Mad or God?

Reviews / Votes

Mad or God? is a unique and unusual book about Jesus, written by two Christian psychiatrists. Taking into account Jesus's mental state, consistency of life, character, and relationships as portrayed in the gospels, Martinez and Sims show that there is not only a lack of evidence that Jesus was ever mentally unwell, but that he should be considered to have had "the healthiest mind of all". If it was ever too easy to dismiss the claims of Jesus on the grounds that he must have been mad, this book makes it difficult again. Don't read it if you don't want to take Jesus seriously! * Professor Chris Cook, Durham University * Finally, a credible, psychological investigation into the mind of Christ. Not only do Pablo and Andrew provide a compelling apologetic for the diving sonship of Jesus they do much to compassionately educate the church about the nature of mental wellbeing. Through their understanding of Jesus mind and emotions the authors reveal a model of emotional discipleship that has long remained hidden from the Christian community. Their work will provide conviction, assurance and hope to many. * Rev Will Van Der Hart, Director The Mind and Soul Foundation * Fresh, arresting and helpful, Mad or God? is a highly original examination of the most challenging question posed to us as humans. Well worth reading and exploring. * Os Guinness, author of The Journey: A Thinking Person's Quest for Meaning * A fresh and unconventional treatment of the 'Mad, Bad or God' trilemma, crafted by GK Chesterton (The Everlasting Man) and popularised by CS Lewis (Mere Christianity). This surprisingly touching book takes us on a fascinating journey into the psyche and character of Jesus of Nazareth. By looking at specific pathologies they have observed and treated as clinicians, the authors expose the lofty but non-specific 'craziness' allegations of the New Atheists as lazy and unfounded assertions. But, much more wonderfully, their investigation reveals the healthiest mind of the most attractive person ever to walk on planet earth- suggesting it would take more than a Jesus to invent this Jesus. It left this, reader, needing a quiet place to worship. * Rev Richard M Cunningham, Director UCCF * If the question of the sanity of Jesus holds you back then read this book. 'Mad or God?' provides insight that only professional psychiatrists can bring. Prepare to be taken on a journey. * Sharon Dirckx, Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics and author of 'Why?: Looking at God, evil and personal suffering' * What a wonderful fresh and refreshing treatment of the life and personality of Jesus Christ, the greatest individual and centrepiece of human history. This book demonstrates both the wholeness of Jesus Christ - God become man - and the reality that he brings wholeness to any individuals who put their trust in Him. Readers will find themselves irresistibly attracted to him in the pages of this book. * Lindsay Brown, former General Secretary IFES and International Director of Lausanne Movement * Two eminent psychiatrists, with a lifetime's experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, apply their skills to the question of Jesus' mental health with astounding conclusions. Drawing deeply on the Gospel accounts of Christ's life and ministry they find not the slightest shadow of mental imbalance but a mind without parallel in history. The coherence of his discourse, the ethical richness of his teachings, the profound influence of his words and the depth of his relationships point to his true identity and explain his life-transforming power. A masterly blend of clinical wisdom, biblical exposition and personal testimony. * Peter Saunders, Chief Executive of Christian Medical Fellowship * An important contribution to the evidence that Jesus is, as he claimed to be, the incarnate Son of God. I am sure it will help to open many readers' eyes to the wonder of the person of Christ, and refresh and renew their faith and strengthen their confidence in him. -- Professor John Lennox * E-mail from the authors *