You read the word “parable” and assume Crossan means “made up shit.” Except...that’s not what Crossan means. I’m familiar with his work. He says that the gospels intertwine factual information with elements of fiction in parabolic form.

A claim can certainly be considered as evidence. If you are trying to determine if there is a tiger in your backyard, you might want to seriously consider your neighbor’s claim that he heard a roar. That claim is evidence that can help in your determination.

It’s very likely that the gospel writers preserve eyewitness traditions. Bauckham constructs a very forceful case in support of this contention.

Bart Ehrman is not out to discredit or disprove Christianity. His scholarship is actually very mainstream. I agree with many, but not all, of his positions. That’s how critical thinking works. You examine the arguments and evidence and then draw your own logical conclusions.

Dear atheists, Sincere question. What book, article or video best represents your thinking when it comes to the question of God and not believing God exists? I’ve been unable to get answers to this question in the past and would appreciate your personal thoughts.