Monday, March 8, 2010

Ancient Evidence for Jesus from Non-Christian Sources - Part 6

By Michael Gleghorn

Conclusion

Let's summarize what we've learned about Jesus from this examination of ancient non-Christian sources. First, both Josephus and Lucian indicate that Jesus was regarded as wise. Second, Pliny, the Talmud, and Lucian imply He was a powerful and revered teacher. Third, both Josephus and the Talmud indicate He performed miraculous feats. Fourth, Tacitus, Josephus, the Talmud, and Lucian all mention that He was crucified. Tacitus and Josephus say this occurred under Pontius Pilate. And the Talmud declares it happened on the eve of Passover. Fifth, there are possible references to the Christian belief in Jesus' resurrection in both Tacitus and Josephus. Sixth, Josephus records that Jesus' followers believed He was the Christ, or Messiah. And finally, both Pliny and Lucian indicate that Christians worshipped Jesus as God!

I hope you see how this small selection of ancient non-Christian sources helps corroborate our knowledge of Jesus from the gospels. Of course, there are many ancient Christian sources of information about Jesus as well. But since the historical reliability of the canonical gospels is so well established, I invite you to read those for an authoritative "life of Jesus!"

< Read Part 5

Source: BeThinking.org

1 comment:

  1. Certainly I encourage anyone who continue with the exploration that you have begun for people. It's important to remember, however, that for fools, no amount of evidence will change their minds since their decision to reject Jesus is not based on evidence. Oh, sure, they say it is, but the compelling level of evidence in existence shows that they lie.

    Good post.

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