Religion 313Religion 313

Teaching of JesusTeaching of Jesus

Dr. Donald N. PennyDr. Donald N. Penny

The “Pre-Easter” Jesus• This course seeks to explore the teaching of the “pre-Easter

Jesus.” • Historical Jesus scholar Marcus Borg distinguishes between

what he calls the “pre-Easter Jesus” and the “post-Easter Jesus.”

• The “pre-Easter Jesus” is the historical Jesus, a Galilean Jew of first-century Palestine.

• The “post-Easter Jesus” is the Jesus of Christian tradition and experience, a continuing presence in the lives of Christian believers.

• The following chart is adapted from www.united.edu/portrait/compare.shtml, a web site devoted to the work of Marcus Borg. It contains detailed information on Borg and his approach to the historical Jesus.

The Pre- and Post-Easter JesusThe Pre- and Post-Easter JesusPre-Easter JesusPre-Easter Jesus

4 BC – 30 AD4 BC – 30 AD

Human being of flesh & bloodHuman being of flesh & blood

Finite and mortalFinite and mortal

HumanHuman

A Jewish peasantA Jewish peasant

Figure of the pastFigure of the past

Jesus of NazarethJesus of Nazareth

Monotheistic JewMonotheistic Jew

Galilean Jew of 1Galilean Jew of 1stst century century

Post-Easter JesusPost-Easter Jesus

30 AD to present30 AD to present

Spiritual, non-material realitySpiritual, non-material reality

Infinite, eternalInfinite, eternal

DivineDivine

King of Kings & Lord of LordsKing of Kings & Lord of Lords

Figure of the presentFigure of the present

Jesus ChristJesus Christ

Second person of the TrinitySecond person of the Trinity

““The Face of God” (2 Cor. 4:6)The Face of God” (2 Cor. 4:6)

The better we understand the pre-Easter Jesus, the more authentic our experience of the post-Easter Jesus will be.

Topic 1Topic 1

Sources and Methodology Sources and Methodology for the Study of Jesusfor the Study of Jesus

I. Overview of Sources

II. Source Criticism of the Gospels

III. Form Criticism

IV. Redaction Criticism

V. Conclusion

I. Overview of SourcesI. Overview of SourcesA.A. Non-Christian SourcesNon-Christian Sources (F.F. Bruce, (F.F. Bruce, Jesus and Christian Origins Outside the NT)Jesus and Christian Origins Outside the NT)

1.1. Suetonius (c. 120): Suetonius (c. 120): Jews were expelled from Rome by Jews were expelled from Rome by Claudius (c. 49) because of rioting instigated by “Chrestus.”Claudius (c. 49) because of rioting instigated by “Chrestus.”

2.2. Tacitus (c. 116): Tacitus (c. 116): Describes Christian movement persecuted Describes Christian movement persecuted by Nero (64); named for Christ, who was executed by Pontius by Nero (64); named for Christ, who was executed by Pontius Pilate during reign of Tiberius.Pilate during reign of Tiberius.

3.3. Pliny the Younger (c. 111): Pliny the Younger (c. 111): Letter to Trajan asking for Letter to Trajan asking for guidance in dealing with growing, illicit Christian sect; gathered guidance in dealing with growing, illicit Christian sect; gathered before dawn to “recite hymns to Christ as to God.”before dawn to “recite hymns to Christ as to God.”

4.4. Josephus (c. 90): Josephus (c. 90): Jewish historian mentions Jesus twice.Jewish historian mentions Jesus twice.a.a. Execution of James, brother of “Jesus the so-called Christ.”Execution of James, brother of “Jesus the so-called Christ.”b.b. Laudatory description of “Jesus the Christ” under Pontius Laudatory description of “Jesus the Christ” under Pontius

Pilate (probably added or modified by Christian copyists)Pilate (probably added or modified by Christian copyists)..5.5. Talmud (c. 500): Talmud (c. 500): Many derogatory references to Jesus.Many derogatory references to Jesus.

6.6. Summary. Summary. a.a. Add little to our knowledge of Jesus.Add little to our knowledge of Jesus.b.b. Main value is to confirm that Jesus lived, attracted followers, Main value is to confirm that Jesus lived, attracted followers,

was executed, and originated Christian movement.was executed, and originated Christian movement.

