Marcus J. Borg’s Jesus: A New Vision (1987) is a significant work in historical Jesus studies. Borg presents Jesus not primarily as a divine figure of later Christian doctrine, but as a spirit-filled Jewish teacher, healer, and social prophet who challenged the religious and political structures of his time. He emphasizes Jesus’ role as a wisdom teacher who revealed an alternative way of life centered on compassion, inclusivity, and justice.

The book situates Jesus within his first-century Palestinian Jewish context, helping readers understand his message in relation to Judaism, Roman imperial rule, and the struggles of ordinary people. Borg distinguishes between the pre-Easter Jesus (the historical person) and the post-Easter Jesus (the risen Christ of faith).

Overall, Borg’s vision portrays Jesus as a transformative figure, whose life and teachings invite people to experience God in a new, liberating way, challenging traditional views while remaining deeply rooted in spirituality.

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