Lucian asserts (50)that Jesus introduced new teachings in Palestine. These included (51)the need for conversion, (52)the denial of the gods, and (53)the brotherhood of all believers. Jesus’ teachings additionally included and encouraged
(54)worship of himself, (55)living according to his teachings, (56)the importance of faith, and (57)immortality, which led to a contempt for death among believers. Lucian also notes (58)that Christians had sacred Scripture which was frequently read.
In addition to the point mentioned earlier, that Jesus was worshiped by early believers as deity, Pliny also reports (59)an oath taken by believers not to commit sin, that typifies Jesus’ ethical teachings. Additionally, Pliny tells us (60)that true believers could not be enticed or forced to worship the gods, and (61)that they worshiped on a certain day of the week before dawn, both of which also reflect Jesus’ teachings.
Lastly, the Gospel of Truthadds two other items. (62)Jesus taught his listeners about his Father and (63)Jesus realized that his death was the basis for the life of many people. The Death of Jesus
From the early creed in 1 Corinthians 11:23ff. we learn (64)that Jesus attended a dinner (65)on the evening on which he was betrayed. At this meal he (66)gave thanks for the food, and (67)shared both bread and drink, (68)which he referred to as the sacrifice of his body and blood for sin.
(69)The Jewish leaders determined that Jesus was guilty of teaching spiritual heresy and of leading Israel to apostasy (Talmud; cf. Apocryphon of John). (70)As a result, the Jews sent out a herald who proclaimed that Jesus would be stoned for his teachings, though anyone who wished was invited to defend him. However, no one came forward to speak for him (Talmud).
