The Scalpel and the Cross: A Theology of Surgery (Ordinary Theology)

In The Scalpel and the Cross, New Testament professor and open-heart surgery survivor Gene Green devotes careful theological reflection to the experience of surgery. Avoiding shallow explanations and assurances, Green examines the deep intersection between the trauma of surgery and the enduring significance and hopefulness of the Christian story.

We know the bedrock themes upon which the Christian faith stands: creation, fall, redemption, restoration. As Christians, we live within these great moments of God’s plan for humanity and all of his creation. In other words, our lives are part of Christian theology—every part of our lives, even surgery.

As a part of Zondervan’s Ordinary Theology series, The Scalpel and the Cross recounts New Testament professor Gene Green’s encounter with open-heart surgery and carefully examines the many ways in which Christian doctrine spoke into the experience. The result is a short book that avoids shallow explanations and glib promises, instead guiding readers to deeper understanding and enduring hope in the face of one of modern life’s necessary traumas.