from jesus to christ - the first christians
How - How well do historical findings match up with the story Christians have long told each other?
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The Crucifixion
Archaeological discoveries offer new information about the Roman practice of crucifixion.

Jesus as Rabbi
Scholar Jaroslav Pelikan examines the changing perceptions of Jesus' role as a Jewish rabbi and teacher.

The Parables
Madeleine Boucher discusses the different types of parables used by Jesus and their role in his teaching.

The Quest for the Historical Jesus
Two interesting examinations: The 'Jefferson Bible' was Thomas Jefferson's attempt to extract an authentic Jesus from the Gospel accounts. And, scholar Claudia Setzer explores the discoveries and controversies of the present 1990's quest, comparing it to earlier intense periods of inquiry into Jesus' life.

Chart of Jesus' Family Tree
Here are Jesus' relatives - as cited in the gospels, in Paul's letter to the Romans and the work of church historian Eusebius.

Audio Excerpt from the Documentary
Why archaeological findings are requiring scholars to re-think Jesus' socio-cultural background.

symposium . jesus' many faces . a portrait of jesus' world . storytellers . first christians . why did christianity succeed?
maps, archaeology & sources . discussion . bible history quiz . behind the scenes
teachers' guide . viewers' guide . press reaction .  tapes, transcripts & events

published april 1998

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