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Writer's pictureEdward D. Andrews
Aug 16 min read

Are Biblical Miracles Imitations of Pagan Myths?

The Claim of Imitation


The claim that biblical miracles, particularly those of Jesus, were inspired or motivated by pagan accounts from the ancient world is a frequent criticism. Critics argue that healings, demon possessions, virgin births, and resurrections were common in ancient pagan myths, implying that the Bible's accounts are derivative or plagiarized. However, this assumption is flawed for several reasons and fails to recognize the significant differences between pagan myths and biblical narratives.



Philosophical Differences Between Pagan and Biblical Accounts


One crucial distinction is the philosophical and cultural context in which these stories were told. Pagan myths often revolve around cyclical, repetitive patterns in nature, reflecting the seasonal cycles of death and rebirth. These myths were deeply embedded in the cultures that produced them, such as the Greeks and Romans, who viewed history in terms of endless cycles.


In contrast, the Jewish worldview, which underpins the biblical accounts, is linear. History progresses from creation, through significant events such as the Exodus, towards a future climax in God's redemptive plan. This linear perspective sees history as a series of unique, non-repetitive events orchestrated by Jehovah. This fundamental difference in worldview profoundly impacts the nature and purpose of miracles in these respective traditions.



Historical Verifiability of Biblical Figures


Another significant difference lies in the historical verifiability of the figures involved. Many pagan heroes, such as Hercules or Orpheus, are mythological figures with no basis in historical fact. Their stories were not intended to be historical accounts but rather allegories or entertainments reflecting cultural values and beliefs.


In contrast, Jesus of Nazareth is a historically attested figure. The events of His life and ministry are documented in multiple sources, both within and outside the New Testament. The Gospels provide detailed accounts of His miracles, teachings, death, and resurrection, rooted in the historical context of first-century Palestine. This historical grounding sets the biblical accounts apart from pagan myths.



The Influence of Pagan Myths in Palestine


Scholars have noted that the influence of pagan myths in first-century Palestine was minimal. The Jewish population, with its strong monotheistic beliefs and distinct cultural identity, was resistant to the syncretism that characterized other regions of the Roman Empire. The Jewish rejection of pagan practices and beliefs is well-documented in the Old Testament and other Jewish writings.


For example, the Apostle Paul, who was well-versed in both Jewish and Greco-Roman cultures, consistently distinguished the Gospel from pagan myths. In 1 Corinthians 1:22-23, Paul states, "For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness." This distinction highlights the unique and countercultural nature of the Gospel message.



Lack of Parallel Pagan Accounts


Few, if any, pagan miracle stories predate the New Testament and closely resemble the miracles of Jesus. Most supposed parallels are either superficial or postdate the New Testament, making it implausible that the Gospel writers borrowed from these sources. For instance, the accounts of dying and rising gods in pagan mythology often involve seasonal cycles rather than historical events.


The resurrection of Jesus stands out as a particularly unique event with no true parallel in pagan mythology. Unlike the cyclical resurrections of gods tied to agricultural cycles, Jesus' resurrection is presented as a one-time, historical event with profound theological significance. The New Testament writers emphasize the eyewitness testimony and historical reality of the resurrection, setting it apart from mythological accounts.



Evidence for Jesus' Miracles


The most compelling evidence against the idea that biblical miracles were derived from pagan myths is the substantial historical evidence for Jesus' miracles and resurrection. Contemporary critical scholars, including those who are not Christians, generally agree that Jesus performed acts that were perceived as miracles or exorcisms.


For example, the Jewish historian Josephus, writing in the first century, refers to Jesus as a "doer of wonderful works" (Antiquities 18.63). The Talmud, although written from a hostile perspective, also acknowledges that Jesus performed miraculous deeds, albeit attributing them to sorcery. These external attestations support the New Testament accounts of Jesus' miraculous ministry.



The Resurrection of Jesus


The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of Christian faith and the most attested miracle in the New Testament. The evidence for the resurrection includes multiple independent sources, early creedal formulations, and the transformation of skeptics into fervent believers willing to face persecution and death.


One of the earliest and most compelling pieces of evidence is the testimony of the Apostle Paul. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, Paul provides a creedal statement that dates to within a few years of Jesus' crucifixion. He lists eyewitnesses to the resurrection, including himself, emphasizing that many were still alive and could corroborate his account.


Moreover, the willingness of the apostles and early Christians to endure suffering and martyrdom for their belief in the resurrection further strengthens the case. Unlike mythical heroes, the disciples did not gain worldly power or wealth; instead, they faced severe persecution. Their unwavering conviction that they had seen the risen Jesus is best explained by the reality of the resurrection.



The Transformative Power of the Resurrection


The resurrection of Jesus had a transformative impact on the early Christian community. The disciples, who had been fearful and disheartened after Jesus' crucifixion, became bold proclaimers of the Gospel. This transformation is evident in the rapid spread of Christianity and the establishment of the early church.


Acts 2:32-33 records Peter's bold proclamation on the day of Pentecost: "This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. Therefore, being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear." Peter's transformation from a denier of Jesus to a fearless preacher underscores the reality of the resurrection.



The Distinctiveness of Biblical Miracles


Biblical miracles, particularly those of Jesus, are distinct in their purpose and context. They are not mere displays of power but serve to reveal God's character, validate Jesus' messianic identity, and demonstrate His authority over creation, sin, and death.


For instance, the healing miracles of Jesus are acts of compassion and restoration. In Mark 1:40-42, Jesus heals a leper by touching him, a profound act of compassion that also breaks social and ceremonial barriers. Jesus' miracles often have a redemptive purpose, pointing to the ultimate restoration of all things in God's kingdom.


The miracles also serve as signs that validate Jesus' claims. In John 10:37-38, Jesus says, "If I do not do the works of my Father, do not believe me; but if I do, though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in me, and I in Him." The miracles are not isolated wonders but integral to Jesus' mission and message.



Conclusion: The Uniqueness of Biblical Miracles


The assertion that biblical miracles are imitations of pagan myths does not hold up under scrutiny. The differences in worldview, historical context, and purpose between pagan myths and biblical narratives are profound. The historical evidence for Jesus' miracles and resurrection, the distinctiveness of their purpose, and the transformation of the early Christian community all point to the authenticity of the biblical accounts.


Jesus' miracles and resurrection are unique, grounded in historical reality, and integral to the Christian faith. They reveal God's character, validate Jesus' identity, and offer hope and redemption to humanity. Far from being derived from pagan myths, the biblical miracles stand as powerful testimonies to the truth of the Gospel.


About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).


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