Stunned by Scripture Why Catholic Bibles Are Bigger
Jul 19, 2025
Why do Catholic Bibles include seven additional books? John Bergsma explores this question and debunks the myth that the Council of Trent added them. Discover the origins of the word 'Bible' and how the book format influenced scripture canonization. Delve into the historical growth of the Old Testament from Moses to the apostles and learn about the differing biblical lists among Jewish sects. Find out why Protestants chose a smaller canon after the Reformation and what early complete Bibles looked like.
28:12
Why Catholic Bibles Are Larger
- Catholic Old Testaments include seven additional books plus longer editions of Daniel and Esther compared to most Protestant Bibles.
- Those additions explain why Catholic Bibles are physically larger and contain texts like Susanna and the Prayer of Azariah.
Trent Did Not Invent The Deuterocanon
- A common Protestant claim says the Catholic Church added books at the Council of Trent to support doctrines like purgatory.
- John Bergsma states this claim is false and historically inaccurate.
Early Councils Affirmed Those Books
- The seven so-called deuterocanonical books appear in lists dating back to the Council of Rome (382 AD) and were affirmed by church fathers and councils.
- The Council of Florence in 1441 listed these books as inspired well before the Reformation.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app 1 chevron_right 2 chevron_right 3 chevron_right 4 chevron_right 5 chevron_right 6 chevron_right 7 chevron_right 8 chevron_right 9 chevron_right 10 chevron_right
Intro
00:00 • 44sec
Why Catholic Bibles Contain Seven More Books
00:44 • 3min
Debunking the Council of Trent Addition Claim
03:32 • 3min
Where the Word 'Bible' and the Book Form Came From
06:54 • 5min
How the Old Testament Grew from Moses Onward
11:29 • 6min
Jewish Sects and Differing Biblical Lists in Jesus' Time
17:55 • 2min
Apostolic Example and Councils Finalizing the Canon
19:58 • 3min
Earliest Complete Bibles and Codices
22:43 • 2min
Why Protestants Adopt a Smaller Old Testament
24:25 • 4min
Outro
28:18 • 13sec
#9496
• Mentioned in 4 episodes
Ignatius Catholic Study Bible
Scott Hahn
#2114
• Mentioned in 15 episodes
Nehemiah
Gene A. Getz
The Book of Nehemiah continues the story of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon, focusing on the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.
Nehemiah's leadership and determination in the face of opposition highlight the importance of perseverance and faith.
The book emphasizes the significance of community and the restoration of God's people.
Nehemiah's commitment to justice and his efforts to protect the vulnerable demonstrate the importance of social responsibility.
The book's narrative provides a powerful example of faith, leadership, and the restoration of a community.
#828
• Mentioned in 30 episodes
Ezekiel
Walther Eichrodt
This volume by Walther Eichrodt provides a thorough, verse-by-verse commentary on the Book of Ezekiel.
It delves into the origin and composition of the book, addressing the complex issues related to the prophet's message and ministry.
The work is part of the Old Testament Library series and offers an in-depth, learned analysis of the text, making it a valuable resource for biblical scholars and theologians.
#5425
• Mentioned in 6 episodes
1 Enoch
Enoch
#
Jubilees
Moses
#941
• Mentioned in 27 episodes
Jeremiah
Stasia Black
Jeremiah is part of the Stud Ranch series and focuses on a character who is clearly a man in control at all times.
The story involves complex relationships and steamy romance, typical of Stasia Black's writing style.
It is the fifth book in the Stud Ranch series but can be read as a standalone novel.
#526
• Mentioned in 40 episodes
Daniel
My French Cuisine
Daniel Boulud
This cookbook offers a personal perspective on French cuisine, with over 75 signature recipes from Restaurant Daniel and additional home recipes.
It includes essays on essential subjects like bread and cheese, along with photographs capturing Boulud’s culinary artistry.
