Chapter 1: Christianity as a Fresh Start
Christianity presents the story of God’s new creation through Jesus Christ. It offers humanity a fresh start distinct from other worldviews. The Christian narrative redefines human identity and purpose within this new creation. Wright contrasts Christian hope with secular and religious alternatives. This fresh start addresses the deepest human longings. Christianity invites participation in God’s ongoing work. It is a story that shapes meaning and destiny.
Chapter 2: The Human Condition
The human condition is marked by brokenness, injustice, and death. These realities create a universal longing for restoration and healing. Wright identifies suffering as a shared human experience that calls for divine intervention. The chapter explores how these problems define human existence apart from God. It highlights the need for hope rooted in God’s action. The human condition sets the stage for the Christian message. Understanding this condition is essential to grasping the gospel’s significance.
Chapter 3: The Life and Work of Jesus
Jesus fulfills God’s promises and inaugurates the new creation through His life, death, and resurrection. He is identified as the Messiah and Lord. His ministry reveals God’s kingdom breaking into history. Jesus embodies God’s faithfulness and inaugurates restoration. His resurrection marks victory over sin and death. The chapter situates Jesus at the center of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus’ work is foundational to Christian faith.
Chapter 4: The Holy Spirit and the New Creation
The Holy Spirit empowers believers and renews creation. The Spirit’s presence initiates transformation and sustains hope. The chapter describes the Spirit’s role in enabling discipleship and mission. The Spirit is integral to living as part of the new creation. Renewal is both individual and cosmic. The Spirit connects believers to God’s ongoing creative work. This dimension completes the picture of Christian life.
Chapter 5: The Church and Christian Living
The church embodies the community of the new creation. It is called to live out God’s kingdom values. Discipleship involves ethical living, mission, and worship. The church serves as a foretaste of the renewed world. Christian living is shaped by participation in God’s redemptive plan. The chapter emphasizes community, service, and holiness. The church’s role is both present and eschatological.
Chapter 6: The Promise of Resurrection
Christian hope culminates in resurrection and eternal life. God’s new creation will be fully realised in the future. The resurrection assures victory over death and suffering. This hope motivates faithful living amid present challenges. The chapter affirms God’s faithfulness to His promises. Resurrection is central to Christian eschatology. It completes the story of new creation begun in Christ.