I Know that My Redeemer Lives: Suffering and Redemption in the Book of Job

The book of Job has captured the imagination of Christians and non-Christians alike. In this study Ronald Hesselgrave shows how the personal story of Jobs intense struggle with suffering is representative of the pain and vexation within the entire creation and how Jobs eventual healing and restoration in the context of his relationship to God is connected to the grand narrative of Gods purpose to redeem humanity and defeat evil in the world. He explores the themes of creation evil lament justice and Gods sovereignty grace and redemption within the separate speeches in Job and against the backdrop of wisdom literature as a whole. A further concern of this study is with the pastoral or practical value of the book of Job both for caregivers and those who may themselves be going through the valley of deep trauma and suffering. Dr. Hesselgrave brings together theological social and psychological insights in a way that deepens our understanding of suffering and provides the basis for a more holistic and comprehensive response to the needs of those who suffer. A final summary of the implications of Job for a practical theology of suffering is given in the conclusion. This short but comprehensive treatment of Job fills a particular need. Mission in the twenty-first century increasingly engages contexts of suffering both individual and societal. Hesselgrave ably presents Job through the lens of mission: our participation in Gods restoration of that which has been undone by sin. Eschewing big-picture answers of theodicy he presents Jobs biblical and practical implications for engaging relationally and authentically with persons for whom suffering is a daily reality. --Jim Baker ReachGlobal Europe Division Leadership Team SERVEurope Catalyst Team Leader Ronald P. Hesselgrave (MDiv PhD) is the Education/Resource Coordinator for EFCA ReachGlobal Europe/Asia. He has taught at Trinity International University (Deerfield Illinois) Alliance Theological Seminary and Nyack College (Nyack New York) and Rutgers University. He is the author of several other books and various articles in the areas of Christian theology ethics and mission. Ron and his wife Kathi are co-founders of Stepping Stones Network which addresses sex trafficking in the Chicago area.