This book isn't a novel with a plot, but it has a clear mission. John P. Jones, an American missionary who lived in India for over 30 years, lays out his argument for why he believes Christianity, not Hinduism, is the solution to what he sees as India's social and spiritual problems.

The Story

Jones structures his case like a lawyer. He starts by describing the 'problem'—India's condition under British rule and Hindu tradition. Then, he puts two figures on trial: Krishna, the Hindu deity, and Jesus Christ. He compares their lives, teachings, and the religions they inspired, point by point. His goal is to prove that Christ's teachings are superior and are the key to India's progress. The 'story' is his journey to this conclusion, filled with his observations, criticisms of Hindu practices, and his vision for a Christian India.

Why You Should Read It

Don't read this for a balanced interfaith dialogue—you won't find it. Read it as a primary source, a raw document of colonial-era missionary thinking. It's frustrating, eye-opening, and incredibly revealing. You see the absolute certainty of Jones's worldview, his genuine concern mixed with cultural superiority, and the monumental task he undertook. It makes you think deeply about power, persuasion, and how people try to change entire civilizations.

Final Verdict

This is a challenging but important read for anyone interested in colonial history, missionary work, or India's complex past. It's not for the casual reader looking for a spiritual guide. It's for the curious person who wants to understand a pivotal moment in history from a very specific, unfiltered perspective. Think of it as listening to one side of a heated, century-old debate.