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Ask Dear Old Dad: Recognizing Jesus in Biblical times?


Dear DOD,


It mystifies me that Jesus is recognized by the crowds everywhere, when no one saw his photo in the paper in those times, never mind TV. Nothing says he wore Joseph's multicolored robe, or was physically unusually tall, wore braids, etc.


Curious, and Curious-er,

Thank you,

Cynthia Juvinall


 


Dear Cynthia,


It seems that Jesus was known for his charismatic, authoritative wisdom as well as his compassionate presence and his works of healing and other miracles. In the absence of internet and printing presses, the news about Jesus traveled person to person, using the “Come and see” approach.


It started when John the Baptist witnessed the descent of Holy Spirit on Jesus after Jesus’ baptism in the river Jordan. God had indicated to John that the person on whom the Spirit descended and remained was the One. Later, John indicated to two of his disciples that Jesus, who was passing by, was the Lamb of God. The two disciples immediately followed Jesus, who, upon noticing, asked them what they wanted. When they replied that they wanted to see where Jesus was staying, Jesus said to them, “Come and see.”


One of these two was Andrew, who brought his brother Peter to see Jesus.


The next day, Jesus called Philip to follow him, and Philip shared with Nathaniel the news about Jesus, to which Nathaniel rejoined, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip replied, “Come and see.” (Cf. the Gospel of John, chapter 1)


Hope that this helps.


Dear Old Dad (DOD)


Do you have a burning question about church, Episcopal/Anglican traditions, theology, and so on? In our weekly feature "Ask Dear Old Dad," after the classic "Dear Abby" format, the Rev. Reese Riley, COS Senior Adjunct Clergy, will tackle your questions with his signature wisdom and charm. And by the way, there are no dumb questions! You may request to be anonymous, or you may have your name published. Your questions will inspire the conversation! Submit your question to Hannah at HannahR@COSepiscopal.org

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