Simply written eye opening work. After years in ministry I know Jesus better after reading Baileys insights. Inow own 4 of his books and will end up with more.

Ken Bailey has a wonderful way of bringing the Scriptures to life. He, in essence, carries us back to the the time and helps us to feel as if we were there hearing the story for the first time.

I would highly recommend it. It gives a perspective of Jewish thinking and culture, and brings new meaning to the parable. While some aspects may appear assumptive, there are many Jewish applications that from our cultural aspect, would escape us. It really does provoke one to look at different concepts of our Lord's teaching.

The Cross and the Prodigal, as Kenneth Bailey's other works, illuminates and deepens understanding of the culture of Jesus' time. It enriches understanding of what the hearers of Jesus would have known culturally before he even began to speak. I highly recommend it.