The The Titles of Jesus in Christology: Their History in Early Christianity

Hahn's The Titles of Jesus in Christology is a significant contribution to Christological study, examining the traditions that led to the use of names for Jesus and distinguishing between different Christological conceptions. His analysis and categories have been widely followed by later scholars.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2022
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

The Titles of Jesus in Christology, a groundbreaking work first published in German in 1963, has since gained widespread recognition as a significant contribution to Christological study. Its translation into English a few years later further solidified its status. In this comprehensive examination, Hahn delves into the intricate tapestry of traditions that gave rise to the names we now associate with Jesus, characterizing them as definitively early Church expressions. Moreover, he skillfully distinguishes between the diverse Christological conceptions prevalent within these branches of primitive Christianity, as reflected in the terms they coined. Hahn's meticulous analysis and categorization have been extensively followed by numerous scholars, who have built upon his profound exploration of the unique titles bestowed upon Jesus by the various communities that followed him.

The Titles of Jesus in Christology explores the historical development and significance of the titles given to Jesus in the early Christian communities. Hahn examines the various traditions and beliefs that influenced the naming of Jesus and distinguishes between different Christological conceptions within these communities. He provides a detailed analysis of the different titles used, including Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior, and Lord.

Hahn's work is important because it sheds light on the early Christian understanding of Jesus and their belief in his divinity. The titles used to describe Jesus were crucial in establishing his identity and role within the Christian faith. By examining the various traditions and conceptions, Hahn helps us to understand the development of Christology and the role that the titles of Jesus played in shaping it.

One of the key insights of The Titles of Jesus in Christology is the distinction between the different Christological conceptions present in the early Christian communities. Hahn identifies three main branches of primitive Christianity: the Jewish-Christian, the Gnostic, and the Pauline. Each of these branches had its own distinct Christological beliefs and practices, and the titles they used to describe Jesus reflected these differences.

For example, the Jewish-Christian community believed in the divinity of Jesus and his fulfillment of the prophecies of the Old Testament. They used titles such as Jesus Christ, Son of God, and Savior to emphasize his role as the savior of humanity. The Gnostic community, on the other hand, believed in a more mystical and esoteric understanding of Jesus and his relationship to the divine. They used titles such as the Logos, the Christ, and the Son of Man to express their belief in his divine nature and his role as the mediator between God and humanity.

The Pauline community, which was influenced by the teachings of Paul, emphasized the humanity of Jesus and his role as the savior of all people. They used titles such as Jesus Christ, the Son of Man, and the Lamb of God to emphasize his dual nature as both divine and human.

Hahn's analysis also highlights the significance of the titles of Jesus in the early Christian communities' understanding of his role and identity. The titles used to describe Jesus were not just labels or titles, but they were expressions of the communities' belief in his divinity and his role as the savior of humanity. They were also used to distinguish Jesus from other religious figures and to establish his authority

In conclusion, The Titles of Jesus in Christology is a seminal work that has greatly contributed to our understanding of the historical development and significance of the titles given to Jesus in the early Christian communities. Hahn's comprehensive examination of the various traditions and conceptions that led to the use of these titles has helped us to understand the diverse Christological beliefs and practices of the early Church. His analysis and categories have been widely followed by scholars, and his work continues to be a valuable resource for those studying Christology and early Christian theology.

Weight: 778g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780227178522