The Secret Ministry of Jesus
Subtitle: Pioneer Prophet of Interfaith Dialogue
Publisher: University Press of America
Published: September 28, 2007
Language: eng
Format: Paperback
Number of pages: 120
ISBN-13: 9780761838333
Subjects: Biblical Commentary - New Testament; Religion / Bible / Commentaries / New Testament; Biblical Studies - Jesus, the Gospels & Acts; New Testament Commentary; Religion; Religion - Commentaries / Reference
Description: "This work addresses the questions concerning the crucifixion/resurrection story, the legends of Jesus in India, Tibet and China, and the unique style and content of the Fourth Gospel. The "street theatre" style of the Hebrew prophets grounds the belief that Jesus also employed drama to proclaim his visions. To encourage his people who were suffering under cruel Roman oppression, he dramatized Isaiah's "Suffering Servant" poem that climaxes with his rescue/resurrection - a promise that God will rescue Israel. Isaiah's "Missionary Servant" poem inspired him to carry his Gospel into new lands. The Syrian Acts of Thomas and more recently discovered material detail his secret ministry to India, Tibet, and China. There, his spirited exchanges with Hindus, Buddhists, and Taoists have enriched the Gospels and may have affected the evolution of eastern religious and philosophical thought, particularly that of Mahayana Buddhism." "The book's discussion provides evidence that Jesus was a pioneer of interfaith dialogue and a prophet of world spirituality who inspires us to build a world community of justice, peace, and love for people of all faiths. It is appropriate for college and university classes in Bible and Qur'an studies, contemporary theology, and current religious issues."--Jacket.