Bible Talk Session 6: The Minimal Facts Approach to the Resurrection of Jesus

Bible Talk Session 6: The Minimal Facts Approach to the Resurrection of Jesus 
2025-03-22 
Dr. Ben Shaw 

Summary:

This lecture explores the Minimal Facts Approach, a method for discussing the resurrection of Jesus based on widely accepted historical facts. The session emphasizes the reliability of the New Testament, the importance of reading Scripture regularly, and the transformative power of the resurrection. It highlights six key facts that scholars—regardless of theological belief—generally accept: Jesus’ death, the disciples’ experiences of the risen Jesus, early proclamations, their transformation and willingness to suffer, the conversion of James, and the conversion of Paul. The lesson also explains historical methodologies used to establish these facts and demonstrates how they provide a strong foundation for faith and evangelism.

Outline:

1. Introduction to the Minimal Facts Approach

• Importance of the resurrection

• Three types of doubts: factual, emotional, volitional

• Why the gospel is central

2. The Importance of Scripture

• The transformative power of reading the Bible

• Research findings on Scripture engagement

• Practical benefits of Scripture in daily life

3. The Minimal Facts and Their Historical Basis

• Fact 1: Jesus’ Death by Crucifixion

• Multiple attestation (Tacitus, Josephus, Paul, Gospels)

• Embarrassment factor (crucifixion was humiliating)

• Strauss’ critique of the swoon theory

• Fact 2: The Disciples’ Experiences of the Risen Jesus

• Paul’s account in 1 Corinthians 15

• Eyewitness testimony (Peter, James, Paul, the Twelve, 500+)

• Fact 3: The Early Proclamation of the Resurrection

• Dating 1 Corinthians 15 creed to early 30s AD

• The message preached within the lifetime of eyewitnesses

• Fact 4: The Transformation of the Disciples

• From fear to boldness

• Willingness to suffer and die for their belief

• Fact 5: The Conversion of James

• Skeptic turned leader of the Jerusalem church

• Post-resurrection appearance led to belief

• Fact 6: The Conversion of Paul

• Former persecutor of the church

• His transformation and writings confirm early Christian beliefs

4. Defending the Use of Historical Sources

• Addressing objections (e.g., “You can’t use the Bible”)

• The Gospels as independent historical sources

• Historical criteria (multiple attestation, enemy attestation, embarrassment factor)

5. Conclusion: Why This Matters

• The resurrection as the foundation of Christianity

• How the Minimal Facts Approach strengthens faith and apologetics

• Encouragement to study and share the gospel confidently