You invite a review of Tom’s recent Jesus and the Powers, written with his Australian friend. I’ll do my best, having known Tom’s Mum and Dad many years ago! Here goes. Jesus and the Powers (2024) follows the line of Tom Wright’s thinking over the last decades as he has moved on from the New Testament commentaries that many of us, myself included, have so greatly valued. It’s sub title ‘Christian political witness in an age of totalitarian terror and dysfunctional democracies’ describes it well, and all who know Tom will be unsurprised that he, with his friend and co author Mike Bird based in Australia, remain assured that Jesus is King, and that His kingdom remains the object of the Church’s witness and work. The question is then posed as to how we should build for his kingdom as the world becomes increasingly fraught, and as both democracies and the churches become ever more confused by religious nationalism among other pressures. Much of the content is historical, as it considers the role of the Church ‘between submission and subversion' from Polycarp to Bonhoeffer and now Pastor Wangyi. The current secular world where the State often seeks to regulate as much public and private life as possible, and where the Church is marginalised, is well considered. The case for liberal democracy as the least imperfect enabler of a just society is made. Scripture is referenced and quoted freely and aptly. The book is a 'must read’ for many Christians, especially those in leadership. Can we perhaps still hope to see further and wider engagement from Tom? With catastrophe from global warming close upon us as we continue the current trajectory of our civilisation 'which is killing the earth which will kill our species', the Church will very soon have to face the question ‘where in all this is the one God of all creation, manifest in Jesus?' Christian scholars such as Brian McLaren ('Life After Doom’) are leading the field here. I see Tom’s 'Jesus and the Powers’ as his compelling opening salvo and await the main course.

Tom Wright is a stellar teacher and author this book is so timely. There is so much poor teaching available on this subject And most vicars/pastors avoid it completely. It is necessary. Another excellent book from this author. Many thanks for making it available. Marilyn Keenan

This book deserves to be read thoughtfully and slowly - it will challenge your thinking on a number of levels. And well worth it!