text: Hi Monica. I do think we can develop a clear picture of the historical Jesus, although it is rather skinny. We know his dates, 4BC-30AD, that he was a disciple of the Baptist, that he taught in stories and parables, that he was regarded as a healer and miracles worker, that he entered into interpretations of halaka, and that he died by crucifixion. My sources are the four volumes of John Meier and the works by James D, G, Dunn. When it comes to individual accounts in the gospels, each has to be treated separately and weighed historically.