The Historical Interpretation of the Resurrection in First and Second Century Christianity

Most people agree that Jesus was a real person who lived and walked on this earth. Yet, many controversies surround His birth, life and ministry, and death and resurrection. Critics have no problem with the historical Jesus, but the idea that Jesus Christ of Nazareth, son of Mary and Joseph, was raised from the dead disturbs most people, because bodily resurrection from the dead seems inconceivable to the fallen mind. So, this book sets out to investigate the historical notion of the resurrection of Jesus Christ in the first two centuries of the Early Church. The book examines the origin and background of the subject by looking at the biblical accounts, historical facts, philosophical/theological contexts, and challenges and developments of special importance. It presents the theological positions of the resurrection of Jesus from the key figures within the Christian community from the first two centuries AD. It aSlso presents an external and internal interpretation contrary to the traditional understanding of the resurrection from the first two centuries AD, which leads to the Church's responses to these misunderstandings and a critique of the adequacy of these responses. Then, the true historical understanding of the resurrection is presented in accordance with the tradition of the Church.

Georges E. Laine is currently pursuing a doctorate degree at Oral Roberts University. Georges received both a Master of Arts in History/Theology and Bachelor of Arts degree in Old Testament Studies/ French at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Before attending ORU, he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts in History from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida. When he is not traveling, Georges enjoys reading and teaching. He lives with his wife in West Palm Beach, Florida.