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This major new study advances our understanding of the historical Jesus by exploring the model of Jesus the priest. As priest, Jesus claims to reveal God’s unchanging character through his own person; as priest, too, he announces the impending eschattological climax, constituted by the arrival of the heavenly temple on earth. Focusing on critically assured sayings of Jesus, Perrin argues that the two announcements (the kingdom and Jesus’ priesthood) are mutually confirming and mutually authenticating. The nature of the kingdom is derived from his priestly office; his priestly office is given shape and substance through teachings on the kingdom. Jesus saw himself as the unique eschatological high priest and therefore as the local embodiment of Yahweh. He announced the kingdom of God as the space of true worship; he regarded his life as revealing both the identity of God and the true worship of God.
Contents
Introduction
1. The Prayer of Jesus
2. The Baptism of Jesus
3. The Kingdom of Jesus
4. Jesus Son of David
5. The Identity of the Son of Man
6. A Re-envisioned Priesthood
7. Final Confrontations
Conclusion
Nicholas Perrin is Professor of Biblical Studies and Dean of the Graduate School at Wheaton College, Illinois. He is the author of several influential books and articles on the Gospels, including Jesus the Temple.
