Recent study of the Gospels has produced some surprising challenges to the historicity of the stories surrounding Jesus' birth and resurrection. There is skepticism about the star of Bethlehem, the magi, and the census, skepticism about the angels at the tomb and the manner and time of Jesus' appearances. What then about the more fundamental issues that touch on Christian Recent study of the Gospels has produced some surprising challenges to the historicity of the stories surrounding Jesus' birth and resurrection. There is skepticism about the star of Bethlehem, the magi, and the census, skepticism about the angels at the tomb and the manner and time of Jesus' appearances. What then about the more fundamental issues that touch on Christian faith? Was Jesus conceived without a human father? Did he rise bodily from the dead? In this book a noted Catholic scholar surveys the biblical evidence pertinent to those two questions and evaluates it clearly and honestly - and briefly enough to meet the needs of the interested reader. His forthright use of biblical criticism may offend some; the carefulness of his conclusions may offend others; but the book offers real help to those who prefer objective discussion to predetermined answers.
The Virginal Conception and Bodily Resurrection of Jesus
Recent study of the Gospels has produced some surprising challenges to the historicity of the stories surrounding Jesus' birth and resurrection. There is skepticism about the star of Bethlehem, the magi, and the census, skepticism about the angels at the tomb and the manner and time of Jesus' appearances. What then about the more fundamental issues that touch on Christian Recent study of the Gospels has produced some surprising challenges to the historicity of the stories surrounding Jesus' birth and resurrection. There is skepticism about the star of Bethlehem, the magi, and the census, skepticism about the angels at the tomb and the manner and time of Jesus' appearances. What then about the more fundamental issues that touch on Christian faith? Was Jesus conceived without a human father? Did he rise bodily from the dead? In this book a noted Catholic scholar surveys the biblical evidence pertinent to those two questions and evaluates it clearly and honestly - and briefly enough to meet the needs of the interested reader. His forthright use of biblical criticism may offend some; the carefulness of his conclusions may offend others; but the book offers real help to those who prefer objective discussion to predetermined answers.
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Theresa –
First, it must be noted that this book was published in 1974. The date is important bec biblical criticism was still not widespread in Catholic practice; it was still a mostly scholarly pursuit. Second, it must be noted that Raymond Brown was a renowned biblical scholar, then and until his death in late 1990's. And third, he notes from the beginning of this treatise that he considers this slim volume as "the problem" of virginal conception of Jesus, and of bodily resurrection of Jesus. Brown prese First, it must be noted that this book was published in 1974. The date is important bec biblical criticism was still not widespread in Catholic practice; it was still a mostly scholarly pursuit. Second, it must be noted that Raymond Brown was a renowned biblical scholar, then and until his death in late 1990's. And third, he notes from the beginning of this treatise that he considers this slim volume as "the problem" of virginal conception of Jesus, and of bodily resurrection of Jesus. Brown presents the Scriptural evidence and traditional beliefs succinctly and thoroughly. His conclusion on the first problem is unresolved. We are reminded that the Scriptures were written for people to interpret, in ways that are historically conditioned, the belief about who God is and who man is, based on the experience of people who knew Jesus, in his historical presence and since. On the second problem, Brown concludes: " Through the resurrection men came to believe in God in a new way; man's relationship to God was changed; a whole new vision of God and his intention for men was made possible; the whole flow of time and history was redirected. . . .it was also the sovereign action of God glorifying Jesus of Nazareth." And this belief opens new possibilities for those who come to believe in what He has done. The implications of this belief effects one's attitude toward the world and toward the corporeal. Is the body a shell that one sheds, or is it an intrinsic part of the personality that will forever identify a man? "The problem of bodily resurrection is not just an example of Christian curiosity; it is related to a major theme in theology: God's ultimate purpose in creating."
Spencer –
Great analysis of the texts regarding the virgin birth and the bodily resurrection. Brown argues for the validity of both without assuming biblical inerrancy, which would be arguing in a circle. His summary of all the arguments for and against the historical validity of both is excellent.
Cristina Adams –
The first half on the virginal conception is excellent and shows different perspectives on the subject. The second half is not as strong but still gives food for thought.
Wyatt Houtz –
This book changed the way I read the infancy and resurrection narratives and he sees things that I cannot be unseen in them.
Dale E. –
This is classic Raymond Brown scholarship. It is self-aware and thorough. It is meticulous in citing favorable and unfavorable scholars. Brown is as good at setting up the question as anyone I have ever read and if there were a theological topic that could use his skills, surely it is the resurrection.
David –
Easily the best treatment I've ever read about these two matters. Brown's integrity, plus his insistence on examining all available evidence and basing his conclusions on that evidence, works for me. Easily the best treatment I've ever read about these two matters. Brown's integrity, plus his insistence on examining all available evidence and basing his conclusions on that evidence, works for me.
TaleofGenji –
I registered a book at BookCrossing.com! http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/11137013 I registered a book at BookCrossing.com! http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/11137013
Peter Bradley –
My Amazon review - http://www.amazon.com/review/R90LL9SY... My Amazon review - http://www.amazon.com/review/R90LL9SY...
Carmel Ann Sperti –
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Pauline Puritan –
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Richard Ouellette –
Dennis –
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Chiefmoneygripps Givens –
Jeff –
http://thatjeffcarterwashere.blogspot... http://thatjeffcarterwashere.blogspot...
Susan Gemperline –
Everlasting Nonexistence –
Melissa –
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Bishop Craig –