Project Outline
Numerous naturalistic theories have been proposed to challenge the historical accuracy of Jesus’
resurrection. One such theory, the Resurrection Myth Theory, suggests that the narrative of Jesus’
death and resurrection was influenced by pre-existing myths surrounding dying and rising gods
like Osiris. However, upon thoroughly examining this theory's historical context, proponents, and
foundational principles, it becomes apparent that it inadequately represents the events
surrounding Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Additionally, when compared with the historical
evidence of Jesus’ crucifixion, the experiences of his disciples, their subsequent transformation,
and the conversions of Paul and James, the Resurrection Myth Theory fails to offer a coherent
and compelling explanation that aligns with the accounts found in the Bible. In contrast, the
Bible presents a wealth of persuasive evidence and historical facts that support the crucifixion
and resurrection of Jesus.
I. Introduction
II. Alternative Naturalistic Theory/Hypothesis
A. "Exploring the Origins of the Resurrection Myth Theory"
1. Throughout history, many cultures within and neighboring Judea maintained beliefs in
divine entities purported to experience death and subsequent resurrection.
2. The Jewish community deliberately established a deity to experience a symbolic death
and subsequent resurrection.
B. "The Resurrection Myth Theory garners support from numerous esteemed figures within
the discipline."
1. Bruno Bauer, whose impact began to emerge in the 19th century, was the initial
proponent to achieve eminence in academic circles.
2. Edwin Johnson, possessing scholarly credentials, functioned as another proponent in the
field.
C. The Resurrection Myth Theory posits that earlier mythologies and religious traditions may
have influenced the account of Jesus' resurrection. This theory suggests that the narrative of
Jesus' resurrection in the New Testament could have been shaped by preexisting myths and
legends surrounding dying and rising gods from diverse cultural backgrounds.
1. The concept of Jesus' resurrection resembles resurrection narratives found in the
mythology of other deities.
2. The belief posits that the resurrection of Jesus may not have occurred in a literal sense
but instead draws parallels with the mythological narrative of the Egyptian deity Osiris.
3. "Assessing and comparing both theories or hypotheses using limited data."
A. Jesus of Nazareth, a prominent historical figure, was subjected to execution through
crucifixion.
1."Several scholars have proposed an alternative theory suggesting that the crucifixion of
Jesus may have been a symbolic reenactment of a Babylonian ritual involving a sacrifice to the
deity Marduk."
2. The Resurrection Theory contends that the crucifixion of Jesus is a thoroughly
documented historical event. It asserts that Jesus was resurrected from the dead three days after
his crucifixion.
B. The disciples of Jesus underwent profound and intimate experiences that convinced them
of encountering the resurrected Jesus.
1. The Alternative Theory posits that the disciples' encounters with the resurrected Jesus
paralleled the experiences of adherents of other mythological deities purported to have
undergone death and subsequent resurrection. This theory contends that the disciples' interactions
with Jesus may have been influenced by preexisting religious and mythological conceptions
surrounding deities who undergo death and rebirth.
2. The Resurrection Theory posits that Jesus appeared to numerous individuals following
His crucifixion, including women, Peter, the twelve disciples, 500 different persons, James, the
apostles, and Paul.
C. "The disciples displayed an exceptional commitment to undergoing a profound
transformation, showcasing a readiness to make sacrifices, even in the face of potential death."
1. Adherents of the Alternative Theory are believed to have reinterpreted the notion of
human sacrifice, a prevalent custom in various cultures throughout history.
2. The acceptance of the resurrection implies that the disciples experienced a profound
metamorphosis, transitioning from mere adherents of Jesus to individuals who were prepared to
make significant sacrifices, including the forfeiture of their lives, in allegiance to Christ.
D. Paul's conversion
1. The alternative theory does not explain Paul's conversion experience sufficiently.
2. The Resurrection Theory posits that Paul's profound transformation in conduct and
convictions is evidence for the existence of Christ.
E. James conversion
1. The alternative theory does not explain James' conversion sufficiently.
2. According to the Resurrection Theory, James did not believe that Jesus was the Son of
God until Jesus manifested to him after His resurrection.
IV. Conclusion
Annotated Bibliography
Justin Bass, The Bedrock of Christianity: The Unalterable Facts of Jesus' Death and
Resurrection, 2020.
In this book, Bass argues for the historical reality of Jesus' death and resurrection as a
foundational aspect of Christianity. Through the presentation of evidence and analysis that
support the factual basis of the events of Christ, Bass challenges the notion of the resurrection
Myth Theory. This book discusses topics like the intersection of faith, history, and Christianity to
provide a counterpoint to theories that undermine the historical credibility of Jesus' resurrection.
Stephen J. Chester, Conversion at Corinth: Perspectives on Conversion in Paul's Theology and
the Corinthian Church, Bloomsbury Publishing (UK) eBooks, 2003,
https://doi.org/10.5040/9780567660787.
Chester's book explores the various perspectives of Paul's conversion to Christianity. It discusses
Paul's radical transformation and how it provides insights into the theological aspects of true
conversion. It also offers valuable context for understanding the significance of Paul's conversion
as it relates to the broader theme of Christ's resurrection and redemption.
Ben Witherington, The Acts of the Apostles: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary, 1997,
https://ci.nii.ac.jp/ncid/BA34399549.
Witherington examines the early Christian church's experiences and activities as depicted in the
Book of Acts. This book delves into the development of the early Christian church practices and
beliefs that stem from the disciples' encounters with Jesus before and after His resurrection. It
provides historical and literary context for the accounts of the disciples' experiences with the
risen Christ and the spread of Christianity.
Mattias P. Gassman, Worshippers of the Gods: Debating Paganism in the Fourth-Century Roman
West (Oxford University and Press, 2020).
This book explores how Jesus's resurrection resembles other rising and dying deities like Balder
and Osiris. It provides an analysis of pagan resurrection myths and their historical contexts.
Gassman discusses how the Resurrection Myth Theory relates to the Bible.
David Gowler, James Through the Centuries (John Wiley & Sons, 2020).
Gowler's book discusses the different interpretations and reception of James' epistle throughout
