Peter Laughlin

The Last Days According to Jesus’ Family

Biblical Studies & Commentaries

“In this warm and heartfelt book, Marty has woven personal memoir, historical research and theological reflection into a narrative that asks the reader to put aside dogmatics and enter instead into the story of God for the world. Using the Torat Edom—a concept that many in the Evangelical world will do well to comprehend—Marty has provided a framework for understanding the last days that focuses on lived experience rather than the abstract countdown of eschatological events. Indeed, we are reminded that the last days are better read not as the triumph of Christians over other religions, particularly those of Judaism and Islam, but the story of the covenant God who is fulfilling his covenant promises. In following the example of Jesus’ own family—through expressing mercy (Mary), faithfulness (James), and perseverance (Jude), we better reflect the heart of God for all of humanity. With personal prose and accounts of his own upbringing as a refugee and later missionary work providing a real-world grounding, Marty exhorts us to live as citizens of the coming kingdom in the present—even as we await its ultimate unveiling.”