Misquoting Jesus with Bart Ehrman

There are several resurrection stories in the New Testament - including, of course, Jesus himself, but what about the mass resurrection in the gospel of Matthew? Today, Dr. Bart Ehrman joins me to discuss why the righteous were raised from the dead when Jesus came for sinners, and what happened to them after their resurrection.

Marcion, founder of the 2nd century Christian group imaginatively called the Marcionites, had some beliefs that would be cause for stoning in the Life of Brian. This week, Dr. Bart Ehrman joins me to talk about what those beliefs were, Marcion's own personal gospel, and what other christians thought about it.

Join renowned Bible scholar Bart Ehrman as he delves into the intriguing differences of the Gospel of John compared to the Synoptic Gospels. Discover why John skips crucial events like the virgin birth and Jesus’ baptism, opting instead for a focus on Christ’s divine identity. Ehrman explores John’s unique long discourses, his high Christology, and the theological implications embedded in the prologue. He also discusses the Gospel's selective miracles and the reasons behind omitted stories, all while shedding light on John's distinct narrative techniques.

The Dead Sea Scrolls preserve the beliefs of the Essenes, an ancient Jewish sect that were, like Jesus and John the Baptist, expecting the end of the world. Dr. Bart Ehrman joins me today to talk about whether Jesus and John were actually Essenes.

Renowned New Testament scholar Bart Ehrman shares insights on the contrasting creation accounts in Genesis 1 and 2. He discusses the implications of these differences, exploring themes such as simultaneous versus sequential human creation and the literary styles used. Ehrman highlights the historical recognition of multiple authors behind these texts and reflects on how these discrepancies challenge literal interpretations of scripture. He also addresses harmonization attempts and the conflicts between faith and scientific understanding.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Bart Ehrman, a renowned New Testament scholar and bestselling author, tackles the intriguing question of why atheists might study the Bible. He shares his journey from a devout believer to an influential scholar, emphasizing the Bible's diverse interpretations and its relevance today. Ehrman highlights the cultural significance of scripture, the common misuses in politics, and how studying these texts can enhance understanding, even for nonbelievers. His unique perspective provides a compelling look at faith, scholarship, and humanity.

Delve into the lesser-known aspects of Mary's life through early Christian writings, particularly the Proto-Gospel of James. Discover how this non-canonical text sheds light on Mary's origins and her family's backgrounds. Explore her significant role in early Christian worship and the theological implications of her virginity. The discussion also highlights the evolving perception of women in church leadership and contrasts Jesus' inclusive messages with societal norms of the time.

Delve into the intriguing evolution of biblical inerrancy and how perceptions of the Bible have changed over time. Discover the historical context behind early interpretations from figures like Origen and Augustine. Unravel the tension between faith and scientific perspectives while debating whether recognizing the Bible's human elements diminishes belief. Imagine a Christianity without a formal canon and explore the complex implications of 'agape' love in early Christian thought. This conversation prompts deep theological reflection on the nature of scripture.

Dive into the mystery of the hypothetical Q source, a pivotal topic in understanding the synoptic gospels of Matthew and Luke. The discussion tackles criticisms faced by scholars and explores misconceptions about biblical scholarship. Learn about the fascinating relationships between the synoptic texts and the challenges in proving the existence of Q. Delve into how oral traditions shape narratives about Jesus, emphasizing the importance of historical context in deciphering religious stories.

Join Dr. Joel Baden, a Yale Divinity School professor and expert in the Hebrew Bible, as he sheds light on this often-overlooked text that was central to Jesus' teachings. He explores the difference between the 'Hebrew Bible' and the 'Old Testament' across various religious perspectives. Baden examines the literary artistry of ancient Hebrew writings and unpacks the intricate narratives of the Pentateuch, revealing inconsistencies and historical contexts. A must-listen for anyone curious about the roots of biblical literature!