The Jesus Debate: A Survey and Synthesis

This book hopes to be an introductory survey and interpretation of current developments in the study of Jesus. The primary audience to which this book is addressed is educated beginners in the study ofJesus. This audience dictates the introductory nature of the work to a great extent. But my own limitations also dictate this, for the study of Jesus carries one into so many complex areas that no one person can really hope to be master of them all.
Because this book is a survey of current trends, it will attempt to put the student in touch with what the author thinks are the major developments taking place right now. Many fine works have appeared on Jesus from various points of view. This author feels it is time to try to integrate these into an introductory survey so that the interested reader can begin to sketch a preliminary map of the complex terrain.
Because this work is an interpretation, it will attempt some kind of critical integration of the varied currents taking place. In a sense, every work represents the author's own personal evaluation. This cannot be avoided, and admitting it perhaps makes both me and the reader somewhat more critical. But this author also feels it is time to attempt some kind of more formal integration. The various currents now developing are very rich and have much to contribute to one another.
From the very beginning let me say that this is a theological introduction to the study of Jesus. Theology has its own modest role to play in developing both our critical understanding of Jesus and our critical prac- tice of the Christian life. If a theological book is written well, it can even inspire the reader psychologically and aesthetically.