Podcast Summary: Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey – Ep 1174 | Is Easter Pagan? | Guest: Dr. Sean McDowell

Release Date: April 17, 2025

In Episode 1174 of Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey, hosted by the Blaze Podcast Network, Allie Beth Stuckey engages in a profound and insightful conversation with Dr. Sean McDowell, an esteemed associate professor in the Christian Apologetics Program at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. The episode delves deep into critical theological questions surrounding the existence, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, especially in the context of cultural challenges posed to Christianity.

1. The Existence of Jesus and Historical Evidence

Allie Beth Stuckey opens the discussion by addressing contemporary skepticism about Jesus’s existence, noting comments like “Jesus wasn’t real” circulating on social media.

Dr. Sean McDowell emphatically counters such claims:

“The idea that Jesus didn't exist is ridiculous. … we have too many sources… early church fathers who assume that Jesus existed.” (04:44)

He references historical documents and testimonies, including the writings of Josephus and Tacitus, affirming Jesus’s existence long before modern mythicist theories emerged. McDowell underscores that not only do biblical texts provide evidence, but also non-Christian sources from antiquity corroborate Jesus’s life and crucifixion.

2. The Crucifixion of Jesus

Transitioning to the crucifixion, Allie Beth raises doubts some skeptics have about its historical authenticity.

Dr. McDowell responds with robust historical backing:

“The evidence for the crucifixion of Jesus is virtually overwhelming now.” (08:49)

He cites multiple early sources, including 1 Corinthians 15, various New Testament books, and external accounts from historians like Josephus and Tacitus. McDowell also emphasizes the theological improbability of early Christians inventing such a shameful and dishonorable death, arguing that the crucifixion’s historical weight is further supported by the apostles’ willingness to die for their beliefs.

3. Pagan Roots of Easter

A significant portion of the episode examines claims that Easter has pagan origins, with some suggesting it’s rooted in the worship of Ishtar, the fertility goddess.

Dr. McDowell refutes this by highlighting Christianity’s Jewish foundations:

“Christianity has Jewish roots. … Jesus points towards Old Testament prophecy about him being the Messiah.” (15:53)

He argues that similarities often cited between Easter and pagan festivals are either exaggerated or developed after Christianity was established, suggesting that pagan religions might have borrowed elements from Christianity rather than the other way around. McDowell also shares his personal approach to cultural elements like Christmas trees, advocating for understanding their context within Christian teachings.

4. Significance of Jesus’s Death and Resurrection

Allie Beth brings the conversation to the theological importance of the crucifixion and resurrection, asking Dr. McDowell to articulate why these events matter.

Dr. McDowell explains the unique position of Christianity in celebrating a day marked by suffering as "Good Friday":

“Jesus understands himself and so do the Gospels as fulfilling the Old Testament. … Jesus is the ultimate sacrifice.” (38:33)

He elaborates on Jesus’s role as the Lamb of God, fulfilling Old Testament sacrificial systems, and underscores that the resurrection signifies God's affirmation that death does not have the final say. This resurrection is portrayed as distinctively Christian, offering salvation as a free gift rather than something earned, setting Christianity apart from other faiths.

5. Rapid-Fire Theological Questions

Towards the episode’s conclusion, Allie Beth poses a series of theological questions submitted by listeners, which Dr. McDowell addresses thoughtfully:

• Question: “Why did God make the serpent in the Garden of Eden?” (49:05)

  Dr. McDowell: Encourages engaging with the question, acknowledging that while the Bible doesn’t provide direct answers, it highlights God’s ability to use even rebellion for a greater good.

• Question: “How can I know for sure that I'm saved?” (50:20)

  Dr. McDowell: Differentiates between certainty and assurance, emphasizing confession of faith as outlined in Romans 10:9 and addressing underlying doubts through community and personal reflection.

• Question: “If someone is just starting out in exploring Christianity, what should they do first?” (52:26)

  Dr. McDowell: Advises new believers to engage with a local evangelical church, participate in small groups, and begin reading foundational scriptures like Genesis and the Gospel of John.

6. Reflections on Spiritual Blindness and Human Nature

Allie Beth and Dr. McDowell explore the theme of spiritual blindness, drawing parallels between the Pharisees’ inability to recognize Jesus and contemporary believers’ struggles:

Allie Beth Stuckey: Reflects on the Pharisees’ hardened hearts and human tendencies to fear societal backlash over truth.

Dr. McDowell: Highlights the importance of overcoming fear to uphold truth, emphasizing Jesus's example of steadfastness in the face of misunderstanding and opposition.

7. Concluding Thoughts

The episode wraps up with Allie Beth expressing gratitude to Dr. McDowell for his insightful contributions and extends warm Easter greetings. Dr. McDowell shares information on how listeners can connect with his work, including his online presence and educational programs at Talbot School of Theology.

“Our gospel is different and that's why, you know, Paul says he talks about grace as a free gift. … we can be humbled before God and then live differently because we have actually been forgiven.” (44:08)

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. Sean McDowell on the Resurrection’s Significance:

  “We have good, solid evidence to conclude that Jesus has risen from the grave.” (06:30)

• Allie Beth on Cultural Christianity vs. Historical Faith:

  “It's not enough to just say, well maybe he was like some other Messiah… you’re gonna need a better explanation.” (08:15)

• Dr. McDowell on Celebrating Christian Holidays:

  “Christianity does not have pagan roots. It has Jewish roots.” (15:53)

• On Assurance of Salvation:

  “Believe that Jesus is God, that he’s the one the Father sent, that he’s forgiven you for your sins.” (50:37)

Conclusion

Episode 1174 of Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey offers a comprehensive exploration of foundational Christian beliefs in the face of modern skepticism. With Dr. Sean McDowell’s scholarly insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the historical and theological underpinnings of Christianity, reinforcing the significance of Jesus’s death and resurrection. The episode not only addresses common doubts but also encourages believers to engage with their faith authentically and courageously.

Note: All timestamps correspond to the provided transcript for easy reference.