"The Hope of Life After Death" M. Jeff Brannon. A Review

 

One crucial aspect of the Christian faith that makes Christianity Christianity, is the resurrection of men, women, girls and boys. Unlike so many other "afterlife" paradigms, Christianity uniquely touts that just as Jesus rose from the dead, body, blood, bones, toenails and hair, so his followers will also rise, body and soul, and permanently shake of mortality and misery. M. Jeff Brannon, professor of biblical studies and chair of the biblical studies and Christian ministries department at Belhaven University in Jackson Mississippi, has compiled a beautifully helpful manual to show how the biblical teaching on the resurrection is an essential and central doctrine in Scripture, and it is closely tied to all other creation and redemption themes of the Bible. His work is compiled in a 200-page paperback, "The Hope of Life After Death: A Biblical Theology of Resurrection". This volume is another installment in IVP Academic's "Essential Studies in Biblical Theology". Perfect for seasoned scholars and pastors, but also Upper School or College readers.

Very simply Brannon's work methodically survey's Scripture, step-by-step, from Genesis to Revelation. Each chapter moves sequentially through the Bible. Chapters 1 and 2 begin in Genesis 1-3. Chapter 4 takes in the rest of the Pentateuch and the historical books. Then comes the next chapter working through the poetical books. And the author keeps it up, one chapter after another, until the end in Revelation. And in each study he shows how the physical resurrection of God's people plays out. "Not only is resurrection life a major theme in Scripture; it is inseparably linked with other major themes and redemptive realities" (164). One will also catch how he uses contemporary musicians to artfully further his stratagem.

There's much to commend the work. But beyond showing how all of Scripture leans in the direction of the resurrection, are these two concepts that resonated with me. The first is that our Lord's resurrection is intently connected to his ascension. "By appealing to Psalm 2 and Psalm 110 for Jesus' resurrection and enthronement, Peter and Paul demonstrate just how closely the New Testament community associated these events" (121). If this point had been vociferously proclaimed in our theology and gospel presentations as loudly is Christ's death, there never would have been room for any debates over "Lordship Salvation". Further, the author makes very clear that just as our Lord Jesus arose with the self-same body that was crucified, we too will be raised with our present bodies (continuity) that will be gloriously transformed (discontinuity) and no longer be subject to misery or mortality.

"The Hope of Life After Death" is a worthy manual for Christians of all stripes. It will raise your appreciation for the unity of Scripture, as well as admiration for the fullness of Christ's redemptive work in restoring and transforming creation. Pastors, professors and parishioners should snag a copy speedily and sit down and devour this volume. You just might find your hearts strangely warmed, your faith inflamed, and your worship filled up until your cup runs over! I happily recommend the book.

My thanks to a friend who represents Belhaven University. At our denomination's General Assembly a few weeks back, he slipped me a copy and said, "Mike, I bet you'll enjoy this read." How right he was. Thanks Frank.