It is possible to be exposed to something for so long it loses its significance and value. I believe this has happened as it relates to Jesus Christ. So many books, so many moves, so many sermons have been dedicated toward the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Sadly, He is becoming common-place, with all of the wonder and reverence quietly diminishing. Thabiti Anyabwile, pastor of First Baptist Church Grand Cayman has written a new book entitled, “Captivated; Beholding the Mystery of Jesus’ Death and Resurrection”. In this relatively short work, ninety-four pages, Anyabwile makes a passionate plea to return our attention and amazement back to the person of Jesus Christ. With the Easter holiday season fast approaching, the timing for this book is perfect.

Captivated takes an honest and probing look at five questions surrounding the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. These events stretch from Jesus before Pilate to the resurrection itself. Captivated began as a series of sermons Anyabwile shared with his congregation. I enjoyed the subject matter very much. A challenge to refocus and reexamine the teachings we have heard for years is always a good thing. There are a few things I did not like about the book. Due to the weightiness of the subject matter, the brevity of the book is a hindrance. I believe there is a lot more that could and should have been said in order to fully develop some points. Books that begin as sermons often struggle to capture what the original listeners heard. The flow seemed to clearly be one of “preaching points”. Although scripturally sound and passionately written, Anyabwile’s work is good, but not great.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from CrossFocused Reviews Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”