This is a series about the life of Christ in both History and also in Prophecy of the Old and New Testament. Part 1 (This Presentation) goes over the existence of Jesus Christ and it will have evidence by many Roman, Greek, Atheist, and Apologetic authors.
DID JESUS ACTUALLY EXIST? A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE EXTRA-BIBLICAL EVIDENCE ...Dr Ian Ellis-Jones
The document analyzes the extra-biblical evidence for Jesus from historians and texts from the supposed time of Jesus' existence. It finds that none of these sources provide clear evidence that Jesus actually lived as a historical figure, with most references being later interpolations or merely repeating beliefs without firsthand evidence. The earliest unambiguous references to Jesus come in the 2nd century CE, long after his supposed life. The document concludes that while some sources reference beliefs in Jesus as a god or prophet, there is no demonstrable authentic evidence from within the first 100 years of the supposed existence of an actual historical Jesus.
Many ancient manuscripts were lost or destroyed during Israel's turbulent history. The Old Testament text was standardized by the Masoretic Jews by the sixth century A.D., and all manuscripts that deviated from the Masoretic Text were evidently eliminated. But the existing Hebrew manuscripts are supplemented by the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Septuagint (a third-century B.C. Greek translation of the Old Testament), the Samaritan Pentateuch, and the Targums (ancient paraphrases of the Old Testament), as well as the Talmud (teachings and commentaries related to the Hebrew Scriptures).
In continuation of my studies of falsehood of all Abrahamic religions from 20...Navid Khiabani
In continuation of my studies of falsehood of all Abrahamic religions from 2008 to 2014
Complete historical study to indicate Jesus is a fictional character
This document discusses the concept of Higher Criticism and its application to analyzing the origins and authorship of the books of the Pentateuch/Torah. It provides background on the development of the Documentary Hypothesis, which attempts to identify multiple source documents that were combined to form the first five books of the Bible. The summary identifies some of the key figures and their contributions to the evolution of the Documentary Hypothesis, such as Astruc, Eichhorn, Graf, Wellhausen. It also outlines some of the common criteria used to distinguish between the hypothesized source documents, such as differences in divine names used, duplicate narratives, and differences in style.
The document provides an overview of early Christianity from the Apostolic Era to the writings of the Apostolic Fathers. It discusses key events like the Councils of Nicea and Constantinople, figures like Ignatius of Antioch and Clement of Rome, and topics addressed in their writings like the authority of the apostles, the historicity of Jesus, and the characteristics of the Apostolic Fathers. The document also provides biographical details on some of the early church fathers.
This document discusses the reliability of the Bible and whether it accurately reflects what was originally written. Regarding the textual transmission of biblical manuscripts, it notes that while no original autographs exist, the extensive manuscript evidence allows for a high degree of confidence in the biblical text. There are many early manuscripts of both the Old and New Testaments spanning various centuries. Regarding translation, it discusses that the Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, and modern versions are translations from these original languages.
THE PAULINE CONCEPT OF WOMEN ANDROCENTRIC OR CHRISTOCENTRICMaurice Griffiths
This document examines whether the Pauline concept of women is androcentric (male-centered) or christocentric (focused on the teachings of Jesus Christ). It begins by defining these terms and outlining the paper's structure. It then discusses the cultural context in which Paul lived, noting that Greco-Roman society viewed women as inferior. Several sources for understanding Paul are examined, including his authentic letters versus disputed or pseudonymous works. The paper finds that Jesus treated women inclusively despite cultural norms. Finally, it argues that Paul's concept of women, as seen in his letters, reflects Jesus' christocentric rather than androcentric view by acknowledging women in prominent roles in the early Christian community.
How Bible Scholars and Historians analyze the Gospels using critical methods to separate the fact from fiction with regards to the historical Jesus. The information in this slideshow is based on 200 years of scholarly research.
DID JESUS ACTUALLY EXIST? A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE EXTRA-BIBLICAL EVIDENCE ...Dr Ian Ellis-Jones
The document analyzes the extra-biblical evidence for Jesus from historians and texts from the supposed time of Jesus' existence. It finds that none of these sources provide clear evidence that Jesus actually lived as a historical figure, with most references being later interpolations or merely repeating beliefs without firsthand evidence. The earliest unambiguous references to Jesus come in the 2nd century CE, long after his supposed life. The document concludes that while some sources reference beliefs in Jesus as a god or prophet, there is no demonstrable authentic evidence from within the first 100 years of the supposed existence of an actual historical Jesus.
Many ancient manuscripts were lost or destroyed during Israel's turbulent history. The Old Testament text was standardized by the Masoretic Jews by the sixth century A.D., and all manuscripts that deviated from the Masoretic Text were evidently eliminated. But the existing Hebrew manuscripts are supplemented by the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Septuagint (a third-century B.C. Greek translation of the Old Testament), the Samaritan Pentateuch, and the Targums (ancient paraphrases of the Old Testament), as well as the Talmud (teachings and commentaries related to the Hebrew Scriptures).
In continuation of my studies of falsehood of all Abrahamic religions from 20...Navid Khiabani
In continuation of my studies of falsehood of all Abrahamic religions from 2008 to 2014
Complete historical study to indicate Jesus is a fictional character
This document discusses the concept of Higher Criticism and its application to analyzing the origins and authorship of the books of the Pentateuch/Torah. It provides background on the development of the Documentary Hypothesis, which attempts to identify multiple source documents that were combined to form the first five books of the Bible. The summary identifies some of the key figures and their contributions to the evolution of the Documentary Hypothesis, such as Astruc, Eichhorn, Graf, Wellhausen. It also outlines some of the common criteria used to distinguish between the hypothesized source documents, such as differences in divine names used, duplicate narratives, and differences in style.
The document provides an overview of early Christianity from the Apostolic Era to the writings of the Apostolic Fathers. It discusses key events like the Councils of Nicea and Constantinople, figures like Ignatius of Antioch and Clement of Rome, and topics addressed in their writings like the authority of the apostles, the historicity of Jesus, and the characteristics of the Apostolic Fathers. The document also provides biographical details on some of the early church fathers.
This document discusses the reliability of the Bible and whether it accurately reflects what was originally written. Regarding the textual transmission of biblical manuscripts, it notes that while no original autographs exist, the extensive manuscript evidence allows for a high degree of confidence in the biblical text. There are many early manuscripts of both the Old and New Testaments spanning various centuries. Regarding translation, it discusses that the Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, and modern versions are translations from these original languages.
THE PAULINE CONCEPT OF WOMEN ANDROCENTRIC OR CHRISTOCENTRICMaurice Griffiths
This document examines whether the Pauline concept of women is androcentric (male-centered) or christocentric (focused on the teachings of Jesus Christ). It begins by defining these terms and outlining the paper's structure. It then discusses the cultural context in which Paul lived, noting that Greco-Roman society viewed women as inferior. Several sources for understanding Paul are examined, including his authentic letters versus disputed or pseudonymous works. The paper finds that Jesus treated women inclusively despite cultural norms. Finally, it argues that Paul's concept of women, as seen in his letters, reflects Jesus' christocentric rather than androcentric view by acknowledging women in prominent roles in the early Christian community.
How Bible Scholars and Historians analyze the Gospels using critical methods to separate the fact from fiction with regards to the historical Jesus. The information in this slideshow is based on 200 years of scholarly research.
Bible Alive Jesus Christ 002: "Criteria & Historical Foundations“”BibleAlive
What is the nature of the 27 New Testament Documents? Learn our three goals for this course: We will try and 1) determine the meaning of the earthly life of Jesus illuminated by our Christian faith in his resurrection; 2) show Jesus’ central place in God’s plan of salvation and his role in revealing and carrying out that plan; and 3) show that the inspired portrait of the New Testament is not fictitious, but sheds light on the mystery of the real Jesus of Nazareth.
This document discusses the importance of understanding Jesus in his historical context and outlines several key points about reconstructing the historical Jesus. It notes that while the gospels combine both historical facts and theological interpretation, historians can establish some basic facts about Jesus through various criteria, including that he was a 1st century Jew from Galilee who gathered disciples and whose message concerned the coming reign of God. The document also reviews different approaches to studying the historical Jesus over time.
