50 Years Studying the Resurrection: Magnum Opus by Gary Habermas
Feb 16, 2024
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Resurrection scholar, Gary Habermas, discusses the strongest evidence for the resurrection of Jesus after 50 years of study. He shares the backstory to his latest 1,100-page volume and how Resurrection scholarship has shifted over the years. Topics covered include doubts, the existence of Jesus, the medical case for Jesus' death, the significance of his burial, and objections to his prediction of the kingdom's arrival. The speaker also discusses publishing with a Christian press and the success of the book.
The disciples' transformation and willingness to die for their faith provide strong evidence for the resurrection of Jesus.
Peter, James, John, and Paul offer compelling historical evidence for the resurrection.
The existence of an empty tomb, discovered by women, supports the belief in Jesus' resurrection.
Critics' objections about legendary development and mistaken beliefs do not undermine the core message of the resurrection.
The resurrection brings hope, reassurance, and answers to questions about suffering and the afterlife.
Deep dives
Main Idea 1
Jesus died by crucifixion and the disciples reported experiences of seeing him after his death.
Main Idea 2
The transformation in the lives of the disciples and their willingness to die for their faith.
Main Idea 3
Peter, James (the brother of Jesus), John, and Paul provide strong historical evidence for the resurrection.
Main Idea 4
The burial of Jesus, most likely in a private tomb, is supported by historical and biblical evidence.
Relevance of James' Conversion to the Resurrection
James' conversion is relevant to the resurrection since he became a prominent leader in the early church and the brother of Jesus. While it is unclear when James became a Christian, accounts suggest that Jesus appeared to him after the resurrection. His presence and leadership in the early church, as well as his eventual martyrdom, showcase the impact of the resurrection on his life and the significance of Jesus' teachings.
The Role of the Empty Tomb in Resurrection Beliefs
The empty tomb holds a central place in the belief in the resurrection of Jesus. Multiple arguments support the empty tomb, including the fact that women discovered it, indicating its significance. The burial of Jesus is also noted as a supported fact, with evidence suggesting a private tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea. The empty tomb attests to the veracity of Jesus' teachings and the claim of his resurrection, making it a vital aspect of belief in the early Christian community.
Responses to the Objections of Legendary Development and Mistaken Beliefs
Critics often raise objections regarding legendary development in the Gospel accounts and Jesus' mistaken belief in the imminent coming of his kingdom. However, these objections lack strong support. The so-called discrepancies in Gospel accounts, such as the differences in the number of angels and women at the tomb, do not undermine the core message of the resurrection. Jesus' timing about the kingdom does not nullify his teachings about the kingdom itself. It is crucial to focus on the central message of the resurrection and the impact it has on Christian beliefs and faith.
Personal Significance of the Resurrection
For the author, the resurrection holds immense personal significance. It provides hope and reassurance in the face of the pain and suffering experienced in life. The resurrection assures believers of the reality of an afterlife and the promise of eternal life with loved ones. The resurrection serves as a profound answer to questions about suffering and provides comfort in the belief that there is a greater purpose and plan beyond earthly existence.
Publication Experience and Outlook
The publication experience with Broadman & Holman Academic Press has been positive, as they supported the publication of this monumental work on the resurrection. The author feels a sense of fulfillment and gratitude to see the book come to fruition and hopes that it becomes a go-to resource on the resurrection for generations to come. The author expresses appreciation for the positive responses and reviews received, recognizing the impact the book may have in helping people understand the significance of the resurrection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this podcast episode delved into various aspects related to the resurrection of Jesus. The discussion explored the beliefs surrounding James' conversion, the importance of the empty tomb, responses to objections about legendary development and mistaken beliefs, personal significance of the resurrection, and the author's publication experience. Overall, the podcast shed light on the historical and theological significance of the resurrection and its enduring impact on Christian belief and faith.
What is the latest case for the resurrection? After 32,000+ hours studying the resurrection of Jesus, what does Habermas consider the strongest evidence? What is the backstory to his latest 1,100-page volume? And how has Resurrection scholarship shifted in the past 50 years?
READ: On the Resurrection: Evidences, by Gary Habermas (https://amzn.to/4aVn1gd)
WATCH: The State of Resurrection Research with Mike Licona and Gary Habermas (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OImf99ta89M&t=2s)
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