Jesus Blueprint: Session 2, The Importance of Eyewitness Accounts

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This week we are continuing our new class called “Jesus Blueprint” with a focus on the importance of eyewitness accounts. This class will help us understand some of the most important connections from the Old Testament to the New, and specifically the emphasis on Jesus. We will see that Jesus was there in the beginning, and can be found all throughout the Old Testament, fulfilling God’s Covenant Promise and showing us the reason for Gospel Message! This study will help us understand the history and importance of not only the faithfulness of God through His Covenant Promise, but the love He has for His people as seen in His sovereignty over all things! We can take comfort in the fact that God never makes a mistake, and all things work together for good, for those who trust in Him!

Defending our faith and developing a Biblical worldview based on our understanding of God’s Word takes time and practice, and must be part of a lifetime commitment we make to the LORD. It should form our purpose and identity in everyday life as we grow closer to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, modeling Him to our family, friends and neighbors. As Christians, it is more important than ever to know what we believe, and why we believe it, and then apply that to who we are on a consistent basis, and this can only be done if we know Jesus and what His Word teaches.

All class sessions include a time for prayer and reflection, a presentation, and a Bible study section. You will find the presentation overview and Bible study questions below with basic answers for your review and, or to use as a leader’s guide.

Watch this week’s presentation:


Presentation

Jesus Blueprint
Session Two: Who Is Jesus

The Importance of Eyewitness Accounts

OPEN

Prayer Cards: Write your name on the card. Do you have anyone that you are hoping to share what you are learning with? Write that person(s) name down on your prayer card along with any other prayer request you might have and exchange with your table group at the end of the evening.

Review:

  1. Share what Bible will you be using for your studies (or if you still have questions about choosing a Bible).
  2. Can you explain the difference between the Old and New Testament, and why that is important?
  3. What is the Gospel Message, and how far back does it go?

Practice the focus verse…

Focus verse:
Genesis 3:15 – The first Gospel!
(begins the Scarlet Thread)

From Genesis through Revelation, the Bible is all about Jesus!

The beginning of God’s Covenant Promise…

THE FIRST GOSPEL

“And I will put enmity
Between you and the woman,
And between your seed and her seed;
He shall [d]bruise you on the head,
And you shall bruise him on the heel.”

Genesis 3:15 (NASB)

Jesus’ Claim to be the “He”

  • “From now on I am telling you before it comes to pass, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am He.” John 13:19 (NASB)
  • “So Jesus, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, went forth and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” They answered Him, “Jesus the Nazarene.” He said to them, “I am He.” And Judas also, who was betraying Him, was standing with them. So when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground. Therefore He again asked them, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus the Nazarene.” Jesus answered, “I told you that I am He; so if you seek Me, let these go their way,”” John 18:4-8 (NASB)
  • “Many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He!’ and will mislead many.” Mark 13:6 (NASB)

God’s Covenant Promise of Messiah throughout the Old Testament and fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament

Following the Seed Promise of Messiah:

  1. Genesis 3:15 – The Adamic Covenant (The Seed Promise begins the scarlet thread)
  2. Genesis 6:18 – Noahic Covenant (the Seed Promise carried through the Great Flood, and also affirmed in the “Rainbow Promise” of Genesis 9:8-17)
  3. Genesis 12:1-3 – Abrahamic Covenant (Unfolds the Seed Promise with the blessing to come)
  4. Genesis 26:3-5 – Promise goes through Isaac (the Abrahamic Covenant passed on to this son of promise)
  5. Genesis 28:13-15 – Promise goes on through Jacob/Israel (Seed promise expanded to a Nation)
  6. Genesis 49:8-12 – Promise will come through the tribe of Judah (Seed will have the Scepter forever)
  7. 2 Samuel 7:12-16/1 Chronicles 17:11-14 – Davidic Covenant (The Seed Promise will be a King forever from the line of David)
  8. Jeremiah 31:31-34 – The Promise of a New Covenant to come (Seed Promise to be fulfilled)
  9. Luke 22:14-20 – Fulfillment of the New Covenant by Jesus (Seed Promise fulfilled in Jesus)
  10. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 – The New Covenant confirmed by the Apostles and early believers
  11. Hebrews 9:15 – The reason Jesus is the fulfilment of the New Covenant (Hebrews 8-10 for a deeper study on Jesus’ fulfillment of all that was promised concerning Messiah/Seed Promise)
  12. Revelation 1:7 – “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen.”

