1. Why Believe in Miracles?
© Dr. Ken Boa and Bill Ibsen 2007. All Rights Reserved.
1

2. Why Believe in Miracles?
2

3. Why Believe in Miracles?
How can a rational person today accept the
stories of miracles in the Bible?
2

4. Why Believe in Miracles?
How can a rational person today accept the
stories of miracles in the Bible?
Aren't miracles contrary to the laws of
modern science?
2

5. Why Believe in Miracles?
How can a rational person today accept the
stories of miracles in the Bible?
Aren't miracles contrary to the laws of
modern science?
There is no historical basis for the miracles in
the Bible — aren't they simply myths and
legends designed to create religious faith?
2

6. Why Believe in Miracles?
How can a rational person today accept the
stories of miracles in the Bible?
Aren't miracles contrary to the laws of
modern science?
There is no historical basis for the miracles in
the Bible — aren't they simply myths and
legends designed to create religious faith?
If there were miracles then, why doesn’t God
perform miracles today?
2

7. Why Believe in Miracles?
3

8. Why Believe in Miracles?
Option I: Miracles Are Not Possible
3

9. Why Believe in Miracles?
Option I: Miracles Are Not Possible
Option II: Miracles Are Possible But May Not Have Occurred
3

10. Why Believe in Miracles?
Option I: Miracles Are Not Possible
Option II: Miracles Are Possible But May Not Have Occurred
Option III: Miracles Have Occurred
3

11. Why Believe in Miracles?
Option I: Miracles Are Not Possible
Option II: Miracles Are Possible But May Not Have Occurred
Option III: Miracles Have Occurred
Appendix: The Resurrection
3

12. Three Options
Have Miracles Occurred?
4

13. Three Options
Have Miracles Occurred?
No
4

14. Three Options
Have Miracles Occurred?
No Maybe
4

15. Three Options
Have Miracles Occurred?
No Maybe Yes
4

16. Miracles: A Uniqueness of
Christianity
Hindu Temple Buddhist Temple Egyptian Mosque
5

17. Miracles: A Uniqueness of
Christianity
Christian teachings are built directly upon God's miraculous acts
Hindu Temple Buddhist Temple Egyptian Mosque
5

18. Miracles: A Uniqueness of
Christianity
Christian teachings are built directly upon God's miraculous acts
Very few accounts of miracles exist in other religions
Hindu Temple Buddhist Temple Egyptian Mosque
5

19. Miracles: A Uniqueness of
Christianity
Christian teachings are built directly upon God's miraculous acts
Very few accounts of miracles exist in other religions
Christianity stands or falls with the historicity of miracles
Hindu Temple Buddhist Temple Egyptian Mosque
5

20. Option I:
Miracles Are Not Possible
6

21. Philosophy of Naturalism
7

22. Philosophy of Naturalism
The universe operates
according to uniform natural
causes
7

23. Philosophy of Naturalism
The universe operates
according to uniform natural
causes
Closed system
7

24. Philosophy of Naturalism
The universe operates
according to uniform natural
causes
Closed system
Anti-supernatural assumption
7

25. Hume’s Denial of Miracles
David Hume (1711-1776)
8

26. Hume’s Denial of Miracles
Held that no amount of
evidence can establish that a
miracle has occurred
David Hume (1711-1776)
8

27. Hume’s Denial of Miracles
Held that no amount of
evidence can establish that a
miracle has occurred
The uniformity of natural law is
supported by the uniform
experience of men against the
occurrence of miracles
David Hume (1711-1776)
8

28. Hume’s Denial of Miracles
Held that no amount of
evidence can establish that a
miracle has occurred
The uniformity of natural law is
supported by the uniform
experience of men against the
occurrence of miracles
Documented reports of miracles
David Hume (1711-1776)
8

29. Hume’s Denial of Miracles
Held that no amount of
evidence can establish that a
miracle has occurred
The uniformity of natural law is
supported by the uniform
experience of men against the
occurrence of miracles
Documented reports of miracles
Circular reasoning
David Hume (1711-1776)
8

30. Hume’s Denial of Miracles
Held that no amount of
evidence can establish that a
miracle has occurred
The uniformity of natural law is
supported by the uniform
experience of men against the
occurrence of miracles
Documented reports of miracles
Circular reasoning
Pre-determining the verdict David Hume (1711-1776)
8

31. The Anti-Supernatural Assumption
9

32. The Anti-Supernatural Assumption
A presupposition that God either does not
exist or cannot directly intrude into the
historical process
9

33. The Anti-Supernatural Assumption
A presupposition that God either does not
exist or cannot directly intrude into the
historical process
A metaphysical (philosophic), not scientific
position
9

34. The Anti-Supernatural Assumption
A presupposition that God either does not
exist or cannot directly intrude into the
historical process
A metaphysical (philosophic), not scientific
position
Science is limited in its scope to the study of
natural phenomena, especially that which is
repeatable
9

35. The Anti-Supernatural Assumption
A presupposition that God either does not
exist or cannot directly intrude into the
historical process
A metaphysical (philosophic), not scientific
position
Science is limited in its scope to the study of
natural phenomena, especially that which is
repeatable
Degeneration of science into scientism
9

36. The Anti-Supernatural Assumption
A presupposition that God either does not
exist or cannot directly intrude into the
historical process
A metaphysical (philosophic), not scientific
position
Science is limited in its scope to the study of
natural phenomena, especially that which is
repeatable
Degeneration of science into scientism
Science is descriptive, not prescriptive
9

37. The Nature of Miracles
10

38. The Nature of Miracles
Empowered by something higher than nature
10

39. The Nature of Miracles
Empowered by something higher than nature
Supersede the ordinary processes or laws of nature
10

40. The Nature of Miracles
Empowered by something higher than nature
Supersede the ordinary processes or laws of nature
A higher principle overcomes a lower principle
10

41. The Nature of Miracles
Empowered by something higher than nature
Supersede the ordinary processes or laws of nature
A higher principle overcomes a lower principle
Force of
Gravity
10

42. The Nature of Miracles
Empowered by something higher than nature
Supersede the ordinary processes or laws of nature
A higher principle overcomes a lower principle
Force of
Gravity
Force of
Aerodynamics
10

43. Stunt planes close hover
11

44. To claim that miracles violate or contradict natural laws
Stunt planes close hover
11

45. To claim that miracles violate or contradict natural laws
is just as improper as to say that
the principle of aerodynamics violates the law of gravity.
Stunt planes close hover
11

46. Miracles and the Supernatural
12

47. Miracles and the Supernatural
Miracles are accomplished
by a supernatural agency
12

48. Miracles and the Supernatural
Miracles are accomplished
by a supernatural agency
No natural explanation for
how they happen
12

49. Miracles and the Supernatural
Miracles are accomplished
by a supernatural agency
No natural explanation for
how they happen
Our inability to explain them
certainly does not mean,
therefore, that they cannot
occur
12

