"The cross is too important a matter to be left to the theologians. If it is true that God almighty was in Christ redeeming the world on Calvary, then we need to understand what that cross can mean for ordinary individuals and communities." With this conviction, Green reexamines the question of atonement. Why did Jesus have to die? How could a loving God allow his son to suffer? And what role does the resurrection play in this divine drama? Rooting his discussion in Scripture, Green opens up the meaning of Easter in an easy, nontechnical style. The empty cross of Jesus liberates the theologian, inspires the preacher, comforts the counselor, and fortifies every disciple for a life of self-sacrifice.