Faith

Bible Scholar: Half of New Testament ‘Forged’

Bible Scholar: Half of New Testament ForgedDid you know:

  • At least 11 of the 27 New Testament books are forgeries.
  • The New Testament books attributed to Jesus’ disciples could not have been written by them because they were illiterate.
  • Many of the New Testament’s forgeries were manufactured by early Christian leaders trying to settle theological feuds.

Those are the claims coming from one biblical scholar in a new book, “Forged.” The author is Bart D. Ehrman, a Wheaton College graduate and current professor at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill.

“Bart D. Ehrman, the New York Times bestselling author of Jesus, Interrupted and God’s Problem reveals which books in the Bible’s New Testament were not passed down by Jesus’s disciples,” The Harper-Collins book description says, “but were instead forged by other hands—and why this centuries-hidden scandal is far more significant than many scholars are willing to admit.”

One of Ehrman’s major targets is the Apostle Paul, who he says didn’t write 2 Timothy. In all, he claims only seven of the 13 letters attributed to Paul were actually written by him. CNN explains:

Ehrman reserves most of his scrutiny for the writings of Paul, which make up the bulk of the New Testament. He says that only about half of the New Testament letters attributed to Paul 7 of 13 – were actually written by him.

Paul’s remaining books are forgeries, Ehrman says. His proof: inconsistencies in the language, choice of words and blatant contradiction in doctrine.

For example, Ehrman says the book of Ephesians doesn’t conform to Paul’s distinctive Greek writing style. He says Paul wrote in short, pointed sentences while Ephesians is full of long Greek sentences (the opening sentence of thanksgiving in Ephesians unfurls a sentence that winds through 12 verses, he says).

“There’s nothing wrong with extremely long sentences in Greek; it just isn’t the way Paul wrote. It’s like Mark Twain and William Faulkner; they both wrote correctly, but you would never mistake the one for the other,” Ehrman writes.

The scholar also points to a famous passage in 1 Corinthians in which Paul is recorded as saying that women should be “silent” in churches and that “if they wish to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home.”

Only three chapters earlier, in the same book, Paul is urging women who pray and prophesy in church to cover their heads with veils, Ehrman says: “If they were allowed to speak in chapter 11, how could they be told not to speak in chapter 14?”

Bible Scholar: Half of New Testament Forged

Bart Ehrman

But Ehrman‘s charges aren’t just limited to Paul:

… He [also] challenges the authenticity of the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and John. He says that none were written by Jesus’ disciplies, citing two reasons.

He says none of the earliest gospels revealed the names of its authors, and that their current names were later added by scribes.

Ehrman also says that two of Jesus’ original disciples, John and Peter, could not have written the books attributed to them in the New Testament because they were illiterate.

“According to Acts 4:13, both Peter and his companion John, also a fisherman, were agrammatoi, a Greek word that literally means ‘unlettered,’ that is, ‘illiterate,’ ’’ he writes.

Prominent fellow biblical scholar Ben Witherington — who authors a popular blog on faith — takes umbrage with Ehrman’s thesis. Witherington offers a chapter-by-chapter critique of the book, agreeing on some level with some of Ehrman’s point about the culture of forgery in the ancient world, but ultimately offering a new name for the book: “Gullible Travels.”

Among the critiques Witherington lists, he says Ehrman doesn’t adequately understand ancient Jewish culture, that Ehrman thinks he can play “mind-reader,” and that he ignores counter-arguments:

  • Bart grossly underestimates and seems ignorant of the vast number of roles scribes played in the ANE, in second temple Judaism, and probably in early Christianity, including composing documents for other persons.   He needs to go back and read Scribal Culture and do a rethink about the range of possibilities with the use of scribes.
  • Bart seems to think he can play mind-reader when it comes to some of the writers of early Christian literature.  The proper question to ask is— How in the world do you know these documents were created as deliberate forgeries or falsifications, or fabrications when the author does not suggest this in the document, and we can’t interview him now?     Most of the time this conclusion is based on mirror-reading of the documents themselves looking for telltale signs of deceit sometimes more successfully than others.
  • Time and again Bart fails to take into account major factors that count against his argument.   Let’s take the argument about Greek style for a minute.  Nowhere in this book does he really acknowledge that what we have in most of the so-called letters in the NT are actually discourses, rhetorical discourses  set in the framework of epistolary features since they were sent at a distance.  These discourses are oral texts, and they follow the rules of such rhetorical texts and their structures and furthermore, the copying of these texts by scribes follows procedures already well known from the practices of someone like Tiro with Cicero.   Yes indeed, scribes did write down speeches, and notes on speeches, and then reframed them in more eloquent prose.   You cannot for example conclude Paul didn’t write Ephesians on style grounds, just because it uses Asiatic style rhetoric and epideictic rhetoric at that.  It follows those conventions.  Of this sort of thing, Bart says nothing.

You can read more of Witherington’s critiques here.

As for Ehrman, who admits he “moved from being a committed church-going Christian to become an agnostic,” he claims he’s not trying to completely discredit the Bible, but rather show people that its authors weren’t perfect.

“I’m not saying people should throw it out or it’s not theologically fruitful,” Ehrman told CNN. “I’m saying that by realizing it contains so many forgeries, it shows that it’s a very human book, down to the fact that some authors lied about who they were.”

Read more from CNN.

