9 Proofs That Jesus REALLY Existed

Roman Historian Tacitus

In his book Annals, Tacitus wrote that:

Jesus (Christus) was executed under Pontius Pilate.

He was a non-Christian historian — and even criticized Christians — making his account highly credible.

 Jewish Historian Flavius Josephus

In Antiquities of the Jews, Josephus mentions:

• Jesus

• His followers

• His crucifixion

This comes from a Jewish source, not Christian.

 Roman Governor Pliny the Younger

Pliny wrote letters describing Christians who:

• Worshipped Jesus as God

• Gathered regularly

• Followed His teachings

This shows organized worship within decades of His death.

 Roman Writer Suetonius

Suetonius recorded disturbances in Rome caused by followers of “Chrestus” — widely understood as Christ.

This proves Jesus’ influence reached Rome very early.

 Greek Satirist Lucian of Samosata

Lucian mocked Christians for:

• Worshipping a crucified man

• Following His moral teachings

• Being loyal to Him unto death

Even critics admitted Jesus was real.

 The Execution Record Under Pontius Pilate

Multiple independent sources confirm:

• Jesus was sentenced by Pilate

• He was crucified

• This happened in Judea

Roman executions were carefully recorded.

 Early Christian Documents (1st Century)

The New Testament books were written:

• Within 20–60 years after Jesus’ death

• By eyewitnesses or close companions

• While many witnesses were still alive

This made fabrication extremely difficult.

 Rapid Growth of Christianity

Within 300 years:

• Christianity spread across Europe, Africa, and Asia

• Millions followed Jesus

• Many were willing to die for their belief

Mass movements rarely form around fictional people.

 Archaeological Evidence of Early Worship

Archaeologists have found:

• 1st–2nd century Christian symbols

• Early churches

• Inscriptions about Jesus

These confirm early devotion to a real historical figure.