50. Miracles and the Supernatural
Miracles are accomplished
by a supernatural agency
No natural explanation for
how they happen
Our inability to explain them
certainly does not mean,
therefore, that they cannot
occur
Inexplainable non-miraculous
phenomena exist
12

51. Miracles and the Supernatural
Miracles are accomplished
by a supernatural agency
No natural explanation for
how they happen
Our inability to explain them
certainly does not mean,
therefore, that they cannot
occur
Inexplainable non-miraculous Total
phenomena exist Liquefaction in
Metamorphosis
12

52. Another Scientific Objection
13

53. Another Scientific Objection
“Miracles destroy the regularity of nature”
13

54. Another Scientific Objection
“Miracles destroy the regularity of nature”
Misunderstanding of the biblical teaching on
miracles
13

55. Another Scientific Objection
“Miracles destroy the regularity of nature”
Misunderstanding of the biblical teaching on
miracles
God has instituted “laws of nature” but is not
bound by them
13

56. Another Scientific Objection
“Miracles destroy the regularity of nature”
Misunderstanding of the biblical teaching on
miracles
God has instituted “laws of nature” but is not
bound by them
These sovereign interventions or miracles are
unusual, not commonplace events
13

57. Another Scientific Objection
“Miracles destroy the regularity of nature”
Misunderstanding of the biblical teaching on
miracles
God has instituted “laws of nature” but is not
bound by them
These sovereign interventions or miracles are
unusual, not commonplace events
Miracles by definition must be unique and
extraordinary
13

58. Scientific inquiry is not threatened by the occurrence of miracles,
14

59. Scientific inquiry is not threatened by the occurrence of miracles,
because they are by definition unusual events
14

60. Scientific inquiry is not threatened by the occurrence of miracles,
because they are by definition unusual events
that involve a very brief suspension
of the normal processes of nature
14

61. Scientific inquiry is not threatened by the occurrence of miracles,
because they are by definition unusual events
that involve a very brief suspension
of the normal processes of nature
by a higher power
14

62. Nature Is Amazing, But Not Miraculous
15

63. Nature Is Amazing, But Not Miraculous
God’s handiwork in nature is
mysterious and wonderful,
but not miraculous
15

64. Nature Is Amazing, But Not Miraculous
God’s handiwork in nature is
mysterious and wonderful,
but not miraculous
Dilution of the concept of
miracles
15

65. Nature Is Amazing, But Not Miraculous
God’s handiwork in nature is
mysterious and wonderful,
but not miraculous
Dilution of the concept of
miracles
Miracle: a phenomenon that
occurs in space-time history
that is so radically different
from the ordinary operations
of nature that its observers
are justified in attributing it to
the direct intervention of a
supernatural agent
15

66. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
16

67. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses
and
Joshua
16

68. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses Elijah
and and
Joshua Elisha
16

69. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses Elijah Christ
and and and the
Joshua Elisha Apostles
16

70. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses Elijah Christ
and and and the
Joshua Elisha Apostles
LAW
16

71. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses Elijah Christ
and and and the
Joshua Elisha Apostles
LAW PROPHETS
16

72. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses Elijah Christ
and and and the
Joshua Elisha Apostles
NEW
LAW PROPHETS TESTAMENT
16

73. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses Elijah Christ
and and and the
Joshua Elisha Apostles
c. 540
years NEW
LAW PROPHETS TESTAMENT
16

74. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses Elijah Christ
and and and the
Joshua Elisha Apostles
c. 540 c. 830
years years NEW
LAW PROPHETS TESTAMENT
16

75. Brief Time Clusters of Miracles
Moses Elijah Christ
and and and the
Joshua Elisha Apostles
c. 540 c. 830
years years NEW
LAW PROPHETS TESTAMENT
The Bible is not a record of one miracle after another;
its miracles were profound singular events
16

76. Objections
17

77. Objections
Philosophical
17

78. Objections
Scientific
Philosophical
17

79. Objections
Scientific
Philosophical
Exi st?
G od
Do es
17

80. The Idea of Miracles Is Relative,
Not Absolute
18

81. The Idea of Miracles Is Relative,
Not Absolute
To God, there are no miracles because of His omnipotence and
omniscience
18

82. The Idea of Miracles Is Relative,
Not Absolute
To God, there are no miracles because of His omnipotence and
omniscience
There is no higher power than His, and He cannot be surprised
18

83. The Idea of Miracles Is Relative,
Not Absolute
To God, there are no miracles because of His omnipotence and
omniscience
There is no higher power than His, and He cannot be surprised
Edwin Abbott’s story
Flatland ,1884
18

84. The Idea of Miracles Is Relative,
Not Absolute
To God, there are no miracles because of His omnipotence and
omniscience
There is no higher power than His, and He cannot be surprised
A. Square
Edwin Abbott’s story
Flatland ,1884
18

85. The Idea of Miracles Is Relative,
Not Absolute
To God, there are no miracles because of His omnipotence and
omniscience
There is no higher power than His, and He cannot be surprised
A. Square
Edwin Abbott’s story
Flatland ,1884
18

86. The Idea of Miracles Is Relative,
Not Absolute
To God, there are no miracles because of His omnipotence and
omniscience
There is no higher power than His, and He cannot be surprised
A. Square
Edwin Abbott’s story
Flatland ,1884
18

87. The Idea of Miracles Is Relative,
Not Absolute
To God, there are no miracles because of His omnipotence and
omniscience
There is no higher power than His, and He cannot be surprised
A. Square
Edwin Abbott’s story
Flatland ,1884
18

88. Key Issue: Does God Exist?
19

89. Key Issue: Does God Exist?
If God created the universe, there is a supernatural dimension
to reality, and this means that miracles are possible
19

90. Key Issue: Does God Exist?
If God created the universe, there is a supernatural dimension
to reality, and this means that miracles are possible
Now the question is not one of philosophy but of history
19

91. Key Issue: Does God Exist?
If God created the universe, there is a supernatural dimension
to reality, and this means that miracles are possible
Now the question is not one of philosophy but of history
Miracles are possible, but is there enough evidence to show that
any have happened?
19

92. Option II:
Miracles Are Possible But May Not Have Occurred
20

93. Has God Miraculously Intervened
in Human Affairs?
Luke 24:1, The Book of Kells, c.A.D. 800
21

94. Has God Miraculously Intervened
in Human Affairs?
Speculation will never settle
the question; must use
historical evidence
Luke 24:1, The Book of Kells, c.A.D. 800
21

95. Has God Miraculously Intervened
in Human Affairs?
Speculation will never settle
the question; must use
historical evidence
God used history as His
means of revealing His
character and redemptive
program
Luke 24:1, The Book of Kells, c.A.D. 800
21

