Josephus does not tell us that Christianity is true, and Christians do not need Josephus to tell them that Christ is risen. But Christianity makes claims about things that happened in public history under identifiable rulers, priests, and governors. For that reason, testimony from outside the church matters.
Today, the longing for cultural Christianity on both the left and the right hearkens back to an older version of Christendom that was a mixed blessing for the church in the western world. The cultural mediation of Christian views on created order has certainly benefitted the civilization we’ve inherited. But the gospel itself isn’t something that can be reduced to cultural mediation either. Instead, the gospel as a message stands apart from all human accomplishments and achievements, no matter how beneficial they might be.
The student of Scripture should always have a map open next to their Bible as they read. If possible, they should also travel to Israel, not to make a pilgrimage, but to see the context of the land in which these stories took place. These are not fairy tales made up about fictional fantasy lands; these are stories about real people in real places interacting with a real God.

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He was rooted in his own tradition but gracious with others when they wanted to learn about his faith or their own.
A “good death” and “good life” are not accomplished through personal striving but are grasped by faith in the promises of God.
Ever Heard of Candlemas?
Luke shows us that when we try to fit God into our life movie, the plot is all wrong; and not just wrong but trivial.
Liturgy offers an enriching form of worship. Here are 10 advantages it provides.
Amy Mantravadi asks if we should forgive others even if they are not repentant
Any message other than "Christ for you" is not good news.
Steven Paulson shares the meaning (and grace) found in All Saints Day
Amy Mantravadi reviews a new book about Medieval perceptions of Jesus
C.S. Lewis muses on joy in his spiriutal autobiography
The life of C.S. Lewis' brother, Warren Lewis
Theology and history go hand in hand in the real person of Jesus Christ, making the truth of the Gospels profoundly human and powerfully meaningful.