This scholarly work is very illuminating.
-The author, a recognized NT scholar, makes some strong claims based on critical scholarly analysis of the material.
-The synoptic gospels claim that Jesus's public ministry lasted only one year and that his fateful donkey ride into Jerusalem for Passover was his first, last, and only visit to Jerusalem during Passover.
-John claims the mission lasted several years and that Jesus had been in Jerusalem many times before teaching in the temple, and that the Jewish and Roman authorities knew that he was harmless. This author believes that John is likely correct.
-But this last time the crowd got worked up into a frenzy and Jesus was arrested not because anybody was afraid of him but because the Jewish and Roman authorities were afraid of the incited crowd during this particular, volatile Passover weekend. In other words, the crowd caused the arrest.
-Whether Jesus thought he was the messiah is a moot point. Enough of the Passover crowd in Jerusalem were proclaiming he was indeed the messiah, enough to lead to his arrest and execution.
The Davidization of Jesus after the crucification and resurrection appearances is breathtaking. Just saying.
Into a synagogue in Damascus, then, within a few years of Jesus' crucification, came apostles in his name, proclaiming the gospel. They witnessed; they interpreted scripture; they performed deeds of power; they prophesied and they healed. They drew both Jews and gentile god fearers into their tiny new assembly, which formed within the penumbra of the Jewish community.
And it was there they encountered Paul the prosecutor. P. 143
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