This document discusses the historical search to determine what can be known about the historical Jesus from historical sources. It describes the major phases of the "Quest for the Historical Jesus" including the Old Quest from 1738-1906, the New Quest from 1950s-1970s, and the current Third Quest from 1980s-present. Key figures and their approaches are outlined for each phase, along with the methods and findings of groups like the Jesus Seminar in the Third Quest. The overall focus is on analyzing biblical and non-biblical sources using historical and scientific methodology to reconstruct an accurate portrait of Jesus' life and teachings.
How christianity was invented Bertin, ClaudeClaude Bertin
This document provides background on the historian Flavius Josephus and examines whether his works corroborate or contradict the biblical accounts of Jesus. Josephus was a contemporary historian who lived during the alleged time of Jesus. His father Matthias held a high-ranking position and would likely have known about major events involving Jesus. However, Josephus makes no mention of Jesus in his works, despite his thorough coverage of the time period and interest in different Jewish sects. This raises questions about whether the biblical narratives are historically accurate accounts. The document argues that Josephus provides an important historical perspective to analyze alongside the biblical sources.
The document discusses the historical context and spread of Christianity after Jesus Christ. It notes that we have detailed historical sources from the early years, including the Acts of the Apostles and many epistles. Paul of Tarsus played a key role in spreading Christianity. The Roman Empire provided stability and infrastructure that allowed Christianity's spread, though it was initially one of many religions and faced opposition from Jews, local religions, and eventually Romans themselves due to concerns about its growth.
Historical evidence for the authenticity of the BibleSarah Salviander
Evidence is presented to support the New Testament as a reliable record of the ministry of Jesus and of the early Christian church. The means by which the New Testament has been preserved are also examined. Presentation by John Darms.
A Brief Introduction to the History of the New TestamentSam Huizenga
The document discusses the history of the New Testament canon and different manuscript traditions. It argues that:
1) The original New Testament writings were circulated and collected in the early church.
2) The Textus Receptus tradition, which forms the basis of the King James Bible, represents the preserved text used by believers for over 1,000 years.
3) Modern critical texts are based on the Sinaiticus and Vaticanus manuscripts and differ significantly from the Textus Receptus, removing or questioning thousands of words.
4) These differences weaken or remove important Christian doctrines like the deity of Christ, contradicting the doctrine of divine preservation of Scripture.
This document discusses the concept of the "gospel" from both historical and theological perspectives. Historically, it traces how the term "gospel" was used and understood in 1st century Judaism and Roman society. Theologically, it examines different interpretations of the gospel, from the traditional view of salvation to broader concepts proposed by scholars like N.T. Wright. Key figures and texts from the period are referenced to provide historical and biblical context.
This is a study of Jesus to reign a thousand years with His saints. It is the millennium, and it is a controversial subject. Three major views are explained in this study, but you need to study each one to feel secure about this thousand year reign.
The Talk of Bro. Duane Cartujano at the Word Conference 2018Duane Cartujano
This document discusses several topics related to the reliability of the Bible and its translation. It provides evidence from ancient manuscripts and scholars to show that early biblical texts like Codex Sinaiticus and Codex Vaticanus are reliable. While some Bible versions like the King James contain passages not found in older manuscripts, modern translations like the NRSV are considered more accurate. The Catholic Church's role in establishing the biblical canon and its use of deuterocanonical books is also examined through early Church fathers and scholars. Overall, the document aims to demonstrate the reliability of the Bible while cautioning the need to consider textual evidence and guidance from the Church in biblical interpretation.
Bible Alive Jesus Christ 004: "Historical Facts & Resurrection Faith"BibleAlive
Learn seven key points about the death and resurrection of Jesus. Know the theories that deny the resurrection. Find out about other interpretations of the Resurrection—was it a historical fact like any other? Where does the resurrection “fit” and what does it mean? What does it mean to encounter the Risen Christ? What two extremes are we to avoid? Learn about the credibility of the Resurrection and the three ways it changed the nature of the universe.
The document provides an overview of the course "The New Testament" taught by Professor Bart D. Ehrman. The course examines the 27 books of the New Testament from a historical perspective through 24 lectures combining biblical scholarship, archaeology, and literary analysis. It explores questions about the factual accuracy of stories of Jesus's life, the compilation and editing of the New Testament, and contradictory portrayals of Jesus. The course aims to place Jesus in his historical context and investigate the authenticity of biblical accounts versus forgeries.
This study guide, the second half of a two part study on how the early Christian church selected the books that comprise the canon of the New Testament, is one of a series to help leaders of a Bible study or Sunday School class who are too busy to research and prepare as well as they would like for the task. The entire series is engaging, colorful and challenging and is ready to go even at the last moment. More are in the works. Search using keyword "lessonstogo."
The study of the literary forms and genre of the different pericope in the Bible plays a very significant role in Biblical interpretation. This study allows the people to recognize that there are many types of literature. The authors always choose a vehicle through which they send a message to the readers. By there choice of genre, the authors are able to signal the readers how to take the message they want to convey.
This document summarizes a theology class that discusses the nature of Jesus Christ. It states that Christianity is a belief in Jesus, who was both fully human and fully divine. As a human, Jesus could identify with people and suffer, but as God, he could save them. The document then provides evidence for Jesus' resurrection, including the empty tomb, reported appearances, the disciples' changed lives even unto death, the rise of the Christian church, and the conversion of Paul. It concludes that through Jesus, God became human while remaining divine, and that the Holy Spirit was involved in this occurrence.
The document discusses Jesus' statement about fulfilling the Law and the Prophets from the Old Testament. It argues that:
1) Jesus came not to abolish but to complete/fulfill all aspects of the Old Testament law and prophecies by being their fulfillment.
2) Nothing will pass from the Law until heaven and earth pass away or until everything prophesied is accomplished by Jesus.
3) Jesus accomplished everything through his life, death, and resurrection, establishing the new covenant and inaugurating the Kingdom of God.
4) Believers now live according to the Spirit of the new covenant rather than the letter of the old law.
The Book Of Colossians
GOD’s MYSTERIOUS PLAN of CHRIST’S SUPREMACY
---Freedom Through Christ
---New Life With Christ
---Your Confident Hope
GOD’s MYSTERIOUS PLAN IS REVEALED
This message was kept secret for centuries and generations past, but now this message has been revealed to God’s people. For God wanted His people to know that
the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too.
And this is the secret:
Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing His glory. God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ Himself. In Him lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
The document provides teaching on how Christians should live together in unity based on biblical principles. It discusses the "golden rule" of treating others as you wish to be treated from Luke 6:31. It also introduces the concept of the "one anothers" found throughout Scripture that provide guidance on how believers should treat each other, such as loving one another and bearing with one another. The purpose is to help provide a solid foundation for relationships between Christians.
Bible Alive Jesus Christ 002: "Criteria & Historical Foundations“”BibleAlive
What is the nature of the 27 New Testament Documents? Learn our three goals for this course: We will try and 1) determine the meaning of the earthly life of Jesus illuminated by our Christian faith in his resurrection; 2) show Jesus’ central place in God’s plan of salvation and his role in revealing and carrying out that plan; and 3) show that the inspired portrait of the New Testament is not fictitious, but sheds light on the mystery of the real Jesus of Nazareth.
This document discusses the importance of understanding Jesus in his historical context and outlines several key points about reconstructing the historical Jesus. It notes that while the gospels combine both historical facts and theological interpretation, historians can establish some basic facts about Jesus through various criteria, including that he was a 1st century Jew from Galilee who gathered disciples and whose message concerned the coming reign of God. The document also reviews different approaches to studying the historical Jesus over time.
