Andy Stanley is Wrong About the Origins of the Bible
May 21, 2023
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Dr. Stephen Boyce critiques Andy Stanley's claim about the origins of the Bible, highlighting historical errors made by Stanley. They discuss the process of selecting and recognizing the 27 New Testament books, the development and collection of the Bible, the authority of scripture, and challenge the belief that Athanasius compiled the first list of documents for the New Testament.
The podcast critiques Andy Stanley's claim that the completion of the Canon was attributed to Athanasius of Alexandria, demonstrating historical errors in Stanley's understanding of the origins of the Bible.
The podcast emphasizes the significance of educating believers about the origins and development of the church to counter misconceptions, highlighting the role of church fathers, apocryphal works, and early church history in supporting the authenticity of the Bible.
Deep dives
Misunderstanding the Origins of the Bible
The podcast episode discusses the flawed understanding of the origins of the Bible, specifically the New Testament. The host believes that many influential figures, such as Andy Stanley, have misinterpreted the historical evidence surrounding the compilation and acceptance of the New Testament books. Stanley is criticized for suggesting that the canonization process occurred in the 4th century, primarily influenced by Athanasius of Alexandria. In contrast, the host argues that the collection and recognition of the New Testament texts happened much earlier in history, with numerous early writers and church councils acknowledging and utilizing these writings as scripture. The host emphasizes the need for Christians to have a proper understanding of the canon's development in order to counter misconceptions and provide accurate historical information.
The Importance of Early Church History Education
The podcast addresses the lack of teaching on early church history in many modern American churches. The host argues that the failure to educate believers about the origins and development of the church has resulted in a limited understanding of the evidence supporting the authenticity of the Bible and the formation of the New Testament canon. The episode highlights the significance of church fathers, apocryphal works, the canon of scripture, and the text of scripture in creating a robust understanding of early Christianity. The host urges listeners to seek accurate historical knowledge to prevent misconceptions from being perpetuated.
Challenges with Certain Teachings on Church History
This podcast episode critiques specific teachings of Andy Stanley, a well-known minister in Atlanta, regarding church history. While acknowledging Stanley's positive contributions, the host expresses concern about what they perceive as controversial and flawed interpretations put forth by Stanley. They argue that Stanley's teachings on topics such as the Old Testament conundrums, the distinction between eyewitness accounts and the Gospels, and the development and authority of the canon showcase misinformation, questionable theology, and historical inaccuracies. The episode calls for clarity and correct representation in theological teachings.
Correcting Misconceptions about the Councils and Bishops
The podcast challenges misconceptions surrounding ancient church councils and their role in the formation of the New Testament canon. The host refutes the idea that these councils, such as the Council of Laodicea and the Council of Carthage, were selectively picking and choosing books for the canon. Instead, they argue that these councils were affirming and recognizing the books that had been consistently and widely accepted by the churches over time. The host also highlights the practice of consulting with other churches in different regions to ensure consistency in their collections, emphasizing that the canon's development was not a result of arbitrary decision-making but rather a reflection of the ongoing transmission of authoritative writings.
On this episode of FACTS, Dr. Stephen Boyce will be examining Andy Stanley’s claim in his book “Irresistible” about the origins of the Canon. Dr. Boyce will demonstrate the historical errors made by Stanley when attributing the completion of the Canon to Athanasius of Alexandria.
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