what evidence is there that jesus existed?
is it because in the bible it tells you about when jesus was born and that's why we celebrate christmas day.easter day and also all the things jesus did for people. heal the sick , feed the 5,000 and the other miracles he performed? i am really struggling with this question.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Historicity_of_Jesus
Others have struggled also.
The above is about the best summary around. It is loaded with amplifying links.
Another source to try is Halley's Bible Handbook. It's not online itself, but it's an excellent source. Still another might be Walking the Bible. Here's a link to the PBS series based on that book:
http://www.pbs.org/walkingthebible/
The question of whether Jesus Christ actually existed is a topic of historical debate. However, many historians, both Christian and non-Christian, believe that Jesus was a real historical figure. Here are a few lines of evidence that are often cited:
1. Biblical Accounts: The primary sources for information about Jesus are the Christian texts known as the New Testament. While these writings are religious in nature and were written by Jesus's followers, they are considered valuable historical documents. They provide accounts of Jesus's life, teachings, and the events surrounding his crucifixion.
2. Non-Christian Sources: There are a few ancient non-Christian sources that mention Jesus or early Christian beliefs. For instance, the Roman historians Tacitus and Suetonius briefly mention Jesus and his execution under Pontius Pilate. The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus also makes references to Jesus in his writings.
3. Early Christian Writings: Some of the early Christian writings, which were not included in the New Testament, also mention Jesus. These texts, such as the writings of the apostolic fathers, provide further evidence for Jesus's existence.
4. Historicity of Jesus's Crucifixion: The crucifixion of Jesus is widely regarded as an historical event, as it is mentioned in multiple ancient sources. The crucifixion itself is a significant event in the life of Jesus, suggesting that he was a real person.
However, it is important to note that these pieces of evidence are not without controversy, and there are scholars who hold varying opinions on the matter. Some argue that the evidence is sparse, while others emphasize the significance of the accounts provided.
Ultimately, determining the existence of Jesus requires examining the available historical sources, understanding the historical context, and weighing the consensus among scholars. It is a topic where personal beliefs and interpretations can influence one's conclusions.