Jesus

Unique in its conception, brilliant in its performance, massive and dense in its actuality--Schillebeeckx is unique among theologians in that his vision of a Christology such as is here is almost overwhelming. I have begun reading his book and am truly amazed at his intellect, his faith, and his spirituality--all of which are evident on each page. Be prepared for a long, pressing journey through this book and the next, but also be prepared for an encounter with him whom we call Lord and Savior.

Suppose faithful readers really like to know more about the theology of Jesus the Christ besides reading the Gospels, yet not being knowledgeable in the academic theological terms, and not having the endowment for seminary semesters, this is the book of choice. The author designs a discussion flow from Jesus the historical figure, to Jesus the Christ and His role in salvation, to His divinity as Son of Man, Son of God. His apologetic focus is more Hellenistic than Roman-Latin. He went back and cited earlier prime Palestinian sources, with profuse Catholic (particularly Dutch French German, his upbringing background) and Judaic bibliography supplements. He would try to present and elaborate his discussions with "environmental" - historical, political, social surroundings, that's one of the reasons that makes it accessible to layman. And Biblical chapter & section references are always present wherever applicable. A sincere and non-confronting tone to Jewish-Christian faith distributaries is smoothening. Judaism readers are invited to examine the author's rendering and synthesis, his understanding and citation of Judaism knowledge (mostly in Part III), not necessarily to agree with the author, but to determine if it serves as a source of reference for interfaith dialogue. I hope it helps to serve as a modern addition since the times of Moses Maimonides, Thomas Aquinas. (See also Jacob Neusner's contemporary works.)A sort of very primitive and limited reflection about "Jesus" and Hans Kung's "On Being a Christian" is that "Jesus" is microcosm, "...Christian" is macrocosm. Micro does not suggest minor, in fact they compliment each other perfectly. If you have read "On Being a Christian", fine, then soft focus your study to "Jesus"; if you haven't --- even better, start with "Jesus", then "On Being a Christian". The experience will be rewarding. If you can spare more resource and have access to Bishop Fulton J. Sheen "Life of Christ", consider it a microcosm of Schillebeeckx's. (Again there is no concept of micro-minor.) Thus suggested is the revised reading sequence: "Life of Christ", "Jesus", "On Being a Christian". It is even more congenial.In recommending this book, I am recommending all 3 books together. Together they make a good and serious layman reading chain. You may have to reserve a reading schedule for them though. And although "Jesus" was already toned down to be more approachable, it is still quite dry. It is not meant for pastime, it is meant for, perhaps, a reader's passion.After you finish with Hans Kung's and like his openness, continue with Tissa Balasuriya's "Mary and Human Liberation", "Planetary Theology". Side-by-side readings are John Dominic Crossan "The Historical Jesus", and Frank Yerby "Judas My Brother", a theological book presented as fiction, for a lighter treat.There are more than 3 books now.