This document discusses the historical search to determine what can be known about the historical Jesus from historical sources. It describes the major phases of the "Quest for the Historical Jesus" including the Old Quest from 1738-1906, the New Quest from 1950s-1970s, and the current Third Quest from 1980s-present. Key figures and their approaches are outlined for each phase, along with the methods and findings of groups like the Jesus Seminar in the Third Quest. The overall focus is on analyzing biblical and non-biblical sources using historical and scientific methodology to reconstruct an accurate portrait of Jesus' life and teachings.
How christianity was invented Bertin, ClaudeClaude Bertin
This document provides background on the historian Flavius Josephus and examines whether his works corroborate or contradict the biblical accounts of Jesus. Josephus was a contemporary historian who lived during the alleged time of Jesus. His father Matthias held a high-ranking position and would likely have known about major events involving Jesus. However, Josephus makes no mention of Jesus in his works, despite his thorough coverage of the time period and interest in different Jewish sects. This raises questions about whether the biblical narratives are historically accurate accounts. The document argues that Josephus provides an important historical perspective to analyze alongside the biblical sources.
The document discusses the historical context and spread of Christianity after Jesus Christ. It notes that we have detailed historical sources from the early years, including the Acts of the Apostles and many epistles. Paul of Tarsus played a key role in spreading Christianity. The Roman Empire provided stability and infrastructure that allowed Christianity's spread, though it was initially one of many religions and faced opposition from Jews, local religions, and eventually Romans themselves due to concerns about its growth.
Historical evidence for the authenticity of the BibleSarah Salviander
Evidence is presented to support the New Testament as a reliable record of the ministry of Jesus and of the early Christian church. The means by which the New Testament has been preserved are also examined. Presentation by John Darms.
A Brief Introduction to the History of the New TestamentSam Huizenga
The document discusses the history of the New Testament canon and different manuscript traditions. It argues that:
1) The original New Testament writings were circulated and collected in the early church.
2) The Textus Receptus tradition, which forms the basis of the King James Bible, represents the preserved text used by believers for over 1,000 years.
3) Modern critical texts are based on the Sinaiticus and Vaticanus manuscripts and differ significantly from the Textus Receptus, removing or questioning thousands of words.
4) These differences weaken or remove important Christian doctrines like the deity of Christ, contradicting the doctrine of divine preservation of Scripture.
This document discusses the concept of the "gospel" from both historical and theological perspectives. Historically, it traces how the term "gospel" was used and understood in 1st century Judaism and Roman society. Theologically, it examines different interpretations of the gospel, from the traditional view of salvation to broader concepts proposed by scholars like N.T. Wright. Key figures and texts from the period are referenced to provide historical and biblical context.
This is a study of Jesus to reign a thousand years with His saints. It is the millennium, and it is a controversial subject. Three major views are explained in this study, but you need to study each one to feel secure about this thousand year reign.
The Talk of Bro. Duane Cartujano at the Word Conference 2018Duane Cartujano
This document discusses several topics related to the reliability of the Bible and its translation. It provides evidence from ancient manuscripts and scholars to show that early biblical texts like Codex Sinaiticus and Codex Vaticanus are reliable. While some Bible versions like the King James contain passages not found in older manuscripts, modern translations like the NRSV are considered more accurate. The Catholic Church's role in establishing the biblical canon and its use of deuterocanonical books is also examined through early Church fathers and scholars. Overall, the document aims to demonstrate the reliability of the Bible while cautioning the need to consider textual evidence and guidance from the Church in biblical interpretation.
Bible Alive Jesus Christ 004: "Historical Facts & Resurrection Faith"BibleAlive
Learn seven key points about the death and resurrection of Jesus. Know the theories that deny the resurrection. Find out about other interpretations of the Resurrection—was it a historical fact like any other? Where does the resurrection “fit” and what does it mean? What does it mean to encounter the Risen Christ? What two extremes are we to avoid? Learn about the credibility of the Resurrection and the three ways it changed the nature of the universe.
The document provides an overview of the course "The New Testament" taught by Professor Bart D. Ehrman. The course examines the 27 books of the New Testament from a historical perspective through 24 lectures combining biblical scholarship, archaeology, and literary analysis. It explores questions about the factual accuracy of stories of Jesus's life, the compilation and editing of the New Testament, and contradictory portrayals of Jesus. The course aims to place Jesus in his historical context and investigate the authenticity of biblical accounts versus forgeries.
This study guide, the second half of a two part study on how the early Christian church selected the books that comprise the canon of the New Testament, is one of a series to help leaders of a Bible study or Sunday School class who are too busy to research and prepare as well as they would like for the task. The entire series is engaging, colorful and challenging and is ready to go even at the last moment. More are in the works. Search using keyword "lessonstogo."
The study of the literary forms and genre of the different pericope in the Bible plays a very significant role in Biblical interpretation. This study allows the people to recognize that there are many types of literature. The authors always choose a vehicle through which they send a message to the readers. By there choice of genre, the authors are able to signal the readers how to take the message they want to convey.
This document summarizes a theology class that discusses the nature of Jesus Christ. It states that Christianity is a belief in Jesus, who was both fully human and fully divine. As a human, Jesus could identify with people and suffer, but as God, he could save them. The document then provides evidence for Jesus' resurrection, including the empty tomb, reported appearances, the disciples' changed lives even unto death, the rise of the Christian church, and the conversion of Paul. It concludes that through Jesus, God became human while remaining divine, and that the Holy Spirit was involved in this occurrence.
The document discusses Jesus' statement about fulfilling the Law and the Prophets from the Old Testament. It argues that:
1) Jesus came not to abolish but to complete/fulfill all aspects of the Old Testament law and prophecies by being their fulfillment.
2) Nothing will pass from the Law until heaven and earth pass away or until everything prophesied is accomplished by Jesus.
3) Jesus accomplished everything through his life, death, and resurrection, establishing the new covenant and inaugurating the Kingdom of God.
4) Believers now live according to the Spirit of the new covenant rather than the letter of the old law.
The Book Of Colossians
GOD’s MYSTERIOUS PLAN of CHRIST’S SUPREMACY
---Freedom Through Christ
---New Life With Christ
---Your Confident Hope
GOD’s MYSTERIOUS PLAN IS REVEALED
This message was kept secret for centuries and generations past, but now this message has been revealed to God’s people. For God wanted His people to know that
the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too.
And this is the secret:
Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing His glory. God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ Himself. In Him lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
The document provides teaching on how Christians should live together in unity based on biblical principles. It discusses the "golden rule" of treating others as you wish to be treated from Luke 6:31. It also introduces the concept of the "one anothers" found throughout Scripture that provide guidance on how believers should treat each other, such as loving one another and bearing with one another. The purpose is to help provide a solid foundation for relationships between Christians.
This document discusses the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in John 11. It notes that Martha had faith in Jesus as the Great Physician and in the power of God to answer prayer. Jesus loved Lazarus, Martha, and Mary, and wanted to glorify the Father through this miracle. Jesus had the power to raise the dead and extends the greatest promise of everlasting life to those who have faith in Him. The document encourages having faith and love for God like Martha and Jesus did.
202, Life of Christ, Section 10b Passion Crucifixion ResurrectionRichard Chamberlain
The document summarizes Jesus' trials and crucifixion. It describes how he was first brought before Annas for an informal hearing, then had a more formal trial before Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin while it was still dark. Jesus was then questioned and condemned to death. The next day, the proceedings were briefly repeated before Jesus was taken to Pilate for another hearing, then sent to Herod and back to Pilate, who had him flogged and crucified due to pressure from Jewish authorities and crowds.
This document provides a summary of the first 12 lessons from the book "New Life in Christ Volume 1." The book aims to give readers a solid foundation for the Christian life by covering basic steps. Each lesson includes Bible study questions to help readers better understand the material. Practical projects are also included to make the lessons more applicable to daily life. Appendices at the end contain additional resources like pages to cut out and paste in readers' Bibles. The document encourages studying one lesson per week and continuing on to Volumes 2 and 3 once finished. It is available in multiple languages online and via download.
