Book Review: The Wonder Working God by Jared Wilson

The writer of Ecclesiastes reminds us that “of making many books there is no end…”  (Ecc. 12:12)  That is especially true it seems, regarding books about Jesus.  It seems to me that every time I turn around there is another book published by another author with another view of Jesus.  While I would be the first to admit that we will never fathom the depths of who Jesus is and what He has done this side of heaven, my cynical side wonders how unique all these books about Jesus can be.

That said, a few days ago I finished Jared C. Wilson’s The Wonder Working God:  Seeing the Glory of Jesus in His Miracles.  While Wilson’s perspective on Jesus is not necessarily completely unique, I would not chalk this book up as “just another book about Jesus.”  Focusing on a number of his miracles, Wilson digs deep into each situation with a purpose to reveal how the glory of Jesus is revealed in the event.

There are various miracles portrayed in the book.  Jesus turning water into wine.  Jesus feeding the 5000.  Jesus calming the storm.  Jesus casting out demons.  Jesus healing the sick and giving sight to the blind.  Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead and others.  Each tale is told with heavy reliance on the Bible’s words, yet also with a dose of humor and insight.

Now, I can hear you saying – “but Jeff, there are a lot of books out there about Jesus’ miracles.  What makes this one special?”  The thing that is especially good about Wilson’s book is his effort to define what the miracles mean, and more specifically what they say or reveal about Jesus.  For example, when Jesus turned water into wine, what did that say about His identity, His power, His purpose and His glory?  This is the type of question Wilson seeks to answer in his book.  In doing so, he gets beyond the miracles to deeper theological truths regarding Jesus as Creator and Savior.  He wants us to see the Jesus who is our provider and the one who gives us life in Him.  He sets out to reveal the glory of Jesus as it was and is displayed in His earthly miracles.

Is The Wonder Working God the last word on Jesus?  Nope, not in any way.  Wilson himself does not think so, especially since he has a companion volume entitled The Storytelling God:  Seeing the Glory of Jesus in His Parables.  (I hope to get into this book in 2015.)  Wilson’s book may not be the last word, but it is a good word.  It is a kingdom oriented word.  It is a word that will draw those who read it to glorify Jesus in an increasing measure.  And that, I believe, is what Jared Wilson is after.  So, if you want to know your Savior better, especially as He is portrayed in His miracles, read this book.