CHRISTMAS UNCUT:
What Really Happened and
Why It ReallyMatters
By Carl Laferton
Good Book Company. 64 pages. £2.99
ISBN 978 1 908 762 177
Many of us have seen a nativity play performed, if not been in one ourselves, and it is with this backdrop that Christmas Uncut is written.
Aware that these performances are often lacking in their historical accuracy, the book begins by pulling the reader in with intrigue as to the scandal and mystery of the real Christmas story.
As it seeks to cut through the myths around the birth of Jesus, the book’s strength is in its use of the Bible text to convince the reader of what really happened and why it matters. Each chapter takes a scene from the Gospel accounts, focusing on an individual character in it. The chapters begin with engaging, amusing (and relatable!) stories about nativity plays before telling the narrative with explanation woven between Bible texts, especially helpful for readers who may be less familiar with the significance of particular details.
This is followed by a section to help the reader see why it matters for us to understand and believe. The chapters together form a logical progression through the gospel and the book helpfully encourages the reader in how to respond to the message.
For those sceptical about the reliability of the Bible, questions of ‘Yes, but…’ are addressed at the end of the book (looking at: what if it is all made up; if Jesus really is the Christ; and if He really rose from the dead). Whilst many books are written on each of these individual subjects, these pages are helpful summaries and starting points for these discussions.
As we celebrate the good news of Jesus’ birth, and seek to make the most of the opportunities that Christmas provides, this book would be a great giveaway, perhaps alongside a copy of a Gospel so people can investigate the claims and truth of the gospel message themselves. A clear, punchy, accessible read for unbelievers at Christmas, this book boldly asks the reader what they will do with Jesus, pointing them to His identity as the Christ, and the need to trust in Him.
