Throughout history, the existence of Jesus has been corroborated not only by Christian sources but also by independent records from non-Christian authors. These accounts lend significant weight to the historical presence of Jesus, highlighting his influence and the events surrounding his life.

One of the most prominent non-Christian sources is the Roman historian Tacitus. In his work “Annals,” written around 116 AD, Tacitus refers to the execution of “Christus” (a reference to Jesus) under the governance of Pontius Pilate during the reign of Emperor Tiberius. This account provides a critical independent confirmation of the crucifixion event as depicted in Christian texts.

Similarly, the Jewish historian Josephus offers valuable insights in his “Antiquities of the Jews,” composed between 93 and 94 AD. Josephus makes two mentions of Jesus, with one passage known as the Testimonium Flavianum. Although this passage has sparked debates over its authenticity, it continues to be a crucial piece of evidence that acknowledges Jesus as a teacher and notes his crucifixion.

Another noteworthy mention comes from Pliny the Younger, a Roman governor, who wrote to Emperor Trajan around 112 AD. In his letter, Pliny describes early Christians worshiping Christ as a deity and meeting regularly for their rituals. This reference not only supports Jesus’ existence but also highlights the early Christian community’s devotion to his teachings and their belief in his divinity.

Archaeological finds have also played a role in supporting the historical narrative of Jesus. In 1961, the Pilate Inscription was discovered in Caesarea Maritima. This stone inscription explicitly mentions Pontius Pilate, reinforcing the biblical account of his involvement in Jesus’ trial and execution.

Early Christian Writings: Early Christian writers such as Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, and Polycarp—who were contemporaries or immediate followers of the apostles—wrote about Jesus as a real person who had lived, died, and risen from the dead. These writings, which are part of the early Christian tradition, serve as additional evidence that Jesus was a historical figure.

Joining Nancy Grace:

Additional Guests 

• Dr. Robert “Bobby” Duke – (Southern CA and Washington, D.C.) Chief Curatorial Officer and the Director of the Scholars Initiative at Museum of the Bible, Author of “Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic Dictionary” and “The Social Location of the Visions of Amram;” Facebook: MuseumofBible, Twitter: @museumofBible
• Dr. Robert Van Voorst – Professor Emeritus of New Testament at Western Theological Seminary, and Author of “Jesus Outside the New Testament: An Introduction to the Ancient Evidence”

“Crime Stories with Nancy Grace” on Fox Nation is also a national radio show on SiriusXM channel 111, airing for two hours daily starting at 12 p.m. EST. You can also subscribe and download the daily podcasts at iHeart Podcasts.

[Feature Photo: The James Ossuary was on display at the Royal Ontario Museum from November 15, 2002, to January 5, 2003/Wikipedia Commons]