Jesus’ quotes in the Bible are frequently taken out of context to use as arguments or reasoning against Christ’s love for His people. Believers know that Jesus does not shy away from the truth or difficult lessons. In Pastor Christopher M. Kennedy’s new book, Jesus Said What?, readers will learn the real meaning behind Jesus’ seemingly difficult teachings through thought-provoking reflection.

“Jesus doesn’t always tell us what we want to hear,” Kennedy writes. “But He always tells us what we need to hear. Through His words recorded in the Bible, He is speaking to you and me just as much as He was speaking to His original hearers. . . .Even the hard words are a gift given to us in love.”

Kennedy keeps the foundational biblical rule of Scripture interpreting Scripture in place throughout the entirety of this engaging book. He pushes readers to ask the following questions when reading jarring statements: “What else did Jesus say on this topic?” “What does the Old Testament say on the topic?” As readers continue to read and look at His words in the greater biblical context, they’ll be sure to come away with a better understanding of Jesus’ true intentions.

“Chris does not shy away from providing some hard truths that we need to hear, yet he seasons them with grace—much like Jesus did,” Donna Snow, founder and CEO of Artesian Ministries and author of more than twenty Bible studies, says. “With thought-provoking questions at the end of each chapter, this book is an especially valuable mentoring resource for seasoned Christians to walk through with new Christians. Another great book from an insightful, Jesus-loving author!”

For more information about the book, visit book.cph.org/jesus-said-what. Contact Erica Sontag to schedule an interview with the author.

About the Author

Christopher M. Kennedy is a writer, podcaster, and pastor. He is also the author of Equipped: The Armor of God for Everyday Struggles and Grace under Pressure: Responding Faithfully to Stress. He serves a large congregation in San Antonio, Texas. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communication, a master’s degree in theology, and a doctorate in ministry. He and his wife are parents of four.

Praise for Jesus Said What?

Chris Kennedy tackles Jesus’ tough sayings with courage and clarity. Piqued curiosity about some of Jesus’ most challenging words is transformed into a deeper connection with the Savior of the world. If you crave a greater understanding of Jesus’ teaching, pick up this volume. You’ll walk away with a changed heart too.

—Rev. Michael W. Newman, president of the LCMS Texas District, author of Hope When Your Heart Breaks and Getting Through Grief

The words of Jesus have been the focal point of discussion and debate since He said them! Chris takes teachings of the Savior that can be challenging or a cause for alarm and approaches them in a way that not only helps to find depth in their understanding and application but makes them approachable to all people. This book will be a blessing of knowledge and growth of the Christian’s life following Jesus.

—Pastor Ted Doering, Narrative Lutheran Church, Round Rock, Texas, author of Walking Together and coauthor of Myth of the Millennial

“Hate my family?” “Cut off my hand?” “What?” Parishioners and students of all ages always ask their pastors and teachers to untangle the startling statements of Jesus. With the rod of “Context is king” and the staff of “Scripture interprets Scripture,” Pastor Kennedy confirms that the Righteous One never preaches unrighteous behavior and comforts with the King of kings’ forgiveness and guidance. I’m placing Chris Kennedy’s Jesus Said What? next to my copy of William Arndt’s CPH classic, Bible Difficulties and Seeming Contradictions.

—Rev. Dr. David Coe, associate professor of theology and philosophy, Concordia University, Nebraska, author of Provoking Proverbs

This book is such a welcome resource! Chris Kennedy hits head-on some of the most misunderstood sayings of Jesus with the clear purpose of coming to understand our Savior even better. This book both challenged and encouraged me. Chris does not shy away from providing some hard truths that we need to hear, yet he seasons them with grace—much like Jesus did. With thought-provoking questions at the end of each chapter, this book is an especially valuable mentoring resource for seasoned Christians to walk through with new Christians. Another great book from an insightful, Jesus-loving author!

—Donna Snow, founder and CEO of Artesian Ministries, author of more than twenty Bible studies

About Concordia Publishing House

Concordia Publishing House (CPH) is the publishing arm of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. For more than 150 years, CPH has been providing individuals, churches, and schools with products that are faithful to the Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions. From books and Bibles to church supplies, curriculum, and software, CPH offers more than 10,000 products to support the proclamation of the Gospel worldwide. Visit CPH online at cph.org.