96. Has God Miraculously Intervened
in Human Affairs?
Speculation will never settle
the question; must use
historical evidence
God used history as His
means of revealing His
character and redemptive
program
Abundant geographic and
chronological documentation
ties God's revelation to the real
world Luke 24:1, The Book of Kells, c.A.D. 800
21

97. The Reliability of the Bible
Lindisfarne Gospel of Matthew,
7-8th C
22

98. The Reliability of the Bible
Not a fabric of myths or fairy
tales
Lindisfarne Gospel of Matthew,
7-8th C
22

99. The Reliability of the Bible
Not a fabric of myths or fairy
tales
Dates and locations of events,
often relating them to the
affairs of other nations
Lindisfarne Gospel of Matthew,
7-8th C
22

100. The Reliability of the Bible
Not a fabric of myths or fairy
tales
Dates and locations of events,
often relating them to the
affairs of other nations
Miracles recorded with same
attention as nonmiraculous
events
Lindisfarne Gospel of Matthew,
7-8th C
22

101. The Reliability of the Bible
Not a fabric of myths or fairy
tales
Dates and locations of events,
often relating them to the
affairs of other nations
Miracles recorded with same
attention as nonmiraculous
events
Unlike scriptures of other
religions Lindisfarne Gospel of Matthew,
7-8th C
22

102. Key Point
Luke 3:22-26, The Book of Kells, c.A.D. 800
23

103. Key Point
The miracles of Christ can be subjected
to historical scrutiny
Luke 3:22-26, The Book of Kells, c.A.D. 800
23

104. Key Point
The miracles of Christ can be subjected
to historical scrutiny
because of the reliability of
the New Testament documents
Luke 3:22-26, The Book of Kells, c.A.D. 800
23

105. Miracles: Beneath God’s Dignity?
The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes,
Lambert Lombard, c. 1550
24

106. Miracles: Beneath God’s Dignity?
The sovereign God who
created nature uses nature to
manifest Himself to humanity
The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes,
Lambert Lombard, c. 1550
24

107. Miracles: Beneath God’s Dignity?
The sovereign God who
created nature uses nature to
manifest Himself to humanity
God’s personal revelation in
Jesus Christ
The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes,
Lambert Lombard, c. 1550
24

108. Miracles: Beneath God’s Dignity?
The sovereign God who
created nature uses nature to
manifest Himself to humanity
God’s personal revelation in
Jesus Christ
Accomplished more miracles
than any other man
The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes,
Lambert Lombard, c. 1550
24

109. Special Revelation
The Marriage at Cana,
David Girard, c.1500, The Louvre
25

110. Special Revelation
General revelation (natural
theology) is too limited and
too speculative
The Marriage at Cana,
David Girard, c.1500, The Louvre
25

111. Special Revelation
General revelation (natural
theology) is too limited and
too speculative
Special revelation includes
miraculous events
The Marriage at Cana,
David Girard, c.1500, The Louvre
25

112. Special Revelation
General revelation (natural
theology) is too limited and
too speculative
Special revelation includes
miraculous events
Improper to rule out the
occurrence of miracles without
an open investigation of these
historical reports
The Marriage at Cana,
David Girard, c.1500, The Louvre
25

113. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
Healing Jairus’ Daughter,
Ilja Repin, 1871, St. Petersburg
26

114. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
4 Gospels record 35 of Jesus’
many miracles
Healing Jairus’ Daughter,
Ilja Repin, 1871, St. Petersburg
26

115. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
4 Gospels record 35 of Jesus’
many miracles
Jesus demonstrated authority
over nature, disease, demons,
and death
Healing Jairus’ Daughter,
Ilja Repin, 1871, St. Petersburg
26

116. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
4 Gospels record 35 of Jesus’
many miracles
Jesus demonstrated authority
over nature, disease, demons,
and death
Redemptive purpose
Healing Jairus’ Daughter,
Ilja Repin, 1871, St. Petersburg
26

117. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
4 Gospels record 35 of Jesus’
many miracles
Jesus demonstrated authority
over nature, disease, demons,
and death
Redemptive purpose
Accomplished with great
restraint Healing Jairus’ Daughter,
Ilja Repin, 1871, St. Petersburg
26

118. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
4 Gospels record 35 of Jesus’
many miracles
Jesus demonstrated authority
over nature, disease, demons,
and death
Redemptive purpose
Accomplished with great
restraint Healing Jairus’ Daughter,
Ilja Repin, 1871, St. Petersburg
Publicly done
26

119. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
The Raising of Lazarus,
Carvaggio, c.1609, Messina, Italy
27

120. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
Often hostile eyewitnesses present
The Raising of Lazarus,
Carvaggio, c.1609, Messina, Italy
27

121. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
Often hostile eyewitnesses present
None of Christ's critics ever denied
that He performed these miracles
The Raising of Lazarus,
Carvaggio, c.1609, Messina, Italy
27

122. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
Often hostile eyewitnesses present
None of Christ's critics ever denied
that He performed these miracles
His miracles set Him apart from the
founders and leaders of other
world religions
The Raising of Lazarus,
Carvaggio, c.1609, Messina, Italy
27

123. The Historicity of Jesus’ Miracles
Often hostile eyewitnesses present
None of Christ's critics ever denied
that He performed these miracles
His miracles set Him apart from the
founders and leaders of other
world religions
Attempts to discredit His miracles
by offering natural explanations for
His supernatural accomplishments
The Raising of Lazarus,
Carvaggio, c.1609, Messina, Italy
27

124. The Greatest Miracle:
Jesus’ Resurrection
Pietro Lorenzetti, Resurrection,
c.1320 Fresco, San Francesco, Assisi
28

125. The Greatest Miracle:
Jesus’ Resurrection
"The sign of Jonah the
prophet" (the Resurrection;
Matt. 12:39-40)
Pietro Lorenzetti, Resurrection,
c.1320 Fresco, San Francesco, Assisi
28

126. The Greatest Miracle:
Jesus’ Resurrection
"The sign of Jonah the
prophet" (the Resurrection;
Matt. 12:39-40)
"Why believe in miracles?"
The Resurrection
Pietro Lorenzetti, Resurrection,
c.1320 Fresco, San Francesco, Assisi
28

127. The Greatest Miracle:
Jesus’ Resurrection
"The sign of Jonah the
prophet" (the Resurrection;
Matt. 12:39-40)
"Why believe in miracles?"
The Resurrection
Abundant historical evidence
Pietro Lorenzetti, Resurrection,
c.1320 Fresco, San Francesco, Assisi
28

128. Option III:
Miracles Are Possible
29

129. Responding in Faith
Albrecht Altdorfer,
The Resurrection of Christ,
c.1516, Vienna
30

130. Responding in Faith
Many believe in the Resurrection and
miracles yet still refuse to place their
trust in Christ
Albrecht Altdorfer,
The Resurrection of Christ,
c.1516, Vienna
30