List of talking points I can share with others to explain the Gospel Message:

  1. It starts as far back as Genesis 3:15 where God made a promise of the “Seed of the women” who would crush the head of the Serpent – We have to understand that the ”fall” was real, and it affected all of us with the problem of sin and separation from God, but God had a rescue plan… JESUS!
  2. This rescue plan is unfolded throughout the Old Testament in the form of Covenants, foreshadowings and prophecies all pointing to a Savior/Messiah – Jesus fulfilled all of these things when He went to the Cross to atone (pay) for our sins, and He defeated death and Satan (crushed the serpent) by resurrecting from the grave and providing an eternal home for all who would believe and come to Him. Luke 9:18-22
  3. Jesus claimed to be the He of Genesis 3:15 (the Messiah), and God incarnate (John 8:58), and He backed it up with His miraculous works throughout His ministry (John 5:36; 14:11) – Jesus proved He was God incarnate and the promised Messiah by His power over Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Life and Death itself – only God can do those things.

Are the Accounts of Jesus Reliable?
The Importance of Eyewitness Testimony

The Importance of Eyewitness Accounts

  • What sets Christianity apart from every other theistic worldview is its foundation in history.
  • Christianity is not just a system of moral or spiritual guidance; it’s a claim about something that actually happened in history.
  • In a court of law, the number one category of best evidence comes from eyewitness accounts – the more eyewitnesses the more reliable the case becomes.
  • In Scripture the importance of multiple eyewitnesses is significant, just like it is in our court of law today.
  • We can have confidence that the Word of God and the person of Jesus are found not in a singular report but in numerous accounts both from Biblical and non-Biblical sources.

Old Testament

A single witness shall not rise up against a man on account of any iniquity or any sin which he has committed; on the evidence of two or three witnesses a matter shall be confirmed.

Deuteronomy 19:15

New Testament

But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be confirmed.  

Matthew 18:16

Biblical Sources
All four of the Gospels are based on eyewitness accounts and primary sources

  1. Matthew:
    • An Apostle and Disciple of Jesus
    • Written from his own personal view and interaction with Jesus
  2. Mark:
    • Written from John-Mark’s own view as a young man following Jesus and the Disciples
    • Mark is a companion of Peter and includes the Apostle Peter’s eyewitness accounts
    • Mark is also a cousin and traveling companion of Barnabas and spent time with the Apostle Paul
  3. Luke:
    • A Physician by profession, and acclaimed as a historian
    • Written from his detailed interviews with eyewitnesses, including Jesus’ mother Mary, Peter, Paul and many other companions and witnesses of the events of Jesus
  1. John:
    • An Apostle and Disciple of Jesus
    • Written from his own personal view and interactions with Jesus

To demonstrate this let’s take a look at the Gospel of Luke, chapter three- here we find over fifteen confirmed historical, political, and geographical facts just in the first four verses:

In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar—when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip, tetrarch of Iturea and Traconitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene—during the high-priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet. 

Luke 3:1-4 (NASB)

John the Baptist testified:

(Jesus speaking) “If I alone testify about Myself, My testimony is not true. There is another who testifies of Me, and I know that the testimony which He gives about Me is true. You have sent to John, and he has testified to the truth. But the testimony which I receive is not from man, but I say these things so that you may be saved. He was the lamp that was burning and was shining and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light.  John 5:31-35

Other Biblical Sources

All the Apostles and Disciples testified

Peter testifies: “We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, whom I  love; with him I am very well pleased.” We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.” 2 Peter 1:16-18 (NIV)

John testifies: “This is the disciple who testifies (John) to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his (Jesus) testimony is true.” John 21:24 (NIV)

“I am writing these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13 (NIV)

The Apostle Paul Testifies
As A Former Hostile to the Faith

For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; and last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. 