(H/T: David)

Comments (394)

  • TheLordReigns
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:24am

    In the end times, scoffers will come filling up the measure of wrath due to them..be not deceived GOD is not mocked. Whatsoever a man sows, this too, HE shall reap. This man will receive his reward in full by the hand of ALMIGHTY GOD HIMSELF
    CHRISTIAN, ARM YOURSELF WITH THE WORD OF GOD AND BE READY ALWAYS TO PULL DOWN ANY STRONGHOLD THAT EXALTS ITSELF AGAINST THE KNOWLEDGE OF CHRIST

    Report Post »  
    • Mary M. Tebbe
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 7:24pm

      thelordreigns: Well said!
      The Bible is the inspired Word of God; period.
      2 Timothy 3: 12 thru 4: 5 reads: Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted while evil men and IMPOSTERS will go from bad to worse, DECEIVING and BEING DECEIVED. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. ALL SCRIPTURE IS GOD-BREATHED and is useful for teaching, REBUKING, CORRECTING and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
      In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge. Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction. FOR THE TIME WILL COME WHEN MEN WILL NOT PUT UP WITH SOUND DOCTRINE. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from THE TRUTH and turn aside to MYTHS. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
      Blasphemers are a dime a dozen…even in Bible Colleges. Wheaton?

      Report Post » Mary M. Tebbe  
  • greggo
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:24am

    The only Bible Scholar I need is the Roman Catholic Church.

    Report Post » greggo  
    • 2010GOP
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:32am

      Good luck with that

      Report Post »  
    • DarthMims
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:03pm

      The Roman Catholic Church, huh? How “touching.”

      Report Post » DarthMims  
    • walkwithme1966
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:27pm

      And they have hundreds of books of the Bible in a secret area below the Vatican that they decided to leave out of the Bible because they did not say what the Church wanted to teach!!! http://wp.me/pYLB7-Zj

      Report Post » walkwithme1966  
    • Jezreel
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 2:24pm

      I hope on judgement day you are not thinking of trying to give God an excuse that you are a Roman Catholic. That will not fly with Him you know. You will be accountable for your sins and especially if you confess you sins to a priest rather than Christ. If you are not born again, it is any wonder why God don’t answer your prayers .

      Report Post »  
  • US Agent
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:23am

    The apostles were not illiterate. It was customary for young jewish men to learn to read the Old Testament. Jews living outside of palestine had forgotten how to read hebrew, so the Old Testament was translated in to Greek so that they too could read it. This book was called the Septuagint. Additionally look at the Dead Sea Scrolls and other works from the the first century. Yes, these people could read and write.

    Additionally Matthew was a tax collector. I highly doubt the Romans would hire illiterate people to collect their taxes.

    Scholars like Bart Ehrman are a dime a dozen. Anyone who criticizes the Bible is welcomed into academia. Real Bible Scholars can be found at Dallas Theological, Liberty University and Moody Bible Institute, as well as a few others.

    Pray for this guy, so that he can be spared from a rude awakening in the next life.

    Report Post » US Agent  
    • scottmaclive
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:45pm

      not to mention that Luke was a doctor… They will use what ever they can to get the Focus off of Jesus and the truths of His teachings… it does say that in the end times that people will look to what tickles the ear and turn us away from the truth…
      Just have to remember that God is in control and pray for those who are trying to decieve us

      Report Post »  
    • MilesF
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:52pm

      Ehrmann graduated from Moody. Get this straight. He is not a stranger to your point of view. He is an APOSTATE.

      Report Post »  
  • hechafteth
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:22am

    Sadly, I have to admit to a lack of faith in all that is “written” in favor of more a New Age stance that Christ is an aspiration much like Budda; and in that respect, who am I to take away that which sustains my brother in his quest to become an asset to his fellows, family, and community?

    Report Post » hechafteth  
  • Raven249
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:22am

    Hmm.. So I can risk my soul by taking the word of another imperfect man, or look like a fool at thde worst, and be correct in my faith otherwise? Decisions, decisions..You know what? Most people already think I’m nuttier than squirrel poo, so I think I’ll just keep my faith.

    Report Post »  
  • BlazingInSC
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:21am

    Stating that an illiterate person couldn‘t have possibly written coherent statements is a red herring argument because there’s no clinical diagnosis of said illiteracy. That is to say – neither Bart, nor any living human being can state definitively to what degree anybody over a thousand years ago can or cannot put their thoughts to paper. In addition, it undermines the power of God (for those who choose to believe). The living God brought men back from the dead, fed thousands from a single loaf of bread and fish, created all living things, speaks in tongue through followers — I’m thinking He can profess his message through illiterate disciples.

    Report Post »  
    • teachermitch32
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:47pm

      He can even talk to people through donkeys. I believe that, and all other things in the Word…including the flood. Bart can’t, obviously, but I can. No problemo.

      Report Post »  
    • rose-ellen
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:39pm

      Why assume fishermen were illiterate?If they were religious Jews was it not part of the religion to educate men in the readings of the Torah? Jesus knew how to read [as shown when he addressed the rabbi's in the temple].Why assume fishermen didn’t?What I find very mysterious and a sign of God’s work is the fact that only in that time and place was a crucufix used to execute people.A crucifix which is shaped like our human body which has to die and which Jesus’ resurrection heralds the good news of our immortal soul.The crucifix which forever into the future is iconic and can fit nicely on a church steeple or on a chain.That no other form of execution could implicitly convey so much of the human condition[the human body[being- that suffers and dies]and uniquily symbolizes Christ’s solidarity for us.Even though thousand others wre crucified during that time, that crucifixtion is now dentified solely with Him ,I believe shows the work of God .

      Report Post »  
  • crazeeMAN
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:20am

    The fact that God had granted the Apostles the ability to bring the dead back to life and the lame to walk was awesome, but to think that He could help the ‘illiterate to write is asking way to much. That by the way is sarcasim. Come on, the God of the universe can do anything. If He could save a wretch like me, He could use these poor dumb fisherman and give them super natural powers to accomplish His will. God is in control!!!!

    Report Post »  
  • Hephzibah
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:20am

    Satan is fearlessly showing his ugly mug everywhere now. Someday his slaves will quake in their boots as they recognize their eternity.

    Report Post » Hephzibah  
  • santramir
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:20am

    Any way, Jesus is a Christian Jew.

    Report Post » santramir  
  • Sky0bserv3r
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:19am

    I’ll wait and check it out of a used bookstore. Hopefully no one will try to burn it.