I. Overview of SourcesI. Overview of SourcesB.B. Extra-Canonical Christian SourcesExtra-Canonical Christian Sources

1.1. Apocryphal gospels (2Apocryphal gospels (2ndnd-5-5thth cent.) – cent.) – mostly fanciful, mostly fanciful, legendary, secondary; some may preserve early tradition.legendary, secondary; some may preserve early tradition.a.a. Narrative gospelsNarrative gospels

1)1) Infancy Story of Thomas – miraculous deeds of child Jesus.Infancy Story of Thomas – miraculous deeds of child Jesus.2)2) Gospel of Peter – 2Gospel of Peter – 2ndnd-cent. Passion & Resurrection narrative; -cent. Passion & Resurrection narrative;

Crossan thinks an earlier version (“Cross Gospel”) was used by Crossan thinks an earlier version (“Cross Gospel”) was used by canonical gospels.canonical gospels.

3)3) Protevangelium of James – miraculous birth of Mary; virgin birth Protevangelium of James – miraculous birth of Mary; virgin birth of Jesus; as told by James, brother of Jesus.of Jesus; as told by James, brother of Jesus.

4)4) Jewish Christian gospels: Gospels of Ebionites, Hebrews, and Jewish Christian gospels: Gospels of Ebionites, Hebrews, and Nazareans.Nazareans.

b.b. Sayings gospelsSayings gospels1)1) Nag Hammadi library (discovered in 1945) – Gnostic writings.Nag Hammadi library (discovered in 1945) – Gnostic writings.2)2) Coptic Gospel of Thomas (ms. dated c. 350)Coptic Gospel of Thomas (ms. dated c. 350)

a)a) Translation of Greek text of disputed date (50-140).Translation of Greek text of disputed date (50-140).b)b) Contains 114 detached sayings of Jesus – some parallel to Contains 114 detached sayings of Jesus – some parallel to

Synoptic sayings; some appear to be earlier form; others Synoptic sayings; some appear to be earlier form; others may have undergone Gnostic redaction.may have undergone Gnostic redaction.

c)c) Used extensively by many recent scholars (esp. “Jesus Used extensively by many recent scholars (esp. “Jesus Seminar”) as early, independent tradition.Seminar”) as early, independent tradition.

d)d) Others think it is dependent on canonical gospels.Others think it is dependent on canonical gospels.

I. Overview of SourcesI. Overview of SourcesB.B. Extra-Canonical Christian Sources (cont.)Extra-Canonical Christian Sources (cont.)

2.2. AgraphaAgrapha (“unwritten things”) (“unwritten things”)a.a. Sayings not recorded in our gospels but preserved elsewhere.Sayings not recorded in our gospels but preserved elsewhere.

b.b. ““It is more blessed to give than to receive”It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).(Acts 20:35).

c.c. Story of woman caught in adultery (Jn. 7:53-8:11).Story of woman caught in adultery (Jn. 7:53-8:11).

d.d. Many found in writings of early church fathers.Many found in writings of early church fathers.

3.3. SummarySummarya.a. Very little outside NT with any claim to authenticity or which Very little outside NT with any claim to authenticity or which

adds substantially to NT sources. adds substantially to NT sources.

b.b. Apocryphal gospels mostly reveal more about Christian Apocryphal gospels mostly reveal more about Christian groups that produced them than about Jesus himself.groups that produced them than about Jesus himself.

c.c. Main exception is Coptic Gospel of Thomas.Main exception is Coptic Gospel of Thomas.

I. Overview of SourcesI. Overview of Sources

C.C. NT writingsNT writings1.1. Acts and letters Acts and letters

a.a. Only barest facts about Jesus’ life and teaching.Only barest facts about Jesus’ life and teaching.

b.b. Paul seems to have little interest in pre-Easter Paul seems to have little interest in pre-Easter Jesus—focuses on his Death and Resurrection.Jesus—focuses on his Death and Resurrection.

2.2. GospelsGospelsa.a. Four detailed accounts—all datable to first century.Four detailed accounts—all datable to first century.

b.b. Stark differences between Synoptics and John force Stark differences between Synoptics and John force historian to choose.historian to choose.

I. Overview of SourcesI. Overview of Sources

SynopticsSynoptics JohnJohn

ChronologyChronology One journey to Jerusalem.One journey to Jerusalem.

One Passover.One Passover.

One-year ministryOne-year ministry

Three journeys to Jerusalem.Three journeys to Jerusalem.

Three Passovers.Three Passovers.

Three-year ministry.Three-year ministry.

FormForm Short, pithy sayings.Short, pithy sayings.

