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Biblical-criticism Quote by George Albert Wells

“Moreover, it is not just that the early documents are silent about so much of Jesus that came to be recorded in the gospels, but that they view him in a substantially different way -- as a basically supernatural personage only obscurely on Earth as a man at some unspecified period in the past…” quote by George Albert Wells
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““Moreover, it is not just that the early documents are silent about so much of Jesus that came to be recorded in the gospels, but that they view him in a substantially different way -- as a basically supernatural personage only obscurely on Earth as a man at some unspecified period in the past, 'emptied' then of all his supernatural attributes (Phil.2:7), and certainly not a worker of prodigious miracles which made him famous throughout 'all Syria' (Mt.4:24). I have argued that there is good reason to believe that the Jesus of Paul was constructed largely from musing and reflecting on a supernatural 'Wisdom' figure, amply documented in the earlier Jewish literature, who sought an abode on Earth, but was there rejected, rather than from information concerning a recently deceased historical individual. The influence of the Wisdom literature is undeniable; only assessment of what it amounted to still divides opinion.””

George Albert Wells

About This Quote

The passage argues that early texts present a non‑miraculous, largely human Jesus, and that later gospel accounts added supernatural elements, reflecting a shift from a wisdom figure to a miracle worker.

In simple terms: Early writings show a human Jesus; later texts added miracles.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how narratives evolve over time.

Themes

history religion interpretation mythmaking

Mood

analytical critical thought‑provoking

Type

academic theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • faith discussions
  • education

Key Concepts

theology historical criticism literary analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we reconcile differing historical portrayals of religious figures?
  • What impact does mythmaking have on faith?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations can be contested and may challenge traditional beliefs.

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