Basic New Testament Survey

By Carl Davis

In the realm of theological discourse, few figures elicit as much debate and fascination as Jesus of Nazareth. Whether approached from a religious or historical perspective, delving into the life and identity of Jesus opens doors to a plethora of perspectives and interpretations. This book offers a multifaceted journey through various viewpoints, shedding light on the complexities surrounding the historical figure of Jesus.

Different Viewpoints, Different Opinions: This book meticulously presents a spectrum of viewpoints, inviting readers to engage with diverse opinions on the identity and significance of Jesus. Acknowledging and analyzing contrasting perspectives encourages critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in historical and theological discussions about Jesus.

Viewpoints Opposing the Generally Accepted Belief: Diving into viewpoints opposing the commonly accepted belief in Jesus as the Son of God and a historical figure who lived over 2000 years ago, this book challenges readers to confront alternative narratives. Through rigorous analysis and scholarly insights, it explores theories that question traditional Christian doctrines, offering a thought-provoking examination of dissenting viewpoints.

Viewpoints Supporting the Generally Accepted Belief: Simultaneously, this book delves into viewpoints supporting the traditional understanding of Jesus as the Son of God and a historical figure. Drawing from biblical texts, historical documents, and theological analyses, it presents compelling arguments for the authenticity of Jesus' existence and divine nature, enriching readers' appreciation for the foundational beliefs of Christianity.

Key Sections:

The Gospels: Analyzing the portrayal of Jesus in the four canonical Gospels and examining the historical reliability of their accounts.

The Acts of the Apostles: Exploring the early Christian community's beliefs about Jesus and the spread of Christianity.

The Letters of Paul: Investigating Pauline theology and its implications for understanding Jesus' identity and significance.

Other Extra-Biblical Documentation: Examining non-biblical sources and their contributions to understanding the historical Jesus.

Critical Analyses:

Source Criticism: Engaging with scholarly methodologies to critically evaluate the reliability of ancient sources and discern historical truths about Jesus.

Covenant and Testament: Exploring the theological significance of covenant and testament motifs in understanding Jesus' mission and message.

Why Read This Book? This book offers a comprehensive and balanced exploration of divergent perspectives on the identity and significance of Jesus. Whether you're a scholar, a student of theology, or a curious reader interested in unraveling the complexities of historical and theological debates surrounding Jesus, this book provides invaluable insights and encourages intellectual engagement with a timeless and profound subject.

Conclusion: With meticulous research, nuanced analysis, and a commitment to scholarly rigor, this book navigates through the labyrinth of historical, theological, and philosophical inquiries surrounding Jesus of Nazareth. By presenting diverse viewpoints and engaging with complex issues, this book serves as an indispensable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the enigmatic figure who continues to inspire and challenge humanity.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Carl Davis
• Release date: Jan 25, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224768653

Carl Davis

Carl Davis holds a Doctorate in Missiology based upon research of Organizational Growth in the Post Modern Society. I started my work life serving in the South African Defence Force – first at the Recruiting Division, then moving to a Medical Command where I served as a Generalist Personnel Officer. For the last two years of my service, I was tasked with the Personnel management of the Integration process, inclusive of entrance and exit strategies. After honorable discharge after more than 10 years in the South African Defence Force, I took up the post of Managing Director of a Non-Government Organization, established to uplift impoverished communities in and around Potchefstroom, while also appointed as a part-time lecturer of undergraduates (specifically on leadership). Three years later I was appointed as Rector, managing an Educational Institute with 4000 students spread over 36 African countries. While in this position I had the opportunity to lecture extensively abroad and published various articles on leadership; with specific emphasis on motivation and group dynamics. I am a strong believer in utilizing a blended and integrated approach in all of the training (including the new material which I developed) I developed which included – Leadership (within a Faith based community), andragogy, and Cultural Diversity management. I am also a graduate of the University of Stellenbosch's Facilitative Leadership Programme (BUVTON), consulting and facilitating with organizations that are "stuck" (- Alice Mann 1998- ) specifically in the process of change management.

Book preview

Introduction:

The Biblical foundation of Jesus as the Christ poses one of the most crucial but also one of the most problematic theological questions for contemporary Christian theology. At stake is the relation between the historical figure of Jesus of Nazareth and Jesus Christ, the object of Christian faith.

When one wants to look at the influence that Jesus Christ had on the history of mankind it would be appropriate to look at what other predominant world leaders or people that influenced history had to say about Him.

Napoleon Bonaparte, that marvel of the military, and also a great historical figure had the following to say when he reflected on his life when he was exiled on the Island of St Helena:

There is something about Jesus Christ I cannot understand.  Alexander, Caesar, Charlemagne, and myself have all founded great empires, but on what did these creations of our genius rest?  Upon force (own emphases).  But Jesus founded His on love.  This very day millions would die for Him.  I have inspired multitudes with enthusiastic devotion.  They would die for me.  But to do so, it was necessary that I should be present with the electric influence of my looks, my words, my voice.  When I saw men and spoke to them I lit up the flame of devotion in their hearts.  But Jesus Christ by some mysterious influence, even through the lapse of eighteen centuries, so draws the heart of men toward Him that thousand at a word would rush through fire and flood for Him, not counting their lives dear to themselves.[1]

A distinguished Jewish scholar, Claude Montefiore wrote:

Jesus is the most important Jew who ever lived.  He exercised a greater influence upon mankind and civilization than any other person within the Jewish race or outside it.  A Jew whose life and character have been regarded by all the best and wisest people as the greatest religious example of any age.[2]

German historian, Adolf Harnack, declared:

Jesus was so imposing that He was far beyond the power of men to invent and that those who treat Him as a myth are bereft of the capacity to distinguish between fiction and the documentary evidence . . ."[3]

Different viewpoints, different opinions:

When one starts to examine the topic of Jesus in a historical perspective one is confronted with different opinions expressed by different authors, as well as different perceptions of the topic at