If you like Timothy Keller’s books, you are sure to like King’s Cross. Keller digs into the Gospel of Mark in his brilliant way, finding new truths in well known passages while also explaining the cultural context for many of the confusing sections. His knowledge of Scripture and his ability to share that knowledge with others are all evident here.

The Gospel of Mark has sixteen chapters. The first eight focus on Jesus as King, and the second eight focus on the inevitable march to the cross. Thus the title of the book. It would seem like the title, on the surface, to be a bit too clever and witty. But Keller doesn’t treat the outline that way and instead shows how the author of Mark was showing the balance of the two truths correlating Jesus as King and Jesus as Savior.

I really enjoyed this book. Keller’s thoughts on what Jesus was teaching in certain sections — such as the Caananite woman who talked back to him, or the father who asked that he be helped with his unbelief — bring familiar stories to life in new ways. I appreciate how Keller stays true to the meaning of the Gospel but expands our understanding by explaining cultural context and Greek language nuances. His constant use of other sources such as C.S. Lewis and ancient scribes brings out the richness of past understanding.

Keller is an excellent writer with keen insights into Scripture. There’s little to criticize in this book and any student of Christianity is going to enjoy it.