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To: Dr. Crane [eaglechristianchurch.com]

Subject: How Do You Know that Jesus Even Existed?

---Original Message---

How do you know that Jesus even existed?

Reply:

I know of no reputable scholar who would deny that Jesus is an actual historical figure. Still, let me try to answer your question.

First, the Bible has been proven to be a reliable historical record. The New Testament’s central figure is the person of Jesus Christ.

Second, there are at least thirty-nine sources outside of the Bible that attest to nearly one hundred facts regarding Jesus’ life. These sources included the Roman historian Tacitus, the Didache (early Christian writings), Pliny the Younger, Suetonius, etc. Let me mention one highly recognized historian of the time who attests to the life of Jesus. First-century Flavius Josephus affirms that Jesus lived and that he performed amazing deeds. He also testifies that Pilate condemned Jesus to die and that he was reportedly seen alive by many after the crucifixion. Maybe even more telling—enemies of Christianity attest to Jesus’ life, teachings, crucifixion, and the resurrection.

Third, the Babylonian Talmud (a collection of ancient Jewish writings) mentions that Jesus was killed on the eve of Passover.

Fourth, the Encyclopaedia Britannica devotes over 20,000 words to the person of Jesus Christ and never once hints that he did not exist.

Finally, even our calendar testifies to the fact that Jesus lived a little over 2000 years ago.

The evidence is secure. There can be no doubt that Jesus of Nazareth was a real person. The only question that remains is what you will do with him.

Recommended reading: The Case for the Real Jesus, Lee Strobel.