After reading a number of books examining the Historical Jesus which find very little inspiring in him or propose a variety of incompatible reconstructions of his life, this book comes as a breath of fresh air.
Luke Johnson begins by critiquing the “Jesus Seminar” and a number of other authors of works on the so-called ‘Historical Jesus’ for their unsound methodology and consequent faulty conclusions. He continues by pointing out that the available historical evidence about Jesus (essentially the New Testament) is very limited. Nevertheless, he lists seventeen points about Jesus made by the New Testament letters (eight of which are supported by non-Christian writers). He adds that “Even the most critical historian can confidently assert that a Jew named Jesus worked as a teacher and wonder-worker in Palestine during the reign of Tiberius, was executed by crucifixion under the prefect Pontius Pilate, and continued to have followers after his death.” (p 123)
Johnson also points out that, even though Christianity has always claimed Jesus to be a historical figure, Christian faith has always been based on religious claims about Jesus; specifically, that God raised him from the dead and that he shares his new life with believers through the Holy Spirit. Since historical methodology describes events in the past in naturalistic terms, the supernaturalistic claims of Christianity, particularly the resurrection, are by definition not historical. These claims cannot be proved historically; they can be validated only by the witness of authentic Christian discipleship; in lives demonstrating a pattern of faithful obedience and loving service. (p 168)
The author also draws attention to the question of whether the methods of historical criticism taught in universities bear any relation to the needs of student ministers who need to be learning about such matters as preaching, visiting the sick and comforting the grieving. In this he echoes (perhaps unknowingly) the words of C S Lewis to a group of trainee ministers in “Fern Seed and Elephants” (1959, published in, inter alia, “Christian Reflections”, 1998). Johnson says that the effect of the methods he critiques “…is that the New Testament writings – as writings – were neglected” (p 104). C S Lewis said, “These men ask me to believe they can read between the lines of the old texts; the evidence is their obvious inability to read … the lines themselves.” (op cit p 199)
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet or computer – no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
