Why Didn't Jesus Write, and Why Were the New Testament Books Delayed?
The Bible's New Testament is a testament to human scribes, rather than divine authors. This raises questions about why Jesus, if He were God, did not write the books of the New Testament and why they were not written for 60 years after His death. This article explores the theological implications and historical context.
The Riddle of Jesus' Authorship
Much of this inquiry revolves around the question, 'Why didn't Jesus, who was God according to Christian beliefs, write the New Testament books?' The implication is that if He were, indeed, God, He would have possessed superior literary abilities. However, both the Bible and theological discussions bring forth nuanced perspectives that challenge these assumptions.
Exodus 33:20 describes God's response to Moses when he seeks to see God's face: 'But He said, "You cannot see My face; for no man shall see Me and live."' This passage highlights a limitation on God's visibility but does not necessarily imply a lack of ability for Jesus to write. Moreover, the Bible clearly states that Jesus, though divine, was distinct from God the Father and is referred to as 'the beloved Son' (Matthew 17:5), underscoring His unique role.
The Role of Human Scribes
One common theological argument is that the need for human scribes indicates that Jesus, like God the Father, intended for ordinary humans to spread His message. Just as the Old Testament was written over a longer period by human authors, so too should the New Testament. In fact, the delay in writing could be seen as a testament to the power of inspiration and the impact of Jesus' teachings on human hearts and minds, even without direct written authorization.
The apostles and other early Christian leaders, who were direct followers of Jesus, bore the burden of disseminating His message. Their roles as preachers and teachers were crucial in the formation of Christian doctrine and the collection of scriptures. The New Testament was, in essence, a product of their journeys and experiences, reflecting the collective wisdom and vision of the early Christian community.
The Significance of Writing on Sand
The analogy of writing on sand serves as a metaphor for the transient nature of Jesus' message. While God's original commandments are inscribed in stone (Exodus 31:18), the message of Christ, as simplicity suggests, is about repentance and adherence to the divine law written in one's heart. Repentance is not a permanent state but a continuous process of self-reflection and spiritual growth. Thus, Jesus’ teachings, like footprints in sand, can be erased and rewritten as circumstances change.
Living in the New Covenant is about constantly reflecting and reflecting anew. It symbolizes a life unencumbered by rigid laws or permanent writings, allowing for flexibility and adaptability to changing times and situations. This is in contrast to the more rigid, unchanging nature implied by writing on stone.
The Process and Purpose of Delayed Writing
The delay in writing the New Testament books allowed for a broader and more diverse reflection on Jesus' teachings. The process mirrored the spiritual journey of the early Christians, who had to grapple with Jesus' message and discern its meaning through their experiences. This delay ensured that the final scriptural articulation was not solely the product of a specific historical moment but rather a synthesis of various visions and interpretations.
Furthermore, the involvement of ordinary humans in the writing process highlights the accessibility and relevance of the Christian message. Rather than being confined to divine revelations alone, the message became something lived and experienced by a wide range of people, from fishermen to leaders. This democratization of the religious message underscores the comprehensive and universal nature of God's plan of salvation.
Conclusion
Jesus did not write, and the delay in writing the New Testament books was not an oversight but a deliberate design. This approach allowed for the diverse and dynamic interpretation of Jesus' message, ensuring its relevance and applicability across generations. The role of human scribes and the metaphor of writing on sand illustrate the transient and ever-evolving nature of Christian faith. Ultimately, the delay in writing the New Testament, while seemingly regrettable from a theological perspective, served a profound and essential function in the development of Christian doctrine and the spread of the Gospel.