This document is the order of service for a song service titled "I Am the Resurrection and the Life" held on March 29, 2015. It includes announcements, prayers, scripture readings, and the singing of hymns focused on Jesus' life, death, and resurrection and their importance for believers. Key Bible passages discussed include John 1:1-5, 14; Romans 14:9; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:3-4; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; and 2 Corinthians 5:14-15. The service concludes with an invitation, closing hymn, and prayer.
This course focuses on providing students with a chronological understanding of the life of Christ within its historical and cultural context. The course objectives are for students to demonstrate understanding of Christ's teachings, events and miracles; describe major life events in order; understand geographical movements; and gain social/cultural background knowledge from the Gospels. Students will read from biblical texts and complete assignments involving research papers and summarizing a Gospel.
202, Life of Christ, Section 10a Passion Crucifixion ResurrectionRichard Chamberlain
The document summarizes events from the final days of Jesus' life according to the Gospels, beginning with the Last Supper on Thursday night. It describes Jesus sharing a final meal with his disciples where he predicts his betrayal by Judas and denies by Peter, and establishes the Eucharist by serving bread and wine as his body and blood. After the meal, Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane while Judas goes to betray him to the chief priests. The document also examines details and potential interpretations of these pivotal events.
This document discusses the necessity of salvation through Jesus Christ. It begins by explaining that we must understand God's holiness and our own sinfulness and unrighteousness. It then explains who Jesus is as the Word made flesh, who lived a sinless life and died for our sins. We are called to repent of our sins, deny ourselves, and follow Christ by taking up our cross. Counting the full cost of discipleship is required. Finally, it emphasizes that salvation through Jesus is worth any cost, as it is the only way to be reconciled to God and spared from His wrath.
The document provides information about the Lenten season and Easter preparation in 3 paragraphs:
It explains that Lent is a 40 day period before Easter used for prayer, fasting, almsgiving and acts of penance to draw closer to God. Specific practices mentioned include confession, stations of the cross and rosary.
Details are given around fasting and abstinence requirements during Lent such as not eating meat on certain days and only having one full meal.
A timeline of the Lenten season and Holy Week is outlined, highlighting the significance of Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday which commemorates Jesus' resurrection.
The document discusses life, death, and resurrection according to Christian teachings. It covers topics like why humans die, what happens to the soul after death, the purpose of life being preparation for eternity, and different views on the afterlife. The key points are:
1) Humans die because sin introduced death, but God promises resurrection for believers who will live eternally with Him.
2) When the body dies, the soul and spirit depart to be with God in paradise until the final resurrection.
3) The ultimate purpose of life is preparation for eternity, with this life being brief compared to eternal life after death.
The document discusses salvation and how to accept Jesus as one's savior. It states that all people are sinners and fall short of God's glory. It then outlines the ABCs of salvation - that people must admit they are sinners, believe that Jesus died for their sins, and confess Jesus as Lord to receive eternal life and be saved from death. The key verses provided emphasize humanity's sinful nature and God's gift of salvation through faith in Jesus.
John 3:1-5. A New Life In Christ. In the new life we have been born again. In the new life we are a new creation. In the new life we crucify the flesh with its passions and desires. In the new life we are transformed by the renewing of our minds. In the new life we are renewed by the Holy Spirit. In the new life we are dead to sin but alive to God. In the new life we are washed from our sins. in the new life we put to death the old man and put on the new man. In the new life we died and our life is hidden with Christ in God. In the new life we were brought back from death in sin.
James Tissot was a French painter born in 1836 in Nantes, France. He is best known for his series of paintings titled "The Life of Christ" which depicted scenes from the life of Jesus based on the Gospels. The series contains over 300 watercolor paintings that were exhibited worldwide between 1883 and 1896. They are now displayed at the Brooklyn Museum in New York City.
A presentation about the works of these last days according to the Holy Scriptures and use of the writings of Ellen G White the spirit of prophecy of Revelation 12:17 and Revelation 19:10.
Lent is a season of prayer, penance, and fasting lasting 40 days in preparation for Easter that originated from Jesus' 40 day fast in the desert; it is observed through acts of penance like fasting, prayer, and almsgiving as called for in the Bible and focused on encountering Christ through liturgy and sacraments according to the Church and Pope's message.
The document describes God creating the world in 6 days according to the biblical book of Genesis. Each day is summarized: on the first day God created light; on the second day he created the sky; on the third day he created land and plants; on the fourth day he created the sun, moon, and stars; on the fifth day he created sea creatures and birds; and on the sixth day he created land animals and humans. The document recounts that God saw all of creation as good.
The document summarizes key events of Holy Week leading up to Easter, including Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the Last Supper on Thursday where he established Holy Communion, praying in the Garden of Gethsemane on Thursday night, his crucifixion and death on Good Friday, descending into hell, and his resurrection discovered by Mary Magdalene on Easter Sunday morning.
Easter is a spring holiday celebrated on Sunday that involves coloring eggs, hiding them for Easter egg hunts, wearing new clothes including floral dresses and hats, eating meals like ham dinners, and recognizing symbols of new life like white lilies and the Easter Bunny who brings baskets of eggs and candy for children.
Many believe that Christ was never a real person in our world, and that He is an imaginary creation of a powerful sect that wanted to create a new religion. This is supported by the false fact that there are not strong historical testimonies that declare the historicity of Christ, but only those of the disciples and the wider circle of His followers.
Many believe that Christ was never a real person in our world, and that He is an imaginary creation of a powerful sect that wanted to create a new religion. This is supported by the false fact that there are not strong historical testimonies that declare the historicity of Christ, but only those of the disciples and the wider circle of His followers.......
CAN YOU STAND THE TRUTH?
THE CHRONICLE OF MAN’S IMPRISONMENT
LAST CALL!
A book with cosmological content in the form of a study, arraying (in its sum of 635 bibliographic citations which accompany its main corpus) information and excerpts from scientific research, ancient and sacred texts from every mythology, religion, philosophical viewpoints, the Christian Apocryphal Gospels, as well as metaphysical views, so as to compose the complete image of the puzzle of man’s role in the world. Furthermore, the contemporary problems of humanity and the entire planet are dealt with and fully explained.
And to close the circle of knowledge offered, many controversial issues are tackled, without reservations or in fear they might not be “convenient” to the readers…
If you are interested in learning more you can follow this link and take a look at the book of truth: https://bit.ly/3EIr6Vx
Lesson 2: Non Biblical Sources of Jesus Christ HistoricityDam Frank
This document discusses several Roman historians who provided non-biblical evidence of Jesus Christ's historicity, including Tacitus, Suetonius, Pliny the Younger, and Lucian of Samosata. Tacitus and Pliny the Younger directly referenced Jesus Christ and the persecution of early Christians. Suetonius indirectly referenced early Christians and their conflicts in Rome. Lucian of Samosata also referenced Jesus Christ and the general beliefs and practices of early Christians. The writings of these Roman historians corroborate details found in biblical accounts of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
Over the first few centuries CE, Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire and local Christian communities developed their own traditions and leadership structures. This led to diversity and theological disagreements. A series of ecumenical councils were held to address heresies and establish orthodox Christian doctrine, such as the divinity of Christ. Key events that helped form the universal Catholic Church included Constantine's legalization of Christianity in 313 CE and the councils of Nicea in 325 CE and Chalcedon in 451 CE which defined core Christological doctrines. By the end of the 4th century, the biblical canon was largely fixed and the Nicene Creed provided a common foundation of belief for dispersed Christian communities to unite as one church.
The document discusses sources of claims that Jesus was a mythological figure rather than a historical person. It traces these claims back to 19th century German theologian Bruno Bauer, who argued Jesus was a fusion of Greek and Roman theology rather than based in Judaism. Others like Albert Kalthoff and James Frazer built on this, claiming Jesus never existed. Modern propagators cited include the movie Zeitgeist and authors Dan Brown and Freke/Gandy. The document questions the credibility and scholarly acceptance of these mythological claims, noting a lack of evidence and acceptance from reputable historians and scholars.