    Report Post » Sky0bserv3r  
  • Mandors
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:18am

    Without addressing issues of faith and religion, this is a typical example of this generation’s academics–tabloid claims, poor scholarship, subjective conclusions.

    Forgeries? Such extraordinary claims require extraordinary proof which is lacking in Ehrman’s arguments. Centuries of hand transcriptions, not to mention two thousand years of translating biblical writings, can and do lead to very different works. (E.g., compare YLT to KJ versions.) None of which rises to the inflammatory and frankly juvenile use of the term “forgery” which is obviously mere sensationalism and should have no place in respectable academia.

    Report Post » Mandors  
    • let us prey
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:25am

      Isn’t it awesome that everyting you read on the web is true?

      Report Post » let us prey  
    • mpilch
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 9:01pm

      The word “forgery” is exceptionally strong to include an specific intent to defraud. This is clearly a gross overstatement as apparently even Mr Bart himself admits that: “Bart mentions the possibility that the later attributions of these books to one person or another might be perfectly innocent… [see cross link to Ben Witherington above]. Further, he is applying 20th-21st century standards to Biblical times. In that time, the issue wasn’t “who” wrote it but whether it was “consistent with” the teachings of the party to whom attributed.
      Blessings to all.

      Report Post »  
  • Annie Fields
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:18am

    “Fake but accurate”?

    http://www.anniefields.com/blog

    Report Post » Annie Fields  
  • dealer@678
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:18am

    Still wont change what i believe.PERIOD

    Report Post »  
  • Obama_Sham
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:16am

    “but rather show people that its authors weren’t perfect.”

    Really… In other words, man is not perfect…

    Genius…

    Report Post » Obama_Sham  
  • usaywhat
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:16am

    Ehrman shows his ignorance of the most basic component of the Bible, “faith” that it is the Word of God given to people. It was given by the Holy Spirit, via people. The name of the person is less important than that it is the Word of God. And that must be accepted by FAITH, not by reason, intellect, or works.
    Sorry Ehrman. Your biases are showing like a dirty slip from under the hem of your skirt.

    Report Post »  
  • Sinista MACE
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:16am

    I don’t care what anyone says. I saw Jesus Christ in a UFO in 2000, and he took me into outer space and showed me a gigantic device before dropping me off at the North Pole.

    So I know for a fact that he is alive and hovering over the Earth in a UFO, perhaps cloaked.

    Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:20am

      Snarky Sinista Mace is Snarky.

      Report Post »  
    • NeoFan
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:42am

      Must have been a prison flashback and that was your jail husband that showed you a large device.

      Report Post »  
    • Sinista MACE
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:56am

      Don’t project your homosexual fantasies onto me, you flamboyant feather boa.

      And don’t you DARE mock the Lord your God. Blasphemous troll.

      Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
    • Sinista MACE
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:06pm

      Mannax, I wasn’t being facetious. I’m serious about that encounter. And that is not all.

      Before I was taken aboard the ship, while still on the ground, a Knight in Golden Armor showed me a dark valley full of demons thrashing each other, and sent me through the conflagration to the other side of the valley, where I retrieved something, and returned. The entire time I proceeded through the chaos of all those demons thrashing each other, nothing touched me, like Morpheus walking in the Matrix with Neo when he gets distracted by the Blonde in Red.

      The ship Jesus was in had two old men piloting it, and they all wore those old sackcloth robes, except Jesus had a blue robe under his brown sackcloth robe. The ship had about 8-9 containment bubbles about 4-5ft in diameter with different aliens in it, and their heads were all oversized, like they were pressurized or something.

      Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:18pm

      I will stand by my statement with the addendum:

      You sound like a snarky Role-Player.

      Report Post »  
    • Sinista MACE
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:29pm

      Whatever.

      Your prerogative.

      But Jesus is alive and he doesn’t even look old at all…and he flies around in a spaceship.

      Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
    • TEIN
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:50pm

      So, Sinista MACE..what universal principals were you taught on the UFO?? Did you write them down?? Can you write one principal that Jesus taught? Until then, don’t mock…

      Report Post »  
    • TheGreyPiper
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:05pm

      As if Mace had any credibility left at all…

      Report Post » TheGreyPiper  
    • Sinista MACE
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 5:31pm

      Well, from what I observed, he showed me some type of perpetual motion machine.

      A Bose-Einstein condensate of ultraviolet photons in a rectangular container, with a gluon laser at each short end of the rectangular container, that frame-drags the condensate up one side before it cascades to the other side in tsunami-like wave to be frame-dragged up the other end of the container in perpetuity.

      The entire apparatus see-sawed in space.

      All mockers can do is mock.

      Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
    • Sinista MACE
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 7:38pm

      For a while recently, my faith was challenged because I was presented with some information that seemed to prove that Jesus Christ was in fact LUCIFER, so you can understand the anxiety of being contacted by Lucifer.

      After further research, I have reaffirmed my faith that it was indeed Jesus Christ and that Jesus Christ is not Lucifer.

      Report Post » V-MAN MACE  
  • StevenL1955
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:16am

    Bible Scholar?

    uh, huh

    Forgive him Lord, and show him the light.

    Report Post » StevenL1955  
    • BubbaCoop
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:21am

      I kind of doubt that will happen without divine intervention. I’ve heard him debate and he knows more about the New Testament that most Christians. Was a devoted Christian who went to seminary.

      Report Post »  
    • Cerealface
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:16pm

      That’s like saying, You are taking calculus…passed the class…but someone decided to say “you know nothing about calculus.”

      Report Post » Cerealface  
    • vennoye
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:16pm

      He is identified as a Gnostic. Sure he studied all the material of the 1st and 2nd centuries, even all the pagan theologies of the time—which were rampant. Gnosticism per Wickipedia: The term “Gnosticism” does not appear in ancient sources, and was first coined by Henry More in a commentary on the seven letters of the Book of Revelation, where More used the term “Gnosticisme” to describe the heresy in Thyatira. Shame this was what he latched on to at the seminary.

