Detailed research on the history of Jesus Christ and Christianity Essay

Detailed research on the history of Jesus Christ and Christianity - Essay Example Josephus mentions Jesus the Messiah in the book. Furthermore Eusebius, an early Christian Bishop, recorded the words of Josephus in 324 A.D. Josephus said that Jesus was an extraordinary and wise man (if he can be called a man). Many of the Jews and Greeks trusted him. He was condemned to the cross, but his disciples followed him and believed in his message. Due to his hardships, his tribe of Christians is present to this day. (Argubright, 2007) The religion started about 2000 years ago in present day Israel previously known as Judea. Jesus Christ and his group of disciples began preaching amid much controversy and hostility. The ruler at that time was a Roman and Judea was cross cultural centre of bustling cities and farms. Majority of the locals who were Jewish found the polytheistic beliefs of Rome intrusive and pagan. (All About Religion, 2008) According to Gospel accounts Jesus was born to a virgin Jewess Mary who conceived him by the miracle of the Holy Spirit. Luke the evangelist says that Mary and her husband Joseph were traveling from Nazareth to Bethlehem to avoid registering (the Roman emperor had ordered a census of the population) the birth of Jesus in Jerusalem. The birth took place in a stable due to unavailability of vacancy in the inn and after the birth, an angel informed three local shepherds about it. Mathew however takes a much more troubled story. According to him, three Magi of the East follow a star to Bethlehem and on their way, inform Herod (the King of Palestine) that they are on their way to see the newly born king of the Jews. Herod orders the massacre of all the male children under the age of two for fear of rivalry. Fortunately an angel informs Joseph who escapes with Mary to Egypt. After the death of Herod, another angel tells Joseph that it's safe to return. The census was held in 6 BC. and Her od died in 4BC. Thus it is concluded that Jesus was born around 6BC. (Gascoigne, 2008) Early Life: Regarding the early life of Christ the gospels are virtually silent. However, facts gathered from various source indicate that Jesus was from a small town called Nazareth where he trained as a carpenter. He spoke Aramaic but he also knew Greek since he used it to talk with the Roman Officials during his time of having the government. Jesus was a Jew and he practiced the Jewish faith. He was also well aware of Jewish laws. The only other fact reported in the Gospel after the birth of Christ is that one day, the 12 year old Jesus wanders away from his parents to a religious temple. Upon return, when Mary scolds him, he asks, 'Didn't you know I would be in my Father's house' (Religion Facts, 2007) The Ministry of Jesus: Jesus is mentioned again in the gospel at the age of 30. It begins by the Baptism of Christ by John the Baptist. This event marks the beginning of Jesus's ministry. Several of John's followers left to follow Jesus after the Baptism. He then proceeded to select several other disciples establishing a group of 12. (Religion Facts, 2007) To all those who listened, Jesus taught to learn their enemies, not to judge others, not to be anxious about the future, trust in God. Jesus Christ often taught with parables, a short story with a spiritual meaning. Some were easy while others hard to understand. Mathew chapter 13 has several parables. One