The historical Jesus . . . does not make any direct demand…
““The historical Jesus . . . does not make any direct demand on us, nor does he condemn us for any deed we have committed against him. . . . I have done him no wrong and there is nothing for which he has to forgive me.255 I have never yet felt uncomfortable with my critical radicalism; to the contrary, I have been entirely comfortable. But I often have the impression that my conservative New Testament colleagues feel very uncomfortable, for I see them perpetually engaged in salvage operations. I calmly let the fire burn, for I see that what is consumed is only the fanciful portraits found in life-of-Jesus theology, and that is precisely the Christos kata sarka [Christ according to the flesh]. But the Christos kata sarka is no concern of ours. How things looked in the heart of Jesus I do not know and do not want to know.256””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He claims the historical Jesus imposes no personal moral demands, and he feels comfortable with radical critique while others cling to comforting doctrines.
In simple terms: Jesus' life doesn't dictate our moral choices.
Key Takeaway
Accept that faith can be separate from moral obligations.
Themes
theology
historical criticism
faith
personal belief
Mood
thoughtful
skeptical
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- academic discussion
- personal reflection
- interfaith dialogue
- religious education
Key Concepts
Christology
radicalism
doctrinal tension
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you separate historical figures from moral teachings?
- How does radical critique affect personal faith?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue that moral guidance is essential regardless of historical facts.