descent of Christ, The

descent of Christ, The

By W. Hall Harris

Book Description

In this scholarly exploration, W. Hall Harris delves into one of the New Testament's most enigmatic passages, offering fresh perspective on Christ's descent as described in Ephesians 4:9-10. Rather than following traditional interpretations, Harris presents compelling evidence that this descent refers specifically to the Spirit's arrival at Pentecost, occurring after Christ's ascension mentioned earlier in the same chapter.

The work draws extensively from early Jewish and Christian sources, weaving together imagery and symbolism that illuminates this complex biblical text. Harris examines how ancient interpreters understood Psalm 68:19 in relation to Moses, exploring connections found in Targum Psalms and rabbinic literature. This investigation reveals patterns of thought that shaped early Christian understanding of divine movement between heaven and earth.

Particularly valuable is Harris's methodology for dating elements within later rabbinic traditions, providing readers with tools for understanding how ancient texts evolved over time. The author demonstrates how the writer of Ephesians made a theological breakthrough by connecting the ascended Christ with the Spirit who descended at Pentecost, creating a unified vision of divine presence and power.

For those seeking deeper understanding of biblical interpretation and early Christian thought, this volume offers rigorous scholarship combined with accessible insights. Harris bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary understanding, helping readers appreciate the sophisticated theological thinking that shaped foundational Christian beliefs about Christ's continuing presence in the world.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~6 hours)

📄 Length: 221 pages

What You'll Discover

  • ✓ Explore Critique, interprétation
  • ✓ Study Bible from spiritual perspective
  • ✓ Explore Pentecôte
  • ✓ Explore Bible, criticism, interpretation, etc., n. t. epistles
  • ✓ Explore History
  • ✓ Explore Moïse (Chef biblique) dans le Nouveau Testament
  • ✓ Explore Descent into hell
  • ✓ Explore Psalmen 68,19

Topics Covered

Critique, interprétation Bible, study and teaching, n. t. Pentecôte Bible, criticism, interpretation, etc., n. t. epistles History Moïse (Chef biblique) dans le Nouveau Testament Descent into hell Psalmen 68,19 Efeziërs (bijbelboek) Bible Biblical teaching Descente aux enfers Epheserbrief 4,7-11 In rabbinical literature Rabbijnse literatuur Ascension Jesus christ, descent into hell Relation to Ephesians Moïse (Chef biblique) dans la littérature rabbinique 11.47 cultural-historical background of the New Testament Relation avec Éphésiens Relation avec les psaumes Histoire Enseignement biblique Bibel Nederdaling ter helle Pentecost Criticism, interpretation Moses (biblical leader) Relation to Psalms Exegese Jesus christ, ascension In the New Testament Jüdische Literatur Pentecôte - Enseignement biblique

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