For those interested in the history of early Christianity, this course will take a look at the Hebrew/Israelite origins, including the prophecies, the Messianic expectation, and the Jewish historical experience that led to the coming of Jesus. We will then consider the historical life of Jesus within the context of Jewish civilization and Hellenized life under Rome and her immediate predecessors. And we will focus on the departures in theology and doctrine from orthodox Jewish beliefs that Jesus preached, taught, and represented. These led eventually to a radical departure from the orthodox Jewish religion that emerged, ultimately, as the early Christian church. I’ll have some suggested readings, and bring your Bibles or iPads for sure, the best source for early Christianity.