A Theology of Cross and Kingdom

“Doug Matthews has a unique perspective on theology—both as a comprehensive theoretical discipline as well as an applied, real-world resource to address the core challenges of living as a seasoned theologian and practitioner in times like these. . . . While his insight will demand careful thought, the reader will benefit from several important perspectives on living out the Christian experience within the tensions that exist between the challenges of the cross and the hopes of the resurrection.”


—David Gyertson, former President, Taylor University, Asbury University, and Regent University





“Doug Matthews sensitively sifts historic and contemporary understandings of the cross, starting with the work of Luther, and underlines the recognition that God ‘unexpectedly shows up amidst pain, shame, and suffering.’ Matthews sets this theology of cruciform suffering against dominant contemporary models of spiritual sensualism and narcissism, to show that God is found ‘especially, amidst suffering, weakness, and pain.’ He creates an important roadmap to help readers navigate the complex terrain of contemporary theologies of the cross, directs them to the key features of the landscape, and helps explain what each contributes to this pivotal Christian doctrine.”


—Peter Rae, Dean, Nazarene Theological College





“In this ambitious book Dr. Matthews shows how a recovery of Luther’s theology of the cross has rich potential for addressing two contradictory features of today’s situation. On the one hand there is the blind optimism of a theology which promises endless blessings if we only have enough faith. But on the other hand, the reality is that Christians are being persecuted today perhaps more than ever before. In fact, as Matthews advocates, it is only as we participate in the sufferings of Christ that genuine blessing is to be obtained.”


—John Oswalt, Interim President of Wesley Biblical Seminary