Chapter 17 Summary and Analysis

The fact that Jesus is crucified and dies has critics questioning the absurdity of a Messiah who can't save himself from execution. This is referred to as the "scandal of the cross." (p. 305) In order to maintain their credibility, Jesus' followers have to come up with a plausible reason. His followers respond by replying that Jesus dies for the good of mankind and is resurrected, warning them to prepare for the second coming. They turn the scandal of the cross into an act of glorification and propaganda. The cult of Christianity spreads rapidly through the Roman and Hellenistic world. The wretched who convert are purified of sin. The religion offers hope to the weaker elements of Hellenistic society - women, teens and slaves. It also appeals to the more sophisticated groups.

The different sects within Christianity differ in how man achieves...