Non-Christian Historical Sources: Writings by non-Christian sources from the time of Jesus to provide independent confirmation of his existence….like: Tacitus, a Roman historian, who in his Annals (written around 116 AD) mentions the execution of “Christus” (Jesus) under Pontius Pilate during the reign of Emperor Tiberius.
Josephus, a Jewish historian, in Antiquities of the Jews, about 93-94 AD, makes two references to Jesus. One is a more disputed passage (the Testimonium Flavianum), but it still provides evidence of Jesus’ existence, his role as a teacher, and his crucifixion.
Pliny the Younger, a Roman governor, in a letter to Emperor Trajan around 112 AD, mentions early Christians worshiping Christ as a god and gathering regularly for worship. These references from non-Christian authors confirm the existence of Jesus and suggest that he was known for his teachings and crucifixion.
The Pilate Inscription: In 1961, archaeologists uncovered a stone inscription in Caesarea Maritima that mentions Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who ordered Jesus’ crucifixion. This find supports the biblical account of Pilate’s role in Jesus’ trial.
The James Ossuary: A first-century bone box inscribed with “James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus” was discovered in 2002. While its authenticity has been debated, it could provide indirect evidence of Jesus’ historical existence, especially if it refers to the biblical James, the brother of Jesus.
Early Christian Writings: Early Christian writers such as Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, and Polycarp—who were contemporaries or immediate followers of the apostles—wrote about Jesus as a real person who had lived, died, and risen from the dead. These writings, which are part of the early Christian tradition, serve as additional evidence that Jesus was a historical figure.
Joining Nancy Grace:
Additional Guests
- Dr. Robert “Bobby” Duke – (Southern CA and Washington, D.C.) Chief Curatorial Officer and the Director of the Scholars Initiative at Museum of the Bible, Author of “Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic Dictionary” and “The Social Location of the Visions of Amram;” Facebook: MuseumofBible, Twitter: @museumofBible
- Dr. Robert Van Voorst – Professor Emeritus of New Testament at Western Theological Seminary, and Author of “Jesus Outside the New Testament: An Introduction to the Ancient Evidence”
“Crime Stories with Nancy Grace” on Fox Nation is also a national radio show on SiriusXM channel 111, airing for two hours daily starting at 12 p.m. EST. You can also subscribe and download the daily podcasts at iHeart Podcasts.
[Feature Photo: The James Ossuary was on display at the Royal Ontario Museum from November 15, 2002, to January 5, 2003/Wikipedia Commons]
