PDF Bandits; Prophets; and Messiahs: Popular Movements at the Time of Jesus by Richard A. Horsley in History

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0 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy John Pfeiferexcellent.0 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Three StarsBy paul himmelreicha decent work;thanks22 of 22 people found the following review helpful. Help in Understanding the World of JesusBy Timothy KearneyThe world of Jesus Christ was hardly static. Uprisings; rebellions; and subversive groups popped up all of the time; especially in Jewish lands where Roman occupation was equal to slavery in the eyes of most Jewish people. This made rebellion almost a religious duty even though many of the religious authorities did not share this point of view. Some of the rebellious groups had limited success; others had disastrous ends. Bandits; Prophets; and Messiahs helps the reader understand the different movements in the days of Jesus and help modern readers understand why Jesus' message was so controversial; not just in terms of content; but politically and socially as well. The author looks at the historical realities of the Jewish people and the connection with religious and political figures that sprung up in the Roman Empire; particularly in Palestine; in the days of Jesus Christ and in the early New Testament days. Readers are able to distinguish those who might be "rebels without a cause" so to speak; and legitimate groups that had serious religious and/or political objectives. The author culled much of the information from lectures given to students which gives the work a scholarly feel in an accessible manner. The book contains a scripture cited index which will help readers who may be students researching a topic; preachers preparing a sermon or homily; or person who is fascinated by the background to the Bible.