Not sure where we want to go from here, but here are a couple things:
This is the world into which Jesus was born: Second Temple Judaism (and more and more). To understand the New Testament, I think it's helpful to at least know the phrase "Second Temple Judaism." This time period in Israel's history shows through in Jesus' ministry, his goals, how his followers viewed him, and may even be helpful to understanding why he died.
And this last point is an interesting one (I think) that probably isn't explored enough, and one that might be helpful for us to get into the history and culture of Jesus' time:
Why was Jesus killed?
Ever given this any thought? I'm interested to hear.
I started the Borg/Wright book. I've read just the very first section and only half the argument (Borg's), but it is really making sense to me. The idea of a historical Jesus and Biblical Jesus and how they can't necessarily be lumped together. I wish I had the book here I would quote some good stuff.
ReplyDeleteI had some fabulous thoughts and accidentally navigated away from them so they are forever lost. :)
ReplyDeleteThe second article puts Jesus in the context of redeeming Israel after a second 14 generations of exile. The reaction to him as Messiah and the discontent of the people when he didn't overthrow the government make more sense in this context. His death makes more sense. On one hand, he is threat because he seems to have some significance and garners followers. On the other hand, he isn't the threat that his followers want him to be to the political system.
I'll finish this thought later.