The message of the cross was perflexing to Jews and Gentles alike—a scandalous stumbling block to Jews and a meaningless act of self-sacrifice to Gentiles. But to us as Christians it is the power and wisdom of God, the focal point of our faith, it is the light that shines in our darkess night. It is the hope that keeps us sane when all are losing their heads. It is our lifeline when we are drowning in the muck. It is our only hope in a dark and sinful world.

Mark Templer presents the cross from the perspective of Jesus and numerous witnesses of his redemptive ordeal. In part one, we are ushered into the heart and mind of Jesus through his statements before and during the crucifixion. In part two, we see the cross through the eyes of believers and non-believers: Peter, John, Jesus' mother, the thief on the cross, Pilate Simon of Cyrene and several others.

Each chapter concludes with a story about inspirational Christians in the Indian churches who exemplify the characteristics highlighted in the chapter.

Mark Templer became a disciple while a student at MIT in 1984. He and his wife, Nadine, have served God on three continents for more than twenty years, mostly in South Asia. They now work in India serving the poor and encouraging the saints. They have four children: Hannah, Luke, Ester and Madeleine.