According to Wikipedia, Jesus was 500+ years older than Mohammad, who is the most prestigious prophet in Islam. Perhaps, the age and fame of the savior of the world made lots of Christians to believe nobody was famous before Jesus was born.
Don’t be mistaken, there were two people who were very popular before Jesus was born. In fact, the council members in Jerusalem didn’t take Christ serious because they felt he would end up like those two famous people, who ended up as nobody and lost all their disciples.
Surprisingly, these two famous people were not prophets. They were just religious leaders who had large followers that were motivated and attracted by their false and enticing doctrines. Of course, any doctrine, teaching and sermons that do not lead anyone to Christ is false. Great prophets in the bible — Isaiah, Ezekiel, Moses, Zechariah, Joel and others — prophesied about Jesus. Their popular prophecies could be traced back to the Son of God.
As John stated, “without him nothing was made that was made.” You can’t just take him out of the Creation of the universe. He was right there in the beginning of the world. In fact, he initiated the beginning.
The reason the popular people died and perished with no landmark was because Jesus was not part of their teachings and doctrines.
"Then one in the council stood up, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in respect by all the people, and commanded them to put the apostles outside for a little while.
And he said to them: “Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what you intend to do regarding these men.
For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody. A number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was slain, and all who obeyed him were scattered and came to nothing.
After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census, and drew away many people after him. He also perished, and all who obeyed him were dispersed.
And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing;
But if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God.”
Acts 5:36-39 Nkjv
From the preceding Bible verses, the disciples of the Son of God were arrested and put in prison, by High priest and Sadducees, because they gained large popularity, preached and healed in the name of Jesus. Fortunately, an angel delivered and instructed them to continue preaching.
Then, they brought them before the council the second time for interrogation without applying any force. As they planned another tactic, a professor of the law known as Gamaliel, who trained Saul that became Paul, advised them to think otherwise. He highlighted the events that preceded the ministry of Jesus. He reminded everyone of the Famous Theudas who had over 400 devoted men. Secondly, he sighted another instance by mentioning Judas of Galilee who was also very popular. They both died and lost all their followers. After losing all their devotees, their messages perished with them.
The short enlightenment of Gamaliel made other rethink. From his life-saving speech, we discovered Jesus was not the first
well - known person as many claimed. Theudas and Judas of Galilee were well-known and exceeded everyone’s expectations until they died. Nobody can be compared to the Son of God. He died thousands of years ago, and his message is still being preached.
Thank God we are on the right path. Can I see your comment about your appreciation to God for showing us the right way? Indeed, he is the way.
