Objections To Jesus Week 2: Evidence Message Summary: Reliable science relies on evidence. Data drives us to certain reasonable conclusions. But, to many people, Christianity feels like blind faith. Why would they “just believe”? Is there any true evidence that would lead them to seriously consider Jesus? Any evidence for Jesus? ✦ 1 Peter 3:15-16 — But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. #1: Did Jesus Even Exist? Scholars overwhelmingly agree Jesus existed. Luke 1:1-3 — Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account… #2: Isn’t Jesus Ripping Off Other Mythologies? Myths echo original promise of a Divine Savior. Genesis 3:15 — “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” #3: Didn’t Jesus’ Followers Just Make This Up? Look into the study of textual criticism. Matthew 5:18 — “Truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.” #4: How Is Jesus Any Different? Jesus’ teaching is the most compelling evidence. John 20:31 — These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. CS Lewis: Jesus is either Legend, Liar, Lunatic, or Lord. Matthew 16:13b-7 — “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?”he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. Planting Jesus Roots GATHER — In our services, music, and sermons, we seek to be logical as we share the gospel because God gifted us with reason. But what is the danger of depending too much on reason? GROUP — In our culture today, people seem to be more persuaded by emotion and community. Our Life Groups do recognize the importance of both. Again, they are God-given. What is the danger, though, of relying too much on feelings and being part of a community if it’s purely social? GROW — In many ways in our culture today, we look to exalt the individual self. When it comes to our devotional life, one-on-one time with God, what is the danger of thinking too highly of one’s own self? GIVE — One of the best ways to defend our faith is to prove it in acts of love. (Who can argue against loving kindness?) How might you progress in your acts of love for others? GO — Ultimately, one must hear the gospel message to be saved which demands being ready to give an answer to all who wonder about the hope we have. What’s your plan to always be ready with an answer to win others over for Jesus? Homework: Romans 3:21-26