Publisher's Synopsis
Did The Apostle Paul Really Meet Jesus? A Historical and Theological Investigation
Few figures in Christian history are as influential-and as controversial-as the Apostle Paul. His encounter on the road to Damascus, in which he claimed to have met the risen Jesus, remains one of the most debated events in religious scholarship. But did Paul truly meet Jesus, or was his experience a psychological phenomenon, a visionary encounter, or even a fabrication?
In Did The Apostle Paul Really Meet Jesus?, this comprehensive and meticulously researched work dives deep into historical records, archaeological findings, psychological insights, and theological perspectives to uncover the truth behind Paul's transformative experience. Engaging with the views of leading scholars such as N.T. Wright, Bart Ehrman, and Gerd Lüdemann, this book examines the competing arguments surrounding Paul's claims, including:
- The historical plausibility of Paul's encounter in the context of Second Temple Judaism and Greco-Roman culture.
- Non-Christian sources that provide historical validation for Paul's influence.
- Psychological and sociological analyses of visionary experiences and their implications for Paul's testimony.
- The skepticism of early Christians and how Paul ultimately gained their acceptance.
- The far-reaching impact of Paul's encounter on the spread of Christianity, Western civilization, and modern ethical thought.
Through rigorous scholarship and balanced analysis, Did The Apostle Paul Really Meet Jesus? challenges readers to critically evaluate Paul's testimony and its implications for history, faith, and modern society. Whether you are a believer, a skeptic, or a historian, this book offers a thought-provoking journey into one of the most pivotal moments in religious history.
