This book presents an introduction to the ministry and message of Jesus by combining topical and chronological approaches. Topics discussed include: highlights of the words and teachings of Jesus and the main events of his ministry; background information on Judaism to aid in understanding the context of Jesus' words and actions; main issues and debates in the research of the historical Jesus; the most important ancient documents that help in understanding the Gospels (the Dead Sea Scrolls, Nag Hammadi Scrolls, Talmud, and Josephus). « less more »