Joe Rogan, a self-described atheist, expressed amazement during a recent podcast episode after receiving a replica of what his guest, biblical scholar Wesley Huff, claimed to be the oldest known manuscript of the New Testament: Papyrus 52.

This ancient fragment is believed to contain text from the Gospel of John, written nearly 2,000 years ago, detailing Jesus’ trial before Pontius Pilate.

Huff presented the replica as evidence supporting the historical existence of Jesus, stunning the podcast host, who responded, “Wow. That’s unbelievable. That’s so fascinating.”

Papyrus 52 is often hailed by Christians as evidence for the authenticity of biblical events and is a small fragment believed to have been part of a portable copy of the Gospel of John. The manuscript was likely carried from Ephesus to Egypt and is unique for being written on both sides, a characteristic of early Christian writings.

During the discussion, Huff also delved into historical accounts and artifacts, including the Alexamenos Graffito, an ancient Roman graffiti etched between 50 AD and 250 AD. This drawing depicts a man worshiping a figure with a donkey’s head on a cross, mocking early Christians and their faith in the crucified Jesus. Huff described it as potentially the earliest visual depiction of the crucifixion.

Huff also discussed the resurrection referring to a 1986 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association examining the physical causes of Jesus’ death, concluding it was likely due to hypovolemic shock, asphyxia, and cardiac failure.

Rogan seemed intrigued and asked about ancient accounts denying the resurrection.

The 57-year old comedian and sports commentator has previously referred to himself as an atheist but more recently has admitted to exploring spiritual ideas, partly in response to the death of his grandfather.

Huff, who is the son of missionaries, encouraged the podcast host to engage with history and evidence to understand faith.