Christology: A Biblical, Historical, and Systematic Study of Jesus by Gerald O’Collins

This book is an in-depth study of the person and work of Jesus Christ, compiled through a biblical, historical, and systematic approach. In this work, O’Collins presents a comprehensive argument regarding the divinity of Jesus, his historical existence, and his impact in the context of Christian theology and faith. The author presents a synthesis between historical data and testimonies of faith while still considering modern criticisms of the Gospel narrative. This book is written in a structured format, making it easy for readers to follow the development of Christological thought from the early days of Christianity to contemporary reflection. Through a rigorous academic approach that remains accessible to the general reader, O’Collins succeeds in filling the discussion space that is often separated between the historical study of Jesus and the confession of the church’s faith. This paper will review one of the important points of the book, namely the argument about the historical existence of Jesus, by examining various textual and non-textual evidence put forward by the author as the basis for the belief that Jesus really lived in human history.

The existence of Jesus as a historical figure has been supported by various scientific evidence and historical sources from different traditions and non-Christian writers. The first evidence supporting the existence of Jesus comes from Roman and Jewish historical records that mention him as a real figure who had a significant influence in the social and religious context of the time. For example, Roman writers such as Tacitus and Suetonius mention a figure named Jesus, referred to as the Christ, who was executed by the Roman government under Pontius Pilate during the reign of Emperor Tiberius [p. 3]. This record shows that Jesus was not just a mythological figure, but an individual who truly lived and underwent a real execution in history.

The second evidence comes from Jewish sources, particularly the work of Flavius Josephus, which mentions the existence of Jesus and His influence among the Jewish community. Although Josephus' text has been later interpolated, it remains an important reference indicating that Jesus was widely known and had a significant following. Josephus mentions that Jesus was a wise man who performed many amazing deeds and had a great influence, sparking the emergence of a new religious movement [p. 3]. Therefore, the existence of Jesus is supported not only by Roman sources but also by Jewish historical records showing that He was a real figure who interacted with society at that time.

In addition to external sources, scientific evidence also comes from textual analysis and oral traditions that developed among His followers. Research into early traditions shows that many of the characters and events recorded in the Gospels and other early writings were based on firsthand experiences and testimonies of those who lived during Jesus' time. For example, figures such as Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Cleopas are believed to have been eyewitnesses who provided direct data about Jesus' life and teachings [p. 51]. This research strengthens the argument that the stories about Jesus have a strong historical foundation because many of the witnesses were direct observers and had close connections to important events in His life.

The third evidence supporting the existence of Jesus comes from the letters of Paul, written before the four Gospels were composed. These letters, written between 50 and 67 AD, present a brief yet comprehensive overview of Jesus' life and work. Paul mentions that Jesus was a descendant of David, born as a Jew, and carried out His ministry among the people of Israel [p. 3]. He also emphasizes that Jesus died by crucifixion and rose from the dead, appearing to a number of eyewitnesses, including Peter, the apostles, and himself. This data shows that the existence of Jesus as a historical figure was acknowledged and supported by the early Christian community, who directly witnessed key events in His life.

The fourth evidence comes from scientific methodological analysis of the Gospels and the developing oral traditions. Research shows that many of the stories about Jesus recorded in the Gospels are based on eyewitness testimonies and traditions that were passed down directly from generation to generation [p. 46]. This approach reinforces that these stories are not merely legends but have a strong historical basis because they originate from reliable sources with direct connections to real events. Additionally, the use of criteria such as multiple independent witnesses strengthens the argument that most of the events and sayings of Jesus recorded in the Gospels are derived from direct experiences and not mere fabrications.

The fifth evidence supporting the existence of Jesus comes from archaeological discoveries and relevant material evidence. Although no artifacts with Jesus' name have been directly found, discoveries such as places of worship, tombs, and other artifacts from the same period provide a historical context that supports the existence of figures mentioned in early Christian traditions. Moreover, the existence of places like Jerusalem and Nazareth, which were central to Jesus' activities, is supported by archaeological evidence showing that these areas were indeed inhabited and had social structures consistent with the narratives in historical texts and the Gospels [p. 2].

The sixth evidence comes from a critical analysis of the authenticity and reliability of the resurrection stories and post-resurrection experiences of Jesus. Research shows that these stories contain consistent elements and are supported by testimonies from different witnesses, including women like Mary Magdalene, who were culturally regarded as less respected witnesses but remained key witnesses in the resurrection story [p. 100]. The presence of these witnesses and the consistency of their narratives strengthen the claim that the resurrection experience was a real event that triggered the emergence of faith and a major religious movement.

The seventh evidence relates to the social impact and influence of Jesus' existence and teachings. Although it does not directly prove His physical existence, the influence He had on the development of Christianity and the social changes in the region suggests that this figure truly lived and interacted with society. The teachings He delivered and the events that occurred during His lifetime sparked the emergence of a large and widespread community, which later grew into one of the largest religions in the world [p. 2].

Conclusion

The available scientific and historical evidence shows that the existence of Jesus as a historical figure is supported not only by external sources from outside the Christian tradition but also by textual analysis, oral traditions, and archaeological evidence. This scientific approach strengthens the argument that Jesus was a real figure who lived in the first century and had a major influence on religious and cultural history. Therefore, the existence of Jesus can be accepted as a historical fact supported by various complementary and reinforcing pieces of evidence.

Reference

O'Collins, G., 2009. Christology: A biblical, historical, and systematic study of Jesus. Oxford University Press.