Jesus is NOT real, he is just a myth?
Personally, I find it very difficult to understand or relate to those who claim "Jesus is not real; he is just a myth."
As someone who has always been intrigued by history and the origins of religious beliefs,
I’ve often found myself pondering one of the most compelling questions: Was Jesus a real historical figure, or is he a myth?
This question isn’t just academic; it touches on the foundations of Western civilization and personal faith for many.
My Journey into the Question
Growing up in a Christian household, I always took the existence of Jesus for granted.
The stories from the Bible were as real to me as any other historical account.
However, as I grew older and started reading more about history and different perspectives, I realized that this is a question that many people have asked and continue to ask.
What the Evidence Says
Biblical Accounts
The Bible, particularly the New Testament, is the primary source of information about Jesus.
The Gospels — Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John — provide detailed narratives about his life and teachings.
As a believer, these texts are sacred to me. But even from a historical perspective, many scholars consider them valuable.
They were written relatively close to the time Jesus is said to have lived, which lends them a degree of credibility.
Non-Christian Sources
It was surprising and fascinating to learn that there are references to Jesus in the writings of non-Christian historians.
- Flavius Josephus, a Jewish historian, wrote about Jesus in his work “Antiquities of the Jews.” Although some parts of his writings are debated, the fact that he mentions Jesus at all is significant.
- Tacitus, a Roman historian, also refers to Jesus in his “Annals,” where he describes the execution of Jesus by Pontius Pilate. This independent confirmation from Roman sources helps support the case that Jesus was a real person.
Archaeological Evidence
While we don’t have physical artifacts directly linked to Jesus, the places mentioned in the Gospels, like Nazareth and Jerusalem, are real locations with historical significance.
Visiting these places, seeing the ancient streets and sites, made the stories feel even more real to me.
Personal Reflections
For me, the question of Jesus’ existence is not just about historical facts but also about personal faith and the impact of his teachings.
Whether one views Jesus as the Son of God or simply as a significant historical figure, his message of love, compassion, and forgiveness has undeniably shaped human history.
Reading historical accounts and visiting archaeological sites has strengthened my belief that Jesus was indeed a real person.
But more importantly, it has deepened my appreciation for the profound influence he has had on the world.
Conclusion
So, was Jesus a myth or real?
Based on historical evidence and personal exploration, I believe Jesus was a real person who lived in the first century.
His life and teachings have left an indelible mark on humanity, and exploring this question has been a meaningful journey for me.
I encourage anyone interested in this topic to delve into both the historical and personal aspects of Jesus’ story.
Whether you approach it from a faith perspective or a historical one, there’s no denying the profound impact of this remarkable figure.