Joseph the Carpenter
In this thought-provoking and beautifully illustrated volume, Jacobs invites us to reconsider the significance of Joseph of Nazareth and the role and influence he had in the life of Jesus. Relying on a careful reading of Scripture and recent archaeological studies, he challenges the historic and contemporary assumptions of those who have sought, through their writing and art, to marginalize Joseph and his importance in Christian history and the life of the church. In clear and concise language, he questions these assumptions, noting how they have diminished what Scripture actually teaches about the earthly father of Jesus. Recognizing that Joseph is often minimized or left out of religious and cultural representations of the holy family, in plays and in Christmas cards, he reminds us that as Mary, Joseph was chosen by God to care, teach, and shape the One who would bring salvation and hope to the world. In the process, Jacobs encourages us to see Joseph as Scripture presents him —- as believer, dreamer, prayer, protector, teacher, husband, and father — as more than just an extra in a family picture, as more than just the other person in the picture.
Relying on new archaeological studies and biblical research, Jacobs’, Other Person, provides an accessible, scriptural and historical account of Joseph the Carpenter, the earthly father of Jesus, for anyone who wants to know more about the role and influence Joseph the Carpenter had on the background, life, and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth. As such it will be of interest to all Christians who take the scriptures and history seriously and seek to know more about Joseph and Jesus— whether they be evangelical, Catholic, Pentecostal, or liberal.