Prof. Mark Goodacre is a prominent New Testament scholar known for his work in the fields of biblical studies, particularly in the areas of the historical Jesus, the Gospels, and the Synoptic Problem. He is a professor at Duke University and has published extensively on various topics related to early Christianity. Here’s an overview of his contributions, areas of research, and some of his key works:
Academic Background and Position
Current Position: Goodacre is a Professor of New Testament at Duke University, where he teaches courses on the New Testament, early Christianity, and biblical criticism.
Education: He holds a degree in Theology from the University of Oxford and has engaged in rigorous academic study, focusing on the Gospels and historical Jesus research.
Areas of Research
Synoptic Problem: Goodacre is well-known for his work on the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) and has contributed significantly to discussions about the relationships and sources of these texts.
Historical Jesus: He investigates the life and teachings of Jesus within their historical context, exploring how these can be understood through the lens of the Gospels.
Gospel of Thomas: Goodacre has written about the Gospel of Thomas and its implications for understanding early Christian diversity and the development of Christian thought.
Digital Humanities: He has been involved in the use of digital tools and methods in biblical studies, promoting the integration of technology into the field.
Key Works
Books:
The Synoptic Problem: A Way Through the Maze (2001) – This work offers an accessible introduction to the Synoptic Problem, exploring the relationships between the Synoptic Gospels.
Jesus: The Evidence (1996) – Co-authored with Richard Bauckham, this book examines the historical evidence for Jesus and his life.
The Case Against Q: Studies in Markan Priority and the Synoptic Problem (2002) – In this book, Goodacre argues against the existence of a hypothetical Q source, challenging prevailing theories in synoptic scholarship.
Articles and Papers: Goodacre has published numerous scholarly articles on various topics related to New Testament studies, historical Jesus research, and the interpretation of the Gospels.
Podcasting and Online Presence: He is also known for his engaging online presence, including his blog and podcast, where he discusses topics related to biblical studies, historical Jesus, and New Testament scholarship. His podcast, NT Pod, is particularly popular among students and scholars alike.
Contributions to the Field
Engagement with the Public: Goodacre has been active in making biblical scholarship accessible to a wider audience through his writings, lectures, and online resources.
Critical Approach: His critical approach to the Gospels encourages readers and scholars to engage with the texts thoughtfully, considering both their historical context and theological implications.
Interdisciplinary Influence: By incorporating digital humanities into biblical studies, he has broadened the scope of research methodologies available to scholars in the field.
Conclusion
Prof. Mark Goodacre is a significant figure in New Testament studies, contributing to our understanding of the Gospels and the historical Jesus. His work is characterized by critical engagement, accessibility, and an innovative approach to scholarship, making him a respected voice in the academic community.
