Jesus, the Apostles, and the New Testament — Jesus and the Apostles

The Apostles Bear Eyewitness Testimony

c. AD 30-70

The apostles publicly testified that they had seen and heard Jesus and had encountered Him risen from the dead.

Full Account

Acts repeatedly presents the apostles as witnesses. Their message included Jesus' ministry, crucifixion, resurrection, exaltation, and promised return. Opposition did not silence the claim that they spoke about events they had witnessed.

The New Testament writings likewise appeal to eyewitness testimony. This does not mean every author personally witnessed every event; apostolic associates such as Luke could investigate testimony and write from sources connected with the first witnesses.

Historical Significance

Eyewitness and apostolic testimony distinguishes the New Testament message from later legendary development.

People, Places and Sources

Key people: Peter; John; the Twelve; Paul; James; Luke
Key places: Jerusalem; Judea; Samaria; Roman cities
Languages: Aramaic, Greek
Scripture: Acts 2:32
Acts 4:19-20
1 Corinthians 15:5-8
1 John 1:1-3
2 Peter 1:16