Neither Jew nor Greek

Neither Jew nor Greek

By James D. G. Dunn

Book Description

In the turbulent decades following Jerusalem's destruction in 70 C.E., a revolutionary spiritual movement faced its most defining moment. James D. G. Dunn's comprehensive exploration reveals how early Christianity navigated the complex process of establishing its unique identity while separating from its Jewish roots and engaging with the broader Hellenistic world.

This scholarly yet accessible work illuminates the pivotal second century, when followers of Jesus grappled with fundamental questions about their faith's direction and boundaries. Dunn carefully examines the forces that shaped this emerging religious community, from the painful parting of ways with Judaism to the challenges posed by Gnostic teachings that threatened to reshape Christian understanding entirely.

Drawing from an extensive range of ancient sources, including the New Testament Gospels and writings of influential early church figures like Ignatius, Justin Martyr, and Irenaeus, this study offers readers insight into how spiritual communities form their core beliefs under pressure. The book demonstrates how early Christians developed the theological foundations and organizational structures that would sustain their movement's remarkable growth across diverse cultures.

For those interested in understanding how religious traditions evolve and establish their distinctive character, this work provides valuable perspective on the dynamic interplay between faith, culture, and identity. Dunn's thorough analysis of this often-overlooked period reveals the profound spiritual and intellectual struggles that shaped one of history's most influential religious movements.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Long (> 400 pages) (~23 hours)

📄 Length: 816 pages

What You'll Discover

  • ✓ Strengthen your faith journey
  • ✓ Explore Primitive and early church
  • ✓ Explore Christianity and other religions
  • ✓ Explore Judaism (Christian theology)
  • ✓ Explore Nieuwe Testament
  • ✓ Explore Church history
  • ✓ Explore Church history, primitive and early church, ca. 30-600
  • ✓ Explore Identification (Religion)

Topics Covered

Interfaith relations Primitive and early church Christianity and other religions Judaism (Christian theology) Nieuwe Testament Church history Church history, primitive and early church, ca. 30-600 Identification (Religion) Judaism, relations, christianity Relations Christianity Christianity and other religions, judaism Vroege christendom Judaism

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