Many parables (1/3 of teaching).Many parables (1/3 of teaching).

Many exorcisms.Many exorcisms.

Long, flowing discourses.Long, flowing discourses.

No true parables.No true parables.

No exorcisms.No exorcisms.

Jesus’ Jesus’ teachingteaching

Focuses on Kingdom of God.Focuses on Kingdom of God.

Reticent about himselfReticent about himself—”Messianic Secret.”—”Messianic Secret.”

Little on Kingdom of God.Little on Kingdom of God.

Bold claims of heavenly origin; Bold claims of heavenly origin; divine Son of God; invitation to divine Son of God; invitation to believe.believe.

ContentContent Much overlapping material.Much overlapping material.

Many stories in common.Many stories in common.

Little overlapping material.Little overlapping material.

Few stories in common.Few stories in common.

I. Overview of SourcesI. Overview of Sources

2.2. GospelsGospelsc.c. Which picture of Jesus is more historical?Which picture of Jesus is more historical?

1)1) John: “Theological development” is more pronounced.John: “Theological development” is more pronounced.

a)a) Reads Christian theology back into story more Reads Christian theology back into story more explicitly than Synoptics.explicitly than Synoptics.

b)b) Jn. is not devoid of historical tradition, but it is harder Jn. is not devoid of historical tradition, but it is harder to isolate; overall portrait is more heavily theologized.to isolate; overall portrait is more heavily theologized.

2)2) Synoptics: “Historical Jesus” lies closer to surface.Synoptics: “Historical Jesus” lies closer to surface.

a)a) Preserve traditions in more “primitive,” less Preserve traditions in more “primitive,” less theologized form.theologized form.

b)b) Synoptics do theologize, but in more subtle ways.Synoptics do theologize, but in more subtle ways.

d.d. ConclusionConclusion1)1) Synoptics are our primary sources for “historical Jesus.”Synoptics are our primary sources for “historical Jesus.”

2)2) John is studied mainly for its profound theology.John is studied mainly for its profound theology.

II. Source (Literary) Criticism of the GospelsII. Source (Literary) Criticism of the GospelsFocuses on literary origin: authorship, date, place, sources, etc.Focuses on literary origin: authorship, date, place, sources, etc.

A.A. The “gospel” and the “Gospels”The “gospel” and the “Gospels”1.1. ““Gospel” – term borrowed from secular politics:Gospel” – term borrowed from secular politics:

a.a. ““Good news” of a king’s victory.Good news” of a king’s victory.

b.b. Announcement of ruler’s birth as “good news.”Announcement of ruler’s birth as “good news.”

c.c. Christians borrowed term to refer to good news of Jesus.Christians borrowed term to refer to good news of Jesus.

2.2. Oral proclamation of Christian “gospel” (30-70 AD and Oral proclamation of Christian “gospel” (30-70 AD and beyond)beyond)

3.3. Written collections (50-65)Written collections (50-65)

4.4. Full “Gospels” (65-100)Full “Gospels” (65-100)a.a. Eyewitnesses dying out.Eyewitnesses dying out.

b.b. Imminent Parousia failed.Imminent Parousia failed.

c.c. Threats of heresy.Threats of heresy.

d.d. Rapid growth and spread of movement.Rapid growth and spread of movement.

II. Source Criticism of the GospelsII. Source Criticism of the GospelsB.B. The “Synoptic Problem”The “Synoptic Problem”

1.1. Similarities among Synoptics Similarities among Synoptics (“viewed together”)(“viewed together”)

a.a. Similar outline of ministry Similar outline of ministry (Galilee – journey – Jerusalem)(Galilee – journey – Jerusalem)

b.b. Much overlapping contentMuch overlapping content

c.c. Similar language and styleSimilar language and style

d.d. Similar wording, often verbatim Similar wording, often verbatim (“literary interdependence”)(“literary interdependence”)

2.2. Differences among SynopticsDifferences among Synopticsa.a. Birth stories different in Mt. and Lk., absent from Mk.Birth stories different in Mt. and Lk., absent from Mk.

b.b. Many sayings common to Mt. and Lk., absent from Mk.Many sayings common to Mt. and Lk., absent from Mk.

c.c. Sayings arranged differently in Mt. and Lk.Sayings arranged differently in Mt. and Lk.

d.d. Mt. and Lk. each have unique material.Mt. and Lk. each have unique material.

3.3. How do we account for similarities and How do we account for similarities and differences among the Gospels?differences among the Gospels?

