says and with what republicans, and most conservative christians say, I appreciate that. The bible has many valuable stories and lessons, as do many philosophers that pre-date both the new and old testament, and many that have written since. And since there is no evidence that any of those were anything other than just humans writing about the human condition, none get any special credentials beyond the logic and reason expressed in their writings.

The tide is turning on that "scholars ... believe Jesus did exist", as it becomes less professionally damaging for them to come out and saywhat they really think.

As for what gatekeeper50 said, Jesus "was not one person, but many", I agree, he is a compendium of persons from that time, and many ancient characters from prior religions and myths. All this is fine for making some moral caricature, not unlike Santa Clause or Uncle Sam.