131. Responding in Faith
Many believe in the Resurrection and
miracles yet still refuse to place their
trust in Christ
Eyewitnesses also didn’t always respond
with faith
Albrecht Altdorfer,
The Resurrection of Christ,
c.1516, Vienna
30

132. Responding in Faith
Many believe in the Resurrection and
miracles yet still refuse to place their
trust in Christ
Eyewitnesses also didn’t always respond
with faith
The heart of an unregenerate person is at
enmity with God and refuses to bow to
His revelation and authority
Albrecht Altdorfer,
The Resurrection of Christ,
c.1516, Vienna
30

133. Responding in Faith
Many believe in the Resurrection and
miracles yet still refuse to place their
trust in Christ
Eyewitnesses also didn’t always respond
with faith
The heart of an unregenerate person is at
enmity with God and refuses to bow to
His revelation and authority
Only the Holy Spirit can convict of sin Albrecht Altdorfer,
The Resurrection of Christ,
c.1516, Vienna
30

134. Objection: His Revelation Is Too
Remote
31

135. Objection: His Revelation Is Too
Remote
“If He wants people to believe, He should reveal Himself in a
more direct way”
31

136. Objection: His Revelation Is Too
Remote
“If He wants people to believe, He should reveal Himself in a
more direct way”
Objector wants God to clobber him into the kingdom by forcing
him to believe
31

137. Objection: His Revelation Is Too
Remote
“If He wants people to believe, He should reveal Himself in a
more direct way”
Objector wants God to clobber him into the kingdom by forcing
him to believe
"Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us" (John 14:8)
31

138. Objection: His Revelation Is Too
Remote
“If He wants people to believe, He should reveal Himself in a
more direct way”
Objector wants God to clobber him into the kingdom by forcing
him to believe
"Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us" (John 14:8)
God has done enough
31

139. Objection: His Revelation Is Too
Remote
“If He wants people to believe, He should reveal Himself in a
more direct way”
Objector wants God to clobber him into the kingdom by forcing
him to believe
"Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us" (John 14:8)
God has done enough
Second Coming: Judgment, not an offer of salvation
31

140. Miracles: Catalysts, not Creators
of Faith
32

141. Miracles: Catalysts, not Creators
of Faith
Miracles cannot create faith, but they can be used by the Holy
Spirit as catalysts to faith
32

142. Miracles: Catalysts, not Creators
of Faith
Miracles cannot create faith, but they can be used by the Holy
Spirit as catalysts to faith
Christ's miracles (especially the Resurrection) demonstrate the
validity of His claims
32

143. Miracles: Catalysts, not Creators
of Faith
Miracles cannot create faith, but they can be used by the Holy
Spirit as catalysts to faith
Christ's miracles (especially the Resurrection) demonstrate the
validity of His claims
Profound implications for the eternal destiny of every human being
32

144. Appendix:
The Resurrection
33

145. Significance of the Resurrection
A pillar supporting the Christian faith
34

146. "If Christ has not been raised,
your faith is worthless;
you are still in your sins.
Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.
If we have hoped in Christ in this life only,
we are of all men most to be pitied"
(1 Cor. 15:17-19)
35

147. Significance of the Resurrection
A pillar supporting the Christian faith
36

148. Significance of the Resurrection
A pillar supporting the Christian faith
Apostles preaching revolved around the Resurrection (e.g.,
Acts 1:22; 2:24-32; 3:15)
36

149. Significance of the Resurrection
A pillar supporting the Christian faith
Apostles preaching revolved around the Resurrection (e.g.,
Acts 1:22; 2:24-32; 3:15)
Without the resurrection of Christ, Christianity would be unable
to withstand critical attacks
36

150. Fierce Skeptics Converted
37

151. Fierce Skeptics Converted
37

152. Fierce Skeptics Converted
37

153. Fierce Skeptics Converted
37

154. Fierce Skeptics Converted
37

155. Historical Facts
Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543)
The Passion
Oil on limewood, 1524-1525
Kunstmuseum, Öffentliche
Kunstsammlung, Basle
38

156. Historical Facts
The facts are well grounded in
historical and critical procedures
Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543)
The Passion
Oil on limewood, 1524-1525
Kunstmuseum, Öffentliche
Kunstsammlung, Basle
38

157. Historical Facts
The facts are well grounded in
historical and critical procedures
Today the consensus of scholarship
acknowledges the historicity of
these facts
Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543)
The Passion
Oil on limewood, 1524-1525
Kunstmuseum, Öffentliche
Kunstsammlung, Basle
38

158. Historical Facts
The facts are well grounded in
historical and critical procedures
Today the consensus of scholarship
acknowledges the historicity of
these facts
Disagree on the inspiration of
Scripture
Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543)
The Passion
Oil on limewood, 1524-1525
Kunstmuseum, Öffentliche
Kunstsammlung, Basle
38

159. Historical Facts
The facts are well grounded in
historical and critical procedures
Today the consensus of scholarship
acknowledges the historicity of
these facts
Disagree on the inspiration of
Scripture
Disagree on the interpretation of this
historical data
Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543)
The Passion
Oil on limewood, 1524-1525
Kunstmuseum, Öffentliche
Kunstsammlung, Basle
38

160. Historical Facts
The facts are well grounded in
historical and critical procedures
Today the consensus of scholarship
acknowledges the historicity of
these facts
Disagree on the inspiration of
Scripture
Disagree on the interpretation of this
historical data
Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543)
The Passion
Oil on limewood, 1524-1525 Pre-resurrection and Post-
Kunstmuseum, Öffentliche
Kunstsammlung, Basle
resurrection facts
38

161. 1. Jesus Was Tortured and
Crucified
The Flagellation of Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Adolphe Bougeureau, 1880, La Rochelle
39

162. 1. Jesus Was Tortured and
Crucified
The Flagellation of Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Adolphe Bougeureau, 1880, La Rochelle
Endured 6 trials
39

163. 1. Jesus Was Tortured and
Crucified
The Flagellation of Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Adolphe Bougeureau, 1880, La Rochelle
Endured 6 trials
Tortured repeatedly
39

164. 1. Jesus Was Tortured and
Crucified
The Flagellation of Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Adolphe Bougeureau, 1880, La Rochelle
Endured 6 trials
Tortured repeatedly
Carried His cross
39

165. 1. Jesus Was Tortured and
Crucified
The Flagellation of Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Adolphe Bougeureau, 1880, La Rochelle
Endured 6 trials
Tortured repeatedly
Carried His cross
Physically nailed to the cross
39

166. 1. Jesus Was Tortured and
Crucified
The Flagellation of Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Adolphe Bougeureau, 1880, La Rochelle
Endured 6 trials
Tortured repeatedly
Carried His cross
Physically nailed to the cross
Speared to confirm his death
39

167. 2. Jesus’ Body Was Placed In a
Guarded Tomb
The Entombment of Christ,
Sisto Badalocchio, 1610, Rome
40