      Amazing how all of these old pagan beliefs are raising up again isn’t it?

      Report Post » vennoye  
    • TheGreyPiper
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:04pm

      I think it was C.S. Lewis who noted that Satan cannot be creative, only destructive, and so all the old errors are always presenting themselves, just under different names and with new make-up.

      Report Post » TheGreyPiper  
    • vennoye
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:33pm

      @TheGreyPiper
      Think that is absolutely the case. Guess the Luciferian System is keeping people up at nights writing books!! :-)

      Report Post » vennoye  
  • let us prey
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:15am

    The godless will salivate over this one.

    Report Post » let us prey  
  • TRONINTHEMORNING
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:14am

    Oh no; yet another scholar has spoken! What will we do? Is God aware of these forgeries? Did the Holy Spirit forget to tell me something when I got saved? Gonna let that book full of tripe stay on the shelf.

    Report Post »  
  • Gita
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:12am

    Satan is certainly working overtime lately. Why, because he is emboldened by his followers now living in our white house. Thank our Heavenly Father that we know how this story ends!

    Report Post » Gita  
  • quizibo
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:11am

    The Bible?! Fake?! You mean there isnt some invisible being living in the clouds that can watch everybody at once?! Or a man wasnt swallowed by a fish and lived inside him for three days? This educated man is obviously crazy to think the bible is fake.

    Report Post » quizibo  
    • ReaganWuzRight
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:19am

      Read deeper grasshopper. You cannot read the message because of the clutter of words.

      Report Post »  
    • hi
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:35am

      I know because those who believe that helium turns into people after billions of years are way smarter!

      (Helium and hydrogen were the the first elements formed after the big bang)

      Report Post » hi  
    • tompaineknowsthescore
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:06pm

      the Immense heat and pressure in stars can turn helium and hydrogen into all kinds of elements including carbon

      The world is much much older than 6′000 years just get over it
      the message and principles have some worth but many elements are factually incorrect

      i dont mean to be offensive

      Report Post » tompaineknowsthescore  
    • Cerealface
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:17pm

      People were believing in the bible while the sun revolved around the earth but we don’t seem to mention this.

      Report Post » Cerealface  
    • DixT
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:18pm

      Actually, there REALLY WERE two separate occasions when two human males were swallowed by “a large fish”—and lived to tell about it! Their skin was “bleached white” from being inside the “large fish” for so long—and their real skin color never came back. This is TRUE. So, I take it that the story of “Jonah and the whale” IS NOT so far-fetched at all!!!

      Report Post »  
    • Cerealface
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:24pm

      I heard the stomach of a fish could be used like a scuba diving apparatus. Who needs tanks and regulators? I just jump into the water and strap on a fish.

      Report Post » Cerealface  
    • quizibo
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 6:16pm

      @DixT
      Not only is it NOT scientifically possibly to be swallowed by a sea creature whole and live inside its highly acidic stomach for three days with a lack of oxygen, fresh water and the consideration of unregulated pressure but the fact that you believe that a person can is very disturbing and if you have children they should be taken away to a more it family.

      Report Post » quizibo  
    • quizibo
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 6:20pm

      correction: “…more fit family.”

      Report Post » quizibo  
    • jb.kibs
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 8:44pm

      what was first? the mother or the egg?

      Report Post »  
    • jb.kibs
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 8:54pm

      @quizibo
      how can something be or not be ‘scientifically possible’ when new studies change facts and new discoveries change the possibilites. just because you don’t think, or know, something is possible doesn‘t mean it is or isn’t… ;)

      Report Post »  
    • quizibo
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 12:47am

      @JB.KIBS
      Answer to first question: http://articles.cnn.com/2006-05-26/tech/chicken.egg_1_chicken-eggs-first-egg-first-chicken?_s=PM:TECH
      That would show evolution in action.

      Answer to second question: If that is in regards to the human living in whale story. It is not scientifically possible. Things are more complicated than ‘Whale Eats Man’. Take into consideration the acidity of the stomach, the depth at which they swim, the lack of oxygen and fresh water/food, most whales dont even eat things larger than plankton. The anatomy of a whale shows that it is impossible to survive in. Plus the addition of scientific data just strengthens the hypothesis it doesnt change facts, it just strengthens the truth. Adding to that, it is not possible to be swallowed by a whale whole and to live.

      Report Post » quizibo  
    • JJ Coolay
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 12:49am

      Quiz… miracles are scientifically impossible but that doesn‘t mean miracles don’t happen.

      Report Post » JJ Coolay  
    • jb.kibs
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 11:20am

      that doesn’t give facts as to why the egg came before the chicken, it clearly states “Must have” based on no evidence. i can say the same “Must have” about a lot of things.. .that doesn’t make it a proven law (fact). . if we can use “Must Have” and “Must Be” as fact then gravity and relativity would be proven laws and not theories. the big bag is faith based science. it can’t be proven or replicated.

      so that article says the egg first but, at the same time, says a mother created the egg first? nice double talk article. it says nothing.

      another thing is we (humans), intelligently design things in labs all the time.

      i don’t get why god could not have started the process of life and “let it go”, that uses both theories.. both sides cant agree that it probably is multiple reasons and hows as to why things are? it’s pathetic. it’s not ONE ANSWER. that whole concept is absurd. ONE thing is the answer? really?! that’s what everyone believes?! people have to be joking and just antagonizing other people for fun. because it’s 100% illogical to believe that JUST a big bang created us, or JUST god created us.

