Jesus, Center & Surplus
At the center of what makes Christian theology distinct from the general theological conversations of the religious traditions of the world, is the Christian engagement of Jesus. Other traditions – Judaism and Islam particularly – have something to say about the historical person of Jesus of Nazareth; his life, ministry, and teachings. Only Christianity, however, places cosmic implications on Jesus. Within the Christian tradition, Jesus is not only prophet, rabbi, and rebel, but also Messiah, Christ, or “Anointed One.” Christology, then, within the Christian theological tradition, is to define precisely who the historical Jesus of Nazareth was and what the cosmic implications of his life are for humanity and all of creation.1
Read more...
