Tidbit Thursday

Did you know....

There are at least twelve non-Biblical sources that support the historicity of Jesus? From these sources alone we can conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that Jesus lived in very early AD, was put to death under the rule of Pontius Pilate, his disciples were faithful beyond his death and reported that he had been raised three days following, there was a darkness that fell over the land at the time of his death (non-Biblical sources explain this away as an eclipse, although Jesus' death is recorded as being during the time of a full moon), those who chose to follow him after his crucifixion were severely persecuted in Rome and elsewhere, his birth was considered illegitimate among the Jews (supports a virgin birth) and that he performed miracles during his time on earth (these were explained away as acts of sorcery among unbelievers).

We know that Jesus lived, performed miracles and received the harshest punishment to be handed down from the court through his crucifixion. We also know that his disciples continued to be faithful in the face of death, with many suffering grisly deaths as a consequence. And, despite the efforts of Roman officials and beyond, the Christian movement continued to spread throughout the world.

Christ cannot be explained away as myth or fiction.

Josh McDowell, Evidence that Demands a Verdict: Jesus, A Man of History.