II. Source Criticism of the GospelsII. Source Criticism of the GospelsC.C. Solution: the “Two-Source Theory”Solution: the “Two-Source Theory”

1.1. ““Priority” of Mark (1835) – Priority” of Mark (1835) – Mk. was used by Mt. and Lk.Mk. was used by Mt. and Lk.

a.a. Mk. is much shorter than Mt. and Lk.Mk. is much shorter than Mt. and Lk.b.b. Most of Mk. is reproduced in Mt. or Lk.Most of Mk. is reproduced in Mt. or Lk.c.c. Mt. and Lk. never agree on order different from Mk.Mt. and Lk. never agree on order different from Mk.d.d. Mt. and Lk. improve Mk.’s Greek style and remove Mt. and Lk. improve Mk.’s Greek style and remove

theological difficulties (cf. Mk. 10:18 with Mt. 19:17).theological difficulties (cf. Mk. 10:18 with Mt. 19:17).

2.2. ““Q” hypothesis (1838)Q” hypothesis (1838)a.a. Mt. and Lk. used a written collection of (mostly) Mt. and Lk. used a written collection of (mostly)

sayings of Jesus (Q = sayings of Jesus (Q = QuelleQuelle = “source”?). = “source”?).b.b. Arguments for a written Q source:Arguments for a written Q source:

1)1) Close verbal agreements between Mt. and Lk.Close verbal agreements between Mt. and Lk.2)2) Agreements in order even when grouping is different.Agreements in order even when grouping is different.3)3) Doublets: two accounts of similar material in same gospel Doublets: two accounts of similar material in same gospel

– one from Mk. and one from Q (cf. Lk. 9, 10).– one from Mk. and one from Q (cf. Lk. 9, 10).

II. Source Criticism of the GospelsII. Source Criticism of the GospelsC.C. Solution: the “Two-Source Theory” – cont.Solution: the “Two-Source Theory” – cont.

3.3. Material unique to Mt. and Lk. – Material unique to Mt. and Lk. – taken from Mt. and taken from Mt. and Lk.’s special traditions (written and/or oral).Lk.’s special traditions (written and/or oral).a.a. M – 1/5 of Mt. is unparalleled.M – 1/5 of Mt. is unparalleled.b.b. L – 1/3 of Lk. is unparalleled. L – 1/3 of Lk. is unparalleled.

4.4. Synthesis of theorySynthesis of theorya.a. H. J. Holtzmann (1863) – H. J. Holtzmann (1863) – first to synthesize the first to synthesize the

“two-source theory” “two-source theory” (Mk. and Q as sources for Mt. and Lk.); (Mk. and Q as sources for Mt. and Lk.); became dominant view by 1900.became dominant view by 1900.

b.b. B. H. Streeter (1924) – B. H. Streeter (1924) – developed “four-source theory” developed “four-source theory” (counting M and L, as well as Mk. and Q); not widely followed.(counting M and L, as well as Mk. and Q); not widely followed.

c.c. Alternate views:Alternate views:1)1) ““Utilization” theory (Augustine): Mt. written first; Mk. used Utilization” theory (Augustine): Mt. written first; Mk. used

Mt.; Lk. used Mt. and Mk.Mt.; Lk. used Mt. and Mk.2)2) Griesbach theory: Mt. written first; Lk. used Mt.; Mk. Griesbach theory: Mt. written first; Lk. used Mt.; Mk.

abridged Mt. and Lk. (revived by W. R. Farmer).abridged Mt. and Lk. (revived by W. R. Farmer).

d.d. ““Two-source theory” remains the reigning view.Two-source theory” remains the reigning view.

The Two-Source TheoryThe Two-Source Theory

Mark Q (M) (L)

Matthew Luke

John

II. Source Criticism of the GospelsII. Source Criticism of the GospelsD.D. Contribution to the “Jesus Quest”Contribution to the “Jesus Quest”

1.1. Boosted confidence in 19Boosted confidence in 19thth-cent. quest for -cent. quest for historical Jesus.historical Jesus.a.a. Mk. as early, reliable account of ministry.Mk. as early, reliable account of ministry.

b.b. Q as early, reliable source of sayings.Q as early, reliable source of sayings.

2.2. Basis for “criterion of multiple-attestation” – Basis for “criterion of multiple-attestation” – material found in more than one source is more likely authentic.material found in more than one source is more likely authentic.