      God created a programming languange (laws of nature, which extends beyond earth and our comprehension) we exist and grow (evolve) within this structure of laws. The big bang could have been God starting the engine we call nature which evolved into what we see today.

      fact: any number of instruments can play together and form one song.

      good luck, h

      Report Post »  
  • Soldier_FORTHERECORD
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:11am

    Of course CNN will now report that was actually written in person by Muhammad rather than dictated to Sahabas and then scribed…. *yawn*

    Report Post »  
  • BubbaCoop
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:11am

    This is pretty typical for Bart Ehrman

    Report Post »  
  • Ibanez6
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:07am

    2Tim3:16 The scriptures from Gen-Rev are God’s Word. That’s what I believe. Believe what you want, I‘d rather be a fool in the eyes of the overeducated men in this world than to deny the truth of God’s innerrant Word which alone is the basis and foundation for my faith. Jesus said for me to come to Him in simple childlike faith and trust Him at His Word and that’s good enough for me.

    Report Post »  
    • Bronco II
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:18am

      I second that.You either believe or you don‘t I BELIEVE GODS WORD all of it call me crazy but I’m ok with it.Prophesy coming to past we’re seeing it today and there is more to come.Reading and studying GODS WORD is reading tommorrows news only it’s TRUTH.

      Report Post » Bronco II  
    • Marylou7
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:38am

      You both are so right. Don’t you just love these people who think they are the smartest persons to be born in over 2000 years. My prayers are that God will open their eyes to the real Truth which is Jesus.

      Report Post » Marylou7  
    • Showtime
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:44am

      There you go! Beautifuly stated! Thanks.

      Report Post » Showtime  
    • 1TrueOne55
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:19pm

      @IBANZ6: That depends on which Bible you consider the infallible “WORD” of GOD, like I say in person when you have a filter like Men determining what is believable or not then you can argue your point about the Book of Revelation since they still can’t say for sure who John the Revelator really is, since there are some indications that there were two men named John that were imprisoned in Turkey at Patmos and believed in the words of Jesus (Joshua).

      Over history there have been heated debates about the inclusion of the Book of Revelation since its author is so hard to pin down and its contents are so controversial even to believers.

      And there is even some debate about the verse in the end of Revelation about the adding or removing words from this Book, I believe that it relates to “only” Revelation since in the days the Bible was originally written it was not bound as one complete volume, at least not until 1611 by the Roman Catholic Church.

      Report Post » 1TrueOne55  
  • IvanK
    Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:05am

    And there will always be someone who claims the bible is a fake… It ususally comes from those who are either agnostic or educated beyond their sensibilities.

    Report Post » IvanK  
    • Gold Coin & Economic News
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:07am

      I’m thinking Bart D. Ehrman probably forged Forged?

      Report Post » Gold Coin & Economic News  
    • ReaganWuzRight
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:16am

      educated beyond their sensibilities= Arrogant in their own wisdom…truely fools in the eyes of the Lord. Humility is the the answer.

      Report Post »  
    • El Paco
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:16am

      I love the First Corinthians blast. Ever thought that the bible IS incomplete?? It’s a blessing we have it as it is. It’s not whole and complete due to the hundreds of translations/transcribings that have taken place over the thousands of years after the Apostle’s time. So yea, are the teachings and principles true, heck yea. Is the verbiage completely correct from when the apostles transcribed it?? Nope. There’s things that seem to contradict themselves through the ENTIRE bible, but that doesn‘t mean that the core principles aren’t true.

      Report Post » El Paco  
    • Dustyluv
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:16am

      Bible scholor…Nuff said.

      Report Post »  
    • Mannax
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:16am

      The Bible was written by man. It may have been inspired by the Divine, but it was written by man. Men would do well to remember this. We have (and our ancestors had) free will to do as they wanted, including those who wrote the Bible.

      Ultimately it comes down to “Faith”.

      Report Post »  
    • chiefparker
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:20am

      This guy doesn’t believe his own rubbish, bought and paid for propaganda.

      Report Post » chiefparker  
    • Eric_The_Red_State
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:21am

      Study the Essenes.
      They were the keepers of the scripts.
      Mary was an Essene (So therefor I would assume Joseph)

      The Essenes were (among other things) scribes that keep the records.
      They were in change of the Dead Sea Scrolls (the books of the Bible)

      I would assume that the books were actually written “collectively” but authored by the original disciple.

      Another odd note – an Essene woman was given three years to become pregnant upon reaching child bearing age. If she didn’t get pregnant in that time, she was still considered a “virgin”.

      Report Post » Eric_The_Red_State  
    • MrButcher
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:28am

      “educated beyond their sensibilities”

      hahaha!!

      Those damned smart people who aren’t in touch with their basic primate fear of the dark and death! How can you ever control them with fairy tales?

      you people slay me!

      thanks for the laughs

      Report Post » MrButcher  
    • searching for the Truth
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:30am

      Words change over time. Some words , strikingly, have complete opposite meaning of the vernacular of the past. To apply God’s Word, one has to thoroughly study the Holy Bible, not the one’s changed to fit the social morals of the world.

      Report Post »  
    • EmilyR
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:30am

      He has been educated on what to think and not how to think. Formal education today, aimed at creating a society of atheists, is plagued with set conclusions and then let the student find creative ways to prove the only ‘right’ conclusion that will get them a passing grade.

      I have a master’s degree but it was not because I bought into the propaganda but because was strong enough in my convictions and had learned how to think rather than what to think that I worked around their landmines and escaped with the sheepskin without the propaganda programming.

      Report Post »  
    • NeoFan
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:32am

      Ever learning and never coming to the knowledge of the truth.

      Report Post »  
    • Obama Snake Oil Co
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:35am

      So, since he is from the most liberal college in the country, UNC, this gives him credibility? This will go over as well as a terd in a swimming pool…..

      Obama Snake Oil Co  
    • Showtime
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:39am

      Yea, it sorta stretches the mind beyond its coffee limit, huh?!

      Report Post » Showtime  
    • ozchambers
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:42am

      How could he be wrong? I mean look at the guy! LOL!

      Report Post » ozchambers  
    • Showtime
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:43am

      They’re not teaching from the Bible in colleges and universities anyway. They are teaching Communism, social justice, and union activism WITH TAX DOLLARS!

