Ep 243 | NEW EVIDENCE: Shroud of Turin Shows Exact Moment of Resurrection?! | The Glenn Beck Podcast
Feb 1, 2025
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Jeremiah J. Johnston, a distinguished New Testament scholar and president of Christian Thinkers Society, dives deep into the enigma of the Shroud of Turin. He discusses the challenge of recreating the shroud—and why no one has claimed the million-dollar prize. Johnston unveils intriguing insights about the blood type of Jesus and the crown of thorns. He explores the shroud’s implications for understanding Christ's resurrection and even tackles concerns about AI recreations of Jesus’s face, making a compelling case for the shroud’s significance beyond mere artifact.
The Shroud of Turin's authenticity is supported by scientific studies showing human type AB blood and pollen from Jerusalem plants.
Contrary to claims of being a medieval forgery, flaws in carbon dating suggest the shroud may date back to Christ's time.
The shroud serves as a powerful symbol of hope for believers, potentially capturing the moment of Jesus's resurrection and inviting deeper exploration of faith.
Deep dives
The Shroud of Turin's Historical Significance
The Shroud of Turin is believed to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ, measuring approximately 14.3 feet long and 3.7 feet wide. Historical accounts suggest that Joseph of Arimathea purchased this cloth for Jesus's burial, reflecting Jewish burial traditions that dictate prompt interment before sunset. The gospels document Joseph and Nicodemus preparing Jesus's body, which aligns with archaeological evidence confirming the accuracy of these burial customs. This unique shroud is not merely a Catholic artifact, as skeptics often claim, but holds significant historical importance and physical evidence pointing to Jesus's burial as a king despite his execution as a criminal.
Scientific Investigations of the Shroud
Multiple scientific techniques, including pollen analysis and blood tests, have reinforced the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin. Studies show that pollen samples predominantly come from plants native to Jerusalem, indicating the shroud's historical origins and possibly aligning it with the time of Jesus's death. Notably, blood stains found on the shroud have been identified as human type AB blood, which is consistent with Jesus's demographic. These findings suggest a deep connection between the shroud and the historical events surrounding Jesus's crucifixion and burial.
Challenges to the Shroud's Authenticity
In 1988, carbon dating indicated the shroud was a medieval forgery, leading many to dismiss its significance. However, subsequent research pointed out flaws in the sampling techniques used during carbon dating, suggesting that the sample taken may have come from a patch added later. Leading scientists have since challenged the validity of the original dating, asserting that extensive interdisciplinary studies point toward the shroud's true origins being compatible with the time of Christ. Thus, instead of being disproven, the shroud continues to be a focal point for ongoing study into its historical and scientific merit.
Depictions of Jesus in Art and Coins
Historical art and coins provide additional evidence supporting the Shroud of Turin's authenticity. Early Christian art and numismatic findings depict Jesus with a beard and features that closely resemble those seen on the shroud, countering claims that it is a medieval forgery. The consistent portrayal of Jesus's appearance across various artistic mediums strengthens the case for the validity of the shroud's image as reflective of the real figure of Christ. Such evidence suggests a shared artistic tradition grounded in eyewitness accounts from early followers, further embedding the shroud in historical authenticity.
Implications of the Shroud for Faith and Belief
The Shroud of Turin serves as a profound source of hope for believers by potentially capturing the moment of Jesus's resurrection. Its existence invites individuals to explore the intersection of faith, scientific evidence, and historical context, providing a tangible link to the resurrection narrative. As interest grows in understanding this artifact, it may catalyze a deeper spiritual awakening, prompting people to examine their beliefs in light of the evidence. Consequently, the shroud not only fuels discussions about the resurrection but also emphasizes the enduring message of God's love and manifestation through Jesus's sacrifice.
In 2022, a prize of one million dollars was promised to anyone who could recreate the Shroud of Turin. If it is a forgery, that should be a simple task. Yet, no one has accepted the challenge. “The Shroud of Turin is the most lied-about artifact in history,” says Jeremiah J. Johnston — distinguished New Testament scholar, pastor, and president of Christian Thinkers Society — who guides Glenn through a scientific, historic, and theological exploration “beyond the mystery” to the “message of the shroud.” Discredited and marginalized as a relic only relevant to the Catholic faith, Johnston contends that the Shroud of Turin has something to offer every follower of Christ. He reveals what he believes to be the rare blood type of Jesus, the real design of the crown of thorns, and why, in his opinion, Christ was buried at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Glenn shares what he saw when given a behind-the-scenes look at the artifacts housed in the Vatican and asks Johnston whether he is concerned about the AI recreation of the face of Christ. Not only may the Shroud of Turin provide a deeper understanding of the crucifixion, but does it also miraculously uncover the exact moment of Christ’s resurrection? Find out in this paradigm-shattering episode of "The Glenn Beck Podcast."
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