Christian Theology
Millard Erickson presents a long term debate about the person and works of Jesus Christ[1]. Herein, the Historical Jesus is presented as part of the trinity called to save humanity, but he participated in humanity. Jesus was conceived without original sin, and this is what sets him aside from all human activities like sin. Christology from Below, Christology from above, and eventually, the alternative approach all seek to explain the engagement between the Historical Jesus and humankind. Many people believe that God sent Jesus to the world in the long going debate to save humanity. But Jesus proved to be different from the people by portraying sanctity.
How is Jesus different even from how the scriptures portray him? There is a need to look at some of the basic elements that the prophets said about Jesus. The scripture portrayed Jesus as a king who would rule over nations, but on the contrary, Jesus proved to be a servant of humanity. He set examples for many people and the whole community at large. That is why most of the activities conducted by Jesus are used in churches.
The primary portrayal of Jesus in human form is when he interacted with people in various events. Apart from showing his human characteristics, such as weeping, and becoming joyful, Jesus also showed how Christians could overcome temptations via prayer. Even though Jesus was part of the Holy Trinity, he prayed to The Almighty God to give strength. On many occasions, Jesus taught life skills and a plethora of religious teachings. The prophets did not portray Jesus as a humble servant who would teach the people about God’s path. Scriptures portray Jesus as a mighty ruler, whose commands will save the Israel Nation.
Historical Jesus focuses on the role of theology in modern Christian activities. The historical life of Jesus has been used by many people like Paul and other disciples to spread God’s word. Jesus’ historical is to be emulated by all Christians. The goal of following Christ’s teachings is to achieve the promises that He gave to His disciples.
On another level, Christology from below focuses on the activities and miracles that Jesus did but evaded the power of the masses. Jesus did not perform miracles to be seen as superior and powerful. This is a clear indication that Jesus avoided subjectivity. For a long time, many scholars have debated on the objectivity of Jesus’ actions. They believe that Jesus was tasked with conducting miracles as a way of showing concern for humanity[2].
Is there a need to focus on the alternative approach? Christology from above looks at how Jesus fulfilled the scriptures. But he did, on the contrary. On the other hand, Christology from below focuses on Jesus’ miracles as an indication of objectivity, showing concern for humanity and teaching the world how they can get Godly promises. The alternative approach might be useful in defining the debate of The Historical Jesus. Which type of person was Jesus?[3] Answering this question has to be done using an alternative lens rather than focusing on the life of Jesus and His miracles. Even though the miracles are the center of Historical Jesus, finding an alternative approach to explain why Jesus did those miracles should be a priority in Theology.
Bibliography
Erickson, Millard J. Christian theology. Baker Academic, 1998.
Krasevac, Edward L. “‘Christology From Above’And’Christology From Below’.” The Thomist: A Speculative Quarterly Review 51, no. 2 (1987): 299-306.
Pawl, Timothy. In Defense of Extended Conciliar Christology: A Philosophical Essay. Oxford University Press, 2019.
[1] Erickson, Millard J. Christian theology. Baker Academic, 1998.
[2] Krasevac, Edward L. “‘Christology From Above’And’Christology From Below.'” The Thomist: A Speculative Quarterly Review 51, no. 2 (1987): 299-306.
[3] Pawl, Timothy. In Defense of Extended Conciliar Christology: A Philosophical Essay. Oxford University Press, 2019.