Suggested Plan of Reading The Resurrection of Jesus Argument
Because my latest blog project spans well over 10 posts, with virtually all being quite long, I wish to try to remedy that. I will be updating my little three-page argument on the resurrection (still keeping it short of course) with some reflection on this argument.
The Introduction is just that. It can be ignored as long as you realize here that I'm using a list of facts so well-evidenced that many, even a majority, of skeptical scholars believe in them.
Fact #1, the Disciples falling away, is a vital point, but the argument could be overlooked if someone could accept the fact otherwise.
Fact #2, Jesus's crucifixion, is of course necessary, but the main point that a crucified Messiah looks like God didn't bless Jesus could be gathered later.
Fact #3, parts 1 and 2, can be ignored totally, because the evidence for the empty tomb will validate His burial.
Fact #4 is the empty tomb and a vital fact. Part 1 is the most straightforward to understand, I think. Perhaps refer to part 2 if more evidence is needed.
Fact #5, the appearance to Mary Magdalene, is also a vital point, and a shorter post.
Fact #6, the appearance to the Disciples, is a very vital post, and quite long. However, everything under the headings "The early creed" and "What was originally in it?" can be avoided.
Fact #7, the conversion of Paul, is also super-important. Everything up to the heading "Did Paul have an epiphany?" can be avoided. The answer is basically alternative ideas don't account for the evidence, as scholars recognize. You could see the last sentence in that post for a quote cited by Bart Ehrman.
Fact #8, the conversion of James, is vital, but the fundamental evidences all appear before the heading "Did James really believe it?"
All four posts looking at alternative theories are up to you to determine how interested you are in challenging the Resurrection hypothesis as the only reasonable explanation:
- Minor Issues is shorter.
- Major Arguments is all about the Disciples conversion.
- The Major Challenge continued focuses more on Paul and James, but answers some other objections on the Disciples.
- Closing the Chapter on Attempts to Obscure the Resurrection Fact points out how critical scholarship cannot explain away Jesus's resurrection.
Reflecting on the Evidence is the overall conclusion. It begins with some more support for knowing Jesus rose from the dead, and ends with why Jesus died and rose again in the first place. It is not technically necessary to read, but is shorter and brings my entire blog project to a pleasing close. There you are specifically invited to post how well you think my argument works overall.
As always, thank you for reading, and feel free to comment on any post.
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