Abstracts Category : Other

The Messianic Forerunner Concept in Earliest Christianity(Q)

by Michael Vail Flowers

In this thesis I consider the messianic forerunnerconcept within Q (which I take to be a source used by all threeof the synoptic authors). I argue that at least five units in Q(3:2-3+7-9+16b-17; 3:21-22; 7:18-20+22-23; 7:24-27; 7:28) envisageJohn as a messianic forerunner to the Messiah Jesus. The messianicforerunner concept is therefore quite pervasive in Q and cannot besaid to have originated with the evangelist Mark, as is sometimessupposed. Q attempts to deal with the historical fact that Jesushad not fulfilled Israels messianic expectations. It did this byportraying Jesus as a rejected Messiah whose redemptive mission hadbeen thwarted by Israels unbelief. Jesus will ultimately redeemIsrael but this will take place at his second coming and thatcannot take place until Israel repents.I consider whether Qsredactor(s) utilised any earlier sources. I find this not to havebeen the case in Qs Prologue (3:2-3+7-9+16b-17) or in JesusBaptism by John (3:21-22). Earlier source material can, however, bedetected in 7:18-19+22-23; 7:24-27; and 7:28. I consider whetherany of this latter material derives from a rival Baptist sourceand conclude that it does not. The question of whether themessianic forerunner concept had its origins in Judaism prior toJesus and his new movement can therefore not be established by anyof the Q units examined in this thesis. What can be established,however, is that the concept goes back to some of the earliesttraditions of Jesus followers.Advisors/Committee Members: OAKES, PETER PS, Klutz, Todd, Oakes, Peter.