168. 2. Jesus’ Body Was Placed In a
Guarded Tomb
Joseph of Arimathea's solid
rock-hewn tomb
The Entombment of Christ,
Sisto Badalocchio, 1610, Rome
40

169. 2. Jesus’ Body Was Placed In a
Guarded Tomb
Joseph of Arimathea's solid
rock-hewn tomb
Single entrance closed off
with a massive stone
The Entombment of Christ,
Sisto Badalocchio, 1610, Rome
40

170. 2. Jesus’ Body Was Placed In a
Guarded Tomb
Joseph of Arimathea's solid
rock-hewn tomb
Single entrance closed off
with a massive stone
Jesus' body bound in linen
wrappings
The Entombment of Christ,
Sisto Badalocchio, 1610, Rome
40

171. 2. Jesus’ Body Was Placed In a
Guarded Tomb
Joseph of Arimathea's solid
rock-hewn tomb
Single entrance closed off
with a massive stone
Jesus' body bound in linen
wrappings
Pilate ordered a guard of
soldiers
The Entombment of Christ,
Sisto Badalocchio, 1610, Rome
40

172. 2. Jesus’ Body Was Placed In a
Guarded Tomb
Joseph of Arimathea's solid
rock-hewn tomb
Single entrance closed off
with a massive stone
Jesus' body bound in linen
wrappings
Pilate ordered a guard of
soldiers
Roman seal certification The Entombment of Christ,
Sisto Badalocchio, 1610, Rome
40

173. 3. The Disciples Were Clearly
Discouraged by Jesus’ Crucifixion
The Entombment of Christ,
Guercino, 1656, Chicago
41

174. 3. The Disciples Were Clearly
Discouraged by Jesus’ Crucifixion
Entertained no hope that
Jesus would rise from the
dead (Luke 24)
The Entombment of Christ,
Guercino, 1656, Chicago
41

175. 3. The Disciples Were Clearly
Discouraged by Jesus’ Crucifixion
Entertained no hope that
Jesus would rise from the
dead (Luke 24)
Despite Jesus' repeated
predictions of His
resurrection
The Entombment of Christ,
Guercino, 1656, Chicago
41

176. 4. Friends Found the Tomb Empty
on the Third Day
Resurrection - Morn,
Herbert Gustave Schmalz, 1895
42

177. 4. Friends Found the Tomb Empty
on the Third Day
Jesus' friend Mary
Magdalene and other
followers found the empty
tomb
Resurrection - Morn,
Herbert Gustave Schmalz, 1895
42

178. 4. Friends Found the Tomb Empty
on the Third Day
Jesus' friend Mary
Magdalene and other
followers found the empty
tomb
Fact clearly admitted even
by Jesus' enemies
Resurrection - Morn,
Herbert Gustave Schmalz, 1895
42

179. 4. Friends Found the Tomb Empty
on the Third Day
Jesus' friend Mary
Magdalene and other
followers found the empty
tomb
Fact clearly admitted even
by Jesus' enemies
Chief priests and elders
bribed the guard to say that
the body was stolen by His
Resurrection - Morn, disciples (Matt. 28:11-15)
Herbert Gustave Schmalz, 1895
42

180. 4. Friends Found the Tomb Empty
on the Third Day
Jesus' friend Mary
Magdalene and other
followers found the empty
tomb
Fact clearly admitted even
by Jesus' enemies
Chief priests and elders
bribed the guard to say that
the body was stolen by His
Resurrection - Morn, disciples (Matt. 28:11-15)
Herbert Gustave Schmalz, 1895
Exhume the body
42

181. 5. The Roman Seal Was Broken and
the Large Stone Was Moved Away
The Angel Is Opening Christ’s Tomb
Benjamin Gerritsz. Cuyp, 1640, Budapest
43

182. 6. The Guard Left the Empty
Tomb and Reported
The Resurrection
Andrea Mantegna, Late 1400’s
44

183. 6. The Guard Left the Empty
Tomb and Reported
Reported what had
happened to the Chief
Priests
The Resurrection
Andrea Mantegna, Late 1400’s
44

184. 6. The Guard Left the Empty
Tomb and Reported
Reported what had
happened to the Chief
Priests
Given a large bribe
The Resurrection
Andrea Mantegna, Late 1400’s
44

185. 6. The Guard Left the Empty
Tomb and Reported
Reported what had
happened to the Chief
Priests
Given a large bribe
Promised protection from
punishment/execution by
Pilate
The Resurrection
Andrea Mantegna, Late 1400’s
44

186. 7. Jesus’ Grave-clothes Were
Found Empty Yet Undisturbed
45

187. 7. Jesus’ Grave-clothes Were
Found Empty Yet Undisturbed
John 20:6-8 “So Peter and the other disciple went forth,
and they were going to the tomb.
45

188. 7. Jesus’ Grave-clothes Were
Found Empty Yet Undisturbed
John 20:6-8 “So Peter and the other disciple went forth,
and they were going to the tomb.
The two were running together;
and the other disciple ran ahead faster than Peter and came to the tomb first;
45

189. 7. Jesus’ Grave-clothes Were
Found Empty Yet Undisturbed
John 20:6-8 “So Peter and the other disciple went forth,
and they were going to the tomb.
The two were running together;
and the other disciple ran ahead faster than Peter and came to the tomb first;
and stooping and looking in,
he saw the linen wrappings lying there; but he did not go in.
45

190. 7. Jesus’ Grave-clothes Were
Found Empty Yet Undisturbed
John 20:6-8 “So Peter and the other disciple went forth,
and they were going to the tomb.
The two were running together;
and the other disciple ran ahead faster than Peter and came to the tomb first;
and stooping and looking in,
he saw the linen wrappings lying there; but he did not go in.
And so Simon Peter also came, following him, and entered the tomb;
and he saw the linen wrappings lying there,
45

191. 7. Jesus’ Grave-clothes Were
Found Empty Yet Undisturbed
John 20:6-8 “So Peter and the other disciple went forth,
and they were going to the tomb.
The two were running together;
and the other disciple ran ahead faster than Peter and came to the tomb first;
and stooping and looking in,
he saw the linen wrappings lying there; but he did not go in.
And so Simon Peter also came, following him, and entered the tomb;
and he saw the linen wrappings lying there,
and the face-cloth which had been on His head,
not lying with the linen wrappings, but rolled up in a place by itself.
45

192. 7. Jesus’ Grave-clothes Were
Found Empty Yet Undisturbed
John 20:6-8 “So Peter and the other disciple went forth,
and they were going to the tomb.
The two were running together;
and the other disciple ran ahead faster than Peter and came to the tomb first;
and stooping and looking in,
he saw the linen wrappings lying there; but he did not go in.
And so Simon Peter also came, following him, and entered the tomb;
and he saw the linen wrappings lying there,
and the face-cloth which had been on His head,
not lying with the linen wrappings, but rolled up in a place by itself.
So the other disciple who had first come to the tomb then also entered,
and he saw and believed.”
45