This document provides an overview of early Christianity from the Apostolic Era to the early Church Fathers. It discusses key events like the Councils of Nicea and Constantinople, and influential figures like Ignatius of Antioch, Clement of Rome, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Tertullian. The Apostolic Fathers helped establish church governance and spread Christianity following the deaths of the apostles. Their writings provide insight into early Christian beliefs and practices.
The Church of the Roman Empire experienced significant growth and changes between 313 and 476 CE. Christianity became legalized under Constantine I and eventually became the dominant religion of the empire. The structure of the church adopted the same provincial boundaries as the Roman Empire, with bishops overseeing each diocese. The authority of the papacy and primacy of the Bishop of Rome was established. Several ecumenical councils were held to address Christological disputes and heresies. Monasticism also arose and spread during this time period.
The document provides an overview of a lesson on prophecy interpretation taught by Pastor George Duke. It discusses four major views of interpreting biblical prophecy - Preterism, Historicism, Futurism, and Allegory. For each view, it provides details on what the perspective entails and some of its major proponents over time such as Flavius Josephus, Sir Isaac Newton, Francisco Ribera, and Robert Bellarmine. It also examines how different views interpret some passages from the book of Revelation.
Intro to Apologetics for a multi-week home group course by a BEd and Biola MA Apologetics grad. Having established a case for Gods existence, which of the 7 mutually exclusive views of God best corresponds to reality? What unites and separates them? Is the NT's claim to a historical grounding true? How to make a case that the NT is reliable and trustworthy.
The document provides historical context about the origins and rise of the Byzantine Empire. It discusses how the Roman Empire split into eastern and western halves in the late 200s AD. The eastern half continued on from the city of Constantinople, which was established as the new capital in 330 AD by Emperor Constantine. Over time, the Byzantine Empire became the most powerful economic, cultural, and military force in Europe for much of its existence.
The document discusses reasons for Christian hope based on facts about Jesus that cannot be denied, even by skeptics. It notes that Jesus lived based on historical Roman records, and that the New Testament is a reliable historical document written by eyewitnesses within the lifetimes of other eyewitnesses. If the New Testament accounts are not true, it would have to be a carefully constructed lie, which the passionate eyewitness testimony of the authors makes unlikely.
Marcus Aurelius was truly the philosopher-king that Plato dreamed of, he was both one of the good Roman Emperors and a Stoic Philosopher who ruled out of a sense of duty while living the modest stoic life.
The paradox of Marcus Aurelius is that as Roman Emperor he likely oversaw the brutal persecution of Christians, but as a Stoic philosopher his main work, the Meditations, offers a Stoic philosophy that reflects many Christian values and teachings. This paradox led some ancient Christians to hope that he indeed was a friend to Christians, including Tertullian and St Justin the Martyr, who was himself martyred under the reign of Marcus Aurelius. This paradox was explored by the ancient church historian Eusebius in his work Church History or Ecclesiastical History.
We review the history behind Marcus Aurelius, how he was the adopted son of his predecessor, Antonius Pius, who had been adopted by Hadrian. We learn how his marriage to the daughter of Antonius Pius, Faustina, led to the birth of Commodus, who succeeded him as emperor and began the decline of the Roman Empire due to his neglect of his responsibilities, he preferred performing as a gladiator to serving as a stoic Roman Emperor.
We review the history of the persecutions from Nero to Diocletian, and the series of letters between Pliny and Trajan discussing how Christians should be properly persecuted.
We review how modern historians view this paradox, including Henry Chadwick, Walter Kaufman, Matthew Arnold, Copleston, and McGuckin.
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The document discusses evidence that supports the reliability of the New Testament manuscripts:
1. There are over 5,600 Greek manuscripts of the New Testament from the early centuries, far more than other documents from antiquity, demonstrating it was widely copied and distributed.
2. Early manuscripts like Codex Sinaiticus from 350AD contain the same text as later manuscripts, showing careful copying over generations preserved the content.
3. Details in the New Testament manuscripts correspond to people, places and historical events from the 1st century, indicating it was written by eyewitnesses during that period.
4. Eyewitnesses to Jesus recorded events that got them persecuted, implying they would not fabricate stories that led to
The document discusses evidence that supports the reliability of the New Testament manuscripts:
1. There are over 5,600 Greek manuscripts of the New Testament from the early centuries, far more than other documents from antiquity, demonstrating it was widely copied and distributed.
2. Early manuscripts like Codex Sinaiticus from 350AD contain the same text as later manuscripts, showing careful copying over the centuries preserved the original.
3. The New Testament was written by eyewitnesses in the language, locations, and historical context of the first century, making forgery highly improbable.
4. Non-Christian historians like Josephus and Tacitus corroborate people and events in the New Testament, and archaeology has
The document discusses the origins and spread of Christianity in the Roman Empire. It describes how Christianity started as a Jewish sect but St. Paul helped change its message to be universal. Paul appealed Christianity to non-Jews which helped it grow throughout the empire. While initially persecuted, Constantine legalized Christianity in 313 CE and it eventually became the official religion of the late Roman Empire.
Christianity emerged as an official religion of the Roman Empire over several centuries, evolving from a small Judaic sect to a major pillar of medieval Christendom. No one could have anticipated this remarkable transformation, which was difficult to fully explain even in hindsight. Constantine's conversion in 312 AD and the Edict of Milan legalizing Christianity set the stage for its rapid growth. Theodosius established Christianity as the empire's sole official religion in 391 AD, banning Roman paganism.
1) Christianity originated from the teachings of Jesus Christ in Roman-occupied Palestine between 0-33 AD.
2) Paul of Tarsus helped spread Christianity outside of Palestine through his letters to cities in Greece and Italy, though he was later martyred by Romans.
3) Romans initially banned Christianity and persecuted believers from 0-300 AD due to Christians calling Christ the "King of Kings" which threatened Roman polytheism. Diocletian nearly destroyed Christianity through edicts against Christians in the late 300s AD before Constantine legalized Christianity through the Edict of Milan in 313 AD.
The document discusses the origins and early development of Christianity and Christian art in the Roman Empire. It describes how Christianity began as an underground movement as Romans persecuted Christians. As the religion grew, early Christian art borrowed symbols from Roman art but had a simpler, more symbolic style focused on religious meaning over realism. The religion gained acceptance after Emperor Constantine converted and legalized Christianity in 313 CE, shifting the empire from pagan polytheism to monotheism and establishing Christianity as the dominant faith.
The document provides a history of Christianity from its beginnings to the 3rd century CE. It discusses evidence that Jesus died and was resurrected based on historical sources. It then summarizes the Apostolic era when the disciples spread Christianity and faced persecution. Finally, it discusses the post-Apostolic period when Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire.
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01. Life Of Christ - (part 1) Did He Walk Among Us?
1. Scripture
Reading:John 1:1-
3,14
“1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things
came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.14 And the Word became flesh,
and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (NASB)
3. Did he?
Us as Christians we say to the answer as “yes”, and we do as well provide Biblical evidence of His existence, but the
skeptic may challenge/question us to provide, not Biblical evidence, but historical evidence instead.
Us as Christians we are to be taking action on our knowledge of history, logic,and scripture.
It will take a lot of time to study on the subject of the existence of Christ.
What can be ways of us to prove the skeptic about the existence of Christ?
We can look at literature of certain figures of history (historical figures), and we can show the skeptic the evidence the
literature provides of the existence of Christ and of his purpose here on earth.
Once we show the skeptic the historical evidence we are then able to go back to scripture and show both are related.
Note: Many people believe that Jesus was just a man, many say he was like a Buddha/an enlightener to the jews, many
say he’s just a myth, and there a many who say he’s just a symbol.
4. 3 Areas of Evidence and authenticity
There are 3 levels of the legitimacy of the documents of the historical figures and historical document
Highly reliable sources: Tacitus and Josephus.
Moderately reliable sources: Thallus, Pliny, and Lucian.
Marginally reliable or unreliable sources: Suetonius, the letter of Mara Bar-Serapion, and the Talmud.
These figures and document will provide evidence of the existence of Christ, but we will only go in depth with 3
(Tacitus,Josephus,and the Talmud)
Due to the authenticity of the records, it will come to the minds of the skeptic, for them to really think about this serious
matter, whether they want to believe it or not you did your part for presenting them truth them.
