John P. Dickson Books

Exploring the historical context of Jesus, John Dickson addresses critical questions about his life, including his birth, family, teachings, reported miracles, death, and resurrection. The book delves into the historical reliability of the New Testament and challenges contemporary conspiracy theories surrounding Jesus' existence. Through eleven insightful chapters, Dickson aims to clarify misconceptions and present a well-rounded view of the founder of Christianity, making it essential reading for those seeking a clear understanding of his life and legacy.

The extent to which Jewish and Christian communities of the first century evidenced 'proselytising' tendencies has been hotly contested in recent research, with scholars tending either to deny outright or affirm emphatically the presence of 'mission' in the synagogue or the church. Through a thorough historical and philological examination of Second Temple Jewish literature and the epistles of Paul, John P. Dickson offers a carefully nuanced picture of the shape and extent of mission-commitment in Judaism and early Christianity. Particularly significant is the author's contention that the mission outlook of the apostle Paul - both in his self-conception and in his expectations of converts - was shaped decisively by his Jewish heritage.