Incarnation Myth or Fact (Concordia Scholarship Today)

Rating:
Summary: Myth or Fact?
Review: Skarsaune is a master historian of early Christian dogma, and in this book he narrows his sights upon the central claim of the faith- that God became man in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. Setting the doctrine in its jewish context, Skarsaune outlines the major Jewish objections to the "scandale of the incarnation". He then traces Hellenic opposition thru the early centuries. In each case study, he interacts heavily with primary sources. What was most useful in these sections was Skarsaune's presentation of the "Jewishness" of New Testament Christology. This is very useful and in you are interested in this area of study the book is book pays for itself with that chapter!

He then compares the early Christian experience of Jesus as God with the philosphical mileu of the time, showing how the early church freely adopted some philosophical points while rejecting others. In this way, the church was not "platonized", as many authors suggest, but rather baptized some elements of neoplatonsim for its own use without sacrificing the uniqueness of the gospel (which is why it was still offensive to hellenic ears!).

In further chapters, the various christologies of the eastern and western traditions are outlined and compared, showing that the early church was neither monolithic nor totalitarian in its approach to Christ (you have to wait a few cuenturies after the 400s for that!). Against the backdrop of teachings that were not accepted as authentic (i.e. Arianism, Nestorianism, Monothylitism, Monophysitism, Appolonarianism) the early church formulated more precise christological definitions at various Councils- Nicea, Ephesus, Chalcedon. These councils and others are clearly outlined and examined, providing the reader with a clear understanding of the motives (theological and otherwise) behind the doctrines, as well as their wider religious context.

This book is truly a masterpiece. The generous use of primary sources makes it a great introduction into the writings of both christian and non-christian philosphers and theologians from the first through the fifth centuries.

Study questions are included, making it a great resource for adult study groups.

With a great index, detailed endnotes, and a great bibiliography, this book is unbeatable at only 176 pages. You can't go wrong here! Enjoy!

You may also be interested in his new book, In The Shadow Of The Temple, which traces the Jewsih origins of the early Church. It is very well done! See my other reviews for books of similar interest. Thanks!