Accurately reconstructing Christian origins is a complicated if not impossible undertaking. Aside from the loss of documentation simply due to time, we have the deliberate revision of history by religiously motivated ancient church historians. I am no conspiracy theorist, and so am not suggesting that the entire history as we know it is fiction. However it is naive to think that the extant writings of influential ancient authors such as the Church Fathers are beyond suspect. IMO arguements about NT dates and theology that rely exclusively upon these Christian writings are likely erroneous conclusions. When these writings are used judiciously and can be corroborated thru internal (textual and linguistic) ananlysis, then they may serve as secondary evidence. Sadly, often these are the only 2 lines of evidence we have to base conlusions on.
The following article demonstrates the untrustworthiness of Classical texts, both religious and secular. I'll forewarn that the site at which this article is posted attracts nutcakes of all stripes. The site's core premise of questioning the history of our history books is legitimate, the theories touted by some posters are not. I believe this article stands on it's own merit. The article is entitled "Falsification of Classical Texts" and is found at:
http://www.revisedhistory.org/classical.htm
Judicious Use of Classical Texts
by peacefulpete 2 Replies latest watchtower bible
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peacefulpete
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stillajwexelder
I am sure that you all know (let us please not make this another political thread) that we are not always told the truth "In the Interests of National Security" - -so even now just 40 years ago I believe the 100% truth about JFK assasination is not known as an example (we could use other examples)- so how the hell can we ever know the truth about 2000 years ago - -there is all sorts involved - -national security Roman Empire/ politics, early church father power and prestige etc. So yes - we are not necessarily reading the truth in history - we just can not be -- The Koran is likewise tainted by what people wanted to include
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Narkissos
PP: Thanks for the article.
"History is a nightmare I am trying to wake of" (James Joyce)