193. 8. Multiple Bodily Appearances of
the Resurrected Jesus
Christ Appearing to His Mother
Rogier van der Weyden, c.1436
46

194. 8. Multiple Bodily Appearances of
the Resurrected Jesus
Eyewitness accounts
Christ Appearing to His Mother
Rogier van der Weyden, c.1436
46

195. 8. Multiple Bodily Appearances of
the Resurrected Jesus
Eyewitness accounts
Variety of circumstances and
people
Christ Appearing to His Mother
Rogier van der Weyden, c.1436
46

196. 8. Multiple Bodily Appearances of
the Resurrected Jesus
Eyewitness accounts
Variety of circumstances and
people
Appeared to >500 people
once (1 Cor. 15:6)
Christ Appearing to His Mother
Rogier van der Weyden, c.1436
46

197. 8. Multiple Bodily Appearances of
the Resurrected Jesus
Eyewitness accounts
Variety of circumstances and
people
Appeared to >500 people
once (1 Cor. 15:6)
First witnesses were women
Christ Appearing to His Mother
Rogier van der Weyden, c.1436
46

198. 8. Multiple Bodily Appearances of
the Resurrected Jesus
Eyewitness accounts
Variety of circumstances and
people
Appeared to >500 people
once (1 Cor. 15:6)
First witnesses were women
Appeared to James and Paul
Christ Appearing to His Mother
Rogier van der Weyden, c.1436
46

199. 8. Multiple Bodily Appearances of
the Resurrected Jesus
Eyewitness accounts
Variety of circumstances and
people
Appeared to >500 people
once (1 Cor. 15:6)
First witnesses were women
Appeared to James and Paul
Lives of witnesses radically
Christ Appearing to His Mother transformed
Rogier van der Weyden, c.1436
46

200. Conclusions from the Historical
Facts
47

201. Conclusions from the Historical
Facts
These facts cannot be ignored by historians and theologians
47

202. Conclusions from the Historical
Facts
These facts cannot be ignored by historians and theologians
Can and have been interpreted in various ways to avoid the
conclusion that Jesus rose from the dead
47

203. Conclusions from the Historical
Facts
These facts cannot be ignored by historians and theologians
Can and have been interpreted in various ways to avoid the
conclusion that Jesus rose from the dead
Naturalistic theories regarding the tomb and the appearances
47

204. Conclusions from the Historical
Facts
These facts cannot be ignored by historians and theologians
Can and have been interpreted in various ways to avoid the
conclusion that Jesus rose from the dead
Naturalistic theories regarding the tomb and the appearances
All of these fail to explain the historical data
47

205. Conclusions from the Historical
Facts
These facts cannot be ignored by historians and theologians
Can and have been interpreted in various ways to avoid the
conclusion that Jesus rose from the dead
Naturalistic theories regarding the tomb and the appearances
All of these fail to explain the historical data
Additional circumstantial evidence that supplements this data and makes
the case for the Resurrection even stronger
47

206. Explanations Regarding the
Tomb
Resurrection
Vecchietta (1412-1480)
Bronze, 1472
Frick Collection, New York
48

207. Explanations Regarding the
Tomb
Tomb was either occupied or
empty on the first day of the
week
Resurrection
Vecchietta (1412-1480)
Bronze, 1472
Frick Collection, New York
48

208. Explanations Regarding the
Tomb
Tomb was either occupied or
empty on the first day of the
week
4 Theories: Occupied
Resurrection
Vecchietta (1412-1480)
Bronze, 1472
Frick Collection, New York
48

209. Explanations Regarding the
Tomb
Tomb was either occupied or
empty on the first day of the
week
4 Theories: Occupied
4 Theories: Empty
Resurrection
Vecchietta (1412-1480)
Bronze, 1472
Frick Collection, New York
48

210. Occupied:
1. Unknown Tomb
Christ Appearing to Mary Magdelene After the Resurrection,
William Etty, c.1790
49

211. Occupied:
1. Unknown Tomb
All four Gospels state that
Joseph of Arimathea obtained
permission from Pilate to bury
the body of Jesus in his newly
hewn tomb
Christ Appearing to Mary Magdelene After the Resurrection,
William Etty, c.1790
49

212. Occupied:
1. Unknown Tomb
All four Gospels state that
Joseph of Arimathea obtained
permission from Pilate to bury
the body of Jesus in his newly
hewn tomb
Joseph of Arimathea knew the
location of his own private
garden tomb
Christ Appearing to Mary Magdelene After the Resurrection,
William Etty, c.1790
49

213. Occupied:
1. Unknown Tomb
All four Gospels state that
Joseph of Arimathea obtained
permission from Pilate to bury
the body of Jesus in his newly
hewn tomb
Joseph of Arimathea knew the
location of his own private
garden tomb
The women and disciples had Christ Appearing to Mary Magdelene After the Resurrection,
no problem finding Jesus’ tomb William Etty, c.1790
49

214. Occupied:
2. Wrong Tomb
50

215. Occupied:
2. Wrong Tomb
This theory eliminates the "He has risen" of Mark 16:6
50

216. Occupied:
2. Wrong Tomb
This theory eliminates the "He has risen" of Mark 16:6
"He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid
Him." He was telling them that they had the wrong tomb,
but the women misunderstood
50

217. Occupied:
2. Wrong Tomb
This theory eliminates the "He has risen" of Mark 16:6
"He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid
Him." He was telling them that they had the wrong tomb,
but the women misunderstood
No textual basis; distortion
50

218. Occupied:
2. Wrong Tomb
This theory eliminates the "He has risen" of Mark 16:6
"He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid
Him." He was telling them that they had the wrong tomb,
but the women misunderstood
No textual basis; distortion
Requires the absurd conclusion that Peter and John,
Joseph of Arimathea, the guards, and the Jewish and
Roman authorities all went to the wrong tomb
50

219. Occupied:
3. Spiritual Resurrection
Resurrection of Christ
Paolo Uccello (1397-1475)
Stained glass window, 1443-1445
Duomo, Florence
51

220. Occupied:
3. Spiritual Resurrection
Jesus was resurrected
spiritually, not bodily
Resurrection of Christ
Paolo Uccello (1397-1475)
Stained glass window, 1443-1445
Duomo, Florence
51

221. Occupied:
3. Spiritual Resurrection
Jesus was resurrected
spiritually, not bodily
Disciples misunderstood the
nature of His resurrection
Resurrection of Christ
Paolo Uccello (1397-1475)
Stained glass window, 1443-1445
Duomo, Florence
51

222. Occupied:
3. Spiritual Resurrection
Jesus was resurrected
spiritually, not bodily
Disciples misunderstood the
nature of His resurrection
Jesus placed special
emphasis on the fact that His
body was resurrected
Resurrection of Christ
Paolo Uccello (1397-1475)
Stained glass window, 1443-1445
Duomo, Florence
51

