the vast majority of secular and non-Christian historians and biblical scholars agree that a historical man named Jesus of Nazareth lived in the first century, was baptized by John the Baptist, and was crucified under Pontius Pilate. While they reject the theological claims of miracles, they consider the evidence for his existence to be strong.
- Scholarly Consensus: There is "nearly universal" consensus among experts—including atheist, Jewish, and skeptical scholars—that Jesus was a real, historical person, not a myth.
- Evidence Basis: Beyond the New Testament, early non-Christian sources (like Roman historian Tacitus and Jewish historian Josephus) mention Jesus, confirming he was a historical figure.
- Historical Context: Historians view Jesus as a Jewish preacher in Roman-occupied Galilee, a figure whose life and death were unremarkable enough to the Roman authorities that no direct, immediate government records of his trial exist, yet prominent enough to spark a movement.
- The "Myth" Theory: Theories suggesting Jesus was entirely made up are considered "laughably weak" by almost all professional historians, even if they are popular in secular, non-academic circles.