3.3. Useful as a tool for gospel interpretation.Useful as a tool for gospel interpretation.

III. Form CriticismIII. Form CriticismFocuses on oral tradition lying behind the literary processFocuses on oral tradition lying behind the literary process

A.A. Pioneers of Form Criticism Pioneers of Form Criticism 1.1. K. L. Schmidt (1919)K. L. Schmidt (1919)

a.a. Tradition circulated in small, independent units of tradition Tradition circulated in small, independent units of tradition ((pericopespericopes, lit. “cutting around”). (“Snapshots” of Jesus), lit. “cutting around”). (“Snapshots” of Jesus)

b.b. Connecting framework (provided by evangelists) can be Connecting framework (provided by evangelists) can be removed with little loss of meaning. removed with little loss of meaning.

2.2. M. Dibelius (1919)M. Dibelius (1919)a.a. Classified traditions into 5 relatively fixed forms.Classified traditions into 5 relatively fixed forms.b.b. Showed how forms functioned in Showed how forms functioned in Sitz im Leben Sitz im Leben (“setting in (“setting in

life”) of early church (esp. preaching and teaching).life”) of early church (esp. preaching and teaching).

3.3. R. Bultmann (1921) – R. Bultmann (1921) – most influential, controversialmost influential, controversiala.a. Detailed analysis of Synoptic tradition.Detailed analysis of Synoptic tradition.b.b. Emphasized “creativity” of early church: shaped, embellished, Emphasized “creativity” of early church: shaped, embellished,

and borrowed material.and borrowed material.c.c. Distinguished Palestinian and Hellenistic forms to separate Distinguished Palestinian and Hellenistic forms to separate

“layers” of tradition and write a “history of the tradition.”“layers” of tradition and write a “history of the tradition.”

III. Form CriticismIII. Form Criticism

B.B. Method – 4 main steps in Form CriticismMethod – 4 main steps in Form Criticism1.1. Separate tradition from evangelist’s framework.Separate tradition from evangelist’s framework.

2.2. Classifying the form (“genre”) of the tradition.Classifying the form (“genre”) of the tradition.

3.3. Determine its function in its Determine its function in its Sitz im LebenSitz im Leben..

4.4. Reconstruct the history of the tradition – Reconstruct the history of the tradition – identify identify modifications made by early church and work back towards earliest modifications made by early church and work back towards earliest form of the tradition. Examples:form of the tradition. Examples:a.a. Application to a new situation.Application to a new situation.

b.b. Transference from Palestinian to Hellenistic environment.Transference from Palestinian to Hellenistic environment.

c.c. Elaboration of details.Elaboration of details.

d.d. Influence of Christian prophecy – speaking in name of risen Jesus.Influence of Christian prophecy – speaking in name of risen Jesus.

e.e. Etc.Etc.

III. Form CriticismIII. Form CriticismC.C. A Classification of FormsA Classification of Forms

1.1. Pronouncement stories (“apophthegms”)Pronouncement stories (“apophthegms”)a.a. Brief dialogue climaxing in striking saying (Mk. 2:23-28).Brief dialogue climaxing in striking saying (Mk. 2:23-28).b.b. Often preserved in context of controversy with Jews over Law.Often preserved in context of controversy with Jews over Law.

2.2. Dominical sayingsDominical sayingsa.a. Sayings of Jesus as Lord of church; many types (Mk. 10:31).Sayings of Jesus as Lord of church; many types (Mk. 10:31).b.b. Often preserved as instruction of new converts.Often preserved as instruction of new converts.

3.3. Parables – Parables – 1/3 of Synoptic sayings; most considered genuine.1/3 of Synoptic sayings; most considered genuine.

4.4. Miracle storiesMiracle storiesa.a. Fixed form: description of problem; the cure; demonstration of Fixed form: description of problem; the cure; demonstration of

effectiveness; reaction of crowd (Mk. 1:40-45).effectiveness; reaction of crowd (Mk. 1:40-45).b.b. Used in preaching to demonstrate Jesus’ power.Used in preaching to demonstrate Jesus’ power.

5.5. Stories about JesusStories about Jesusa.a. Birth; baptism; temptation; transfiguration; last supper; etc.Birth; baptism; temptation; transfiguration; last supper; etc.b.b. Terms “legend” or “myth” do not rule out historical kernel.Terms “legend” or “myth” do not rule out historical kernel.

