The Original Jesus: The Life and Vision of a Revolutionary - Softcover

Wright, N. T.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0802842836 ISBN 13: 9780802842831

Publisher: Eerdmans, 1997

Synopsis

Jesus is in the news as much now as ever before. Whenever there is new evidence or a new analysis about Jesus, the newspapers get interested. Many continued to be fascinated by the person of Jesus and by whether or not he actually did and said what the New Testament Gospels say he did.

This new book, written in a lively, non-technical style by biblical theologian Tom Wright, is an ideal introduction for anyone approaching the subject of the "historical Jesus" for the first time.

In The Original Jesus Wright focuses on key stages in Jesus' life and on key elements of his teaching. In the process, Wright presents a vivid reconstruction of what Jesus himself was aiming to achieve and how the movement he began can best be understood in relation to the turbulent politics and fervent aspirations of his day. Wright also looks at the way we interpret the different Gospel narratives about Jesus, showing how modern readers coming fresh to these texts can do so in an informed and discriminating way.

Based on rigorous historical research and featuring numerous full-color illustrations as well as short, clear chapters, The Original Jesus offers compelling insight into what Jesus really stood for, why he was crucified, and how it was that his followers came to regard him as nothing less than the human face of God.

About this title

About the Author

N. T. (Tom) Wright is Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland, and one of the most highly respected biblical scholars in the world today.

Review

Booklist
"The Original Jesus is a popular account of the research of an important critic of the Jesus Seminar and includes a fine annotated bibliography. . . An excellent starting point for newcomers to historical Jesus research as well as a popular snapshot of current discussion for those already familiar with the debate."

CBA Marketplace
"There's nothing I've read more concisely stated or more beautifully illustrated."

Library Journal
"The chapters are brief and easily read, presenting Jesus in the context of the political turmoil and messianic expectations of the times. . . Well written and easily read. . . Highly recommended."

National Catholic Reporter
"Well-written . . . a cultural analysis of some of the stories by and about Jesus that sheds new light on the familiar tales. . . Gorgeously presented, richly illustrated and visually pleasing as well as intellectually stimulating."

Edition details

• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 0802842836
• ISBN 13: 9780802842831
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 160