47502 How Do I Know If Jesus Is Real

To determine if Jesus was a real person in history, we need to seek evidence for his existence in the following areas:

1. Archaeology

Archaeological finds do not directly prove the existence of Jesus, but growing evidence from archaeology confirms rather than contradicts the Gospel accounts of the life of Jesus.

2. Early non-Christian accounts

The Jews had the most to gain by denying Jesus’ existence. But they always regarded him as real.

Since Jesus wasn’t of immediate importance to the political or military affairs of Rome, very little Roman history referenced him. However, two important Roman historians, Tacitus and Suetonius, do acknowledge Jesus as a real person. Additionally, two Caesars wrote letters, mentioning Jesus and early Christian origins.

3. Early Christian accounts

Early Christians wrote thousands of letters, sermons and commentaries about Jesus. Also, creeds which speak of Jesus, appeared as early as five years after his crucifixion.

4. Early New Testament manuscripts

Over 24,000 complete or partial manuscript copies of its books exist, putting it far above all other ancient documents.

5. Historical impact

Yale historian Jaroslav Pelikan writes of him, “Regardless of what anyone may personally think or believe about him, Jesus of Nazareth has been the dominant figure in the history of Western culture for almost twenty centuries… 

The New Testament, particularly the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), are the primary accounts of Jesus’ life and words. So, if we can be reasonably sure that the Gospels are reliable, we can use them as evidence. For example, archaeologists discovered evidence that shows the existence of Nazareth during the time of Christ. There is growing archeological evidence that confirms the Gospel accounts of the life of Jesus. 

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Was Jesus Really from Nazareth?

Are the Gospels Reliable?

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Read more about the historicity of Christ in “Was Jesus a Real Person?