1 Corinthians 15:3-8 (NASB)

The people themselves were witnesses at that time

Paul testifies that 500 people had seen Him risen…

“He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; and last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also.” 

Peter, in his speech, also reminded the people… …Jesus of Nazareth, a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through Him, as you yourselves know…  Acts 2:22 (NIV)

  • In the 1st Corinthians 15 passage, Paul writes about all of the eyewitnesses to Jesus’ resurrection, over 500 people!
  • Notice that he is writing about something that he had already “delivered” (previously reported) and that what he had previously reported was something that he received (was already known).
  • The dating of 1 Corinthians is between 52-55 AD, only 20 years after the crucifixion.
  • If Paul writes about something already known and passed on amongst followers of Jesus then it is safe to say that this testimony can be taken back to the actual events and that people fully believed in Jesus ministry, death and resurrection from the beginning.
  • It would be impossible with over 500 eyewitnesses to imagine or create a story in that short of a time period, therefore making it impossible to be a result of hallucinations, a latter myth or legend.

Non-Christian/Non-Biblical Sources
coldcasechristianity.com – J. Warner Wallace

  1. Thallus (52 AD) referenced in Julius Africanus (221 AD)
  2. Tacitus (56-120 AD)
  3. Mara Bar-Serapion (70 AD)
  4. Phlegon (80-140 AD)
  5. Pliny the Younger (61-113 AD)
  6. Suetonius (69-140 AD)
  7. Lucian of Samosata (115-200 AD)
  8. Celsus (175 AD)
  9. Josephus (37-101 AD)
  10. Jewish Talmud, referencing first century writings (400-700 AD)

The Importance of Bible Study
Practicing Hermeneutics

  1. AUTHOR-AUDIENCE-DATING: Who wrote, to whom and when?

(Include what was going on in the culture of that)

  1. PURPOSE OF THE WRITING: Why was it written?

(Include genre – it’s usually historical narrative)

  1. CONTEXT/FLOW OF THOUGHT: What does it say?

(Get the big picture—read a whole book, chapter or passage in one sitting)

  1. OVERALL INTERPRETATION AND SUMMARY: What does it mean?

(include cross-referencing the Bible for questions)

  1. PERSONAL AND CULTURAL APPLICATIONS: How do I use what I’ve learned?

(always done last in order to not misinterpret)

It is important to do it in this order and not in reverse!

This method requires us to ask questions of the text:

  • What is going on in the entire passage/story/chapter/book?
  • Who is speaking and to whom are they speaking?

Ask the who, what, when, where, why, how questions as you read and study

Some basic answers for the Gospel of Luke – Overview

1.  Who wrote this book, to whom was it written, and when?

Author: Luke

  • Luke is the historically accepted author of both this Gospel and the book of Acts.
  • Biblical references: Acts 1:1-3; 16:10-17; 20:5-15; 21:1-18; 27:1-37; 28:1-16 (we, first person language used by Luke).
  • Luke used eyewitnesses for his Gospel (Luke 1:2).
  • Luke was a companion of the Apostle Paul and a doctor by trade (Col 4:14; Phm. 24).
  • Unanimous testimony of earliest Christian sources: (e.g., Justin Martyr, the Muratorian Canon, and Tertullian, Ignacius, Irenaeus, and Clement).
  • Luke is the only “Gentile” author in the New Testament.
  • Luke is considered by scholars, both Christian and secular, as one of the greatest historians of antiquity.

The Gospel writer Luke, is considered to be one of the greatest historians to ever write!

Luke’s Testifies As An Investigator

Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word,  it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; so that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught.  Luke 1:1-4 (NASB)

Note: Luke continues this testimony in the books of Acts.

Audience and date:

  • Luke is writing specifically to Theophilus (name means “loved by God”) with a focus on Greek believers who would not have been as familiar with Jewish history
  • Ultimately the audience would be all believers
  • Written somewhere between AD 58-65 (prior to the deaths of Peter and Paul in AD 65 and the destruction of the Temple in AD 70)

2.  Why was it written?

  • As with the other two synoptic gospels—Matthew and Mark—this book’s purpose is to reveal the Lord Jesus Christ and all He “began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven” (Acts 1:1-2).
  • The Gospel of Luke is unique in that it is a meticulous history—an “orderly account” (Luke 1:3) consistent with Luke’s medical mind—often giving details the other accounts omit.
  • Luke’s history of the life of the Great Physician emphasizes His ministry to—and compassion for—Gentiles, Samaritans, women, children, tax collectors, sinners, and others regarded as outcasts in Israel.

