In this episode of The Christian Clinician, host Dr. Tanya Paynter launches a three-part apologetic series on the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus, focusing on the "minimal facts argument." As a practitioner who combines faith with evidence-based medicine, Dr. Tanya Paynter discusses how understanding historical evidence for the resurrection can strengthen both faith and well-being. She walks through the first two of five widely accepted minimal historical facts: Jesus’ death by crucifixion and the disciples’ genuine belief in his resurrection. The episode also highlights the value of early oral creeds, extra-biblical accounts, and even medical insights. Dr. Tanya Paynter encourages listeners to engage deeply with the evidence and to let their discoveries inform both mind and spirit.

Today's Action Steps

1. Investigate the minimal facts argument for yourself and assess the level of historical confidence you require when evaluating evidence.
2. Research the dating and significance of the oral creed in 1 Corinthians 15, as referenced in the episode.
3. Reflect on what would motivate you to risk everything for a belief, using the disciples’ transformation as a model.
4. Seek out additional resources on the historical evidence for the resurrection to deepen your own understanding.
5. Recognize the connection between a secure faith and physical health, and allow truth to bring you greater peace.

Resources Mentioned in Today's Episode

Strobel, Lee. The Case for Christ. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1998.

“CHURCH FATHERS: Contra Celsum, Book II (Origen).” Accessed November 17, 2024. https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/04162.htm.

Edwards, William D., Wesley J. Gabel, and Floyd E. Hosmer. “On the Physical Death of Jesus Christ.” JAMA 255, no. 11 (March 21, 1986): 1455–63. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.1986.03370110077025.

Eusebius. “CHURCH FATHERS: Church History, Book II (Eusebius).” Accessed November 22, 2024. https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/250102.htm.

Groothuis, Douglas. Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith. 2nd ed. Downer’s Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2022.

Habermas, Gary R. The Historical Jesus: Ancient Evidence for the Life of Christ. 11th ed. Joplin, MO: College Press Publishing Company, 1996.

Habermas, Gary R. The Risen Jesus and Future Hope. Lanham, MD: Rowman and Littlefield Publishers, Inc., 2003.

Habermas, Gary R., and Michael R. Licona. The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 2004.

Smithsonian’s Department of Anthropology. Letter. “The Bible as History.” Letter, n.d. https://csnradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/SmithsonianLetter-o.pdf.

Strauss, Mark L. Four Portraits, One Jesus: A Survey of Jesus and the Gospels. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Academic, 2007.

Tacitus. “The Internet Classics Archive | The Annals by Tacitus.” Accessed November 21, 2024. https://classics.mit.edu/Tacitus/annals.11.xv.html.

Timestamps

02:02 – What counts as historical proof and standards for evaluating ancient events

05:24 – An introduction to the minimal facts argument and its five core claims

06:28 – Fact #1: The historical documentation of Jesus’ crucifixion

08:30 – Synoptic Gospel accounts and extra-biblical corroboration

09:46 – Non-Christian sources and archaeological evidence supporting crucifixion

11:23 – Medical evidence reviewed by modern physicians

12:15 – Debunking the “swoon theory” and affirming Jesus’ actual death

13:24 – Fact #2: Evidence for disciples’ genuine belief in Christ’s resurrection

13:58 – The disciples’ post-crucifixion transformation and willingness to die for their belief

15:28 – Multiple sources confirming unwavering apostolic faith and message

16:11 – Consistency of the gospel and non-Christian affirmations

16:50 – The unexpected shift in Jewish tradition and rapid adoption of new beliefs

17:25 – The dating and importance of the early oral creed in 1 Cor 15

23:18 – Reflection: Would you risk everything for your beliefs?

24:29 – Romans 10:9 and the personal invitation to faith

25:03 – Recap and encouragement to deepen knowledge; invitation to next episode

25:57 – Where to find more resources, final encouragement, and closing remarks

About the Host

Dr. Tanya Paynter is the host of The Christian Clinician podcast, where she merges faith-based perspectives with evidence-based medicine to help listeners renew both body and spirit. Known for her deep dives into historical and biblical scholarship, she invites experts and thinkers to educate, challenge, and inspire those seeking to join faith with practical health and wellness.

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