6.6. Passion narrative Passion narrative – earliest material to form connected account– earliest material to form connected account

III. Form CriticismIII. Form CriticismD.D. Results of Form CriticismResults of Form Criticism

1.1. Our knowledge of Jesus is filtered through the tradition Our knowledge of Jesus is filtered through the tradition of the early church.of the early church.

2.2. Tradition was preserved in self-contained units, so that Tradition was preserved in self-contained units, so that the original sequence and context are often lost.the original sequence and context are often lost.

3.3. Tradition was shaped to meet needs of early church.Tradition was shaped to meet needs of early church.4.4. There may be expansions, embellishments, and There may be expansions, embellishments, and

borrowing in the tradition.borrowing in the tradition.5.5. Form criticism led to skepticism about knowledge of Form criticism led to skepticism about knowledge of

historical Jesus. Raises three critical questions:historical Jesus. Raises three critical questions:a.a. Does a tradition go back to Jesus at all?Does a tradition go back to Jesus at all?b.b. Has it been accurately preserved?Has it been accurately preserved?c.c. Are the present sequences and contexts historical?Are the present sequences and contexts historical?

6.6. Limitations of form criticism:Limitations of form criticism:a.a. Only a tool, not the gospel.Only a tool, not the gospel.b.b. Creativity of church can be exaggerated (cf. J. Jeremias).Creativity of church can be exaggerated (cf. J. Jeremias).

IV. Redaction CriticismIV. Redaction CriticismFocuses on process of “editing” sources and traditions into final formFocuses on process of “editing” sources and traditions into final form

A.A. Pioneers of Redaction CriticismPioneers of Redaction Criticism

1.1. G. Bornkamm (1948) – G. Bornkamm (1948) – Matthew: Showed how Mt. edited Matthew: Showed how Mt. edited Stilling of Storm to address theme of discipleship.Stilling of Storm to address theme of discipleship.

2.2. H. Conzelmann (1954) – H. Conzelmann (1954) – Luke: Responds to delay of Parousia Luke: Responds to delay of Parousia by creating 3-fold scheme of “Salvation-history” (Israel – Jesus – by creating 3-fold scheme of “Salvation-history” (Israel – Jesus – Church) in which Jesus’ ministry is “the center of time.”Church) in which Jesus’ ministry is “the center of time.”

3.3. W. Marxsen (1956) – W. Marxsen (1956) – Mark: Absence of resurrection Mark: Absence of resurrection appearances leads readers to expect imminent Parousia in Galilee.appearances leads readers to expect imminent Parousia in Galilee.

B.B. MethodologyMethodology – observes an Evangelist’s editorial work: – observes an Evangelist’s editorial work:

1.1. SelectivitySelectivity2.2. ArrangementArrangement3.3. AdaptationAdaptation4.4. Editorial commentsEditorial comments

All aimed at discovering the All aimed at discovering the distinctive theologydistinctive theology of each Evangelist. of each Evangelist.

IV. Redaction CriticismIV. Redaction CriticismC.C. Mark: the Crucified ChristMark: the Crucified Christ

1.1. Author – Anonymous. Tradition: John Mark (interpreter of Peter).Author – Anonymous. Tradition: John Mark (interpreter of Peter).2.2. Place – Tradition: Rome. Others: Syria, Palestine.Place – Tradition: Rome. Others: Syria, Palestine.3.3. Date: 65-70.Date: 65-70.4.4. Purpose: To strengthen Christians in the face of suffering.Purpose: To strengthen Christians in the face of suffering.5.5. Outline: geographical and topical.Outline: geographical and topical.

ch. 1-8ch. 1-8 Galilee ministryGalilee ministrych. 8-10ch. 8-10 Journey to JerusalemJourney to Jerusalemch. 11-16ch. 11-16 Jerusalem ministryJerusalem ministry

6.6. Key themes in Mark:Key themes in Mark:a.a. Jesus as God’s agent in battle with Satan.Jesus as God’s agent in battle with Satan.b.b. Jesus as Son of God who suffers and dies.Jesus as Son of God who suffers and dies.c.c. Jesus as Son of Man in earthly ministry, suffering, and future Jesus as Son of Man in earthly ministry, suffering, and future

coming in glory.coming in glory.d.d. The “Messianic Secret”: The “Messianic Secret”: identity not revealed until after Passion.identity not revealed until after Passion.

e.e. Centrality of the Passion (Kähler:Centrality of the Passion (Kähler: “passion narrative with “passion narrative with extended introduction”).extended introduction”).

f.f. Discipleship involves willingness to suffer for sake of gospel.Discipleship involves willingness to suffer for sake of gospel.

