Table of Contents

Introduction. Sources: Graeco-Roman, Jewish (especially Josephus), Christian (gospels and non-canonical literature). Problems with historical Jesus research (nature of the gospels, bioi, Synoptics vs John, etc). Overview of scholarship on Jesus (the three quests and where we are now).

1: Origins. Where did Jesus come from? Problems with the birth stories. Galilee in recent research (how Jewish was it? relations with Jerusalem?). Social status, family life, trade etc.

2: Ministry. This chapter will look at Jesus' ministry in fairly broad terms: Jesus as follower of John the Baptist; models of 'holy men' in the ancient world, including Prophet (prophetic critique of rulers; symbolic action in Temple) and Messiah; its duration, geographical scope, etc.

3: Teaching. Centrality of the Kingdom of God; use of parables, I am sayings, wisdom sayings etc. Eschatology? Apocalyptic? How much is really historical? (note on Jesus Seminar).

4. Healing. Healers in the ancient world, magic, miracles as a manifestation of the kingdom. Attraction of women in particular to healers?

5: Trial and Execution. Why was Jesus arrested? The parts played by Jewish 'chief priests', Caiaphas and Pontius Pilate. Was there a trial? What was the charge? 'Prophecy historicised'. Was Jesus buried or eaten by dogs? Traditional sites.

6: Resurrection. Problem of different gospel accounts. Empty tomb traditions; women etc. Paul (esp. 1Cor 15). Effect on disciples etc. Later traditions (incl. Gospel of Peter).

7: The Jesus movement and the early Church. Continuity and discontinuity.

Conclusion. The historical Jesus and his legacy.