The Rest Is History 287: Jesus Christ: The Mystery (Part 1)
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Dec 19, 2022 Dive into the intriguing mystery of Jesus Christ as the hosts explore his historical existence and teachings. They dissect ancient sources like Josephus and Tacitus to evaluate Jesus amidst a myriad of divine claimants in the Roman Empire. The discussion highlights the unique cultural landscape of first-century Galilee and its impact on Jesus's identity. Listeners are invited on a humorous journey that blends historical insight with light-hearted reflections, setting the stage for further exploration of the Apocryphal Gospels.
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Maricus the "Divine"
- Tacitus tells a story of Maricus, a Gaul claiming divinity.
- Maricus's followers believed him invulnerable until his execution, highlighting the blurred lines between natural and supernatural in the ancient world.
Jesus in Historical Context
- Unlike obscure figures, Jesus's existence is supported by a relatively detailed historical context, provided by Josephus and others.
- Josephus mentions figures like John the Baptist and possibly Jesus, offering insights into the accuracy of the Gospels.
Early Christian Beliefs and Persecution
- Pliny the Younger's letters mention Christians worshipping Christ as a god, indicating early Christian beliefs.
- Tacitus's account of Nero blaming Christians for the Great Fire confirms the existence of the sect and its founder, Christus.