Ther aren’t any consistencies in the new testament for instances many people think that the gospels aren’t the same they simply are using different time sources, some are greek and some are hebrew. Missionaries aren’t trying to teach jewish people a false religion were’re only trying to give them the wonderful gift they gave us. Jesus, The christ and salvation can only come through Him and believeing in Him through faith and His death. and that He came to save us from our sins.
As for desciples of John the baptist that’s not in my bible nor are theose books you mentioned. Yes, the bible is reliable because it is inspired by God not man as your other sources are. No, I’m not some big historian who know usesless literature but I do know God and He is slow to anger and fast to forgive, loving and kind and will forgive any one who will accept His precious Son, Jesus Christ.