The Christian Compass

Jesus of Nazareth is widely recognized as the first truly historical figure in Christianity. His life, teachings, and the historical evidence supporting his existence have been pivotal in shaping the religion and its followers. This article explores the historical context of Jesus, examines the ancient texts and historians that reference him, and delves into the significance of his role in Christianity. By understanding Jesus from both a historical and religious perspective, we can gain deeper insights into the foundations of one of the world's largest religions. Historical Evidence of Jesus: Ancient Texts: The primary sources of information about Jesus are the Gospels of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These texts, written by Jesus' followers, provide detailed accounts of his life, teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection. Despite being religious texts, they are considered valuable historical documents. Non-Christian Sources: Josephus: A first-century...

Confirmation bias, the tendency to seek and interpret information that confirms our existing beliefs, is a universal human phenomenon. It's not unique to any particular religion or group. However, within religious contexts, certain practices and teachings can amplify this cognitive bias, potentially influencing how individuals perceive and interact with the world. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), often referred to as the Mormon Church, is no exception. The Power of Rituals and Teachings The LDS Church places a strong emphasis on regular rituals and teachings. These practices serve multiple purposes: Community Building: Temple ordinances, weekly sacrament meetings, and other gatherings foster a sense of belonging and shared identity among members. Spiritual Reinforcement: Scriptures, sermons, and lessons from Church leaders provide a framework for understanding the world and one's place within it. Moral Guidance: Teachings on ethical princip...