5. Who are the historical figures?
Cornelius Tacitus Flavius Josephus Thallus,Samaritan
Historian
Pliny, The Younger Lucian of Samosata
Suetonius Mar Bar-Serpaion Talmud
6. Cornelius Tacitus
Publius (or Gaius) Cornelius Tacitus (c. A.D 56 – and A.D 120) was a senator and a historian of the Roman Empire. The surviving portions of his
two major works—the Annals and the Histories—examine the reigns of the Roman emperors Tiberius, Claudius, Nero, and those who reigned in
the Year of the Four Emperors (AD 69). These two works span the history of the Roman Empire from the death of Augustus in AD 14 to the years
of the First Jewish–Roman War in AD 70. There are substantial lacunae in the surviving texts, including a gap in the Annals that is four books long.
What does he think/say about Christ?
The Roman historian and senator Tacitus referred to Christ, his execution by Pontius Pilate, and the existence of early Christians in Rome in
one page of his final work, Annals (written ca. AD 116), book 15, chapter 44. The context of the passage is the six-day Great Fire of Rome
that burned much of the city in AD 64 during the reign of Roman Emperor Nero. The passage is one of the earliest non-Christian
references to the origins of Christianity, the execution of Christ described in the canonical gospels, and the presence and persecution of
Christians in 1st-century Rome. Scholars generally consider Tacitus' reference to the execution of Jesus by Pontius Pilate to be both
authentic, and of historical value as an independent Roman source.
Scholars view it as establishing three separate facts about Rome around AD 60: (i) that there were a sizable number of Christians in Rome at
the time, (ii) that it was possible to distinguish between Christians and Jews in Rome, and (iii) that at the time pagans made a connection
between Christianity in Rome and its origin in Roman Judea.
7. What are the Annals?
The Annals (Latin: Annales) by Roman historian and senator Tacitus, is the history of the Roman Empire from the reign of
Tiberius to that of Nero, the years AD 14–68. The Annals are an important source to modern understanding of the history of
the Roman Empire during the first century; it is Tacitus' final work, and modern historians generally consider it his greatest
writing.
Historian Ronald Mellor calls it "Tacitus's crowning achievement" which represents the "pinnacle of Roman historical
writing". Tacitus' Histories and Annals together amounted to 30 books; although some scholars disagree about which
work to assign some books to, traditionally 14 are assigned to Histories and 16 to Annals. Of the 30 books referred to
by Jerome about half have survived. Modern scholars believe that as a Roman senator, Tacitus had access to Acta
Senatus—the Roman senate's records—which provided a solid basis for his work.
Although Tacitus refers to part of his work as "my annals", the title of the work Annals used today was not assigned by
Tacitus himself, but derives from its year-by-year structure. The name of the current manuscript seems to be "Books
of History from the Death of the Divine Augustus" (Ab Excessu divi Augusti Historiarum Libri).
8. What does Tacitus say in the annals?
Tacitus was a Roman historian writing early in the second century AD (112 AD). His Annals provide us with a single reference to Jesus of
considerable value. The following is a full quote of the relevant cite, from Annals 15.44. Jesus and the Christians are mentioned in an account of how
the Emperor Nero went after Christians in order to draw attention away from himself after Rome's fire of 64 AD:
“But not all the relief that could come from man, not all the bounties that the prince could bestow, nor all the atonements which could be
presented to the gods, availed to relieve Nero from the infamy of being believed to have ordered the conflagration, the fire of Rome.
Hence to suppress the rumor, he falsely charged with the guilt, and punished Christians, who were hated for their enormities.
Christus, the founder of the name, was put to death by Pontius Pilate, procurator of Judea in the reign of Tiberius: but the pernicious
superstition, repressed for a time broke out again, not only through Judea, where the mischief originated, but through the city of Rome
also, where all things hideous and shameful from every part of the world find their center and become popular. Accordingly, an arrest
was first made of all who pleaded guilty; then, upon their information, an immense multitude was convicted, not so much of the crime of
firing the city, as of hatred against mankind.”
Is this Tacitus a reliable source? Is there good reason to trust what he says? The answer here is: Absolutely! The Tacitean literature is full of
praise for the accuracy, care, critical capability, and trustworthiness of the work of Tacitus.
His writings on the subjects of the history of the Roman Empire, by many scholars are said to be authentic. If his writing are considered to be
authentic, then his writings about Christ, must prove his existence?
9. “...punished Christians, who were hated for their enormities. Christus, the founder of the name, was put to death by Pontius
Pilate...”
Where can we find this in scripture?
● Matt 27
● Mark 15
● Luke 23
● John 18:28-40
● John 19
10. Flavius Josephus
Titus Flavius Josephus (c. A.D 37 – A.D 100), born Joseph ben Matityahu, was a first-century Romano-Jewish scholar, historian and
hagiographer, who was born in Jerusalem—then part of Roman Judea—to a father of priestly descent and a mother who claimed royal ancestry.
He initially fought against the Romans during the First Jewish–Roman War as head of Jewish forces in Galilee, until surrendering in 67 CE to Roman
forces led by Vespasian after the six-week siege of Jotapata. Josephus claimed the Jewish Messianic prophecies that initiated the First Roman-
Jewish War made reference to Vespasian becoming Emperor of Rome. In response Vespasian decided to keep Josephus as a slave and interpreter.
After Vespasian became Emperor in 69 CE, he granted Josephus his freedom, at which time Josephus assumed the emperor's family name of
Flavius.
Flavius Josephus fully defected to the Roman side and was granted Roman citizenship. He became an advisor and friend of Vespasian's son Titus,
serving as his translator when Titus led the Siege of Jerusalem, which resulted—when the Jewish revolt did not surrender—in the city's destruction
and the looting and destruction of Herod's Temple (Second Temple).
Josephus recorded Jewish history, with special emphasis on the first century CE and the First Jewish–Roman War, including the Siege of Masada.
His most important works were The Jewish War (c. 75) and Antiquities of the Jews (c. 94). The Jewish War recounts the Jewish revolt against
Roman occupation (66–70). Antiquities of the Jews recounts the history of the world from a Jewish perspective for an ostensibly Roman audience.
These works provide valuable insight into first century Judaism and the background of Early Christianity.
11. What does Josephus think/say of Jesus?
The extant manuscripts of the writings of the 1st-century Romano-Jewish historian Flavius Josephus include references to Jesus and the origins of
Christianity. Josephus' Antiquities of the Jews, written around 93–94 AD (nearly 25 years after the first known Gospel, Mark, dated around 70 AD),
includes two references to the biblical Jesus Christ in Books 18 and 20 and a reference to John the Baptist in Book 18.
Scholarly opinion varies on the total or partial authenticity of the reference in Book 18, Chapter 3, 3 of the Antiquities, a passage that states that
Jesus the Messiah was a wise teacher who was crucified by Pilate, usually called the Testimonium Flavianum. The general scholarly view is that
while the Testimonium Flavianum is most likely not authentic in its entirety, it is broadly agreed upon that it originally consisted of an authentic
nucleus, which was then subject to Christian expansion/alteration. Although the exact nature and extent of the Christian redaction remains unclear,
there is broad consensus as to what the original text of the Testimonium by Josephus would have looked like.
Modern scholarship has largely acknowledged the authenticity of the reference in Book 20, Chapter 9, 1 of the Antiquities to "the brother of Jesus,
who was called Christ, whose name was James" and considers it as having the highest level of authenticity among the references of Josephus to
Christianity.
Almost all modern scholars consider the reference in Book 18, Chapter 5, 2 of the Antiquities to the imprisonment and death of John the Baptist also
to be authentic and not a Christian interpolation.
The references found in Antiquities have no parallel texts in the other work by Josephus such as the Jewish War, written 20 years earlier, but some
scholars have provided explanations for their absence. A number of variations exist between the statements by Josephus regarding the deaths of
James and John the Baptist and the New Testament accounts. Scholars generally view these variations as indications that the Josephus passages
are not interpolations, for a Christian interpolator would have made them correspond to the New Testament accounts, not differ from them.
