N.T Wright is probably one of the most prolific writers of our time. There is a joke going around the internet about Wright. A student calls Wright’s office. Wright’s secretary says that the professor cannot be disturbed. He is writing a new book. The student replies, “That’s OK. I’ll hold.”

Tom Wright has the rare ability to write for both the scholar and the layman. If you like books that are measured by pounds rather than pages, Wright has an outstanding trilogy about Jesus and the early church. Of these I have read “The New Testament and the People of God” and “Jesus and the Victory of God.” The latter is an especially excellent work. If you are interested in the historical Jesus and are willing to put forth the effort, I would say this book is a must. However, part one, which covers the history of the quest for the historical Jesus, is a bit dry and can be easily skipped.

Wright’s books for laymen are a joy. A good introductory work is “The Challenge of Jesus.” As I have said before, when we put Jesus in His first century context, He becomes all the more amazing. This book will help you know Jesus the first century Jew. I believe that if you study Paul, the great theologian, you will have a change of mind. If you study Jesus, you will have a change of heart. Wright’s works on Jesus are invaluable tools in anyone’s quest to know our Savior better.

Wright also has a set of commentaries on the books of the New Testament called his “For Everyone” series. These make excellent reference works, but they are also great for daily devotional readings.

Now, on to “Simply Christian” Wright’s latest work. Some say this book might surpass C.S. Lewis’ “Mere Christianity” as essential reading for those interested in Christianity or for those struggling with their faith. I am not sure if “Simply Christian” will be as timeless as Lewis’ masterpiece, but it is possible. This book is that good.

If you know an intellectual who is having trouble with Christ, this is an ideal book to give him. Wright gets down to the nitty gritty of why Christianity is superior to other religious and philosophical viewpoints. The proofs Wright offers are more philosophical and historical than scientific.

The book begins with discussions about truth, justice, human nature, and God. Wright then moves into the story of Israel and Jesus. The last part of “Simply Christian” talks about aspects of the Christian life such as worship, Bible study, and fellowship. Even though I have been a Christian for 35 years, I found Wrights words for “beginners” very moving.

Not too long ago N.T. Wright’s writings were instrumental in leading Anne Rice of “Interview with the Vampire” fame to Christ. When you read “Simply Christian” you will see why Wright is such a compelling voice for seekers such as Rice as well as mature Christians who want to know Jesus better.