How did a diverse group of followers of an itinerant first-century preacher become a cohesive community of believers? Catchpole explores the origins of the Jesus movement in the community of Israel. He begins with the mission of John the Baptist and then considers the costs and implications of discipleship. Also addressed are the centrality of prayer, attitudes towards holiness, the temple's significance, and Jesus' understanding of his own death. Catchpole confronts current trends in historical Jesus studies by portraying a genuinely Jewish Jesus: a man who consistently observed the Law and respected the Temple. 325 pages, softcover from Baker.
