Some people want to reject the testimony of the NT evangelists on the basis that they are biased.  I have written on the problems of this claim before, but here is a brief summary of my argument (with some added insight offered by Greg Koukl in his September 10, 2012 podcast):

  • This is an example of the genetic fallacy – dismissing one’s arguments because of its origin, rather than addressing it on its own merits.
  • Having a bias is irrelevant to the legitimacy of one’s testimony and/or arguments.  One must grapple with the evidence rather than dismiss it because it comes from a biased source.
  • Everyone has a bias, including those who reject Jesus.  The only people without a bias are those who are ignorant of the matter.
  • It’s possible to have a proper bias.  For example, Kobe Bryant’s mother probably thinks Kobe is the best basketball player in the world.  Surely her relationship to Kobe renders her biased, but that does not her bias is not based on an accurate assessment of the facts.
  • Who else would you expect to provide arguments in support of Jesus other than those who are biased toward Jesus?  Surely those who reject Him will not offer arguments for Jesus. 
  • If we cannot trust the testimony and arguments of those who are biased in favor of Jesus, then we cannot trust the testimony and arguments of those who are biased against Jesus.  If one would not invalidate arguments offered against Jesus by His opponents, then they should not dismiss arguments offered for Jesus by His supporters.
  • Having previously adopted a point-of-view does not invalidate one’s testimony and arguments on behalf of that point-of-view.  Indeed, we would expect that reliable testimony and solid evidence should lead people to adopt a favorable conclusion.
  • Having a bias is not the issue.  One must demonstrate that a person’s bias has distorted their use or interpretation of the facts.  

See also Christians are not Objective?: Two Kinds of Objectivity