This podcast discusses the prevalence of forgery in the New Testament, revealing that only eight out of twenty-seven books were probably written by the attributed authors. The episode explores the definitions of forgery, pseudopigraphy, and orthonomy, and the impact of false attributions on interpreting the text. It also delves into accusations against Paul and the concept of counter forgeries. Additionally, it highlights Bart Ehrman's online course on Genesis and announces an upcoming course on the Gospel of Matthew, emphasizing the importance of historical context.

The hosts discuss the problem of evil and suffering in the world, examining the biblical perspective and different explanations found in the New Testament. They also promote Bart Ehrman's online course on Genesis and share information on an upcoming academic cruise. Additionally, the hosts provide recommendations for resources on New Testament studies.

Delving into the mystery of who really wrote the Gospel of John, questioning if it was truly John the Son of Zebedee. Exploring the identity of 'The Disciple Jesus loved' and debating if he is a real person or a literary symbol. Considering if the historical John could have authored such a complex book and pondering on the possible use of a secretary. Unraveling the debated authorship of the Gospel of John and hinting at future discussions on the problem of evil in the New Testament.

Mary is definitely the more famous of Jesus' mortal parents…but what about Joseph? Few people have asked about him but he is obviously a significant part of the Christmas story. But what can we know about him? Why are the writers of the New Testament virtually silent about him? What we can infer about his life and the role he played in Jesus' life? In this episode we discuss what we can know historically about the "father" of Jesus and we explore some of the legends that sprung up about him as found in non-canonical Gospels of the early centuries. 

Christopher Frilingos, expert on the Proto-Gospel of James, discusses the miraculous birth and young life of Mary, the mother of Jesus. The podcast explores traditions within Catholic and Orthodox faiths, including Mary's perpetual virginity and upbringing in the temple. Unique details from the Proto-Gospel, such as Mary's postpartum inspection, are highlighted, providing insight into the narrative's significance.

Explore the challenges of finding meaning without God, homemade gifting and ancient philosophies, challenges of deconverting, discovering meaning through understanding oneself and others, origins and purpose of a blog about early Christianity, origins of Jesus' resurrection and growth of the early church, and personal journey of finding meaning after leaving the Christian faith.

The podcast discusses the origins and significance of the Virgin Birth, debunks misconceptions about its roots, explores the differences and contradictions in the biblical accounts, examines the concept of perpetual virginity in Christianity, delves into the portrayal of Mary's virginity in the Bible, and challenges the traditional belief of Joseph as Jesus' father. It also explores Jesus's beliefs about his future role, the role of the Bible in Christian belief, and the relevance of the topic as Christmas approaches.

Exploring the limitations placed on God by Christians, the podcast discusses theological concepts, biblical interpretations, and the differences between monotheism and polytheism. It also explores the relationship between biblical passages and modern social topics, the decline of abilities and humanities, and the need for logical thinking in religious views.

For over five centuries (going back to Martin Luther!) many readers of the New Testament have maintained that the letter of James flat-out contradicts the teachings of Paul, that a person is made right with God only by faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus. James insists that a person is not justified by faith alone, but by doing good works; but Paul argues with equal passion that a person is justified by faith in Christ and not by doing works of the law. So... aren't these views at direct odds? Bart's views may seem surprising....

An intriguing discussion about the Infancy Gospel of Thomas, which contains stories of a mischievous young Jesus. They explore the authorship and attribution of the gospel, debunk forged gospels, and delve into the childhood stories. The gospel depicts Jesus performing miracles, cursing people, and engaging with teachers, similar to biblical prophets. The podcast also discusses the message of the gospel, affirming the value of family.