Book & Chapter Summaries

Jesus: A Theography

by Leonard I. Sweet & Frank Viola · Thomas Nelson · 2012

Book summary

A biblical 'theography' tracing Jesus across the whole scriptural drama, from the life of the Triune God and creation through Israel, incarnation, church, and new creation.

Chapter & section guide

  1. Prologue

    The story of Jesus begins before Bethlehem in the eternal life and purpose of God.

  2. Creation

    Christ is presented as agent, pattern, and goal of all that exists.

  3. Adam and the Human Story

    Jesus fulfills and restores humanity's vocation.

  4. Abraham and Promise

    The covenantal story bends toward blessing in Christ.

  5. Moses, Exodus, and Torah

    Deliverance, presence, and divine instruction anticipate Jesus.

  6. Tabernacle and Temple

    Sacred space finds fulfillment in the embodied presence of Christ.

  7. Kingship and David

    Messianic hope gathers around the true king.

  8. Wisdom and Prophets

    Jesus embodies divine wisdom and the prophetic promise of restoration.

  9. Incarnation and Ministry

    The eternal Son enters history and enacts God's kingdom.

  10. Cross and Resurrection

    The story reaches its decisive victory through self-giving love and new creation.

  11. Ascension, Spirit, and Church

    The risen Jesus continues his mission through a Spirit-formed people.

  12. Revelation and Consummation

    Scripture's final horizon is the fullness of all things in Christ.

Editorial note: these are original thematic summaries prepared as a research and reading aid, not quotations from the book itself.