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Can we consider Bible verses historical statements? The debate surrounding the historical accuracy of the Gospels, for example, would depend on whether you consider the Gospels to be eyewitness accounts of the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. For the purpose of this post, let’s assume the perspective that the Gospels are eyewitness accounts.
Quotations from historical figures abound that succinctly capture the best moments and wisdom of the lives of famous people and their impact on the world. Abraham Lincoln, C.S. Lewis, and Socrates, for example, are all immortalized by the words they left behind. Long after their lives ended, their words inspire, convict, and instruct those who believe the historical person lived, acted, and spoke as their words were recorded.
It is easy to gloss over the impact of the words we find in the Christian Bible. As we read the Gospels, we read it as Scripture, instruction, inspiration, and divine counsel. How would the Gospels impact us if we read and treated verses as historical quotes instead? Here are some historical quotes from the New Testament Gospels.
Historical Quotes from the Gospels
“I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” – Mary
(when she was told she would be an unwed mother.)
“The word of God will never fail.”
-The angel Gabriel
“You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
– Peter,
(when Jesus asked who Peter believed him to be.)
“ I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God.” – John the Baptist
(after he saw the Holy Spirit rest on Jesus).
“He is not guilty of any crime.” – Pontius Pilate
(just before he ordered the murder of Jesus.)
“I have betrayed an innocent man.” – Judas Iscariot
(after the arrest of Jesus).
“Father, forgive them because they don’t know what they are doing.” – Jesus
(as he was dying on the cross.)
“This man was certainly the Son of God!” – the Roman officer who witnessed the crucifixion.
“I just saw Jesus!” - Mary
(on the morning of Jesus’ resurrection.)
“I am coming soon!” -Jesus Christ,
(after he rose from the dead and ascended into heaven.)
“I have investigated these things carefully so that you can be sure that these things are true.” – Luke,
(at the beginning of his gospel letter.)
Copyright @TA Boland 2023
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