In recent times, there’s been a noticeable resurgence of interest in Jesus within the Episcopal Church. While this renewed focus is undoubtedly positive, prompting reflection and discussion, it also raises a critical question: Which Jesus is capturing this newfound attention? This isn’t a matter of questioning the unity of Jesus Christ, but rather understanding the nuances in how we approach and interpret his person – specifically, are we drawn to the “Jesus of history” or the “Christ of faith”?
For centuries, theologians and scholars have engaged in the rigorous pursuit of the “historical Jesus,” aiming to construct a portrait of Jesus of Nazareth grounded in historical evidence. This quest often involves a degree of critical analysis, examining the narratives presented in the canonical Gospels with scholarly objectivity. The well-known Jesus Seminar, for example, exemplified this approach by attempting to discern the authenticity of the sayings and deeds attributed to Jesus by the gospel evangelists. Interestingly, despite extensive efforts, this quest hasn’t yielded a singular, universally accepted image of the historical Jesus. Instead, a multitude of interpretations and perspectives have emerged.
The distinction between the “Jesus of history” and the “Christ of faith” hinges on the different lenses through which we view Jesus. The historical approach prioritizes detached inquiry, seeking to understand Jesus within his historical and cultural context. Faith, conversely, represents a deeply personal and comprehensive commitment. While these two perspectives are not mutually exclusive, they are distinct. The very title “Christ,” derived from the Greek word for “anointed one” and equivalent to the Hebrew “messiah,” is itself an expression of faith. One can acknowledge “Jesus of Nazareth” as a historical figure without necessarily embracing “Jesus the Christ” with religious conviction.
From a historical standpoint, it’s widely accepted that Jesus was crucified by Roman authorities. However, the “Christ of faith” transcends this historical event, offering his suffering and death as atonement for the sins of humanity. The “Jesus of history,” according to some historical Jesus researchers, likely remains buried in Palestinian soil, although even this is subject to scholarly debate. In contrast, the “Christ of faith” is believed to have risen from the dead and ascended to heaven, filling all things. “Jesus of Nazareth” serves as an example of a virtuous life, prompting us to consider his actions as a moral compass. “Jesus (the) Christ,” however, is understood as actively present in our lives, guiding us through our challenges. The “historical Jesus” would act in a certain way; the “Christ of faith” acts now.
Therefore, the rising popularity of Jesus necessitates careful consideration of which aspect of Jesus is being emphasized. Focusing solely on the “Jesus of history” can lead to a frustrating and ultimately incomplete understanding. It risks reducing Jesus to a figure of the past, confined by historical limitations and academic debates. This approach can devolve into a series of moralistic pronouncements – “oughts” and “shoulds” – that lack the transformative power of faith.
Our access to Jesus is primarily through the “Christ of faith,” the one who lived, died, and resurrected for us. It is through faith in Christ that we gain true knowledge of Jesus of Nazareth. While the teachings and example of Jesus are invaluable, and even the gospel evangelists’ accounts, regardless of strict historical accuracy, hold profound significance, they are understood and made relevant through the lens of faith in Christ. As Mark the Evangelist emphasizes, the full meaning of Jesus’ life and ministry becomes clear at the foot of the cross. It is the crucified Christ, not merely the miracle-working Jesus, whom the Roman centurion recognized as the Son of God (Mark 15:39).
Ultimately, to truly build a community of faith, the focus must remain on “Christ, [crowned] with many crowns, for he is Lord of all.” This is the Christ of faith, the resurrected and living Lord, who provides the foundation for understanding and emulating the historical Jesus.
