Many times a myth is...
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Many times a myth is perpetuated as reality. Things that are not true become accepted as matters of fact. So it is important to know whether the one recounting an incident is actually qualified to tell the story, or is simply passing along what he has heard from others. Napoleon once fought a great battle. The conflict was important to his rising fame as a general and to his acceptance as a leader among those who headed the nations of Europe. This battle had not been won easily. Many difficulties had to be overcome, and to the end the outcome was in doubt. Napoleon knew that stories about it would be enlarged in the retelling, and facts would become mixed with fiction. So he decided that this unique battle would be remembered, and at the same time those who participated would be honored. To do this he struck a medal in commemoration. On one side of the medal was the date and on the other side were the significant words: "I was there." What a thrill it gave many a soldier to show that medal to his family and friends! And it authenticated his description of the struggle because he really knew the facts. He had fought for France; he was there. The Apostle Peter is writing his knowledge about Jesus. He wants people to believe him, to accept his account as factual and reliable. His readers should know there was no myth to his story of Christ. So he says the one thing that gives his statements credibility: "We were eyewitnesses of his majesty." He wanted others to know that Christ is a part of the divine Godhead. His witness is reliable for he "was there." -- Lentz
