Mary, Founder of Christianity

The Bible says little about the mother of Jesus, but there are many indications that Mary preceded and inspired her son in fostering the emergence of a new faith community. Chris Maunder re-examines the virgin conception of Jesus, Mary's contribution to Jesus ministry, and her central role in the crucifixion and resurrection, casting a thought-provoking new light on Mary and the women who stood alongside her.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 07 April 2022
Publisher: Oneworld Publications

Despite the widespread belief that the Bible provides limited information about the mother of Jesus, there are numerous indications that Mary played a significant role in fostering the emergence of a new faith community. In the Gospel of John, Mary is depicted as instigating Jesus' first miracle, and she is present at the crucifixion in all four gospels, indicating that her position was of unparalleled importance in the Christian narrative.

To challenge prevailing doctrinal assumptions, Chris Maunder delves into the New Testament to explore the question, "Who was Mary?" He re-evaluates the concept of Jesus' virgin conception, examines Mary's contributions to Jesus' ministry, and emphasizes her central role in the events surrounding the crucifixion and resurrection. By doing so, Maunder offers a fresh perspective on Mary and the women who stood alongside her, including Mary Magdalene.

Mary's significance in the Christian story extends beyond her role as Jesus' mother. She is revered as the Mother of God, a title that reflects her divine motherhood. This belief is supported by various biblical passages, such as the Annunciation, where the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will become pregnant with God's son. Mary's role as the mother of Jesus is further emphasized by her presence at key moments in his life, including his baptism, transfiguration, and crucifixion.

In addition to her maternal role, Mary is also celebrated for her spiritual devotion and her role as a model of faith. She is often depicted as a pious woman who prayed fervently and sought God's guidance. Her example inspired many followers of Jesus, and her intercession on behalf of others is believed to have led to miracles and healings.

Mary Magdalene, in particular, has been the subject of much speculation and debate. While some scholars argue that she was a prostitute or a follower of Jesus, others suggest that she was a devoted disciple who played a significant role in his ministry. Mary Magdalene is often depicted in art and literature as a woman of sorrow and repentance, but her role in the Christian story remains a subject of investigation and interpretation.

In conclusion, Mary the mother of Jesus and other women in the early Church played a vital role in shaping the faith and history of Christianity. While the Bible may provide limited information about their roles, there are numerous indications that they were significant figures who contributed to the development of the Christian community. By re-examining their contributions and examining their significance in the New Testament, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role of women in the early Church and their enduring impact on the world.

Weight: 486g
Dimension: 163 x 240 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780861542642