Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense – N.T. Wright
1. Full Citation
Wright, N.T. (2006) Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense. London: SPCK.
2. Introduction
Simply Christian by N.T. Wright is a modern apologetic and theological primer that rearticulates the core tenets of Christian faith in a postmodern world. Intended as a contemporary counterpart to C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity, Wright addresses both seekers and believers, presenting Christianity as not only intellectually credible but deeply meaningful. The book combines biblical theology, cultural critique, and historical reflection in a narrative that seeks to reawaken the Christian imagination. This review explores its apologetic structure, theological contributions, and cultural significance.
3. Author Background and Credentials
N.T. Wright, also known as Tom Wright, is a prominent New Testament scholar, Anglican bishop, and professor. He served as Bishop of Durham and is currently Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford. Renowned for his work on Pauline theology and Second Temple Judaism, Wright has written extensively for both academic and popular audiences. His scholarship bridges historical-critical studies and theological exegesis, and he is widely regarded as one of the most influential Christian thinkers of the 21st century.
4. Summary of Contents
The book is divided into three major parts:
- Echoes of a Voice
- Explores four universal human longings: justice, spirituality, relationships, and beauty.
- These “echoes” function as signposts pointing toward a deeper truth—ultimately fulfilled in the Christian narrative.
- Staring at the Sun
- Presents the story of the Bible, focusing on God, Israel, Jesus, and the Church.
- Jesus is described as the fulfilment of Israel’s story and the revelation of the world’s true King.
- Emphasises incarnation, resurrection, and the kingdom of God as key to understanding Christianity.
- Reflecting the Image
- Discusses how Christianity reshapes worship, prayer, the Bible, the Church, and the new creation.
- Concludes with an appeal to participate in God’s mission of renewal and transformation in the world.
Wright frames the Christian faith as a narrative to inhabit, not merely a set of doctrines to affirm.
5. Critical Evaluation
a. Coherence and Argumentation
Wright’s argument is coherently structured and narratively compelling, moving from human experience to biblical story to practical discipleship. He balances critique of secularism with a constructive theological vision.
b. Originality and Intellectual Contribution
While rooted in orthodoxy, Wright’s originality lies in reframing classical doctrines within a biblical-historical context. His emphasis on the renewal of creation rather than escape to heaven distinguishes him from traditional evangelical apologetics.
c. Evidence, Sources, and Method
Wright employs biblical theology, particularly drawing on the grand narrative of Scripture, and places it in dialogue with modern cultural concerns. He avoids philosophical abstraction in favour of historical and narrative grounding.
d. Style and Accessibility
Wright writes with clarity, elegance, and pastoral sensitivity. The book is accessible to educated lay readers, with theological depth that invites further exploration.
e. Limitations and Critiques
Critics note that Wright’s focus on narrative and history can leave doctrinal specifics underdeveloped. Some may also find his presentation too idealistic or not sufficiently critical of other world religions.
6. Comparative Context
Simply Christian is often compared to:
- C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity – both apologetic in tone, but Wright is more historically grounded.
- Timothy Keller’s The Reason for God – more analytical and philosophical in style.
- Alister McGrath’s The Dawkins Delusion – more polemical.
Wright’s strength lies in story, worldview reconstruction, and a biblical-theological approach to Christian basics.
7. Thematic or Disciplinary Relevance
This book is relevant to apologetics, biblical theology, Christian worldview formation, and evangelism. It is ideal for newcomers to the faith, seekers, and study groups exploring the rationality and beauty of Christianity.
8. Reflection or Practical Application
Wright calls readers to live as image-bearers of God in a world God is redeeming, encouraging embodied faith, public witness, and hope. The book awakens moral imagination and personal responsibility in light of the gospel.
9. Conclusion
Simply Christian is a masterful and hopeful restatement of the Christian faith for the modern world. Wright offers a compelling vision of belief that is historically credible, theologically robust, and existentially satisfying.
Recommended for: Seekers, new believers, educators, and anyone wishing to understand or explain the Christian faith in today’s context.
10. Other Works by the Same Author
- Surprised by Hope – On resurrection and the renewal of creation.
- The Day the Revolution Began – On the atonement and cosmic renewal.
- Paul: A Biography – Historical portrait of the apostle.
- The New Testament and the People of God – Academic theological framework.
11. Similar Books by Other Authors
- C.S. Lewis – Mere Christianity
- Timothy Keller – The Reason for God
- Alister McGrath – Why God Won’t Go Away
- John Stott – Basic Christianity
12. References (only if external works are cited)
- Wright, N.T. (2008) Surprised by Hope.
- Lewis, C.S. (1952) Mere Christianity.
- Keller, T. (2008) The Reason for God.