Academic Periodical

For the last few centuries, the Quest for the historical Jesus has attempted to go behind the Gospels and provide a historical reconstruction of a “real Jesus”. These attempts were not successful: Instead of a single reconstruction, scholars suggested dozens of mutually exclusive scenarios. One reason for the lack of consensus is the absence of clear methodological criteria. As a result, the contemporary Quest found itself in a deep crisis. Some scholars moved into total scepticism. At the same time, we witness a Renaissance of efforts in establishing the historical reliability of the Gospels: a number of exegetes managed to advance fresh arguments which bear enormous significance for mission and apologetics, as well as theology and biblical studies.