BIBLE STORY: “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.” –Matthew 1:18-25. [source]
COMMENTARY: Which parts of the story of the birth of Jesus are true, and how do you know? What is the difference between the stories of the birth of Jesus and the birth of, I dunno, Hercules? If you believe in the story of Jesus’ miraculous birth, is it only because you were taught it was true when you were a child, or do you have other empirical evidence? Sorry. I ask too many questions and have no answers. But what can you expect? I’m just another apostate.
