Ask NT Wright Anything - Season 2 Premiere: Exploring the Historical Context of the Bible

Released on January 13, 2025

Hosted by Dr. Mike Bird

Introduction

In the Season 2 premiere of "Ask NT Wright Anything," hosted by Dr. Mike Bird and featuring renowned theologian Tom Wright, listeners are invited to delve deep into the historical context of the Bible. This episode addresses pressing questions about the historical reliability of biblical narratives, the significance of Jesus' resurrection, and how believers can defend their faith against skeptical perspectives.

Historical Approach to the Bible

Tom Wright opens the discussion by emphasizing the essential role of history in Christianity. He asserts, "Christianity appeals to history, and to history it must go. In other words, it really matters that this stuff did happen" (01:00). Wright highlights that Christianity uniquely engages with historical events, unlike purely mythical or allegorical belief systems.

Dr. Mike Bird raises a thought-provoking question about the necessity of historical accuracy for the Bible's truth. He asks, "If someone convinced you that Job is a fictitious story, could you live with that?" (04:05). This sets the stage for exploring which parts of the Bible are historically grounded and which might employ literary devices for theological purposes.

The Role of Jesus and Resurrection

Delving into the heart of Christian belief, Tom Wright discusses the centrality of Jesus' resurrection. He states, "the most likely explanation, historically speaking, is that Jesus really was bodily raised from the dead, leaving the empty tomb behind him" (17:01). Wright underscores that the resurrection is not merely a spiritual or metaphorical event but a historical cornerstone that underpins Christian faith.

He further explains that Christianity’s historical claims are what give it distinctiveness and credibility. Without the resurrection, "if it really didn't, if it was all made up, then we're all wasting our time" (02:11). This perspective underscores the necessity of examining historical evidence to validate theological assertions.

The Resurrection and Time

A significant portion of the episode explores the intriguing concept of resurrection in relation to time. Tom Wright responds to an artistic interpretation comparing the resurrection to time travel:

"I think that's a great question... for the ancient Hebrews, then the Israelites, and then the Judeans of Jesus Day, there are all sorts of ways in which two things are going on... the past event of Passover comes forward... the Sabbath is an anticipation of that new creation" (07:49).

Wright elaborates that ancient Judean thought did not perceive time linearly as in Western tradition. Events like the resurrection were seen as realigning past promises with present realities, effectively bringing future hopes into the present. This theological framework allows sacraments like baptism and the Eucharist to bridge past, present, and future in Christian worship.

Addressing Skeptical Questions about Resurrection

The episode features thoughtful engagement with skeptics’ viewpoints. Jose Rodrigo from Guatemala poses a critical question about naturalistic explanations of the resurrection, such as hallucinations.

Tom Wright counters by pointing out that early Christians were aware of hallucination theories but maintained that the resurrection was a bodily event:

"You can't explain the resurrection simply as hallucination, because resurrection is about bodies... it's about people who are physically dead becoming physically alive again" (17:01).

Wright argues that the combination of resurrection appearances and the empty tomb provides compelling evidence that transcends hallucination theories. He emphasizes the historical plausibility of Jesus' resurrection in the context of first-century Jewish messianic expectations.

Responding to Resurrection Expectations

Sean Forrest raises a pertinent question about the guards at Jesus' tomb in Matthew’s Gospel, suggesting that there might have been an expectation of a rising Messiah:

"Why did Pilate put guards in front of the tomb? Being worried the apostles might steal his body to make it look like he rose." (24:53).

Tom Wright clarifies that this narrative reflects a rumor mill rather than a widespread belief in a dying and rising Messiah. He explains that:

"It's just that there's a rumor that this man... was saying he would rise again after his death... so now that he's dead, we better guard the tomb in case his followers come..." (25:30).

Wright asserts that there was no mainstream expectation of a rising Messiah within Judaism at the time. Instead, the guards' actions were a response to specific claims about Jesus rather than evidence of a broader resurrection belief.

Conclusion

The premiere episode of "Ask NT Wright Anything" offers a rich, nuanced exploration of the historical context of the Bible, emphasizing the pivotal role of Jesus' resurrection in Christian faith. Tom Wright's insights provide a robust framework for understanding how historical events and theological beliefs intertwine, strengthening the credibility of Christian claims.

Listeners are encouraged to engage with these deep theological discussions, fostering a more informed and resilient faith in the face of skepticism. As Dr. Mike Bird invites, "Let us know what you think... have a really good binge lesson" (28:06).

Notable Quotes:

• Tom Wright at 01:00: "Christianity appeals to history, and to history it must go. In other words, it really matters that this stuff did happen."

• Dr. Mike Bird at 04:05: "If someone convinced you that Job is a fictitious story, could you live with that?"

• Tom Wright at 17:01: "The most likely explanation, historically speaking, is that Jesus really was bodily raised from the dead, leaving the empty tomb behind him."

• Tom Wright at 07:49: "The ancient Hebrews... the Sabbath is an anticipation of that new creation."

• Tom Wright at 25:30: "It's just a rumor that this man... was saying he would rise again after his death."

Additional Resources

For those interested in further exploring the topics discussed, visit askntirite.com to leave questions, comments, and access a vast archive of past episodes for deeper insights into NT Wright’s theology and thought.

This summary aims to encapsulate the key discussions and insights from the podcast episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't had the chance to listen.