The Historical Jesus in the Twentieth Century - by Walter P Weaver (Paperback)

About the Book

Written in a clear and engaging style, Weaver's story chronicles not only the progress of Jesus research but also the cultural drifts and sociological phenomena that relate to the varying pictures of Jesus that scholarship has produced.

Book Synopsis

In the present volume, Walter P. Weaver tells the fascinating story of Jesus research during the first half of the twentieth century. Written in a clear and engaging style, Weaver's story chronicles not only the progress of Jesus research but also the cultural drifts and sociological phenomena that relate to the varying pictures of Jesus that scholarship has produced.

The story begins at the turn of the century with Albert Schweitzer and the publication of The Quest of the Historical Jesus. Making its way through two world wars, during which Jesus scholarship was mesmerized by national peril and driven to a period of pause, the story ends with the remarkable discovery in the 1940s of the Dead Sea Scrolls and Nag Hammadi documents-- discoveries that would stir the world of biblical scholarship for years to come. Throughout this period, Weaver points out, a struggle went on for the Jewish soul of Jesus. The period was also characterized by many attempts to popularize the results of Jesus research and to present Jesus as a public icon.

Walter P. Weaver is Emeritus Professor of Religion at Florida Southern College and former Chair of the Humanities Division and Department of Religion and Philosophy, and Pendergrass Professor of Religion. He is co-editor of the Faith and Scholarship Colloquies series published by Trinity Press.

Review Quotes

."..beautifully written with clear, interesting prose...This is a must-read for anyone interested in the quest for the historical Jesus, a truly unique contribution." Stephen J.--Sanford Lakoff "Religious Studies Review "

"Although it has been pronounced dead on many occasions, the quest to discover who Jesus was and how this relates to who Jesus is is still alive. This collection provides the good news that Christians are not searching alone." George M. Smiga, The Catholic Biblical Quarterly, Vol. 63, 2001--Sanford Lakoff "Catholic Biblical Quarterly "

"Recommended for any library supporting history of religions, theology, or New Testament studies." P. K. Moser, Loyola University of Chicago, reviewing for Choice, December 1999--Sanford Lakoff "CHOICE "

"The book needs to be in the hands of anyone studying the figure of Jesus, and could usefully be dipped into by anyone who s even vaguely interested in the history of the Quest, or in New Testament study in the twentieth century...Weaver is to be congratulated for what he has achieved here." Clive Marsh, Lincoln Theological Institute, as printed in Modern Believing, January 2001--Sanford Lakoff

"Those seeking answers to questions as they relate to the Christ and daily living and dying will find this an invaluable resource as keys to learning and the application of the Gospel to real life situations. This book belongs in every Christian's library." Raymond B. Knudsen, Editor, The Counselor, December 25, 1999--Sanford Lakoff "Professional Counselor "

"Weaver writes in an almost colloquial style with many nice turns of phrase. It is an excellent survey and summary, and will be easily understood by the non-specialist as well...what it does do is ably continue what Schweitzer began." Charles W.--Sanford Lakoff "Review of Biblical Literature "

"This is the most thorough account of how the historical Jesus was discovered, shaped, reshaped, discussed, and rediscussed during the first half of the 20th century..." International Review of Biblical Studies, vol. 46:1999/2000--Sanford Lakoff

About the Author

Walter P. Weaver is Emeritus Professor of Religion at Florida Southern College and former Chair of the Humanities Division and Department of Religion and Philosophy, and Pendergrass Professor of Religion. He is co-editor of the Faith and Scholarship Colloquies series published by Trinity Press.