Peter J Williams and Bart Ehrman – Are the Gospels historically reliable?
Oct 25, 2019
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Leading sceptical New Testament scholar Bart Ehrman and noted Cambridge University Bible scholar Peter J Williams engage in a conversation about the reliability of the Gospels. They discuss the importance of critically examining the claims of the Bible, explore the reliability of ancient authors, analyze the credibility of the Gospel of Luke and Acts, debate the variations in the resurrection accounts, and address the distinction between arguing against fundamentalist views and arguing against Christianity.
The podcast discusses the reliability of the Gospels, with one speaker arguing for their historical accuracy based on knowledge of the time and place, while the other highlights the differences and contradictions that cast doubt on their reliability.
The role of oral tradition in the transmission of the Gospel stories is debated, with one speaker emphasizing the potential for changes and inconsistencies, while the other argues that the Gospel authors' knowledge suggests their reliability.
The concept of inerrancy is explored, with one speaker affirming the belief in scripture's truthfulness without mistakes, while the other challenges this perspective by highlighting the differences in interpretation and historical context.
The possibility of reconciling differences and contradictions in the Gospel accounts is discussed, with one speaker suggesting alternative explanations, while the other stresses the need for critical evaluation of historical reliability.
Deep dives
The Dating and Reliability of the Gospels
The podcast discusses the dating and reliability of the Gospels, specifically focusing on the Gospel of Luke, along with the other three Gospels. The speakers analyze the different perspectives on the authorship and dating of the Gospels. While Peter argues that the Gospels can be trusted as historically reliable due to the authors' knowledge of the time, place, and personal names, Bart emphasizes that the differences and contradictions between the Gospel accounts cast doubt on their accuracy.
Oral Tradition and Contradictions in the Gospels
The speakers engage in a discussion around the role of oral tradition in the transmission of the Gospel stories. Bart suggests that oral traditions are prone to change and inconsistencies over time, citing the contradictory accounts of Judas Iscariot's death as an example. Peter, on the other hand, argues that the Gospel authors demonstrate a high level of knowledge about the time, place, and personal names, which indicates their reliability. However, Bart maintains that the oral transmission of the stories cannot guarantee their historical accuracy.
The Authorship and Inerrancy of Scripture
The conversation shifts to the concept of inerrancy and the belief that all of scripture is true and without any mistakes. Peter affirms his belief in the inerrancy of scripture, asserting that it reflects God's character of truthfulness. Bart questions Peter's view, highlighting the differences in interpretation and perspective between those who believe in the inerrancy of scripture, like Peter, and those who approach scripture critically and analyze its historical and textual contexts.
Reconciliation and Interpretation of Gospel Accounts
The conversation concludes with a discussion on the possibility of reconciling differences and contradictions in the Gospel accounts. Peter suggests that alternative explanations and interpretations can be used to harmonize the accounts, while Bart emphasizes the need to critically examine and evaluate the actual historical reliability of the stories outside of personal interpretations or reconciliations. Both speakers highlight the importance of understanding and respecting different perspectives on the reliability of the Gospels.
Different Views on the Historical Reliability of the Gospels
In this podcast episode, two scholars, Bart Ehrman and Peter J. Williams, engage in a discussion regarding the historical reliability of the Gospels. While Ehrman argues that the Gospels are subject to changes and variations, Williams contends that their consistency with Palestinian culture and religion suggests their reliability. They also discuss the development of Jesus' portrayal as a divine being throughout the Gospels, with Ehrman emphasizing that the later statements in the Gospel of John are absent in earlier sources like Mark and Q, raising questions about their historical accuracy. The conversation highlights the different perspectives on the reliability of the Gospels and the significance of oral tradition in shaping Jesus' story and teachings.
The Role of Oral Tradition in Shaping the Gospels
One point of contention in the podcast revolves around the influence of oral tradition on the formation of the Gospels. Ehrman argues that the stories and sayings about Jesus were transmitted orally for 40 to 50 years, which could have led to changes and modifications. This viewpoint is supported by scholarly research on oral tradition. In contrast, Williams suggests that starting with the text of the Gospels is crucial and emphasizes the accuracy and reliability of the Gospel accounts, pointing to their consistency in reflecting Palestinian culture, geography, and religion. The discussion sheds light on the complexities and challenges in evaluating the role of oral tradition in shaping the Gospels' content.
Confirmation Bias and the Search for Truth
The podcast also delves into the motivations behind engaging in scholarly study of the Bible. Ehrman discusses the confirmation bias that can drive individuals to seek evidence that supports their existing beliefs, while Williams encourages an open-minded approach to following the truth, even if it challenges one's preconceived notions. The conversation touches on the difficult process of critically examining one's faith and beliefs, as well as the role of scholarly research in understanding the historical reliability of biblical texts. The speakers present contrasting viewpoints on the impact of naturalistic worldviews in academic settings and the importance of being open to the evidence when considering the truth claims of the Bible.
Arguably, no individual has influenced the course of history more than Jesus of Nazareth. But, can we trust the accounts of his life, death and resurrection?
In this latest episode of The Big Conversation from Unbelievable? leading sceptical New Testament scholar Bart Ehrman engages with noted Cambridge University Bible scholar Peter J Williams who defends the reliability of the accounts.
