Today is a summary of the two ancient Gentile sources that were discussed the last two posts. This included Lucian of Samosata [L] and Mara bar-Serapion [M].
- Jesus was worshipped by the Christians. [L]
- Jesus introduced new teachings in Palestine. [L]
- He was crucified because of his teachings. [L]
- Christians believed all believers were brothers. [L]
- They believed this brotherhood occurred from the moment of conversion taking place. [L]
- Further, it occurred after denying false gods. [L]
- These teachings included worshipping Jesus, and [L, M]
- Living according to his laws. [L, M]
- Lucian refers to Jesus as a "sage" which, in a Greek context would be equivalent to a "wise man" or "philosopher" and Mara bar-Serapion adds virtuous man. [L, M]
- Christians were followers of Jesus. [L]
- Christians believed themselves to be immortal. [L]
- Christians accepted Jesus' teachings by faith. [L, M]
- Christians practiced their faith by disregarding material possessions. [L]
- Christians had "sacred books" which were frequently read. [L]
- When something affected their community, they spare no trouble, no expense. [L]
- Because of this, they were taken advantage of by con-men. [L]
- He twice is called the Jew's King. This is perhaps a reference to Jesus' own teaching about himself or of the notice posted above his head on the titulus while he hung on the cross. [M]
- The punishment the Jews received was a result of their executing an innocent man. [M]