223. Occupied:
3. Spiritual Resurrection
Jesus was resurrected
spiritually, not bodily
Disciples misunderstood the
nature of His resurrection
Jesus placed special
emphasis on the fact that His
body was resurrected
Disciples touched His body
Resurrection of Christ
Paolo Uccello (1397-1475)
Stained glass window, 1443-1445
Duomo, Florence
51

224. Occupied:
3. Spiritual Resurrection
Jesus was resurrected
spiritually, not bodily
Disciples misunderstood the
nature of His resurrection
Jesus placed special
emphasis on the fact that His
body was resurrected
Disciples touched His body
Resurrection of Christ
Paolo Uccello (1397-1475)
Spiritual resurrection Stained glass window, 1443-1445
unacceptable to Jews Duomo, Florence
51

225. Occupied:
4. Jesus Had a Twin
Jesus Washing Peter's Feet at the Last Supper,
Ford Madox Brown, 1865, London
52

226. Occupied:
4. Jesus Had a Twin
A twin brother or someone
who looked like Jesus was
crucified and buried in His
place
Jesus Washing Peter's Feet at the Last Supper,
Ford Madox Brown, 1865, London
52

227. Occupied:
4. Jesus Had a Twin
A twin brother or someone
who looked like Jesus was
crucified and buried in His
place
No supporting evidence and
contradicts many clear
passages
Jesus Washing Peter's Feet at the Last Supper,
Ford Madox Brown, 1865, London
52

228. Occupied:
4. Jesus Had a Twin
A twin brother or someone
who looked like Jesus was
crucified and buried in His
place
No supporting evidence and
contradicts many clear
passages
Spear wound
Jesus Washing Peter's Feet at the Last Supper,
Ford Madox Brown, 1865, London
52

229. Occupied:
4. Jesus Had a Twin
A twin brother or someone
who looked like Jesus was
crucified and buried in His
place
No supporting evidence and
contradicts many clear
passages
Spear wound
Jesus Washing Peter's Feet at the Last Supper,
Physical ascension Ford Madox Brown, 1865, London
52

230. Empty:
1. Friends Stole the Body
Entombment of Christ,
Rogier van der Weyden, 1450, Florence
53

231. Empty:
1. Friends Stole the Body
One or more of Jesus' friends
stole His body
Entombment of Christ,
Rogier van der Weyden, 1450, Florence
53

232. Empty:
1. Friends Stole the Body
One or more of Jesus' friends
stole His body
Guards faced execution for
failure to guard Jesus’ body -
asleep?
Entombment of Christ,
Rogier van der Weyden, 1450, Florence
53

233. Empty:
1. Friends Stole the Body
One or more of Jesus' friends
stole His body
Guards faced execution for
failure to guard Jesus’ body -
asleep?
Problem of disciple’s motive
Entombment of Christ,
Rogier van der Weyden, 1450, Florence
53

234. Empty:
1. Friends Stole the Body
One or more of Jesus' friends
stole His body
Guards faced execution for
failure to guard Jesus’ body -
asleep?
Problem of disciple’s motive
Nothing to gain/everything to
lose
Entombment of Christ,
Rogier van der Weyden, 1450, Florence
53

235. Empty:
1. Friends Stole the Body
One or more of Jesus' friends
stole His body
Guards faced execution for
failure to guard Jesus’ body -
asleep?
Problem of disciple’s motive
Nothing to gain/everything to
lose
Frightened disciples vs.
Entombment of Christ, professional soldiers
Rogier van der Weyden, 1450, Florence
53

236. Empty:
2. Enemies Stole the Body
Dead Christ Attended By Two Angels,
Alessandro Allori, c. late 1500’s
54

237. Empty:
2. Enemies Stole the Body
The enemies of Jesus stole
the body
Dead Christ Attended By Two Angels,
Alessandro Allori, c. late 1500’s
54

238. Empty:
2. Enemies Stole the Body
The enemies of Jesus stole
the body
Problem of motive
Dead Christ Attended By Two Angels,
Alessandro Allori, c. late 1500’s
54

239. Empty:
2. Enemies Stole the Body
The enemies of Jesus stole
the body
Problem of motive
Could have displayed the body
and killed all Resurrection
rumors
Dead Christ Attended By Two Angels,
Alessandro Allori, c. late 1500’s
54

240. Empty:
2. Enemies Stole the Body
The enemies of Jesus stole
the body
Problem of motive
Could have displayed the body
and killed all Resurrection
rumors
Complete silence by Jewish
and Roman authorities
indicated His body was
Dead Christ Attended By Two Angels, inexplicably gone
Alessandro Allori, c. late 1500’s
54

241. Empty:
3. Swoon Theory
The Body of the Dead Christ in the Tomb,
Hans Holbein the Younger, 1521, Basle
55

242. Empty:
3. Swoon Theory
Jesus "swooned" on the cross and appeared to be dead, but revived
The Body of the Dead Christ in the Tomb,
Hans Holbein the Younger, 1521, Basle
55

243. Empty:
3. Swoon Theory
Jesus "swooned" on the cross and appeared to be dead, but revived
Jesus endured the beatings at His trials, the crown of thorns, the terrible
scourging, the crucifixion, and even the spear thrust in His side and
somehow survived
The Body of the Dead Christ in the Tomb,
Hans Holbein the Younger, 1521, Basle
55

244. Empty:
3. Swoon Theory
Jesus "swooned" on the cross and appeared to be dead, but revived
Jesus endured the beatings at His trials, the crown of thorns, the terrible
scourging, the crucifixion, and even the spear thrust in His side and
somehow survived
Professional executioners, loss of blood, cold, no food, water, or
assistance, revives. A ludicrous theory
The Body of the Dead Christ in the Tomb,
Hans Holbein the Younger, 1521, Basle
55

245. Empty:
4. Passover Plot Theory
56

246. Empty:
4. Passover Plot Theory
Jesus wanted to deceive His disciples into thinking He was the
Messiah by engineering His fulfillment of the Old Testament
messianic passages
56

247. Empty:
4. Passover Plot Theory
Jesus wanted to deceive His disciples into thinking He was the
Messiah by engineering His fulfillment of the Old Testament
messianic passages
Drugged and appeared to be dead
56

248. Empty:
4. Passover Plot Theory
Jesus wanted to deceive His disciples into thinking He was the
Messiah by engineering His fulfillment of the Old Testament
messianic passages
Drugged and appeared to be dead
Lived only briefly after being revived because of His spear wound
56

249. Empty:
4. Passover Plot Theory
Jesus wanted to deceive His disciples into thinking He was the
Messiah by engineering His fulfillment of the Old Testament
messianic passages
Drugged and appeared to be dead
Lived only briefly after being revived because of His spear wound
Fanciful scenario appears in The Passover Plot, by Hugh
Schoenfield
56

