[user104658]

Originally Posted by Kizzy

I think if those who proffer to be Christians actually acted like Christians...the world would be a more heavenly place.

I actually think he did exist... I hold on the the thought there is a force for good in the universe, even if sometimes doesn't feel like it.

Yes, given all of the available evidence it's become increasingly likely that Jesus, the individual, did exist. And that he did good, and through his life gained devoted followers (as many mere mortals do). What's less clear is the account of his abilities... Which were most likely exaggerated again and again through "Chinese whispers" and folklore... E.g. Perhaps him and his followers charitably brought bread and fish to a starving village - and over time this became a story of him "magically" feeding thousands with a small amount of food. Perhaps he brought medicines / medical knowledge from his travels and healed people that others had assumed to be dying, and that story was passed on as "magic".

Its even unclear as to whether he himself ever declared himself the son of / an avatar of God... Or if this was something that came from his followers, possibly even as "rewritten history" after he was executed and became a martyr.

Theology is fascinating in itself and as has been said, its intricately interwoven into human history. But again, the same can be said of ancient Egyptian, Roman, Greek and Norse religions which are now only history - and yet no less valuable or fascinating from a sociological / anthropological viewpoint.

I personally believe that all religions are destined to go the same way over time. Although inevitably, others will spring up in their place from time to time.