Gary R. Habermas - The Case For The Resurrection of Jesus

For over a quarter of a century, Gary R. Habermas has focused his research on the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. And for some time now, Gary has been recognized by myself and others as the top expert on the topic. A former student of Gary's, Mike Licona is also a leading "resurrection scholar" today. From these two come a tool that is broad in its scope, thorough and detailed in its depth, providing the fruit of considerable intellect and vigorous labor on this topic. Combined with a very creative style that is user friendly to the learner, I know of no other source quite like it. It may be the most thorough defense of the historicity of the resurrection.

J. P. MORELAND

Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Talbot School of Theology Biola University

Having known Gary Habermas's detailed and long-standing work on the resurrection and the history of its interpretation, it is a pleasure to see not only this compilation of many years of study, but also research on the subject by Mike Licona. When one couples this volume with the recent work of N. T. Wright on resurrection, one has to say that there is now a formidable intellectual gauntlet that has been thrown down, supported by meticulous research and powerful arguments, that challenges any view of the Easter events that does not include the bodily resurrection of Jesus. I highly recommend this rigorous and vigorous treatment of this subject which in so many ways is the most crucial one for Christian faith and praxis.

BEN WITHERINGTON 111

Professor of New Testament, Asbury Theological Seminary

These pages examine Jesus' resurrection from every conceivable viewpoint: the powerful evidence that it did occur, the strident objections that it did not, and the tools of logic necessary in deciding which is true. Habermas and Licona marshal the testimony of the primary sources in admirable fashion. To my knowledge, the chapters addressing naturalistic theories are the most comprehensive treatment of the subject anywhere. This Sunima offers compelling proof that the central event in human history did occur.

PAUL L. MAIER

Russell H. Seibert Professor of Ancient History Western Michigan University

This compelling book is the most comprehensive defense of Jesus' resurrection anywhere. You won't find a more thorough treatment of naturalistic theories. Its extensive endnotes by themselves are worth the price of the book! And you'll enjoy using the innovative CD to help you master the material. If you're interested in knowing the evidence for the resurrection and sharing it with others, then you must read this book!

LEE STROBEL

Author, The Case for Christ

The historical resurrection of Jesus is truly the foundation of the Christian faith. Mike and Gary have created a phenomenal resource, that is both user-friendly and up-todate, to equip believers to defend this crucial issue and to apply it to their personal lives. I highly recommend this resource to both the scholar and layperson.

JOSH MCDOWELL

Author, The New Evidence That Demands a Verdict

There is nothing like this on the market. It is interesting, engaging, and crucial material.

NORMAN L. GEISLER

President, Southern Evangelical Seminary

The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is the cornerstone of Christianity. Gary Habermas and his protege Mike Licona have distinguished themselves as leading experts on the evidence for this all-important event.

D. JAMES KENNEDY

Senior Minister, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church

Undoubtedly, the resurrection of Jesus is the primary testimony of the early church, but it is missing in many contemporary evangelistic programs. This book with its innovative software will not only entertain, but it will help us reeducate the church about the central message of the church. This is one set of materials that I can highly recommend.

L. RUSS BUSH

Senior Professor of Philosophy of Religion Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

The world has gone computer-mad and there is nothing as addictive as interactive CDs. My wife is appalled at the time I myself spend at the console (both Mac and PC) engaged in just such activity. Defenders of historic Christian faith need to capture this area for Jesus Christ, and that is exactly the function of Habermas and Licona's The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus. It provides an ideal opportunity for computer novices and computer experts, whatever their age, to interact with the solid case for the resurrection of Jesus Christ-and thus to face the necessity of making a personal decision concerning the truth of the entire Christian message. The CD's combination of the serious and the entertaining is a solid accomplishment.

JOHN WARWICK MONTGOMERY

Professor of Apologetics and Law, Trinity College and Theological Seminary

Gary R. Habermas

Michael R. Licona

To Jennifer, Richard, James, and Austin.

-Gary

To Debbie, my bride and the love of my life.

-Mike

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.

-Colossians 4:5 NIV

Contents

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Part 1 A Life to Die For: Sharing Your Faith

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.. 25

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Part 2 "Just the Facts, Ma'am"

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Part 3 "Yes, But...": Encountering Opposing Theories

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.... 84

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Part 4 Wait! There's More!

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Preface

A t some point in their Christian walk, many believers ask some difficult ,questions: Is Christianity really true? Are there any good reasons to know which religion is true? Could it be that God does not really exist? These are important questions, and we have an intense interest in their answers. After all, if atheism is true, then why should we subject ourselves to the teachings of Jesus? Why should we insist on views that alienate others, especially the claim that Jesus is the only way to heaven? If the Christian view of reality is wrong, we may be missing out on something. At least we are needlessly straining relationships with others. More important, if Christianity is false, let's find the truth about God and live accordingly. Even if it would disappoint others, why should we keep faith in a system that fails to provide what we want-eternal life? Not many Christians ask such questions. Some never question their faith, perhaps because they are afraid of the answers they might receive. If life is comfortable, let's not shake it to the point that radical change is required. Besides, how can anyone really find definite answers to these ultimate questions?