Did Roman Emperors Not Acknowledge Jesus Christ as a Power to be Considered?

Q: My professor of ancient history teaches that Roman emperors did not acknowledge Jesus Christ as a power to be considered. Is this true? — H.S.

A: Even negative historical documents carry evidence of the truth and power of the Biblical account of Christ. The fourth-century Roman emperor, Julian the Apostate, certainly did oppose Christians and wrote of them disparagingly, but even his insults bear witness when he wrote:

“Jesus… has now been celebrated about 300 years having done nothing in his lifetime worthy of fame, unless anyone thinks it is a very great work to heal lame and blind people and exorcise demoniacs. … These impious Galileans not only feed their own poor, but ours also; welcoming them into their (love).”

The end of Julian’s life bears an interesting “backward” testimony as well. He was fatally wounded during a battle with the Persians and died sometime later. Many accounts claim that as he held up his dagger toward the sky, his last words were, “Vicisti, Galilaee,” which translates, “Thou has conquered, O Galilean.”

One writer has noted that “Socrates taught for 40 years, Plato for 50, Aristotle for 40, and Jesus for only 3. Yet the influence of Christ’s 3-year ministry infinitely transcends the impact left by the combined years of teaching from these men.” This echoes that of Augustine in the fourth century: “I have read in Plato and Cicero sayings that are very wise and very beautiful; but I never read in either of them: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden,’ (and I will give you rest, (Matthew 11:28, KJV).”

In the study of ancient history, do not overlook the Sacred Scriptures, for they are truth and power and the secret to life everlasting.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.