Today we discuss the rejection of Jesus at Nazareth. The story seems to turn on a dime. One minute they are gracious, the next they want to throw him off a cliff. What happened?
What did Jesus mean when he said "Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing?" What did he mean by saying that prophets are never accepted in their hometown? Why did the congregation become enraged?
We also address other questions, including asking what people mean when they identify as "spiritual but not religious." What is the difference between being spiritual and being religious? Can people be both spiritual and religious? Is there such a thing as being spiritual yet not religious?
By reading the story in it's cultural and literary context, we better understand the meaning of the story. I offer a provocative commentary, as always, and Professor Westfall comes back with his more moderate approach.