Dealing with the Jewish background to Jesus, this book provides an introductory account of the emergence of Christianity. It presents eschatology as the mainstay of early Christian belief, and uses this as a lens through which to view the development of the Early Church, the writings of Paul and the further growth of the Church.
In Christian Origins Jonathan Knight gives a comprehensive account of the emergence of Christianity as we know it today. Beginning with the Jewish background to Jesus and his teachings, Knight examines the different factions within Judaism at the time, ultimately identifying eschatology as the common link to Jesus' teaching. Knight presents this apocalyptic agenda as the mainstay of early Christian belief, and uses this as a lens through which to view the development of the Early Church, the writings of Paul and the further growth of the Church.
In examining the birth of Christianity Knight alights on such crucial and intriguing issues as the Synoptic Problem, the historical figure of Jesus and the authorship of the Pauline epistles. These widespread investigations lead him to an enlightening examination of Pauline ethics and the development of sacramental understanding and Christian ministry, propelling the book beyond a basic exegetical reflection to a breathtaking demonstration of the foundations of a major world faith.
"Knight's treatise provides the reader with a comprehensive overview of Christian beginnings ... his treatment of the 'Son of Man' controversy is especiallyl worthy of consideration ... While scholars will recognize the sources for Knight's opinions, they, as well as casual readers, will profit by the massive bibliographical references contained in the 100 pages of endnotes. Merely to have attempted the immense task of writing a history of Christian origins is laudable; that Knight has carried it off so well is extraordinary." Casimir Bernas, Religious Studies Review, Vol. 35 No. 1, March 2009.
