The Historicity of Jesus

Ancient history scholars such as Richard Carrier, Robert Price, and David Fitzgerald put the likelihood of Jesus being a historical figure at 50%; and if Jesus was a real figure, they conclude, the New Testament accounts of Jesus are largely fictitious. Their conclusions are controversial.

Christian, New Testament, and Biblical scholars such as Jonathon McLatchi, Stephan Boyce, Trent Horn, Jonathon Tweet, and David Wood rigorously push back on the notion that Jesus was not an actual historical figure, and have participated in many debates arguing this position.

All of the above have written many books and articles – most are peer-reviewed. They all have wide respect among the Christian history body of scholars.

As always, one needs to decide for themselves. Given the controversial nature of the topic, I only ask for an evidence-based (to the extent possible), informed, and respectful discussion.

We will listen to lecture outtakes from Richard Carrier (Ph.D. from Columbia), Trent Horn, and Jonathan McLatchie. We’ll pause often for discussion. Links are below.

Richard Carrier
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=soQ8bt50Yrw

Trent Horn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ep-AN7U4OLg&t=37s

Jonathon McLatchi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnkQw8_mc44

Jonathon McLatchi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnkQw8_mc44