IV. Redaction CriticismIV. Redaction CriticismD.D. Matthew: the Teaching ChristMatthew: the Teaching Christ

1.1. Author – Author – Anonymous. Tradition: Matthew the tax collector.Anonymous. Tradition: Matthew the tax collector.

2.2. Place: Antioch/Syria?Place: Antioch/Syria?3.3. Date: 75-90.Date: 75-90.4.4. Purpose: Purpose: Manual of instruction for Jewish Christian church defining Manual of instruction for Jewish Christian church defining

itself over against the synagogue.itself over against the synagogue.5.5. Outline: organized around five discourses of Jesus.Outline: organized around five discourses of Jesus.

ch. 1-2ch. 1-2 Infancy narrativeInfancy narrativech. 3-7ch. 3-7 DiscipleshipDiscipleship

Discourse 1: Discourse 1: Sermon on the Mount Sermon on the Mount (ch. 5-7)(ch. 5-7)ch. 8-10ch. 8-10 ApostleshipApostleship

Discourse 2: Discourse 2: Mission Discourse Mission Discourse (ch. 10)(ch. 10)ch. 11-13ch. 11-13 KingdomKingdom

Discourse 3: Discourse 3: Parables of the Kingdom Parables of the Kingdom (ch. (ch. 13)13)

ch. 14-18ch. 14-18 Christian communityChristian communityDiscourse 4: Discourse 4: Discourse on Church Discipline Discourse on Church Discipline

(ch. 18)(ch. 18)ch. 19-25ch. 19-25 Preparation for deathPreparation for death

Discourse 5: Discourse 5: Eschatological Discourse Eschatological Discourse (ch. (ch. 24-25)24-25)

ch. 26-28ch. 26-28 Passion and ResurrectionPassion and Resurrection

IV. Redaction CriticismIV. Redaction CriticismD.D. Matthew: the Teaching Christ (cont.)Matthew: the Teaching Christ (cont.)

6.6. Key themes in Matthew:Key themes in Matthew:a.a. ““Jewish Gospel” relating Christian faith to Judaism.Jewish Gospel” relating Christian faith to Judaism.

b.b. Fulfillment of prophecy (“formula quotations”).Fulfillment of prophecy (“formula quotations”).

c.c. Jesus as the expected royal Messiah, Son of David.Jesus as the expected royal Messiah, Son of David.

d.d. Continuing validity of the Law as interpreted by Continuing validity of the Law as interpreted by Jesus.Jesus.

e.e. Jesus as Teaching Messiah whose authority Jesus as Teaching Messiah whose authority transcends the Torah.transcends the Torah.

f.f. The most “church” oriented gospel.The most “church” oriented gospel.

IV. Redaction CriticismIV. Redaction CriticismE.E. Luke: the Universal ChristLuke: the Universal Christ

1.1. Author – Author – Anonymous. Tradition: Luke, Anonymous. Tradition: Luke, Paul’s “beloved physician.”Paul’s “beloved physician.”

2.2. Place: outside Palestine; Aegean region?Place: outside Palestine; Aegean region?

3.3. Date: 75-90.Date: 75-90.

4.4. Purpose: Purpose: To commend and clarify the gospel for To commend and clarify the gospel for Gentile readers.Gentile readers.

5.5. Outline:Outline:1:1-4:131:1-4:13 Preface; infancy; preparation Preface; infancy; preparation

for ministryfor ministry

4:14-9:504:14-9:50 Galilee ministry Galilee ministry (6:20-8:3 = (6:20-8:3 = “lesser interpolation”)“lesser interpolation”)

9:51-19:279:51-19:27 Journey to Jerus. Journey to Jerus. (9:51-18:14 = (9:51-18:14 = “greater interp.”)“greater interp.”)

19:28-24:5319:28-24:53 Jerusalem ministryJerusalem ministry

IV. Redaction CriticismIV. Redaction CriticismE.E. Luke: the Universal Christ (cont.)Luke: the Universal Christ (cont.)

6.6. Key themes in Luke:Key themes in Luke:a.a. Delay of the Parousia.Delay of the Parousia.

b.b. Salvation-history divided into three periods: Salvation-history divided into three periods: 1)1) Period of Israel (Adam to John the Baptist). Period of Israel (Adam to John the Baptist).

