Did Jesus really rise from the dead? The Resurrection Debate | Mike Licona vs Dale Allison hosted by John Nelson

Introduction to the Resurrection Debate

John Nelson introduces the episode, welcoming scholars Dale Allison and Mike Licona to discuss the historical evidence for Jesus' resurrection. He frames the debate around historiographical methodology and the possibility of historical inquiry into miracle claims.

Methodology: Can Historians Investigate the Resurrection?

The scholars debate whether historians can legitimately assess miracle claims. Licona argues that historians can evaluate the resurrection as a historical event, even if they cannot determine divine causation. Allison agrees in principle but emphasizes that the evidence does not reach the level of 'inexplicable' events.

The Role of Worldview and Analogical Reasoning

The discussion turns to how worldview influences interpretation. Licona stresses the importance of bracketing one's worldview, while Allison acknowledges that metaphysical assumptions inevitably shape historical conclusions. They explore the limits of analogy, especially with unique events like the Big Bang or resurrection.

The Nature of the Resurrection Body

Licona and Allison examine the New Testament portrayal of the resurrection body. Licona argues for a physical yet transformed body, citing Paul’s language of 'spiritual body' as Semitic metaphor. Allison notes the anti-docetic intent in the Gospels, emphasizing physicality to counter beliefs that Jesus only seemed human.

The Empty Tomb and Early Christian Belief

The scholars assess the historical reliability of the empty tomb. Allison finds the burial and empty tomb plausible due to their coherence with early Christian tradition and social behavior. Licona defends the tomb narrative against comparisons to ancient 'translation fables', arguing for historical continuity.