Jesus Christ and Mythology
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Translator's Preface: The eschatological interpretation of human life wasn't merely the teaching of a prophet 19 centuries ago, but is essentially true today as then. Jesus' message as he delivered it, not some modern variation or dilution of it, is his message today. The details of apocalyptic imagery are transitory (here is the germ of "demythologizing") & wishful thinking about the world to come is valueless, even harmful; but the eschatological message, "The kingdom of God is at hand," "among you" not "within you," is relevant to any age, including our own.
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Introduction: Viewpoint & Method
The subject of this book is not the life or the personality of Jesus, but only his teaching, his message. Little as we know of his life & personality, we know enough of his message to make for ourselves a consistent picture. What the sources offer us is 1st of all the message of the early Xian community, which for the most part the church freely attributed to Jesus. This naturally gives no proof that all the words which are put into his mouth were actually spoken by him. As can be easily proved, many sayings originated in the church itself; others were modified by the church.
1 The Historical Background for the Ministry of Jesus
At least there can be no doubt that Jesus like other agitators died on the cross as a Messianic prophet.
2 The Teaching of Jesus: The Coming of the Kingdom of God
However little we know of the life of Jesus, if we keep in mind that he was finally crucified as a Messianic agitator, we shall be able in the light of the eschatological message to understand the fragmentary accounts of the end of his activity, overgrown tho they are with legend.
3 The Teaching of Jesus: The Will of God
Jesus as rabbi, his understanding of the Old Testament, his consideration of the Law, his ethic of obedience, his attitude towards wealth, the commandment of Love, the Will of God & the coming of the Kingdom.
4 The Teaching of Jesus: God the Remote & the Near
Jesus' concept of God: similar & different from Jewish thought—different from Greek thought—a God of the future (influence of dualism)—the providence of God & God's justice—miracles— prayer—Faith—God as father—God remote & near—Sin & forgiveness.
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