A comprehensive, two-volume reassessment of the quests for the historical Jesus that details their origins and underlying presuppositions as well as their ongoing influence on today's biblical and theological scholarship. Jesus' life and teaching is important to every question we ask about what we believe and why we believe it. And yet there has never been common agreement about his identity, intentions, or teachings—even among first-century historians and scholars. Throughout history, different religious and philosophical traditions have attempted to claim Jesus and paint him in the cultural narratives of their heritage, creating a labyrinth of conflicting ideas. From the evolution of orthodoxy and quests before Albert Schweitzer's famous "Old Quest," to today's ongoing questions about criteria, methods, and sources, A History of the Quests for the Historical Jesus not only chronicles the developments but lays the groundwork for the way forward. The late Colin Brown brings his scholarly prowess in both theology and biblical studies to bear on the subject, assessing not only the historical and exegetical nuts and bolts of the debate about Jesus of Nazareth but also its philosophical, sociological, and theological underpinnings. Instead of seeking a bedrock of "facts," Brown stresses the role of hermeneutics in formulating questions and seeking answers. Colin Brown was almost finished with the manuscript at the time of his passing in 2019. Brought to its final form by Craig A. Evans, this book promises to become the definitive history and assessment of the quests for the historical Jesus. Volume One covers the period from the beginnings of Christianity to the end of World War II. Volume Two (sold separately) covers the period from the post-War era through contemporary debates.

"The publication of this volume celebrates thirty-seven extraordinary years of teaching at Acadia Divinity College and more years than that of dedicated service to the church. It is a joy to honor the lifetime service of Allison Trites for his ministry of teaching and service to the church. His commitment to the work of Christ has been an encouragement to all of his colleagues, fellow workers, and students, not to mention his fellow church members at the Wolfville United Baptist Church" (from the foreword). The two sections of this excellent collection of essays are "Biblical Studies" and "History and Theology, " and include contributions by the following. Timothy R. Ashley Manfred T. Brauch Daniel Goodwin Larry J. Kreitzer Richard N. Longenecker Tim McLay Andrew MacRae James R. C. Perkin Kevin Quast Alan P. F. Sell Robert S. Wilson John Tudno Williams Roy Williams R. Glenn Wooden