The minimal facts approach, a method for arguing the historicity of the resurrection of Jesus, focuses on only those facts about Jesus’ life and death that meet two primary criteria: they are strongly attested by multiple independent sources, and they are accepted by nearly all historical scholars, regardless of their religious beliefs. This method avoids relying on potentially controversial interpretations or theological assumptions, aiming for a more objective and persuasive case.
This methodology provides a foundation for discussing the resurrection within a broader historical framework. By concentrating on a core of widely accepted facts, it sidesteps more contested aspects of the Gospels and engages scholars from various backgrounds in a productive dialogue. The development of this approach represented a significant shift in resurrection studies, offering a fresh perspective on an age-old debate.
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