http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/religion/etc/synopsis.html
The program suggests that Jesus may not have been dirt poor, but rather that Joseph was a builder rather than a poor carpenter, who provided for himself, Mary and Jesus comfortably. It also suggests that Jesus was perhaps a Revolutionary, a Firebrand, who spoke out against the occupying Romans, Hebrew scribes and pharisees and others who afflicted the poor.
The program suggests that Jesus' persona may have been changed by the early Christians for many reasons, including fear of reprisal from the Romans and the Jews, to present a more appealing view to potential converts to Christianity, etc.
If, in fact, those who spread the word about Jesus changed His persona from a Firebrand to dirt poor, then we may never know how or why.
Personally, I find the idea that Jesus may have been more of a revolutionary and firebrand rather than dirt poor appealing. I can't help but think that the possible change in persona may have been more destructive than constructive to Christianity.
Perhaps if more Christians saw Jesus as One who passionately spoke out against those who afflicted the poor, then today's Christians might be more apt to speak out against atrocities committed today against the poor.
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