#66
• Mentioned in 158 episodes
Genesis
Artificial Intelligence, Hope, and the Human Spirit
Craig Mundie
Eric Schmidt
Henry A. Kissinger
In this book, Henry A. Kissinger, Eric Schmidt, and Craig Mundie explore the epochal challenges and opportunities presented by the revolution in Artificial Intelligence.
AI is seen as a force that can address enormous crises such as climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and income inequality, while also posing significant challenges to human judgment, divine relationships, and potentially spurring a new phase in human evolution.
The authors chart a course between blind faith and unjustified fear, offering an accessible guide to how AI will shape civilization in the modern era.
#3724
• Mentioned in 9 episodes
Tobit
Ștefan Agopian
#1370
• Mentioned in 20 episodes
Song of Songs
Also known as Song of Solomon
King Solomon
The Song of Songs is a unique book in the Bible, consisting of eight chapters of love poetry.
It describes the courtship, marriage, and the ongoing relationship between a man and a woman, often interpreted as a symbol of divine love.
The book is divided into sections that address courtship, the wedding, and various aspects of married life.
It is known for its vivid and passionate language, emphasizing the beauty and goodness of marriage.
Historically, it has been interpreted in several ways, including allegorical views representing God's love for Israel or Christ's love for the Church, as well as a straightforward celebration of human love within marriage.
#5428
• Mentioned in 6 episodes
Wisdom
Ryan Holiday
#6123
• Mentioned in 6 episodes
Baruch
My Own Story
Bernard M. Baruch
This memoir by Bernard M. Baruch recounts his journey from humble beginnings in South Carolina to becoming a prominent figure on Wall Street and a respected public servant.
It covers his early life, his rise in finance, and his involvement in national and international affairs.
The book offers insights into his philosophy on life, finance, and public service.
#322
• Mentioned in 58 episodes
Isaiah
null
Isaiah
The Book of Isaiah is a major prophetic book in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament.
It's attributed to the prophet Isaiah, who lived in Judah during the 8th century BCE. The book contains a collection of oracles, poems, and prophecies addressing various aspects of Judah's history and the future.
Key themes include God's judgment on Israel's sins, the promise of a future messiah, and the restoration of God's people.
Isaiah's powerful imagery and evocative language have had a profound impact on religious thought and literature for centuries.
#1830
• Mentioned in 16 episodes
Esther
Henry Adams
Written by Henry Adams in 1884, 'Esther' is a novel that delves into the complexities of a modern, rationalist woman's response to romantic and religious pressures.
The story follows Esther Dudley, a sophisticated and free-thinking woman, as she navigates her feelings for Reverend Stephen Hazard, a charismatic and high-minded preacher.
The novel is set against a backdrop of debates about religion, science, art, and poetry, and it reflects Adams' exploration of the 'woman question' of his time.
Esther's character is partly based on Adams' wife, Clover, and the novel touches on themes of bereavement, intellectual curiosity, and the struggle for independence in a society dominated by traditional values.
#561
• Mentioned in 38 episodes
Leviticus
Noth, Martin
Leviticus details the laws and regulations given to the Israelites through Moses, focusing on ritual purity, sacrifices, and priestly duties.
It outlines the procedures for various offerings and the consequences of violating God's commands.
The book emphasizes the importance of holiness and the separation of the sacred from the profane.
Leviticus provides insights into the Israelite religious system and its significance in their relationship with God. The book's laws and regulations offer a glimpse into the cultural and religious practices of ancient Israel.
#3232
• Mentioned in 10 episodes
Judith
Arnold Bennett
#228
• Mentioned in 72 episodes
Ecclesiastes
The Preacher
Unknown, traditionally attributed to King Solomon
Ecclesiastes is a philosophical and theological reflection on human existence and the meaning of life.
It is presented through the voice of Qohelet (the Preacher), who questions the doctrine of retributive justice and observes that human endeavors are often futile and temporary.
