[Book review] The Greatest Story Ever Told: An Eyewitness Account

After 2,000 years of retelling, the story of Jesus has too often lost its shocking and revolutionary power. In his book, Bear Grylls recounts it through the imagined words of five biblical characters, recapturing the powerful drama of human and divine encounters.

Grylls’ fame, the beautiful presentation, the imaginative first-person narrative, the use of Aramaic and Hebrew names, and the vivid storytelling all serve to remind us that these were real people, in real places, at a real moment in history.

I hope the book inspires both Christians and others to move beyond sanitised versions of Jesus and to seek—and encounter—the historical, risen, living Jesus. Grylls encourages readers to take the next step through further research: more reading, Bible courses, and visiting a local Christian church (as outlined on the “What Next” page).

Grylls isn’t afraid to bust myths—such as the details surrounding the Wise Men’s visit—while staying faithful to the contemporary New Testament records. He spares no feelings as he recounts Jesus’ forced displacement as a child, the slaughter of the innocents (from Mary’s perspective), and the horror of the crucifixion (through the eyes of John).

Grylls uses a lesser-known Jesus-follower to narrate the history of some of His miracles, teaching and encounters with people, bringing the drama and the tension vividly to life, He also imagines the voices of Mary the mother of Jesus, Simon Peter and John. The final brief section is in the voice of Mary Magdalene, initially imagined as a tormented teenager until she encountered Jesus and then (wonderfully and deeply movingly) as one of the first witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead.  

The book isn’t without surprises. For example, the Greek word for Jesus’ trade can apparently be understood as referring to a craftsman who works with stone (not necessarily wood). Hopefully, this interpretation won’t distract anyone from the story’s power.

Because it’s a gripping read. Its popular style will no doubt be criticised for one reason or another, but I can’t help imagining its potential for Sunday Schools, youth groups and dramatic re-enactments. It will surely awaken a fresh love for Jesus in some of us already following Him and stir hunger to know more in some who know little about Him. Why not read it and then think about giving a copy to a friend who is open to thinking about Jesus?

The Greatest Story Ever Told: An Eyewitness Account, Bear Grylls, John Murray Press (Hodder Faith), Hardcover ISBN 978 1 399 82014 1, eBook ISBN-978 1 399 82015 8