Reasonable Faith Podcast Bart Ehrman's Farewell Speech
Jan 12, 2026
Dr. Bart Ehrman reveals what he believes is the most pivotal discovery in biblical studies. He discusses the challenges of manuscript variants and their impact on New Testament texts. Ehrman highlights archaeology's role, citing examples like the Exodus and the tomb of Jesus. William Lane Craig responds with insights into the limitations of archaeological evidence. The Dead Sea Scrolls are praised for enhancing understanding of first-century Judaism. Finally, the conversation touches on the importance of teaching critical thinking in biblical studies.
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Manuscript Variants Shape Biblical Meaning
- Bart Ehrman argues the New Testament survives only in later copies, not originals, producing many textual variants.
- He claims some variants materially affect meaning and theology, making the flawed-manuscripts discovery significant.
Many Copies Aid Textual Reconstruction
- William Lane Craig responds that the abundance of manuscripts lets scholars reconstruct originals with over 97% accuracy.
- He notes Ehrman himself admitted reconstructed texts generally match modern Bibles.
Ehrman's On-Record Admission About Originals
- William Lane Craig recounts an interview where Ehrman admitted reconstructed original texts 'pretty much' match our modern Bibles.
- Craig uses this to argue Ehrman misleads laypeople about textual uncertainty.