3.  What does chapter one say? Take a few notes to summarize, or copy the chapter sub-titles

  • Introduction and dedication to Theophilus by Luke
  • The Angel Gabriel foretells John’s (the Baptist) birth
  • The Angel Gabriel foretells Jesus’ birth
  • Mary visits John’s mother Elizabeth
  • Mary praises the LORD – the Magnificat
  • The birth and naming of John (the Baptist)
  • Zechariah’s prophecy about John’s (the Baptist) calling

4.  What does it mean? Answer a few questions for better understanding:

a.   Who are the people we learn about in this chapter, and why are they important?

  • Theophilus
  • Herod, King of Judea
  • Zechariah the Priest (from the division of Abijah)
  • Elizabeth (from the daughters of Aaron)
  • The Angel, Gabriel
  • Mary
  • Joseph (from the house of David)
  • John (the Baptist)

b.  What did we learn about the birth of John the Baptist, and the foretelling of the birth of Jesus?

  • Zechariah and Elizabeth were of the Priestly line and righteous before God
  • Zechariah was serving by lot – (many priests never got this privilege, but it could also be deadly if they enter the Holy Place without following the requirements of the Law)
  • Both are foretold by the Angel Gabriel, and both are miraculous births
  • Zechariah’s ability to speak was shut down until John was born, due to unbelief; but was vindicated when he supported Elizabeth in naming John, who was to be in the spirit of Elijah, pointing the way to the Messiah
  • Both were prophesied in the Old Testament in multiple accounts, centuries before
  • Zechariah and Mary both praised God and/or prophesied because of these miracles
  • God’s sovereignty over His Covenant Promise is played out here…

c.  What miraculous things happened in this narrative that support God’s sovereignty?

  • Angel Gabriel foretells these births
  • Zechariah was mute until the birth and naming of John
  • Both births are miraculous (John to aged parents; and Jesus to the Virgin)
  • John leaps in his mother’s womb when Mary arrives
  • Mary was also told that her (aged) relative Elizabeth was pregnant as a sign of God’s sovereignty

5.  How do I use what I have learned? For example: Does this help me grow closer to Jesus; share my faith with others; encourage me or give me hope for the future; answer a question I have, etc.?

Answers will vary…

HOMEWORK

Homework for next week:

  1. Reflect on the importance of “eyewitness accounts” and add two or three things to your “Gospel Message” list.
  2. Read Luke chapter two, and take a few notes, or copy sub-titles (for step 3 Context).
  3. Answer a few questions to go deeper (for step 4 Interpretation):
    • What happened when Jesus was born, and why was he born there? (Use the Old Testament to go deeper if you can)
    • Who did the Angel announce the birth of Jesus to, and what did they do?
    • Who were Simeon and Anna, and what did they say and confirm about Jesus?
    • What happened at the Temple when Jesus was 12 years old; how did his parents respond and what does it say that Jesus did after that incident?
  4. How do I use what I have learned? (for step 5 Application reflect on what you’ve learned, for example: Does this help me grow closer to Jesus and know Him better; share my faith with others; encourage me or give me hope for the future; answer a question I have, etc.?)

Please continue to join us each week as we study about, and through, God’s Word!

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You will not find this material in the public school curriculum even though it is based on solid evidence and grounded in research. It is ironic that following the evidence to where it leads stops at the door of our public schools as they will not let a “Divine footprint” in!  Join us as we examine evidence for Christianity and learn how to become a thoughtful defender and ambassador of your faith.

Click into the resource page of this website to view many of the top Christian thinkers and apologists along with some of their work; connecting to these types of resources is essential in your Christian growth.

Please let me know what you think: Give feedback, ask questions or send concerns in the comment section of the blog.

Teri Dugan

TeriDugan@truthfaithandreason.com

1 Peter 3:15

 

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