About the Book:
Okay, fine, the skeptic says. I'll give you cities and art. But what about Jesus? There's no actual evidence that he ever lived, right? Wrong.
In this eye-opening, faith-fortifying book from acclaimed New Testament scholar and minister Jeremiah Johnston, you'll encounter ten of the most compelling historic finds that corroborate the truth claims found in the Bible regarding who Jesus said he was, when and where He lived, His claims and aims, how His life ended, and how that wasn't the end of His story. Far more than a tour of the past, The Jesus Discoveries connects His story with your story, perhaps in ways you've never before considered--revealing how Jesus's story changes your story.
Read an excerpt on the publisher's website.
My Thoughts:
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.
My Thoughts:
The Jesus Discoveries: 10 Historic Finds That Bring Us Face-to-Face With Jesus by Jeremiah J. Johnston, Ph.D., started off with an extremely interesting chapter about the Shroud of Turin. It was one of the strongest chapters of the book. However, after I finished the book, I wished that the information about Jewish burial customs given in section three had been integrated with this chapter. The topics overlap, and I think it would have made the first chapter (and the third chapter about James’ ossuary) even better.
Unfortunately, some of the other historic finds presented in The Jesus Discoveries were not as potent due to weak evidence, a lack of explanation, or reliance on a contemporary’s opinion (which may or may not be based on legitimate evidence). I believe in Jesus, but I was not convinced by some of the information, especially when it required a stretch of reasoning in order to support the author’s claims. If I were an atheist or critic, I would not find materials depicting Jesus and healing as solid evidence that Jesus was both real and the Son of God, not just a magician or physician by the same name. It’s valuable, historical information that supports what I already believe, but it’s not irrefutable evidence to convince a skeptic.
The Jesus Discoveries: 10 Historic Finds That Bring Us Face-to-Face With Jesus by Jeremiah J. Johnston, Ph.D., was worth a read. Christians who want a book of historical information to back up their apologetic views will likely enjoy this book, especially if they are willing to overlook the weaker portions. A reader interested in Jesus would probably find it encouraging enough to continue studying Jesus of Nazareth. But a staunch atheist likely will not be convinced by this book. Three stars, for me.
Unfortunately, some of the other historic finds presented in The Jesus Discoveries were not as potent due to weak evidence, a lack of explanation, or reliance on a contemporary’s opinion (which may or may not be based on legitimate evidence). I believe in Jesus, but I was not convinced by some of the information, especially when it required a stretch of reasoning in order to support the author’s claims. If I were an atheist or critic, I would not find materials depicting Jesus and healing as solid evidence that Jesus was both real and the Son of God, not just a magician or physician by the same name. It’s valuable, historical information that supports what I already believe, but it’s not irrefutable evidence to convince a skeptic.
The Jesus Discoveries: 10 Historic Finds That Bring Us Face-to-Face With Jesus by Jeremiah J. Johnston, Ph.D., was worth a read. Christians who want a book of historical information to back up their apologetic views will likely enjoy this book, especially if they are willing to overlook the weaker portions. A reader interested in Jesus would probably find it encouraging enough to continue studying Jesus of Nazareth. But a staunch atheist likely will not be convinced by this book. Three stars, for me.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.
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