THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS: John Dominic Crossan and N. T. Wright in Dialogue, edited by Robert B. Stewart. Fortress Press, 2006. Pp, 220 (BT482.C76).

This book is a dialogue between two world renowned scholars on a crucial theological affirmation - the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. John Dominic Crossan is Emeritus Professor of Religious Studies at DePaul University in Chicago. He is called Dom.

N. T. Wright, Bishop of Durham (Church of England) and formerly Canon Theologian of Westminster Abbey, is a graduate of Oxford University who has taught at Oxford and Cambridge. He is called Tom.

So here we have Tom and Dom, respectful friends, respected by the world of New Testament scholars. But, Tom and Dom do not agree on the Resurrection.

Such words as literal, metaphorical, concrete, abstract and real are integral to their dialogue. Bishop Wright believes in the literal resurrection of Jesus. Dr. Crossan does not. Yet, both agree "… that one must do more than simply provide an answer to whether one should think of the resurrection as an actual historical event that took place in time..and space…Both insist … one must consider the significance of the resurrection for individuals, the church and the world, however one answers the first question." P.14.

Professor Ted Peters, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary and the Graduate Theological Union in Berkley, is a contributor to the book. He says: "It is my judgment that if Crossan should prove to be correct, then the faith built on an explication of Scripture would be in vain. If Wright is correct, the trust people of faith place in Scripture would be provided with supplemental …support. The theological task would be wounded by Crossan, healed by Wright." P.168. …The Library Committee