This is a very significant book. It addresses the subject of Christ’s penal substitutionary death, which lies at the heart of the biblical gospel, but which has now come under serious threat in the current theological ferment. The authors have carefully and convincingly evaluated the biblical material on which the teaching of penal substitution has been based and reaffirmed it. They have set the doctrine within the theological framework of creation, sin, redemption and relationships within the Trinity, while adducing key witnesses from two millennia of church history in support. Every major objection to penal substitution has been considered, and courteously but firmly answered. This refreshing affirmation encourages us to praise God in wonder at Christ’s atonement for us sinners. The authors have placed us in their debt. Their book deserves to be read widely.

Peter T. O’Brien, Senior Research Fellow in New Testament, Moore Theological College, Sydney