Joy beyond Agony

The crucifixion is full of paradoxes. Shame becomes glory. Death ends in victory. Agony cannot overcome the hope of joy.


In twelve lessons Jane Roach takes us to different aspects of the cross, showing us what the crucifixion meant to Jesus—and what it can mean to us. Why was it necessary? Why did Jesus embrace it? And how do we take up our crosses and follow him? 


Through Bible study, application questions, commentary, testimonies, and hymns, learn what the cross shows us about our Savior, and discover the hope and joy it gives us as we face life’s struggles.


“This Bible study is thorough and doctrinally sound, and it speaks to the subject that is central in Christianity but often ignored in churches and Christian publications today: the cross of Jesus Christ. Jane Roach has taught the Bible for many years, and she has taught well. This book is no exception.”

—Rosemary Jensen, Founder and President, Rafiki Foundation


“A wonderful tool to introduce the inquirer to the most important person in human history. . . . I commend this study tool to any and all readers. It is well written, pedagogically sound, theologically insightful, practically relevant, and personally penetrating.”

—John Hannah, Professor of Historical Theology, Dallas Theological Seminary


Jane Roach was Director of Training for Bible Study Fellowship for more than twenty-five years. She currently teaches two Bible studies, assists the Texas Hill Country Bible Conference, and directs women’s ministries at her church.