Religion Quote by N.T. Wright
““But if Luke and John were simply constructing narratives to combat Docetism, they surely shot themselves in the foot with both barrels when they spoke of the risen Jesus appearing through locked doors, disappearing again, sometimes being recognized, sometimes not, and finally ascending into heaven.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Paul and the Faithful by N.T. Wright, 2012
Wright argues that Luke and John’s narratives unintentionally undermine their anti‑Docetist agenda by depicting a mysterious, elusive risen Jesus.
In simple terms: Their stories paradoxically weaken the intended theological point.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how narrative choices can backfire.
Themes
theology
literature
interpretation
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
theological
literary
When to use this quote
- scholarly debate
- sermon preparation
- academic writing
Key Concepts
Docetism
resurrection narrative
authorial intent
Questions to Reflect On
- How do narrative details shape theological claims?
- Can a story both affirm and contradict its purpose?
A Different Perspective
The argument assumes a uniform early‑church perspective that may not hold.
![“Luke 24: But at daybreak on the first day of the week [the women] took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb; but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were puzzling over this, behold, two men in…” quote by Joseph B. Lumpkin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/425/joseph-b-lumpkin-43391_lord-jesus_luke-24-but-at-daybreak-on-the-first-day_3085742.jpg)
![“One of the remarkable things about Luke’s history of the two criminals crucified with Jesus is that both of them asked for salvation. Have you ever noticed this? “One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at [Jesus]: ‘Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself and us!’” This man met Jesus…” quote by James Montgomery Boice](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/122/james-montgomery-boice-19227_face-to-face_one-of-the-remarkable-things-about-luke_3001964.jpg)
