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This oldest Christology of all may be found in the…

“This oldest Christology of all may be found in the preliterary traditions in Paul and the book of Acts, but it is not the view presented in any of the Gospels. Instead, as we will see at greater length, the oldest Gospel, Mark, seems to assume that it was at his baptism that Jesus became the Son…” quote by Bart D. Ehrman
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““This oldest Christology of all may be found in the preliterary traditions in Paul and the book of Acts, but it is not the view presented in any of the Gospels. Instead, as we will see at greater length, the oldest Gospel, Mark, seems to assume that it was at his baptism that Jesus became the Son of God; the next Gospels, Matthew and Luke, indicate that Jesus became the Son of God when he was born; and the last Gospel, John, presents Jesus as the Son of God from before creation.””

Bart D. Ehrman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage outlines how early Christian texts differ on when Jesus became divine, ranging from baptism in Mark to pre‑creation in John.

In simple terms: Early texts disagree on when Jesus became divine.

Key Takeaway

Recognize varied theological origins.

Themes

theology Christology history scripture interpretation

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

historical scholarly

When to use this quote

  • Academic study
  • seminar discussion
  • religious education
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

Divine sonship biblical criticism historical development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do these differing views affect modern faith?
  • What does this suggest about early Christian diversity?
A Different Perspective

Not all traditions agree on a single timeline for divine status.

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