#135 Christmas Isn't What You Think - John Nelson
Podcast: Within ReasonPublished On: Sat Dec 20 2025
Description: John Nelson earned a PhD in New Testament and Christian Origins from the University of Edinburgh in 2023. He writes for the Substack Behind the Gospels.His thesis is the first book-length study of Jesus' physical appearance in the Gospels. He runs a weekly Substack called "Behind the Gospels" which aims to make Biblical studies accessible to all.Timestamps:0:00 - Was Jesus Really Born on Christmas Day?2:51 - Are the Birth Narratives Attempts at History?6:34 - Where Was Jesus Actually Born?16:19 - Were the Birth Narratives Added Later?20:53 - Was Mary Really a Virgin?32:57 - Why Does Nobody Else Mention the Virgin Birth?37:39 - Was Jesus a Product of Adultery? 42:22 - Was Jesus Born in a Manger?48:07 - Who Are the Magi?54:04 - Was the Star Really a Star?01:00:03 - Did Herod Really Order a Slaughter of Infants?01:05:09 - Is the Christmas Story Anti-Imperial?01:09:04 - How Would Jewish Readers Interpret the Christmas Narratives?01:13:13 - Are Christmas Trees a Pagan Idol?01:16:12 - John’s Book and the Upcoming Tour
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