Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #23483 in Books
• Published on: 2008-02-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 352 pages

Customer Reviews

Brilliant, read a life times research into Jesus
This book is thought provoking throughout , however, it has an excellent chapter on the political, social and cultural setting of Jesus. In our modern age of literal and factual thinking it is, to some, insulting to even imply that the bible may have things in it which were not actually spoken, this brings to light the mindset of biblical authors and shows that what we call 'just metaphor' is actually vitally important to the writers actual understanding of Jesus, His works, and Father.
Borg has written works which with his radical style and radical message has rubbed many people up the wrong way. this book refers back to a life times research and publishing but as Borgs manner and style of teaching has matured the message stays as radical but the style far more accessible.

A lifetime labour of love
Borg's tone and presentation speaks to scholars and laypeople at the same time. He patiently explores all segments of the Gospel accounts, turning them around like gem stones to expose various angles of meaning. His approach highlights the challenging questions raised by Jesus' words. What, for example, are the implications of giving to God what belongs to God, and to Caesar what is Caesar's? What do we say belongs to God? Everything? And what belongs to Caesar? Does anything?

In all the stories, from the Prodigal Son to the various resurrection scenes, Borg stresses the search for intended meaning, without insisting on certainty about historical facts. He emphasizes the difference between believing doctrines about Jesus and actually following Jesus way of living. For modern America he raises an ancient concern: What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus and also a citizen of the world's most powerful empire?

I found the book a pleasure to read. It's a lifetime labor of love, and every page is packed with insight.

--author of "Different Visions of Love"

Brilliant
This book is excellent - quite easy reading but demanding in terms of thought. Keep going until the end, otherwise you could end up thinking that Borg is heading towards heresy. I found the insights gained have enriched my understanding of Christ and the gospel and have spurred me to read other authors who have, recently, been subjected to much criticism by evangelical writers; people like Tom Wright (Justification) and Steve Chalke (The Lost Message of Jesus).