Who Is Jesus? A Holy Week Reading PlanSample

Day 2: Jesus The Historical Figure

The question of Jesus’ existence has become increasingly more popular in recent years. In fact, research shows that 8% of Americans do not believe that Jesus was a real person, with that number significantly higher among millennials (13%). A study in England conducted in 2015 cited that 40% of adults in England do not believe that Jesus ever existed. However, among theologians and scholars of the New Testament Scriptures, there is little argument or disagreement that Jesus actually lived and walked the earth. The main sources of proof for this are historical documents.

There is significant historical evidence from non-Christian historians proving the existence of Jesus. Numerous ancient texts, including the writings of historians Flavius Josephus, Tacitus, Pliny the Younger, and Suetonius, provide non-Christian accounts of Jesus and the early Christian movement. These men lived close to the time of Jesus and confirmed the basic narrative of Jesus’ life, crucifixion, and the rise of Christianity in the 1st century.

Another obvious source of documentation is found in the New Testament Gospels. These books of the Bible offer detailed accounts of Jesus’ life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Despite being religious texts, the Gospels are valuable historical documents that were written within decades of Jesus’ earthly ministry by eyewitnesses or those closely connected to them.

Through the eyes of history and the evidence it has provided, we can accurately state with overwhelming certainty that Jesus existed. And we can accurately state with overwhelming certainty that He was crucified and also resurrected.

So what should we do when we have questions about Jesus? What should we do when we doubt, or fear, or are uncertain? We should remember the words of Jesus to ask and seek and knock. “For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:8). Jesus is ok with our searching because He knows He is the truth.

As we continue through Holy Week, let us be encouraged by the historical reality of Jesus; let us celebrate the fact that because of His existence, and because of the proof and power of His crucifixion and resurrection, sin and death have been forever defeated and our lives have been forever changed! And when we find ourselves in days of doubt, be reminded that when we seek for truth - we will find Jesus waiting for us!

Reflection/Prayer

Use the guided prayer video below to reflect on today’s reading.