You MUST know the following for this topic!

• Apocalyptic writings — A genre of prophetical writings that is concerned with end times. Derived from the Greek word meaning 'unveiling', the revelations are through visions or from heavenly messengers. The Book of Daniel is an example of this genre.

• Christology — The study of the person of Christ and in particular the question of his human and divine natures.

• Client king — Where a ruler functioned under the patronage of a more powerful monarch.

• Elders — Josephus referred to them as the leaders of the people. Their origin is probably from the time of the Exile when the rich, educated families took control when there was no priesthood. They are sometimes referred to as a lay nobility or community leaders. Joseph of Arimathea was probably an elder.

• Hellenism — The term used to describe the influence of the Greek way of life and beliefs on the people in their empire or who they interacted with.

• High Priest — During the first century he had both a political and a religious role. He was the most eminent person of the nation, who represented the people to the Romans in the absence of a king. He was authorised to make atonement for the sins of the nation and was the only person able to enter the Holy of Holies in the Temple.

• Markan — Relating to, or material from, Mark's Gospel.

• Messiah — From the Hebrew word mashiach meaning 'anointed one', the chosen one of God.

• Proof text — A reference to the Old Testament that sets out to prove Jesus is the Messiah.

• Prophet — Someone whom God has chosen and communicated a message to, often through dreams and visions.

• Prophecy — The message the prophet gives to the people. It both forthtells and foretells, as it makes known what God requires and declares future events as revealed to the prophet.

• Sanhedrin — The supreme council or court in Jerusalem, made up of 71 priests, scribes or elders. The High Priest served as the leader. The Romans allowed it the power to pass sentence according to Jewish Law but not to pass the death sentence.

References:

• Kelly, Jane. 2019. Religious Studies: New Testament Studies (Hodder), pp. 10–22.