The book emphasizes the inevitability of death, the limitations of human wisdom, and the dangers of materialism and hedonism.
It concludes by advising readers to fear God and keep His commandments as the foundation of true happiness and purpose.
#456
• Mentioned in 45 episodes
Psalms
King Solomon
Ethan the Ezrahite
Sons of Korah
Moses
Heman
Asaph
Anonymous
King David
The Book of Psalms is a diverse collection of prayers, poems, and hymns that span many centuries of Israel’s history.
It includes works by various authors such as King David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Moses, and King Solomon, among others.
The book is divided into five sections or books, each concluding with a doxology.
The psalms cover a wide range of themes including God and His creation, war, worship, wisdom, sin, evil, judgment, justice, and the coming of the Messiah.
They were integral to the ritual life of the Temple and have had a profound impact on both Jewish and Christian worship traditions.
#503
• Mentioned in 42 episodes
Proverbs 2
James Hughes
Proverbs 2 focuses on the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, emphasizing their importance for navigating life's challenges.
It highlights the rewards of seeking wisdom, including protection from evil, guidance in making righteous choices, and the joy that comes from knowledge.
The chapter contrasts the paths of the wise and the foolish, showing the dangers of following wickedness and the blessings of adhering to God's ways.
It encourages readers to diligently seek wisdom and understanding, recognizing their value in all aspects of life.
Proverbs 2 is a timeless guide to living a life of purpose and integrity.
#330
• Mentioned in 57 episodes
Deuteronomy
introduction and commentary.
Hubert Cunliffe-Jones
This book by Hubert Cunliffe-Jones offers a comprehensive introduction and commentary on the biblical book of Deuteronomy.
It is part of the Torch Bible Paperbacks series, which aims to provide scholarly yet accessible interpretations of biblical texts.
The commentary delves into the historical, theological, and literary aspects of Deuteronomy, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers interested in biblical studies.
#6405
• Mentioned in 5 episodes
Sirach
null
Jesus Ben Sirach
The Book of Sirach, also known as Ecclesiasticus, is a collection of wisdom literature found in the deuterocanonical books of the Catholic Bible.
It offers reflections on various aspects of life, including morality, ethics, and the relationship between God and humanity.
The book emphasizes the importance of wisdom, virtue, and righteous living.
It explores the challenges of understanding God's justice in the face of suffering and injustice.
Sirach's wisdom is practical, offering guidance on family life, social interactions, and personal conduct.
Did Catholics add books to the Bible or did Protestants remove books? Who determines the Canon of Scripture?
In this third episode of Stunned by Scripture, John Bergsma tackles this question head-on, explaining the origins of the Biblical canon, its development throughout Salvation History from the time of Moses, and how the Catholic Church agreed upon an official list of inspired books in 382 A.D.
Furthermore, Dr. Bergsma explains the history behind the Protestant Bible as well as the changes that were made following the Reformation.
Dive deeper into your knowledge of the Bible with John Bergsma in Stunned by Scripture.
00:00 Introduction
✨ Want the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible for FREE? Sign up for our annual All Access Membership: ➡️ https://stpaulcenter.co/bible
Other ways to grow with the St. Paul Center:
⛪️ If you're a Priest looking to attend one of our annual Priest Conferences: https://stpaulcenter.co/priestconferences
📖 Start a Bible study with the St. Paul Center: https://stpaulcenter.co/biblestudies
✈️ Go on a pilgrimage with us: https://stpaulcenter.co/pilgrimages
🛒 Browse our bookstore: https://stpaulcenter.co/emmausroadpublishing
🔥 Support our mission: https://stpaulcenter.co/donate
#stpaulcenter #johnbergsma #stunnedbyscripture #podcast #indulgences #bible #scripture #biblicaltheology #canon #churchcouncils #councilofrome #booksofthebible #salvationhistory #pharisees #saducees #essenes #protestantreformation #theology #judaism #protestantism #catholicism #christianity