12. What are the Antiquities of the Jews?
Antiquities of the Jews, also Judean Antiquities (see Ioudaios), is a 20-volume historiographical work composed by
the Jewish historian Flavius Josephus in the 13th year of the reign of Roman emperor Flavius Domitian which
was around AD 93 or 94. Antiquities of the Jews contains an account of history of the Jewish people, written in
Greek for Josephus' gentile patrons. In the first ten volumes, Josephus follows the events of the historical
books of the Hebrew Bible beginning with the creation of Adam and Eve. The second ten volumes continue the
history of the Jewish people beyond the biblical text and up to the Jewish War.
This work, along with Josephus's other major work, The Jewish War (De Bello Iudaico), provides valuable background
material to historians wishing to understand 1st-century AD Judaism and the early Christian period.
13. There are two quotes that mention Jesus. Here is the first and smaller quote:
Antiquities 20.9.1 “But the younger Ananus who, as we said, received the high priesthood, was of a bold disposition and exceptionally
daring; he followed the party of the Sadducees, who are severe in judgment above all the Jews, as we have already shown. As therefore
Ananus was of such a disposition, he thought he had now a good opportunity, as Festus was now dead, and Albinus was still on the
road; so he assembled a council of judges, and brought before it the brother of Jesus the so-called Christ, whose name was James,
together with some others, and having accused them as law-breakers, he delivered them over to be stoned.”
Evidence favors highly the genuineness of this passage.
Here is the second Josephus reference, the Testimonium Flavianum, as it is popularly called. The authenticity of the passage was
first questioned in the 16th century; one of its most significant detractors was the French sceptic Voltaire. The passage reads:
Antiquities 18.3.3 “Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call him a man, for he was a doer of wonderful
works, a teacher of such men as receive the truth with pleasure. He drew over to him both many of the Jews, and many of the Gentiles.
He was the Christ, and when Pilate, at the suggestion of the principal men among us, had condemned him to the cross, those that
loved him at the first did not forsake him; for he appeared to them alive again the third day; as the divine prophets had foretold
these and ten thousand other wonderful things concerning him. And the tribe of Christians so named from him are not extinct at this
day.”
The fact that there are interpolations (additions) here is seldom questioned; very few scholars hold that the entirety of the
passage is genuine. It is doubtful, however, that the entire passage was 'made up', but rather that interpolations were
added at a later stage.
14. “and brought before it the brother of Jesus the so-called Christ, whose name was James”
Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV)
“55 Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and
Judas?
56 And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things?”
15. “Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man...doer of wonderful works, a teacher of such men…drew over to him both many of the Jews, and many of the
Gentiles...He was the Christ, and when Pilate...condemned him to the cross, those that loved him at the first did not forsake him; for he appeared to them alive again
the third day...as the divine prophets had foretold.”
Miracles
John 2:1-11 - Turns water into wine.
Matthew 9:27-31 - Heals 2 blind men
Mark 5:21-43 - Raising Jairus’ Daughter
Feeding of the 5,000 - Matthew 14:13-21;
Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-
15
Teachings (could be parables)
Sermon on the mount - Matthew 5, 6
Good Samaritan - Luke 10:25–37
Rich Man and Lazarus - Luke 16:19-31
Pearl of Great Price - Matthew 13:45-46
Called to the gentiles and Jews (All Gospels)
● Everyone that Jesus was around were
Jewish, they followed him to see his
miracles, but after his ascension on the
day of pentecost (Acts 2) the apostles
called to the Jews and Gentiles to
repent of their sins.
● Also refer to Mark 2:15
● Matthew 9:11
Ordered to be Crucified by Pilate
● Matt 27
● Mark 15
● Luke 23
● John 18:28-40
● John 19
Resurrection and appearing
● Matthew 20:17-19
● Psalm 16:10
● Psalm 49:15
● Matthew 28:2-7
● Acts 2:22-32
● Mark 8:31
● Matthew 12:40
● John 2:19
● Mark 14:58
● Mark 16:9-14
● John 21:1-14
16. The Talmud
The Talmud (/ˈtɑːlmʊd, -məd, ˈtæl-/; Hebrew: ְמּודל ַּתtalmūd "instruction, learning", from a root LMD "teach, study") is a central text of
Rabbinic Judaism. It is also traditionally referred to as Shas (,)ש״ס a Hebrew abbreviation of shisha sedarim, the "six orders", a
reference to the six orders of the Mishnah. The term "Talmud" normally refers to the collection of writings named specifically the
Babylonian Talmud (Talmud Bavli), although there is also an earlier collection known as the Jerusalem Talmud, or Palestinian
Talmud (Talmud Yerushalmi). When referring to post-biblical periods, namely those of the creation of the Talmud, the Talmudic
academies and the Babylonian exilarchate, Jewish sources use the term "Babylonia" long after it had become obsolete in geopolitical
terms.
The Talmud has two components: the Mishnah (Hebrew: ,משנה c. 200 CE), a written compendium of Rabbinic Judaism's Oral Torah, and the
Gemara (c. 500 CE), an elucidation of the Mishnah and related Tannaitic writings that often ventures onto other subjects and
expounds broadly on the Hebrew Bible. "Talmud" translates literally as "instruction" in Hebrew.
The entire Talmud consists of 63 tractates, and in standard print is over 6,200 pages long. It is written in Tannaitic Hebrew and Jewish
Babylonian Aramaic and contains the teachings and opinions of thousands of rabbis (dating from before the Common Era through
the fifth century CE) on a variety of subjects, including Halakha (law), Jewish ethics, philosophy, customs, history, lore and many other
topics. The Talmud is the basis for all codes of Jewish law, and is widely quoted in rabbinic literature.
17. What does the Talmud teach?
We may see Judaism as some other regular religion, that proclaims to believe in the Tanakh, or in the Torah, and also in the Talmud.
The Talmud was written by Rabbis in the time after Christ.
The Talmud speaks of blasphemies, hate, violence, etc.
The Rabbis have written racism and violence towards Gentiles (‘goyims’) and Christians.(Sanhedrin 58b)(Rosh Hashanah 17a)
They call all gentiles, animals.(Yebamoth 98a)
They say that having relations with gentiles is like having relations with animals.(Sanhedrin 74b)
They call the mother of Christ a harlot.(Sanhedrin 106a)
They promote violation, but not marrying a non-jew female. (Gad.Shas. 2:2)
They say if you’re a gentile you are forbidden to steal but a Jew is allowed to steal from a gentile. (Tosefta, Abda Zara VIII, 5)
Etc.
18. What does the Talmud say about Christ?
The Talmud citations (Jewish writings from AD 100-500) are contested and some feel that they hold little value when it comes to the historicity
of Christ. However, a worthwhile point that can be derived from the Talmud is that it provides no indication that Jesus was a mythical figure.
Although the rabbinic sources may not contain clear references to Jesus - from the fact that the Talmudists concentrated on smearing Jesus'
legitimacy rather than focusing on the issue of Jesus' existence, we may deduce that they had no grounds whatever for doubting his historical
existence.
The following is an example from one of the writings (note that the Talmud uses the term hanging when referring to Roman crucifixion)
"On the eve of Passover they hanged Yeshu (of Nazareth) … he hath practiced sorcery and beguiled and led astray Israel. Let everyone knowing aught
in his defense come and plead for him. But they found naught in his defense and hanged him on the eve of Passover" [5 p.86]
“‘Yashu’ (derogatory for ‘Jesus’) is in Hell being boiled in hot excrement.” (Gittin 57a)
[’Yashu’ is an acronym for the Jewish curse, ‘May his (Jesus) name be wiped out forevermore.’]
