Is Easter Unbelievable? A Book Review

This article was first published in French at TPSG.

Rebecca McLaughlin has done it again. Her sequel to “Is Christmas Unbelievable?”, this book answers skeptics' most common questions regarding Christianity and its claims. In her second short book of this genre, she addresses the most common objections that arise concerning the story of Christ’s resurrection. 

Rich with Metaphors

Rebecca McLaughlin has a natural gift for storytelling. She spoke at a training for women Bible teachers I attended, and stated, “A bad metaphor is better than no metaphor.” Her point was that we should attempt to bring our teaching to life through the use of descriptive language. Yet, I assure you, Rebecca McLaughlin’s illustrations do not disappoint. She begins each chapter with an opening illustration drawn from popular culture that any reader could relate to. In so doing, she not only builds a bridge between her secular present-day audience and the ancient text of Scripture, but she also advances her point vividly. 

Credible Evidence

Another feature of this book is that the author does not oversell and underdeliver. She doesn’t promise that she can prove the resurrection of Jesus. She simply states that she can argue that it’s plausible and reasonable to believe it. By making her claims realistic, she is more likely to overcome her readers' skepticism. 

Believers: Bright and Diverse 

Moreover, her vast experience working with some of the brightest minds at some of the most renowned universities in the world adds to her credibility. Not only does she count top scientists and philosophers among her personal friends, she also draws from a diverse body of believing evangelicals whose origins span the globe. McLaughlin can thus dispel the fiction that Christianity is a white man’s religion. 

The Offer of Life

In her concluding chapter, McLaughlin draws her book to a close by addressing the most important question of all. So what? If Christ is risen from the dead, why should it matter to me? The answer is simple yet breathtaking: Because he gives life, and a relationship with Jesus is what it means to be alive. He is the destination we are heading for. And the greatest of human loves ever imagined or experienced is like a drop of water, and the love of Christ is like the ocean. 

Give the Gift of Life

If you or your church are looking for resources to share with members of your community this Easter, I highly recommend this book. You can order them individually or in bulk here in Europe and here in Quebec.