Misquoting Jesus with Bart Ehrman

Church vs Universities: Who Gets the New Testament Right?

Jan 7, 2025
Hugo Mendez, a New Testament professor at the University of North Carolina, breaks down the contrasting methods of studying the New Testament in churches versus universities. He discusses how students are often shocked by the discrepancies within biblical texts when approached critically. The conversation also touches on the enriching experience of unbiased biblical study and highlights the value of diverse perspectives in a multicultural classroom. Mendez's insights challenge listeners to rethink established beliefs while embracing meaningful dialogue and inquiry.
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INSIGHT

Church vs. University Approaches to the Bible

  • Churches often use the Bible for moral lessons and faith inspiration.
  • Universities analyze it through history, literature, and human context.
INSIGHT

Student Surprise at Biblical Contradictions

  • Students are often surprised by the Bible's internal diversity and contradictions.
  • They initially struggle to see differences, wanting to harmonize the texts.
ANECDOTE

Analyzing Acts as History

  • Acts, often read as history, is analyzed critically in universities.
  • Scholars question its historical accuracy and author's aims, like with any historical text.
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