An exemplary and courteous debate about differing visions of Jesus' significance - Rated 
A superb debate, conducted with the utmost generosity of spirit, between two scholars and friends as to the meaning(s) of Jesus. The discussion, in which Wright and Borg contribute alternating chapters on each topic, considers who Jesus was and what he stood for, what his birth, life, death and resurrection may have signified, and his meaning for faith today. Wright's Jesus is a first-century Jew, reliably and credibly portrayed by the Gospels, as well as historically `one' with the Christ of faith celebrated by the early Church. Borg's Jesus, on the other hand, is a character of whose `history' in the Gospels we can be less certain, but whose impact - through history `metaphorised' by the early church - we can be sure. Whichever of the two you find more convincing (and for me, Wright's Jesus is so rooted in his Jewishness that explaining how and why Christianity ever broke away from it becomes a real problem), you can't fail to be impressed by the respectful tone of the debate, the depth of scholarship, and the faith that inspires both visions.
from philosophy to religion in 12 months - Rated
Out of interest I began reading western philosophy 12 months ago, and followed that immediately with eastern philosophy to get a better perspective.
The discussions behind the majority of philosophy (whether atheist or otherwise) inevitably cover the same ground as that of any mainstream religion.
As a Christian I decided it was time to discover more about Jesus - so after some research on writers upon the topic of Jesus I purchased The Challenge of Jesus (by N T Wright - also recommended), followed immediately by The Meaning of Jesus (N T Wright, M Borg).
This book is beautifully written by two extremely intelligent minds, and should have equal appeal for readers from any faith (or equally readers who do not consider themselves to hold any religious position). The reason is this: historically Jesus is a remarkable and extremely interesting person, and the historical evidence for this is presented in dynamic and interesting format - and perhaps most importantly via credible academic techniques.
The aim (it seems to me) is to get back to the root of Christianity - where we will inevitably find the strongest evidence in existence for upholding true Christian values (that is in Jesus Christ himself).
The debate between the two authors (one traditional, one liberal) is interesting and even clearer and better informed due to disagreement on certain key issues.
Eventually it seems to me there are two main options - both convincingly argued:
Jesus as the living Lord, confirmed by physical resurrection - whereby through the remarkable achievement of Jesus we are able to feel, understand and become true Christians.
Jesus as (metaphorical) lord - where we can gain inspiration and develop our own sense of spirituality in order to follow the way of Christ - thus establishing values which will lead to a more fulfilled, happier world.
Either way, Jesus is affirmed as a remarkable character in his own right. Personally, having digested ideas from many of the worlds greatest (documented philosophical) minds before turning to read this material - one of my main thoughts has been that noone else besides Jesus in the history of the world (as we know it) has acheived so much - winning so many hearts and (just as importantly) minds - and at so many levels, in so little time.
A one off event like this in the history of the world, certainly deserves the kind of attention displayed in this book and other works on the same theme.
I hope you will enjoy the book and find it as interesting and inspiring as I have.
Dialogue without spittin' an' cursin' - Rated
The respect Borg and Wright have for eachother shows through in how they take eachother's view seriously and agree to disagree while seemingly expanding their own faith in light of the other's position.
Wright comes from a traditional evangelical position (in British terms - perhaps open evangelical would better describe him to conservatives).Borg, while owning a 'liberal' label is more like a 'neo-liberal' or 'post-evangelical'.
The debate doesn't simply bounce back and forth like a tennis match but each position is filled out in a way that enhances and clarifies the argument thus inspiring he reader to think more which in turns gives a fresh impetus to faith.
Excellent and thought provoking - Rated
The Meaning of Jesus is co-written by N T Wright and Marcus Borg and is presented as a dialogue of sorts between a liberal and traditionalist reading of Jesus and his portrayal in the biblical material. From both perspectives and in dialogue with each other many of the key issues of Jesus debate are covered such as the idea of the Virgin birth, the incarnation, resurrection and parousia. Both viewpoints are clearly argued in serious but still easily digestible essays. In spite of the differences (which are in no way minimised) the communion and respect each author gives to the other’s work shines through which is really encouraging. I found this book engaging and it reminded me all over again how revolutionary and worthy of attention is the person who is the focus of the book. Most illuminating was Borg’s distinction between the pre-Christian and Post-Easter Jesus (which is not strictly synonymous with the more common Christ of Faith and Jesus of history approach) as it shows how liberals can have a vital faith that is rooted in tradition rather than the mere appropriation of enlightenment rationality. Perhaps the most abiding influence of this book is that it has inspired me to read again the narratives and consequently is the first time in a while that I can honestly say I was excited to read the bible. Definitely recommended!
Who was Jesus? - Rated
This is an excellent book. You become so absorbed in the presenting arguments that it is like witnessing a riviting lecture between two scholars.
Borg contribution is clear, reasoned and easy to read. For evangelicals, he offers a conherent liberal hermenutic which offers an alternative framework of belief and doesn't just mock scripture. Wright counters well although his contribution is a more difficult read. Overall a very postive and challenging experience. Buy it!
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