AD 30 & AD 33
Summary
A.D. 30 and A.D. 33 make up a historical fiction duology by Ted Dekker. In it, the shamed Arabian princess Maviah, along with her trusted companions and warriors, Judah and Saba, must journey across the Middle East in search of salvation for their tribe. Trekking through Petra, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem, these fictional characters navigate real historical events, including key moments from Jesus’ life.
Assessment
A.D. 30 and A.D. 33 make up two halves of a high-quality saga. The epic and often heartbreaking adventure takes place across the Middle East, pulling in real historical events and deep theological questions about the Gospel (seeking to provide answers applicable to the readers’ lives). The story balances tragedy, heartbreak, and faith with Dekker’s signature mastery of fiction into one, cohesive vehicle of discipleship.
In terms of cleanliness, the story is free from cursing and sex scenes. There is some romance, but it is limited to attraction and some kissing. The story is not, however, clean in terms of violence. This is a tumultuous time in the world and Dekker presents that in a way that isn’t gory, but does reflect the reality of human cruelty. In terms of the stories’ theological message, it focuses on many of Jesus’ teachings in the Gospel, particularly nonviolence and dying to self.
Light-o-Meter
Overall — 6 out of 7 Little Lights
Story: 5 out of 7 Little Lights
Prose: 6 out of 7 Little Lights
Quality: 6 out of 7 Little Lights
Theological Message: 6 out of 7 Little Lights
Age Appropriateness — Appropriate for intended audiences of adults and older teens.
Talk
Oh.
Oh boy.
That was something really, really special.
So, as a Christian and a storyteller, I do approach “let’s write a story about the life of Jesus!” with extreme caution. A lot of them do have really good messages and present the topic with an enormous amount of respect and diligence and this is absolutely one of them. Like, really, really well-done.
Now, do I have a few issues with it? A couple. Are they worth mentioning with how in-depth, diligent, and careful this duology is about presenting the Gospel and breaking it down into relatable pieces? Honestly, no. The heart of this story is exploring some really big theological questions by presenting characters who are, themselves, asking them. How does one hold on to Christ while enduring suffering? What does it really mean to turn the other cheek? What happens when God doesn’t save the innocent? What does it mean to “hate” your family for the sake of loving God? How do you let go of the things most precious to you?
In my opinion, this is one of the absolute best breakdowns of the fundamental message of the Gospel. Even better than some non-fiction and sermons, I’m going to be honest. That does not, of course, mean that it is perfect and it is just from one man’s perspective, but I think it’s a very wise and Spirit-guided perspective.
Also, the story itself is beautifully heartbreaking. These characters that are painted in such a human way are suffering real injustices that are forcing them to take a hard look at their own hearts. They wrestle with the same questions you or I or any Christian does regarding faith, sacrifices, and the brokenness of the world. That’s not to say there aren’t lighter moments, but it is a Ted Dekker book, so it spends most of its time pretty intense.
Where to Enjoy
Amazon: A.D. 30: A Novel (A.D., 1): Dekker, Ted: 9781599954134: Amazon.com: Books
Barnes & Noble: A.D. 30: A Novel | Barnes & Noble®
Christianbook.com: A.D. 30, Paperback: Ted Dekker: 9781455578542 - Christianbook.com
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