How Jesus Became God

How Jesus Became God is an intellectually invigorating course offered under The Great Courses Signature Collection. Released in 2014, this show unfurls an in-depth examination of one of the multifaceted historical conundrums – the philosophical, religious, and societal transitions that marked the transformation of Jesus from a human preacher to a divinity in religious and cultural contexts. Vibrantly delivered by Bart D. Ehrman, an esteemed historian and scholar of early Christianity, the course is designed to give viewers an extensive understanding of the historical, cultural, and theological developments that contributed to this significant evolution.

Exploring the intersectionality of history and theology, How Jesus Became God presents a chronological investigation of Jesus's journey from being a follower of Jewish law to the central figure in modern Christianity. Ehrman dissects the evolution of Jesus's perception, from a human being with divine features to a deity to worshipped worldwide, by employing the rich tapestry of historical events, societal beliefs, and religious doctrines.

Over the course of 24, 30-minute episodes, viewers have the opportunity to explore the historical foundations of Jesus's life and the spiritual implications of his teachings in depth. The show links the development of Jesus's portrayal as God to societal, political, and religious changes in the Roman Empire. Ehrman provides a meticulous analysis of societal norms, political dynamics, and religious convictions that played instrumental roles in this transformation.

One of the focal points of this program is Ehrman's emphasis on the complexity and diversity of belief systems within early Christian communities. By mapping an exploration of early Christianity's manifold beliefs about Jesus - as a man, a prophet, a messiah, and God - the course gives an intricate overview of the variety and evolution of perspectives within ancient Christianity.

This series differentiates itself from other historical or religious shows by its insistence on delving deep into historical facts, while also maintaining an appreciation for the profound spiritual and moral influences such teachings have had on millions of believers. Ehrman does not diminish the faith-based aspects of the story but treats them with the respect and rigor they deserve while seeking to understand the palpable historical processes that formed them.

The course starts with the historical Jesus's birth and life, rooted in the cultural and religious environment of the first-century Roman Empire's Jewish communities. Then it shifts towards analyzing the divine attributions added to his persona after death by his followers. The lens of the show is then enlarged to encompass the sweeping narratives generated by the early Christian community with various beliefs, competing interpretations, and shocking divisions. Amidst all these, however, one concept started gaining traction – the idea of Jesus as God.

Ehrman further emphasizes the importance of understanding the Greco-Roman world's context in the development of early Christianities. He exposes the audience to the complexities that shaped the period, influenced by diverse social, cultural, political, and philosophical perspectives. By doing so, he provides an enriching background to comprehend how such a world could foster such dramatically transformative ideas about Jesus.

The show also investigates the considerable series of controversies, debates, and conflicts that the early Christian Church faced in forming a uniform theology surrounding Jesus's divinity. The eventual consensus, heavily influenced by the human tendency to express the inexpressible, was a divine-human hybrid belief known as Christology.

Scientifically accurate, historical, and comprehensive at heart, yet balanced with spiritual understanding and profound respect for belief systems, the show stands as a fascinating exploration of one of the most significant religious transformations in human history.

Ehrman's reverent yet objective instruction, supplemented by a wealth of historical sources, invites viewers to delve into the intriguing depths of early Christian thought and the multi-faceted evolution of religious beliefs over centuries.

Whether you are a person of faith, a history buff, or simply a seeker of knowledge, How Jesus Became God offers a visually and intellectually stimulating journey that will broaden your understanding of religious history, the idea of God, and early Christianity.