      Give this a gander, and check out the list of learning institutions!
      http://uale.org/%2526quot%3B-new%2C-new-deal%2526quot%3B-out-paperback

      I just wrote my congressman about it because GA State University is on the list! This is outrageous!

      Report Post » Showtime  
    • beckisnuts
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:49am

      Of course the Bible is riddled with forgeries and nonsense. That‘s obviosu and it’s refreshing to hear the truth. Now, how about that piece of filth called the Koran? Time to start debunking that book of lies.

      Report Post »  
    • OneFootRandy
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:50am

      Denial is the first step in abjucating responsibility. This man knows that his intellect and criticism should be pointed inward, but if somehow he can discredit the Word, he can escape its message of sin and accountibility.

      The sad thing is, that underneath his facade of intellectualism he realizes the truth. This book will fool few I think, faith has overcome a multitude of those who attempt to elevate themselves into the god role and it will certainly overcome this man.

      Report Post »  
    • poverty.sucks
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:50am

      Not enough focus on the Old Testament which builds the framework for the Gospel.

      Report Post » poverty.sucks  
    • HairOfTheDogSob
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:51am

      Tell that guy to just read the half thats true..

      Report Post » HairOfTheDogSob  
    • HairOfTheDogSob
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:55am

      @ turban top aka mrbutcher Name Onee Contradiction?

      Report Post » HairOfTheDogSob  
    • 1TrueOne55
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:02pm

      This happens at least more than once a generation and it leads to “New Versions” of the Bible being created for follow on Generations. What is missing is the fact that in 1611 the Bible was set in stone as to what was acceptable and not. I blame those “scholars” and the 3rd Century Roman Emperor Constantine for the troubles we have today. When “MAN” has a vested interest in the outcome you can bet they will manipulate the data and I believe that also happened with the Collection of Religious Writings we call the “BIBLE”, its history is tortured by the Human Condition. Especially when you look at the Catholic Tenet of the “Holy Trinity”.

      I could go on forever on that one…

      Report Post » 1TrueOne55  
    • Cerealface
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:06pm

      Fancy that… Anyone that is educated that uses examples for his reasoning should have bibles thrown at him amiright?

      Report Post » Cerealface  
    • Anonymous T. Irrelevant
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:12pm

      Maybe Bill Ayres wrote them, too.

      Report Post » Anonymous T. Irrelevant  
    • its_time_to_arrest_our_government
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:14pm

      another whiny ******* trying to shoot down all that is good. there is a special place in hell for lame asses like this. its probably being water boarded with cesspool water. this will leave a bad taste in his yap for all time. got mouthwash?

      Report Post »  
    • Wayner
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:14pm

      “For I know in Whom I believe and am persuaded that He is able to keep me against that day”
      I’m confident in my spirit that when it comes time for me to die, that I‘m going in the faith taught me by my fathers from God’s Holy and inerrant Word and I’m not depending on some pseudo- intellectual out to sell books.

      Report Post »  
    • banjarmon
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:31pm

      Eternal Life after Life through FAITH and Faith alone that Christ was the SON of GOD!!

      Report Post » banjarmon  
    • DIOS BENDIGA AMERICA ... JESUCRISTO ES EL SEÑOR!
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:31pm

      When the Gift of the Holy Ghost fell upon me with evidence as described in the Bible, nothing will seperate me from the Love of God! Build on the rock, Jesus, NOT shifting sands, man’s opinion.

      Report Post » DIOS BENDIGA AMERICA ... JESUCRISTO ES EL SEÑOR!  
    • indy1
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 12:51pm

      He is a disgrace to Wheaton College.

      Report Post »  
    • DarthMims
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:01pm

      Or from people who simply won’t believe the proof presented to them, even if it is the original. Hey, it sounds a lot like the birthers, doesn’t it?

      Report Post » DarthMims  
    • CatB
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:24pm

      Go evalutate the “Holy Koran” .. I DARE YOU!

      Report Post »  
    • BIGJAYINPA
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:25pm

      WHY is it always the Christian Book they have to debunk?? WHY is that whenever times are tough it is the Christian Book they have to go after?? Show me tha courage to debunk the Koran. Show me the courage to point out that Mohammed was an illiterate. Does this fool belive their were scribes that wrote down the Holy Words?? And does he belive that there were those that translated Aramaic, Greek and Latin over the years that may have put their mark on the Holy writing? What languages is he fluent in? What languages did he read them in?? And again–Why does it have to be the Christian Holy Book he goes after?? What is his agenda??

      Report Post » BIGJAYINPA  
    • GODSAMERICA
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:32pm

      The writers may have been considered somewhat “illiterate” but God can overcome that. At least they had brains which obviously this joker has none.

      Report Post » GODSAMERICA  
    • corbecket
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:37pm

      “…..those who are either agnostic or educated beyond their sensibilities.”

      Brevity may be the soul of wit, but just because one is agnostic or “educated” does not mean that their arguments are without validity. Witherington, one of Ehrmann’s critics, is also educated, but I wouldn’t question his analysis based on education. Rather I would take each of the arguments and consider them individually. Unfortunately, the ability to critically analyze an argument seems to be surprisingly rare in the general population.

      A possibility that might be considered, is that some of the apostles did not write the gospels with their own hands. I wouldn’t think of this as a problem as many contemporary political “authors” don’t write their own books either. Consider that Hillary didn’t write her own book. It’s fairly obvious, through stylistic analysis, that Obama didn’t write his either. It doesn‘t mean that the thoughts of the attributed author didn’t go directly into the text as it was being written.

      A final consideration….Muhhamed is considered to have been illiterate as well. That does not mean that he didn’t have a scribe in his service that could very well have done the same things that scribes might have done for the apostles that were considered illiterate. Just because you don’t personally type the words, or write them on papyrus, does not mean that they weren’t your words or thoughts.

