Would The Story Of Jesus Be Less Compelling Had He Been Born To A Rich Man?

Question

This question is not making assumptions about the truth regarding Jesus, I want to consider the subtext of the Jesus story.

Does it not help others to embrace his morals of charity when they come from a man born in a humble barn? Also Joseph was a carpenter, as Jesus was, a blue collar guy.

It seems that his place of birth makes his message more convincing than had he been born to a materially rich man in a huge noble house. What if Joseph had been an emperor?

I am aware of the heritage of Moses, and his upbringing, although remember that Moses was adopted, so that gives him an out. Even though he was brought up as nobility, he never truly was.

I'd like to know what people think about this.

Answer 1

Hmm, interesting proposal.

I suppose his lowly patronage helps with the image that God became one of us - a commoner if you will. Had he been born into an emperor's family, we would definitely look at him differently. He would then be one who deserves respect based on his position in the social caste, rather than one who is loved based on his compassion for humanity. His poor social status gives rise to the "dwelt among us" concept - almighty God chose to become one of the guys and experience life with us.

Thanks for the mental exercise.

Answer 2

To a degree, yes. I think if He were born to a rich man, He would have given everything He had to help those around Him as He did anyway. Even with Moses, he tried to help the people and is the main reason he had to run for his life. So even he had some learning to do before he was ready to be a leader. Jesus could have been born to anyone and still had a big influence but being of the poor of the Earth I think makes a big difference as more are poor than are rich so it does make a big impression. HE could understand what it means to be poor and downtrodden and yet still give all He had away to help others.

Answer 3

If Jesus is God, and the Son of God, I think most of your question becomes moot.

I might point out that Buddha was born to a rich and powerful family, we he turned away from to help those who were most in need. Somehow I think this a more inspirational story than 'carpenter's son makes good' or 'god's son makes good'.

Notice how few listen when the poor complain about the distribution of wealth.

Answer 4

I really don't think it matters. I think if he were born to a rich man the story would be more compelling. I mean think about it, a rich man's son, moving about the world teaching forgiveness and love. Performing miracles and living amongst poor people. And giving the world the ultimate gift. His life. Any way you spin that, it's wonderful. Besides, he's God's son. I don't know an entity with more riches. Do you?

Answer 5

Though being of humble birth and humble parentage does help the believer come closer to the Lord, I don't think it is crux. Jesus would have likely abandoned all the riches as he asked his disciples to. I think the true Jesus would have shone through no matter what, or he would have donated all his riches to helping those in need- ultimately having nothing at the end.

Answer 6

I find it compelling that Jesus left His mighty throne in Heaven to lower Himself and Royal status to that of a bluecollar worker as you statedfor the salvation of mankind. Even during His ministry on earth He left what little He did have then to spread His word and minister not only to the poor & needy but also to the wealthy who also needed spiritual awakening and the message of hope He brought.

Answer 7

I think that people can believe what they want to believe, but doing so has no impact on the truth. I am reasonably sure that Jesus was a great man, but since he never declared himself to be god's actual son (the references of him saying we are gods children shows that he didn't believe he was anymore special than anyone else in that regard), I won't believe that he was.

Answer 8

""Would The Story Of Jesus Be Less Compelling Had He Been Born To A Rich Man?""

To me -- it would be the same.

Answer 9

He was born to a rich man - God. He made the universe and owns everything in it. Joseph was chosen as his earthly father because of Mary and the time in which they lived.

Answer 10

Yes
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