Misquoting Jesus with Bart Ehrman
Where Was Christianity on its 100th Birthday?
Sep 17, 2024
Bart Ehrman is a renowned expert in Christianity and its historical context. He dives into the transformation of Christianity a century after Jesus' death, questioning whether it was a small, persecuted group or a widespread movement. The discussion touches on the diversity within early Christianity, conflicts among beliefs, and the evolution of writings. Bart also speculates on how Jesus might react to the profound shifts in his followers' practices and identities, making for a thought-provoking exploration of faith's journey.
45:00
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Quick takeaways
- Christianity experienced significant growth and diversification by 130 CE, evolving from a small Jewish sect into a more widespread religious movement.
- The early Christian community began producing diverse writings, reflecting theological debates that shaped Christianity's identity separate from its Jewish roots.
Deep dives
The Growth of Early Christianity
Christianity underwent significant transformation in its first century, especially in its growth and diversity a hundred years after Jesus' death. Initially a small group of apocalyptic Jews, by 130 CE, it had spread throughout the Roman Empire, though estimates suggest only about 20,000 to 30,000 individuals identified as Christians at that point. This period saw a fragmentation of beliefs and practices, with various sects emerging, some adhering to Jewish law, while others started to redefine their spiritual identity separate from Judaism. This diversity laid the groundwork for future theological debates and conflicts as Christianity continued to evolve.
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