“A fascinating novel of ideas … puts a whole new light on apologetics.”
— Dr. Robert M. Price, author of Deconstructing Jesus, The Case Against the Case for Christ, and many other books
“I enjoyed the book for its value as a story. It’s a riveting tale, and the author is to be commended for being an excellent story teller.… If you like a good story, are interested in apologetics arguments, [and] care to face arguments that oppose your faith, … I recommend that you read this book.”
— Pastor Jason Skipper (PastoralMusings.com)
“Bob Seidensticker’s Cross Examined is a great read on two fronts. You won’t find a better book on Christian apologetics and the rebuttals … and the story is compelling, with a startling climax. Highly recommended.”
— Paul Gabel, author of Inventing Jesus: The New Testament Narrative as Fiction
In 1906, three men share a destiny forged by a prophecy of destruction. That prophecy comes true with staggering force with the San Francisco earthquake and fire, and young assistant pastor Paul Winston is cast into spiritual darkness when his fiancée is among the dead. Soon Paul finds himself torn between two powerful mentors: the charismatic pastor who rescued him from the street and an eccentric atheist who gradually undercuts Christianity’s intellectual foundation.
As he grapples with the shock to love and faith, Paul’s past haunts him. He struggles to retain his faith, the redemptive lifesaver that keeps him afloat in a sea of guilt.
But the belief that once saved him now threatens to destroy the man he is becoming.
Paul discovers that redemption comes in many forms. A miracle of life. A fall from grace. A friend resurrected. A secret discovered. And maybe, a new path taken. He realizes that religion is too important to let someone else decide it for him. The choice in the end is his—will it be one he can live with?
Cross Examined challenges the popular intellectual arguments for Christianity and invites the reader to shore them up … or discard them. Take the journey and see where it leads you.
Pingback: “Cross Examined” Available on Kindle! | Cross Examined
I thoroughly enjoyed the book (I heard of it through Robert Price’s ‘The Bible Geek’ podcast).
Bob, I really enjoyed your book. It was one of first books that refute Christian apologetics that was fun to read. I received and education and enjoyed doing so. I also bought a copy for my mother, who, having been raised a Christian, but now is just somewhat spiritual, found the book unsettling. However, I have an earnest question.
(Spoiler deleted …)
Thanks for the praise! I’m delighted that you found the book useful.
To avoid spoilers, I’ll give you my thoughts on the ending by email.
Bob, I just finished “Cross Examined” & found it to be quite thought provoking. Your approach of introducing apologetics within the context of a novel is one that could be very effective in engaging a Christian readership in a non-threatening manner. I was intrigued with the ending of the book & hope I get a chance to discuss it with you @ the Atheist Bible Study on July 14.
Positive feedback makes the day of any author. Thanks!
Yes, my target audience is Christians. I think that they will find the challenges pointed but reasonable. If you have any ideas on church leaders who might find this interesting, let me know. I’m on the same page as many Christian leaders (if I’m to believe what they say), so I’m faintly optimistic.
Pingback: Ask an Atheist » Contribute $100 and get a copy of Cross Examined!
Dear Bob;
Wesat together for some time at the Discovery Institute’s presentation, where I mentioned cabals in Anthroplogy suppressing evidence,as well as Emperor Fredrick Barbarosa’s insistence that Universities,and thus science
(maths (really codification of relationships), philosophy (really very strictly defined nomenclature),and hard sciences such as physics and Biology) had to be accredited as able to define a national policy along with clergy and the civil services.
Thank you for your witness of your authentic experience. It is an honor.
I have to ask of you a favor, by your leave: how can I comment,please? Does that require a subscription? ADVISE.
Kindest regards, and carry on the righteous fight to be clear and filled with light.
Robb Thurston