In the end, Bennett proffers a provocative argument. Its focus on a maternal metaphor definitely has possibilities to reinvigorate the stale arguments of much of contemporary atonement theologies...I strongly recommend this book for upper-level undergraduate and graduate level theology courses.
-- Reading Religion
This is an extraordinarily well-crafted work of theology, biblically informed in conversation with historical theology with an eye toward pastoral and practical implication and helps us understand the work of the cross in a biblical but refreshing way.
-- Religious Studies Review
This beautifully produced, learned, and readable book retrieves and develops a theme espoused by St Anselm of Canterbury, Julian of Norwich, and other medieval authors: the crucified Jesus, in his atoning death, gave birth to God’s spiritual children.
-- The Journal of Theological Studies
It is one thing to argue for the importance of reinvigorating atonement theology, something else to actually do so. Bennett succeeds at both. The theology is so rich and alive that the book will undoubtedly inspire many sermons
-- Interpretation: Journal of Bible and Theology
Bennett’s Labor of God makes a fascinating case for understanding the cross in terms of divine labor, even as it provides fresh language once again to capture the cross’s 'hideous splendor' (p. 89). I am grateful for his work.
-- Biblical Theology Bulletin
Bennett's work has much to commend it. He has restored a biblical and historical model of atonement that can helpfully sit beside other interpretations of the work of Christ. Furthermore, his apologetic and missional motivation in presenting this model is praiseworthy, grounding theology in a ministry context and presenting a helpful ecclesiological emphasis.
-- Themelios