      Basing a biblical criticism on stylistic analysis seems pretty s

      Report Post » corbecket  
    • taskmaster78
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:39pm

      Interesting as it may sound but as it comes to Paul’s letters he make a statement about “blatant contradiction in doctrine.” And you should find this as true, he received his ministry directly from the risen Lord, not from men. He ministered what he referred to as “my gospel” the gospel of the Grace of God. He also was called the apostle of the gentiles. If anyone takes the time he or she will come up with what can be seen as contradictions if he or she understands dispensationalism and moves away from covenant theology.
      And why didn’t Bart take the time to read Corinthians, Paul begins by saying “I speak as a man” when he speaks of women in church not as doctrine from the risen Lord. This man needs to get his head out of the sand and study to show himself approve unto God and stop being so spiritually blind.

      Report Post »  
    • Sparky101
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:51pm

      Cut Bart some slack, he only wanted more money and he will get it. He will answer for his love of money in the end, and it’s no concern of mine.

      Report Post »  
    • Sparky101
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:54pm

      “you people slay me!” Ahhh the constantly puffed up Mrbutcher. He’s a legend in his own mind. He thinks he’s smarter, more educated, better looking and more debonair than 99% of the population. And he’s right, if he means 99% of the monkey population.

      Report Post »  
    • Louie Louie the Progressive
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:54pm

      As I said last week; THE RAPTURE AIN`T GONNA HAPPEN

      Shavua Tov.

      Report Post » Louie Louie the Progressive  
    • Sparky101
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 1:56pm

      Becksnuts says “Of course the Bible is riddled with forgeries and nonsense. That‘s obviosu.”

      I‘m afraid I can’t add anything to that. And this is the one who tries to denigrate others who post here? He’s got a lotta room to talk.

      Report Post »  
    • Bible Quotin' Science Fearin' Conservative American
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 2:11pm

      This guy isn’t a lone wolf. It’s pretty agreed upon by those smart enough to know that men wrote the bible that the gospels were written 200 to 300 years after Jesus died. Also, there are many other gospels that didn’t make the cut in 300 A.D. when Constantine decided what would be in the official version.

      Report Post » Bible Quotin' Science Fearin' Conservative American  
    • Vigilante
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 2:19pm

      I am sure, this guy voted for obama and is a Liberal Democrat

      Report Post » Vigilante  
    • Bible Quotin' Science Fearin' Conservative American
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 2:31pm

      The reason Blaze posts these stories and other red meat for people to argue about is because it generates a ton of hits to the website and allows Blaze to charge more for advertising placed in the news feed.

      They know you guys will go nuts in the comments on this type of story so it’s worth more money to publish this.

      This guy probably knows more about the Bible than any of you who claim to be a true believer.

      Why, when it has to do with Obama, do you people demand SO MUCH proof and analyze any possible discrepancy but when it comes to Jesus or the way the Bible was written you aren’t nearly as curious?

      You’re afraid to even ask those questions.

      Report Post » Bible Quotin' Science Fearin' Conservative American  
    • William113
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 2:34pm

      Hypocrite Beck has a story like this on the Blaze but doesn’t both to put a hard hitting story like Jewish IMF boss rapes a woman. The IMF has some of the biggest crooks in the world in it let’s just say jewish organized crime. I wonder if its because he is kissing the Israeli’s ass. Just a thought. This is why Hypocrite Beck has no credibility left.
      Did you notice that this was written by a jewish professor and he is bashing Christians again. And did you notice jewish Jonathon made sure he told all of us about it. Do you people still think the Muslims are the bad guys. good luck

      Report Post »  
    • black9897
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 2:35pm

      While it has been translated many times, the Bible is God’s word and the basic story has never changed. Man “wrote” it, yes, but God actually wrote it. God didn‘t’ literally take a pen and write it, but he did inspire/give the info to what was said. Each of the people he used didn’t give their opinions or somehow put in anything other than what God wanted in it.

      As for some of them not being able to write, I could easily say God gave them the ability to.

      Report Post » black9897  
    • HappyStretchedThin
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 2:37pm

      Ehrman’s a hack. Get your biblical scholarship at least from fellow believers, or you’ll get nothing but distortions. Serious students of ancient lit., Bible included, understand the role of scribes, and how illiteracy is hardly a barrier at all to authorship. Although plenty of questions about provenance, authenticity, completeness and purity of the canon are fair game, this guy‘s goal is obviously not to find the truth in the language chosen by God’s agents to flesh out the ideas He revealed to them, but rather to denigrate believers, thereby attempting to justify his own choices. In the end, he’s just another dupe whose erudition blinds him to his own inept reading skills, calling out inconsistencies and contradictions when its his own lack of attention to context that only makes them appear so. He has his reward…

      Report Post » HappyStretchedThin  
    • Showtime
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 3:13pm

      @beckisnuts
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:49am
      Of course the Bible is riddled with forgeries and nonsense. That‘s obviosu and it’s refreshing to hear the truth. Now, how about that piece of filth called the Koran? Time to start debunking that book of lies.
      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      IF YOU ARE RIGHT, and I am not saying you are, there are more lies coming out of the White House than any translation of the Bible could contain.

      The meanings of words have changed over the years. That couldn’t POSSIBLY have anything to do with it, though, could it?

      Report Post » Showtime  
    • edcoil
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 3:19pm

      Why don’t these coward go after muslims.

      Report Post »  
    • Merits
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 3:20pm

      @MRBUTCHER — I’ve know many people “educated beyond their sensibilities”. I found most of them at the University. Apparently you have not. They are the ones who think for something to be known, it must be categorized, dissected, studied, and then endorsed by others “worthy” to do so at their own subjective and political choosing. If not, it is a childs “fairy tale” as Stephen Hawking said recently, I believe. If scripture counts for anything to you, read Matthew 11:25 and context.

      Report Post »  
    • LetUsReason
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 3:26pm

      @ EL PACO

      Your comment toward the top was spot on. Is the Bible God’s word? Yes! Of course! Is it a complete and perfect record that has survived the ages unharmed? No, but that does not take away from the importance of this sacred book of scripture.

