Jesus in History: What Non-Christian Sources Say

One of the most common questions about Jesus is: is there evidence of his existence outside the Bible? The answer is yes, and it comes from non-Christian sources from the 1st and 2nd centuries.

Tacitus: Roman Historian

In his "Annals" (around 116 AD), Tacitus records that Nero blamed the Christians for the great fire of Rome. And he explains who the Christians were: "Christus, the founder of the name, suffered the extreme penalty during the reign of Tiberius at the hands of one of our procurators, Pontius Pilatus."

Tacitus was no friend of Christianity. He called it a "destructive superstition." Yet he confirms: Jesus existed, was executed under Pontius Pilate, and had followers who persisted after his death.

Josephus: Jewish Historian

Flavius Josephus, a Jewish historian writing in the 1st century, mentions Jesus twice in his "Antiquities of the Jews." The passage known as the "Testimonium Flavianum" describes Jesus as "a wise man" who "performed surprising feats" and attracted followers, both Jewish and Gentile.

What History Confirms

Non-Christian ancient sources confirm: Jesus of Nazareth was a historical figure, was crucified under Pontius Pilate, and his followers grew rapidly even after his death. The question of who he was goes beyond history. But that he existed, history answers: yes.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Hebrews 13:8

Do you have questions or want to go deeper on this topic? Consult the Oracle, our guide to faith.