This has been a fascinating thread, there's nothing like religious opinions to get discussions moving.
I believe that Jesus and the prophets really lived, and that their stories have guided and motivated people for centuries.
I also believe that the scriptures have been tweaked over time to be a form of social control. Translated by the powerful literate to keep the "great unwashed" in their place.
I follow the pagan path. I can see, feel and hear what mother earth is up to, and thank her for her bounty, as well as try to protect her from those who don't understand.
The original question? Just suppose........that Jesus wasn't dead when Joseph of Arimathea put him in his own personal tomb. took him out and tended his wounds in the dead of night. It explains all that happened afterwards, including the legends that Jesus was married to Mary Magdalene and went on to have children.
All stories, and we at Mudcat know how legends and stories, in many guises persist through the ages.