2)2) Period of Jesus’ public ministry (Baptism to Ascension).Period of Jesus’ public ministry (Baptism to Ascension).

3)3) Period of church (Pentecost to Parousia; cf. Acts).Period of church (Pentecost to Parousia; cf. Acts).

c.c. God’s mercy for sinners and outcasts God’s mercy for sinners and outcasts (tax collectors; (tax collectors; prostitutes; the poor; women; Samaritans; Gentiles).prostitutes; the poor; women; Samaritans; Gentiles).

d.d. Universalism of the gospel.Universalism of the gospel.

e.e. Role of the Holy Spirit.Role of the Holy Spirit.

f.f. Conduct of the Christian life: prayer; humility; love; Conduct of the Christian life: prayer; humility; love; proper use of money.proper use of money.

g.g. Defense of the political innocence of Christianity.Defense of the political innocence of Christianity.

IV. Redaction CriticismIV. Redaction CriticismF.F. Results of Redaction CriticismResults of Redaction Criticism

1.1. Evangelists are “theologians” in their own right.Evangelists are “theologians” in their own right.a.a. Edited sources and traditions in interest of their own Edited sources and traditions in interest of their own

theology.theology.

b.b. Not primarily concerned with historical accuracy but Not primarily concerned with historical accuracy but with “preaching the gospel” to their particular with “preaching the gospel” to their particular readers.readers.

2.2. Shifted focus of scholarship away from historical Shifted focus of scholarship away from historical Jesus and toward theologies of Evangelists.Jesus and toward theologies of Evangelists.

V. ConclusionV. Conclusion

A.A. What Are the Gospels?What Are the Gospels?1.1. Not eyewitness, objective biographies but 2Not eyewitness, objective biographies but 2ndnd--

generation witnesses to Christian faith in Jesus.generation witnesses to Christian faith in Jesus.

2.2. Based on historical traditions, so they tell us Based on historical traditions, so they tell us much about Jesus.much about Jesus.

3.3. Traditions have been reshaped twice to serve Traditions have been reshaped twice to serve theological interests – once in oral tradition and theological interests – once in oral tradition and again by the Evangelists.again by the Evangelists.

4.4. Gospel passages can be interpreted in the Gospel passages can be interpreted in the context of three “settings in life.” context of three “settings in life.”

V. ConclusionV. Conclusion

B.B. Three Gospel “Settings in Life” Three Gospel “Settings in Life” ((Sitzen im LebenSitzen im Leben))

Interpretation may focus at any of three levels:Interpretation may focus at any of three levels:

1.1. Setting of the EvangelistSetting of the Evangelista.a. Literary context of final form of gospel.Literary context of final form of gospel.

b.b. Focus of redaction criticism Focus of redaction criticism (message of gospel writer).(message of gospel writer).

2.2. Setting of the early churchSetting of the early churcha.a. Context of oral tradition.Context of oral tradition.

b.b. Focus of form criticism Focus of form criticism (what does form of tradition tell us (what does form of tradition tell us

about the early church which preserved it?)about the early church which preserved it?)..

3.3. Setting of JesusSetting of Jesusa.a. Context of historical ministry of Jesus.Context of historical ministry of Jesus.

b.b. Focus of “historical quest” Focus of “historical quest” (meaning for Jesus himself).(meaning for Jesus himself).

V. ConclusionV. Conclusion

C.C. Criteria of authenticityCriteria of authenticityThree “classic criteriaThree “classic criteria””: : (N. Perrin, (N. Perrin, Rediscovering the Teaching of JesusRediscovering the Teaching of Jesus, pp. 39-47), pp. 39-47)

1.1. Criterion of dissimilarity: Criterion of dissimilarity: material dissimilar to Judaism material dissimilar to Judaism and early church must be Jesus.and early church must be Jesus.

2.2. Criterion of multiple attestation:Criterion of multiple attestation: material found in more material found in more than one source is more likely authentic.than one source is more likely authentic.

3.3. Criterion of coherence: Criterion of coherence: material which coheres with material which coheres with authenticated material may be considered authentic.authenticated material may be considered authentic.

Additional criteriaAdditional criteria::4.4. Criterion of embarrassment:Criterion of embarrassment: material embarrassing to material embarrassing to

early church would not have been invented.early church would not have been invented.

5.5. Criterion of language and environment:Criterion of language and environment: material not material not compatible with language/culture of Palestine may not be authentic.compatible with language/culture of Palestine may not be authentic.