Did Jesus really rise from the dead? Two top Historians debate the Resurrection
Michael R. Licona
76.44
2 April 2026
8 April 2026
In this Easter special of Unbelievable?, we explore one of the central claims of Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus.
Host John Nelson is joined by two leading New Testament scholars with different perspectives on the historical evidence.
Dale Allison (Princeton Theological Seminary) is widely respected for his careful historical work on Jesus and early Christian belief, often urging caution about how far historians can go in explaining the resurrection.
Mike Licona (Houston Christian University) argues that the best explanation for the early eyewitness testimony, the empty tomb tradition, and the rapid growth of the Christian movement is that Jesus was bodily raised from the dead.
Both scholars agree on much of the historical data — including Jesus’ crucifixion and the early belief that he appeared to his followers — but they disagree on what historians can reasonably conclude.
Can historians infer a miracle?
How should we weigh visions, experiences, and empty-tomb traditions?
And what does the historical evidence really point to?
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