Yashu (Jesus) was sexually immoral and worshipped a brick.” (Sanhedrin 107b)
“Yashu (Jesus) was cut off from the Jewish people for his wickedness and refused to repent.” (Sotah 47a)
They must really hate Jesus. (Note: Passover in the NT is found in Matthew 26; Mark 14; Luke 22; John 14:1)
19. Why did the Pharisees hate Jesus?
Jesus Healed on the Sabbath, He didn’t follow what the Pharisees taught, remember Jesus kept the Sabbath his whole life. Luke 6:6-
11 - “On another Sabbath He entered the synagogue and was teaching; and there was a man there whose right hand was withered. The
scribes and the Pharisees were watching Him closely to see if He healed on the Sabbath, so that they might find reason to accuse Him. But
He knew what they were thinking, and He said to the man with the withered hand, "Get up and come forward!" And he got up and came
forward. And Jesus said to them, "I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the Sabbath, to save a life or to destroy it?" After looking
around at them all, He said to him, "Stretch out your hand!" And he did so; and his hand was restored. But they themselves were filled with
rage, and discussed together what they might do to Jesus.” You can related to this: “Yashu (Jesus) was cut off from the Jewish people for his
wickedness and refused to repent.” (Sotah 47a)
The Pharisees accused of Jesus using the powers of Beelzebub (another name for Satan). Matthew 12:24-27 - “But when the Pharisees
heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils. And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said
unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:And if
Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your
children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges.” You can also relate scripture to this: “...he hath practiced sorcery and beguiled and
led astray Israel…”[5 p.86]
Note:The Pharisees also hate Jesus for claiming that he is God. Judaism today, many Jews will say how they follow by what the Talmud says
about Christians and Jesus, there are even videos of Jewish people ignoring or wanting to argue with Christian citizens.
20. Has an Atheist ever said Jesus existed?
Yes and No, there are a handful of Atheists who have concluded that Jesus has
in fact have existed in time, but the majority of Atheists will deny the existence
of Christ.
But we will look at one Atheist for sake of time.
21. Michael Grant
Michael Grant CBE (21 November 1914 – 4 October 2004) was an English classicist, numismatist, and
author of numerous popular books on ancient history.
In his book Jesus: An Historian's Review of the Gospels, Atheist historian Michael Grant completely rejected
the idea that Jesus never existed.
“This sceptical way of thinking reached its culmination in the argument that Jesus as a human being never
existed at all and is a myth.... But above all, if we apply to the New Testament, as we should, the same sort
of criteria as we should apply to other ancient writings containing historical material, we can no more reject
Jesus' existence than we can reject the existence of a mass of pagan personages whose reality as historical
figures is never questioned. Certainly, there are all those discrepancies between one Gospel and another.
But we do not deny that an event ever took place just because some pagan historians such as, for example,
Livy and Polybius, happen to have described it in differing terms.... To sum up, modern critical methods
fail to support the Christ myth theory. It has 'again and again been answered and annihilated by first rank
scholars.' In recent years, 'no serious scholar has ventured to postulate the non historicity of Jesus' or at any
rate very few, and they have not succeeded in disposing of the much stronger, indeed very abundant,
evidence to the contrary.”
22.
23. What about the possibilities of the prophecies being fulfilled?
In 1957 Moody Press in Chicago, Illinois published a book by Professor Peter W. Stoner, called
“SCIENCE SPEAKS”, An Evaluation of Certain Christian Evidences.
Stoner introduces the chapter on “The Christ of Prophecy” with a salient quote from John 5:39,
“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of
me…”
On page 71, Stoner notes, “I am making use of the well-known principle of probability. If the chance of
one thing happening is one in M and the chance of another, and independent thing happening is one
in N, then the chance that they both shall happen is one in M times N. …Suppose one man in every
ten is bald, and one man in 100 has lost a finger, then one man in every 1,000 ( the product of 10 and
100) is both bald and has lost a finger.”
24. 8 Prophecies were considered in Stoner’s book.
1)“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though you be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth
unto Me that is to be ruler in Israel: whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” (Micah 5:2) (Note: today
the population of the earth is larger than the 2 billion figure used when Stoner made his model.) To arrive at the answer
Stoner started with the average population of Bethlehem from the days of the prophet Micah to this present time and divided
it by the average population of the earth for the same period. It was discovered that this ratio was 1 to 280,000. Since that
time the earth has had an average population of 2,000,000,000. So the answer would be one man in 7,150/2,000,000,000
or one man in 2.8 X10 to the fifth power was born in Bethlehem.
2)“Behold I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me…” (Malachi 3:1) How many men who have
been born in Bethlehem have had a forerunner sent by God to prepare his way? We will use the conservative estimate of 1
in 1,000 or 1 in 10 to the third power.
25. 3) “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and
having salvation; lowly, and riding upon…a colt the foal of an ass. ” (Zechariah 9:9) The question now becomes, “One man
in how many, who was born in Bethlehem and had a forerunner, entered into Jerusalem as a king riding on the colt, the foal
of an ass?” Because this question is too restrictive, let’s say it in this manner, “One man in how many, who has entered
Jerusalem as a ruler, has entered riding on a colt, the foal of an ass?” We will use 1 in 10 to the second power.
4) “And one shall say unto him, ‘What are these wounds in thine hands?’ Then he shall answer, ‘Those with which I was
wounded in the house of my friends.'” (Zechariah 13:6) One man in how many all over the world has been betrayed by a
friend and as a result suffered wounds in his hands? We will use 1 in 10 to the third power.
5) “And I said unto them, ‘If ye think good, give me my price; and if no, forbear. So they weighed for my price, thirty pieces
of silver.” (Zechariah 11:12) Of all the people who have suffered betrayal, how many have been betrayed for exactly thirty
pieces of silver? We will use 1 in 1,000 or 1 in 10 to third power.
26. 6) “And the Lord said unto me, ‘Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prized at of them. And I took the thirty
pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the Lord.” (Zechariah 11:13) This specifies that the price is not
to be returned, but rather cast down in the house of the Lord. Then, without the person throwing them down doing anything,
those to whom the silver was returned would have to give the silver to the potter. The reason the priests to whom the
remorseful Judas returned the money he received from them to betray the Messiah did not put the funds back into the
temple treasury was because it was not money obtained in a kosher, an appropriate way. There was a provision that the
priests could spend discretionary funds to meet specific needs. The field they purchased from the potter was subsequently
used as a cemetery for travelers and low income people. None of the students had ever heard of another incident involving
all these criteria. So we used the estimate as 1 in 100,000 or 10 to the fifth power.
7) “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as
a sheep before the shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth” (Isaiah 53:7) What are the odds that an innocent man
who has been betrayed, oppressed and afflicted and is on trial for his life will not offer a single word in his own defense?”
We will use 1 in 1,000 or 1 in 10 to the third power.
8) “For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have enclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet”
(Psalm 22:16) When David wrote these words, death by crucifixion had yet to be invented. The question is, “One man in
how many from the time of King David on, has been crucified?” (p. 105) We estimated that it would have been 1 in 10,000
or 1 in 10 to the fourth power.
27. Probabilities of prophecies
There are some 300 – 350 prophecies which were written in the Old Testament to help us identify which
person is the promised Messiah. Suppose we add eight more prophecies to our list? And assume that
their chance at being fulfilled by just one man is the same as the eight prophecies just considered. Those
odds would be 10 to the 28th power X 10 to the 17th power or 1 in 10 to the 45th power.
Scenario: Imagine how big of a number that is. How big would a ball of silver dollars be using this
number? Its diameter would be thirty times the distance from the center of the earth to the sun. Let’s take
that same atheistic professor, put a space suit on him, place a check on one of those silver dollars and
shoot him out into space. Do you think he would pick the silver dollar with a check on it the first time?
Now think of right now in our life here on earth that the odds of one person fulfilling them all?
That one man would be 1 in 10 to the 157th power.
28.
29. In conclusion for the Faithful and Skeptics.
We see now that with many of the historical figures, a scientist and even an
Atheist have in fact believe in the existence of Christ, we see how even in their
writings, we see that they are not inspired by the Holy Spirit, but through
history, studying, and even basic logic they all have concluded that Jesus Christ
have in fact existed.
Jesus did walk among us.