you've been born again for seventeen years already. A refresher is always useful. Despite that I disagree with the author on certain small and fairly inconsequential details. Essentially, he's too willing to make unwarranted assumptions. For instance, he assumes that Noah took dinosaurs aboard the ark whereas the Bible doesn't specify that; and he assumes that when the serpent tempted Eve, Adam was standing right there listening.

There's a reason that my church asks people to read this book before officially joining.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent summarization of the major aspects of the Bible, Cross does the difficult job of explaining the over-arching story of Scripture without delving into inter-denominational strive with great aplomb. He includes some pictures and graphics to further make the story accessible to those unfamiliar with major concepts but also provides great detail pertaining to the sin-debt we have all inherited. Anyone open to learning about what the Bible says at an introductory level would benefit greatly from reading this breezy book.

[Fuego Primero · Rating 2 out of 5]

Este libro me pareció un tratado proselitista de una organización de Evangélicos, el titulo tiene un gancho pero cuando se va uno al contenido del libro es un resumen de la biblia para poder llegar a la vida de Jesús, debo pensar que el forastero es el lector y el camino a Emaús es bautizarse como evangélico.
Es una religión y la respeto, pero no apoyo este tipo de proceder por lo tanto no recomiendo su lectura a menos que requieras un resumen parcializado de la biblia, ya eso es criterio de cada quien.

[Brian Miracle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Discusses topics that Christ may have discussed with the disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24. Goes through all the references to Christ in the Old Testament and continues with His Saving Work in the New Testament. Not a deep theological work, this book functions more as a study of how the entire Bible is about Christ.

[Cynthia Rua De Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Me encantó este panorama de las escrituras para presentar a Jesús. Si quieres conocer a Jesús, por qué razón vino a este mundo y su evangelio este es un libro bastante sencillo que te llevará a querer profundizar mas. También está un libro para el alumno como para llevar un estudio, lo he leído varias veces ya que lo he compartido con varios grupos de estudio.

[Margaret Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent overview of the Bible, teaching the main storyline of man's need for salvation and how Jesus stepped in to bring the necessary redemption so we may have forgiveness and eternal life! This book is well researched and very poignant. A fantastic read even just in learning how to 'defend the faith'.

[Sarah Anette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book provided a biblically based overview of the Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation. With the use of common language, simple definitions for big concepts, and helpful analogies, it constructs sound biblical theology for the everyday person.
I would recommend it to new Christians and those who are willing to investigate the bible seriously.
Theology appears to be Reformed Evangelical.

[Aggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy to read and understand book that helps the reader to see how all the events in the Bible connect and point to Jesus. People have a lot of misconceptions about the Bible and this book does a good job bringing clarity to it all.

[Andy Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book handed to my by a youth pastor who is taking his group thru it. Kind of like a college bible survey course. Great chapter on sin and the atonement. The book work its way thru the bible in a survey form. Would be a great one on one discipleship book.

[Luis Miguel G. Verástegui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genial libro para todo el que se inicia en la lectura de la biblia

Es uno de mis primeros libros que leí como creyejte. Mi primer encuentro con un panorama de la biblia. Muy digerible y 100% recomendado.

[Rodrigo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excelente literatura

Es un libro muy claro que nos da una claridad de lo que significa el cristianismo. Recomendable para aquellos que llevan tiempo y aquellos que recién caminan en el evangelio

[Courtney Wahlers · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this book has some good information. I wanted there to be more though. The author did a decent job at explaining certain things in the Bible, especially at the beginning; but i found the ending to be repetitive. I do think it made me feel more open to Christianity though.

[Linda G. Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Very easy read but soooo interesting and informative. If you’ve ever wanted to sort out the whole story of how we got to where we are, this is your book. From Genesis to Jesus to today, you’ll have a much better understanding of the true story.