Historical Jesus
The
Historical
Jesus
Was the Jesus of Nazareth described in your Bible a real historical figure? Is the account of is life as recorded in the gospels true? Or was the entire account of Jesus’ life a huge exaggeration, or even worse, a total fabrication?
In the world today, many attempt to deny the validity of the New Testament account regarding the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. This denial is based on the belief that there exists no “objective” evidence proving Jesus even existed, let alone preached a powerful gospel, performed great miracles, and was resurrected from the dead.
The critics who deny the existence of a historical Jesus contend that the only evidence suggesting He really lived comes from the Bible. Further, they contend that the Bible cannot be believed because it was written by men who were less interested in recording factual events than in advancing a religion.
What is the truth? Did Jesus of Nazareth really live? Can the biblical record of His life be trusted?
Furthermore, is there real, credible, external evidence that not only proves Jesus Christ lived, but that His life had a profound impact on the course of history?
A Critic Speaks
One of the most outspoken critics of the existence of a historical Jesus is Charles Templeton. In his book, Act of God, Mr. Templeton explains his skepticism.
The church bases its claims mostly on the teaching of an obscure young Jew with messianic pretensions who, let's face it, didn't make much of an impression in his lifetime. There isn't a single word about him in secular history. Not a word, no mention of him by the Romans. Not so much as a reference by Josephus. (p. 152)
Is Mr. Templeton correct? Is there no word regarding Jesus except for those found in the scriptures? Is there no mention of Him in Roman history? And what about Josephus? Is it true that Josephus remained silent concerning the existence of Christianity’s leading figure?
Everyone who considers himself a serious
Historical
Jesus
Was the Jesus of Nazareth described in your Bible a real historical figure? Is the account of is life as recorded in the gospels true? Or was the entire account of Jesus’ life a huge exaggeration, or even worse, a total fabrication?
In the world today, many attempt to deny the validity of the New Testament account regarding the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. This denial is based on the belief that there exists no “objective” evidence proving Jesus even existed, let alone preached a powerful gospel, performed great miracles, and was resurrected from the dead.
The critics who deny the existence of a historical Jesus contend that the only evidence suggesting He really lived comes from the Bible. Further, they contend that the Bible cannot be believed because it was written by men who were less interested in recording factual events than in advancing a religion.
What is the truth? Did Jesus of Nazareth really live? Can the biblical record of His life be trusted?
Furthermore, is there real, credible, external evidence that not only proves Jesus Christ lived, but that His life had a profound impact on the course of history?
A Critic Speaks
One of the most outspoken critics of the existence of a historical Jesus is Charles Templeton. In his book, Act of God, Mr. Templeton explains his skepticism.
The church bases its claims mostly on the teaching of an obscure young Jew with messianic pretensions who, let's face it, didn't make much of an impression in his lifetime. There isn't a single word about him in secular history. Not a word, no mention of him by the Romans. Not so much as a reference by Josephus. (p. 152)
Is Mr. Templeton correct? Is there no word regarding Jesus except for those found in the scriptures? Is there no mention of Him in Roman history? And what about Josephus? Is it true that Josephus remained silent concerning the existence of Christianity’s leading figure?
Everyone who considers himself a serious