Bruce Chilton argues that the Jesus whom critical study can discover is not simply a figure of scholarly reconstruction but one who also engaged in practices and crafted teachings that were designed to enable his followers to participate in the kingdom of God.

Because the kingdom of God was the center of Jesus' own spirituality, the present volume focuses on prayer and the Eucharist, both of which Jesus directly referred to the kingdom. Prayer for Jesus was the individual's opportunity to perceive and join the kingdom, just as Eucharist was the social realization of the kingdom. Prayer and Eucharist together constitute the primary practices which, according to Jesus, lead those who have the courage of discipleship to discover how that might enter God's kingdom.

This book is a critical study in the fullest sense, with interest both in the particulars of history and in how lives are shaped in engagement with God. Chilton points out that Jesus was and is a great figure in history not simply because he existed, but in view of what he taught-specifically his teaching of a practical communion with God.

Contents

Preface

1 The Discovery of Jesus' Spiritual Orientation

Introduction: Jesus in History

The Kingdom of God and Jesus' Vision

The Character of Jesus' Theology

2 Prayer and the Embrace of God's Kingdom

My Father

Your name will be sanctified

Your kingdom will come

Give me today the bread which is coming

And forgive me my sins

And lead me not into temptation

Conclusion

3 Drinking, Eating: Celebrating Sacrifice

Jesus' Meals of the Kingdom

Jesus in the Temple

Jesus' Crucifixion and the Eucharistic Kingdom of God

4 Disciples on Their Different Ways

Peter

James

Paul

The Synoptic Gospels and John

The Practice of Eucharist and Christian Spiritualities

Biblical Index

General Index