Misquoting Jesus with Bart Ehrman How do we separate history from myth in the Gospels
Jan 21, 2025
Dr. Bart Ehrman, a six-time New York Times bestselling author and renowned Bible scholar, dives into the fascinating interplay of history and myth in the Gospels. He discusses how scholars differentiate between historical facts and legendary narratives, revealing the complexities inherent in biblical texts. Ehrman shares his personal journey from a historical view to a nuanced understanding of these scriptures. He also highlights the significance of these discussions for believers and non-believers alike, emphasizing the deeper truths that can emerge from myth.
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Ehrman's Initial Belief
- Bart Ehrman initially believed in the Gospels' complete historical accuracy.
- This belief stemmed from his upbringing and continued through his early academic career.
Shifting Perspective
- Carefully reading the Gospels in Greek revealed discrepancies and historical errors.
- Comparing Gospels and Old Testament quotations exposed inaccuracies, leading to a shift in Ehrman's perspective.
Defining Myth and Legend
- Scholars often define "myth" as stories about gods, not necessarily untrue.
- "Legend" describes inaccurate information about historical figures; myths involve gods.