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This module tackles the historical and theological pivot point: the crucifixion and death of Jesus.
We will present the overwhelming historical evidence for the crucifixion of Jesus, not only from the Gospels but from non-Christian sources such as Josephus (Jewish historian) and Tacitus (Roman historian), all written very close to the event.
We will analyze the specific Quranic verse that denies the crucifixion, which says, '...they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but was made to resemble him to them...'
The Substitution Theory Problem: Christian polemicists argue that the various substitution theories make God a deceiver who tricked everyone into thinking Jesus died, accidentally starting the entire religion of Christianity based on a lie.
Theological Necessity: Why did Jesus have to die? We will explain the Christian doctrine of the Atonement: God is perfectly just and must punish sin, but also perfectly loving. On the cross, Jesus (the sinless God-Man) voluntarily bore the punishment for humanity's sin, satisfying justice and allowing grace.