Product Description

Robert Stein draws together the results of a career of research and writing on Jesus and the Gospels. Every episode in the life of Jesus is here treated with historical care and attention to its significance for understanding the life and ministry of Jesus. Clearly written, ably argued and geared toward the needs of students, this book will give probing minds a grounding in the life and ministry of Jesus.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #262646 in Books
• Published on: 1996-12
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 290 pages

From Publishers Weekly
Stein, professor of New Testament at Bethel Theological Seminary, here attempts to remove the study of the life and work of Jesus of Nazareth from the realm of historical-critical study that has marked the quest for the historical Jesus from Albert Schweitzer to the Jesus Seminar. Stein declares that Jesus' supernatural nature, confirmed through Jesus' miracle-working ability, is the proper starting point for a study of the life of Christ. It is necessary, he argues, to speak of the Jesus of faith rather than merely a historical figure whose life may be dissected by the scalpel of academic criticism. Rather than engage in polemics, Stein very carefully examines every episode in the life of Jesus, from his birth through his boyhood to his death and resurrection, in a quest to understand the life and ministry of Jesus in its first-century context as well as its meaning for 20th-century culture. Stein's thoroughly researched and well-informed study of the life of Jesus offers a good introduction for any reader interested in the historical Jesus.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
Stein notes in the first chapter of this popular survey of the life of Jesus that "where you start determines where you finish." In this regard, it is significant that the author is an Evangelical New Testament scholar who employs historical-critical tools in his study of Scripture but remains "open to the supernatural." His survey attends to recent developments in historical Jesus research but follows the synoptic Gospels in narrating Jesus' life. Evangelical readers troubled by recent historical Jesus research will find Stein's discussion of sources of particular interest. His synthesis of the synoptic accounts is hardly groundbreaking, but it is accessible. Though there are no footnotes, each chapter is followed by a short bibliography that will guide readers interested in further research. Readers who start with Stein's account and his bibliographies may be predisposed to finish with an "Evangelical" portrait; those who wish to critically examine that portrait will need also to follow the trail of books not included among Stein's suggestions. Steve Schroeder

Customer Reviews

A great overview of the Life of Christ
I teach a college-level "Life of Christ" survey class and use this book as my text. It is clear, orderly, evangelical, and well documented, perfect for a learning environment such as a college classroom. The issues dealt with by Stein involve more than just his personal opinion (although he will tell you what he feels is the most likely interpretation). He does make a big point to explain different interpretations of various points of disagreement (such as the ethical teachings of Jesus). I find this to be much more honest and refreshing than merely ignoring opposing points of view. Stein supports everything with references from the Bible as well as numerous other books on the subject, many of which are unfortunately out of print. If you want a nondevotional survey on the Life of Christ, I know of no better book.

Great book. Stein covers a wide scope effectively
This book was used in a class titled Life & Teachings of Jesus and was easy to cpmprehend and covered a wide scope of information. I recommend it to anyone who wants to study the life of Jesus in great detail.

Excellent!!
A very well thought out and well researched study of the synoptic gospels. I'd highly recommend this book for believers and non-believers who have questions.