Prophet Jesus and the Renewal of Israel

Robert L. Webb-- McMaster University Richard Horsley has marshaled a strong argument to break through and move beyond the traditional apocalyptic/nonapocalyptic debate concerning the historical Jesus. . . . Through a holistic reading of the earliest Gospel sources, Horsley provides us with a fresh portrait of Jesus, one that is rooted in the realia of Galilee's first-century social and cultural context. An impressive work! William R. Herzog II-- Andover Newton Theological School If it's true that you can't judge a book by its cover, it is equally true that you can't judge the significance of a book by its size. This small volume by Richard Horsley is proof of that truth. It provides that rarest of qualities -- perspective -- and distills a lifetime of study even as it revisits debates past and present. . . . A must-read for anyone studying the ongoing quest of the historical Jesus. James H. Charlesworth-- Princeton Theological Seminary A brilliant book that challenges much that is assumed by modern scholars. Horsley brings into focus a better method for ascertaining Jesus' message, urging us to ponder that Jesus was a prophet who sought to launch a renewal of Israel. This refreshing and challenging book would be ideal in classrooms. David Rhoads-- Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago The clearest expression yet of Horsley's distinctive and important contribution to the quest for the historical Jesus. . . .This is must reading for students and scholars seeking a picture of Jesus as one who truly belongs to first-century Palestine. Stephen J. Patterson-- Willamette University In this superbly written and clearly argued little book, Horsley restates his case for a prophetic Jesus actively engaged in the struggle against Roman imperial rule. But this time he brings to the table new claims about method and sharp criticism for both the defenders and opponents of Schweitzer's apocalyptic hypothesis. . . . Scholars and questers of every level of expertise will want to read this new book from one of our most prolific and treasured scholars. Barbara R. Rossing-- Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago Horsley persuasively argues that neither Jesus' sayings nor apocalyptic texts (Daniel, 1 Enoch) envision 'cosmic catastrophe' or the 'end of the world.' Rather, in the midst of historical crises, these texts proclaim judgment of oppressive empires and restoration of the people by God -- a compelling future on earth. Warren Carter-- Brite Divinity School This stimulating study offers insightful critique, important challenge, and significant results.