250. Empty:
4. Passover Plot Theory
Jesus wanted to deceive His disciples into thinking He was the
Messiah by engineering His fulfillment of the Old Testament
messianic passages
Drugged and appeared to be dead
Lived only briefly after being revived because of His spear wound
Fanciful scenario appears in The Passover Plot, by Hugh
Schoenfield
Anti-resurrection theory is totally bereft of evidence
56

251. Conclusion: The Empty Tomb
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdelene
Lavinia Fontana, 1581, Florence
57

252. Conclusion: The Empty Tomb
None of these theories even
comes close to accounting
for:
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdelene
Lavinia Fontana, 1581, Florence
57

253. Conclusion: The Empty Tomb
None of these theories even
comes close to accounting
for:
The historical facts associated
with the empty tomb
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdelene
Lavinia Fontana, 1581, Florence
57

254. Conclusion: The Empty Tomb
None of these theories even
comes close to accounting
for:
The historical facts associated
with the empty tomb
The appearances of the
resurrected Christ
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdelene
Lavinia Fontana, 1581, Florence
57

255. Conclusion: The Empty Tomb
None of these theories even
comes close to accounting
for:
The historical facts associated
with the empty tomb
The appearances of the
resurrected Christ
The radical changes in the lives
of the disciples
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdelene
Lavinia Fontana, 1581, Florence
57

256. Conclusion: The Empty Tomb
None of these theories even
comes close to accounting
for:
The historical facts associated
with the empty tomb
The appearances of the
resurrected Christ
The radical changes in the lives
of the disciples
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdelene Distortion of clear evidence
Lavinia Fontana, 1581, Florence
57

257. Explanation of the Appearances:
Witnesses Lied
58

258. Explanation of the Appearances:
Witnesses Lied
The disciples all lied about
seeing the resurrected Jesus
58

259. Explanation of the Appearances:
Witnesses Lied
The disciples all lied about
seeing the resurrected Jesus
Contradicts the historical
accounts
58

260. Explanation of the Appearances:
Witnesses Lied
The disciples all lied about
seeing the resurrected Jesus
Contradicts the historical
accounts
Therefore all of the disciples
who claimed to have seen the
Lord (including the 500 people
mentioned by Paul) were liars
58

261. Explanation of the Appearances:
Witnesses Lied
The disciples all lied about
seeing the resurrected Jesus
Contradicts the historical
accounts
Therefore all of the disciples
who claimed to have seen the
Lord (including the 500 people
mentioned by Paul) were liars
Many were martyred for their
testimony
58

262. Explanation of the Appearances:
Hallucinations
59

263. Explanation of the Appearances:
Hallucinations
The post-resurrection appearances
of Christ were merely hallucinations
in the minds of the disciples
59

264. Explanation of the Appearances:
Hallucinations
The post-resurrection appearances
of Christ were merely hallucinations
in the minds of the disciples
Hallucinations are private, not public
experiences
59

265. Explanation of the Appearances:
Hallucinations
The post-resurrection appearances
of Christ were merely hallucinations
in the minds of the disciples
Hallucinations are private, not public
experiences
Hallucinations restricted to favorable
times/places & certain types of
unstable people
59

266. Explanation of the Appearances:
Hallucinations
The post-resurrection appearances
of Christ were merely hallucinations
in the minds of the disciples
Hallucinations are private, not public
experiences
Hallucinations restricted to favorable
times/places & certain types of
unstable people
Disciples touched, talked, and ate
with the Lord
59

267. Explanation of the Appearances:
Legend
Loch Ness Monster Legend
Photo, 1972, Scotland
60

268. Explanation of the Appearances:
Legend
The Resurrection is an
elaborate legend created by
the early church
Loch Ness Monster Legend
Photo, 1972, Scotland
60

269. Explanation of the Appearances:
Legend
The Resurrection is an
elaborate legend created by
the early church
Resurrection backed by
reliable, eyewitness accounts
Loch Ness Monster Legend
Photo, 1972, Scotland
60

270. Explanation of the Appearances:
Legend
The Resurrection is an
elaborate legend created by
the early church
Resurrection backed by
reliable, eyewitness accounts
Dating of NT precludes the
development of such a legend
Loch Ness Monster Legend
Photo, 1972, Scotland
60

271. Explanation of the Appearances:
Legend
The Resurrection is an
elaborate legend created by
the early church
Resurrection backed by
reliable, eyewitness accounts
Dating of NT precludes the
development of such a legend
Archeological discoveries
continue to validate the Loch Ness Monster Legend
historical reliability of the Bible Photo, 1972, Scotland
60

272. Circumstantial Evidence 1:
Christ Foretold His Resurrection
61

273. Circumstantial Evidence 1:
Christ Foretold His Resurrection
Christ predicted His own
resurrection on the third day
61

274. Circumstantial Evidence 1:
Christ Foretold His Resurrection
Christ predicted His own
resurrection on the third day
Christ announced that this
would be the most significant
sign for the affirmation of His
truth claims
61

275. Circumstantial Evidence 1:
Christ Foretold His Resurrection
Christ predicted His own
resurrection on the third day
Christ announced that this
would be the most significant
sign for the affirmation of His
truth claims
Christ demonstrated
foreknowledge (Matt.
12:38-40; Mark 8:31; 9:31;
10:33-34; John 2:18-22)
61

276. Circumstantial Evidence 2:
Silence of the Jews
Jews in the Synogogue
Rembrandt (1606-1669)
62

277. Circumstantial Evidence 2:
Silence of the Jews
The silence of the Jewish
leaders about the
Resurrection eloquently
testified that they knew these
things were undeniable
Jews in the Synogogue
Rembrandt (1606-1669)
62

278. Circumstantial Evidence 2:
Silence of the Jews
The silence of the Jewish
leaders about the
Resurrection eloquently
testified that they knew these
things were undeniable
No refutation
Jews in the Synogogue
Rembrandt (1606-1669)
62

279. Circumstantial Evidence 3:
Changed Lives of the Disciples
Pentecost
Titian (1488-1576)
63

280. Circumstantial Evidence 3:
Changed Lives of the Disciples
Disciples were fearful and
weak before the Resurrection
Pentecost
Titian (1488-1576)
63

281. Circumstantial Evidence 3:
Changed Lives of the Disciples
Disciples were fearful and
weak before the Resurrection
By the Day of Pentecost
seven weeks later, they were
boldly proclaiming Christ
Pentecost
Titian (1488-1576)
63

282. Circumstantial Evidence 3:
Changed Lives of the Disciples
Disciples were fearful and
weak before the Resurrection
By the Day of Pentecost
seven weeks later, they were
boldly proclaiming Christ
Transformation was complete,
permanent, and unanimous
Pentecost
Titian (1488-1576)
63