Focus on Jesus

This book provides a commentary on the message of Messiah. Handel’s great oratorio gives a marvellous portrayal of the Person and Work of Jesus Christ: the anticipation of his coming, his birth, his ministry, his sufferings and death, his resurrection and his ascension – plus also the proclamation of the Gospel to the world, and Christian assurance of resurrection life beyond death. The main focus of this study is the selection of Bible verses that make up the work, compiled by the librettist Charles Jennens. At the same time there is also a certain amount of comment on the music, showing how Handel’s distinctive skill contributes towards clearly expressing the message. The aim of the book is that readers may deepen their understanding of the Bible passages included in the work and enjoy Handel’s Messiah all the more – and as a result know Christ better.