The First Christmas takes an in-depth look at the Christmas story in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Matthew’s version regarding the birth of Christ doesn’t give as much details as Luke’s version of the story. For Christians and non Christians alike the question that divides nations, destroys religions, and separates kindred remains – is the miracle birth of Jesus fact or fable?
What is fact? According to Webster, it is the quality of being actual. What is fable? Again, according to Webster, it is a fictitious narrative or legendary story of supernatural happenings. These definitions pose more questions – if something isn’t factual does that mean it isn’t true? Facts can change, but can truth?
This book does not focus on either fact or fable. Borg and Crossan offer other options such as parables and overtures. A parable is a fabricated story that illustrates a spiritual principle. The First Christmas tells us that parables are simply a form of speech, just as poetry. They have meaning and are not dependent on factuality, they are metaphoric in nature. An overture, as the book explains, is the opening part of a work that serves as a summary, synthesis, metaphor, or symbol of the whole.
Borg and Crossan explore different perceptions of the birth of Jesus Christ, for example Roman theology vs. Christian theology, peace through violent victory vs. peace through non-violent justice, and finally Christian vs. non Christian. Some Christians believe that skepticism concerning Jesus’ birth stems from a lack of faith. However, some Christians also believe that Jesus being born of a virgin is test of faith in and of itself. The authors bring clarity to the otherwise abstract analysis of Jesus’ birth. They present valuable insight as they delve into the mysteries of the miraculous birth of Christ.
The First Christmas will enhance the reader's understanding of Jesus, as Borg and Crossan unearths each layer of historical events leading up to the birth of Christ.
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