      Report Post »  
    • Elena2010
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 3:30pm

      There is absolutely nothing new to his argument. I heard it when I was in seminary in the late 70s. Glenn Hinson proved that Paul did not write the “Pastorals” then proved that he did — all using expert Greek scholarship.

      And I would beg to differ — most of the disciples were literate men, as boys did receive grammar school education at the synagogues of the day. Girls were illiterate. Many likely also used Greek as a second language, but not Latin.

      Paul also used secretaries. Is there a good reason that Peter or Matthew couldn’t as well?

      His argument is full of holes!

      Report Post » Elena2010  
    • NYSTREETKID
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 4:05pm

      The book said in the last Days the people will say there is no God,That is the only lie of Satan,he needed to pass on. That mankinds pride will do the rest. That we(mankind) from the begain,where filled with the pride of wanting to know everything.That just to be a peace with nature and ourselves was not enough. The same fall of satan,was the same fall of man,Pride. That in this type of thinking. We become much more then what brought us into being.That man is has own god.The Fool says there is no GOD. The fools have being in charge for a very long time.That more and more are going towards that side.The bible speaks that only 144,000 will truly see heaven at the raising of the dead.I thought that number was hard to believe,being so low. I see now maybe I might be a little worried that number maybe to high.

      Report Post »  
    • Sparky101
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 4:32pm

      BQSFCA, you make a couple of foolish and unfounded statements: “This guy probably knows more about the Bible than any of you who claim to be a true believer” and “…but when it comes to Jesus or the way the Bible was written you aren’t nearly as curious?“ and ”You’re afraid to even ask those questions.”

      Define “true believer.” Perhaps he does, perhaps he does not. You have no clue. But “probably” was not the best word for you to use. Now, do you mean he knows more about what was written, but less about what it says? That could easily be.

      How do you know how curious believers are, or were as they became believers? Since you have not taken that path, I don’t think you can speak for them or for me, with any veracity.

      Afraid to ask questions? Afraid of what? I haven’t met a Christian yet that was afraid to ask questions, yet you proclaim we are all afraid to. Hmmmmm. I don’t think you know what you are talking about. I think you just have a problem with God and are afraid to have it out with Him.

      Report Post »  
    • JRook
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 5:25pm

      And the editing by the Council of Nicea and the early church are Ok? Few people and especially devote Christians actually know what the real bible would even look like. That of course assumes it is conveys anything beyond the wonderful stories by the disciples.

      Report Post »  
    • jhaydeng
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 5:27pm

      Being agnostic an atheistic is in style right now! It will sell because most of Hollywood sways that direction!

      Report Post »  
    • Lucy Larue
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 5:44pm

      IVANK,

      Great post. It’s succinct and TRUE!
      Bart Ehrman is a jerk WITH off!
      Je suis desolee’, so intolerant of moi…,but he is.

      Report Post »  
    • PATTY HENRY
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 5:54pm

      GOOD GRIEF!!! Someone tell this man about the HOLY SPIRIT. I am so saddened about these people who do not know GOD. These faux religions and weirdo ‘essays’… they really do NOT know who GOD is. Start here: GOD is the creator of the Universe. GOD owns it all; CONTROLS it all.

      Whatever happens to us is part of GOD’S plan to create in us the people He wants us to be for HIS reasons. If GOD didn’t want anything in the BIBLE to survive..it wouldn’t.

      Report Post » PATTY HENRY  
    • Sparky101
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 7:06pm

      becksnuts tries to sound so profound when he says things like “Of course the Bible is riddled with forgeries and nonsense.” But the real nonsense is that he speaks of things he knows absolutely nothing about, e.g. Christianity and the Bible. It’s best to avoid his drivel, it will not make you smarter than you were, more educated than you were, or any more worthwhile than you already are. In fact it tends to make you stupid. He has nothing of value to share, only wants to insult you and thereby build his own faulted self-esteem. Perhaps his mama taught him this means of putting others down to build yourself up, but as you can see from Becksnuts, it doesn’t work. FAIL.

      Report Post »  
    • PlanetXenu
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 7:18pm

      of course they were atleast “re-written”. the bible didn’t officially be released until around 350 AD, by Rome when they created Catholisism. the original Christians had to operate in secret for fear of being punished. it’s not all sunshine and puppy dogs, people.

      Report Post »  
    • slightstrider
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 7:54pm

      “There will always be someone who claims the Holy Bible is a fake… It ususally comes from those who are either agnostic or educated beyond their sensibilities.”

      They have acquired a surplus of knowledge yet they are not recipients of godly wisdom in the slightest. Their title may be “Biblical Scholar,” yet they are a walking manifestation of 1 Timothy 6:3-5.

      Report Post »  
    • avenger
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 8:10pm

      our dollar bills are worthless forgeries also…gold,guns & ammo…a huge yawn…how do we know that the libs back in year 22 did not spin all this ?

      Report Post »  
    • jb.kibs
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 8:36pm

      @butcher

      you mean ARE in touch with fear of death.
      .. because, most people of faith are not afraid to die. i would assume the faithless, “worm fooders” would be more afraid since they have nothing to look forward to. ;)

      Good Luck, Have Fun.

      Report Post »  
    • Taquoshi
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 9:27pm

      As for Ehrman, who admits he “moved from being a committed church-going Christian to become an agnostic,” he claims he’s not trying to completely discredit the Bible, but rather show people that its authors weren’t perfect.

      Oh, please! First of all, in order to get a doctorate, the candidate has to come up with something new and original to write about on the subject that they can defend. It doesn’t have to be TRUE, just something that the candidate can defend.

      Secondly, he wanted to show that the authors “weren’t perfect”???? Come on, you’ve got to be kidding. Peter, who denied Christ? Matthew, the tax collector?? And Saul of Tarsus, who happened to just be there when Stephen was stoned and conveniently held the cloaks of the stoners??? Nah, why would anyone think these guys were less than perfect? I mean, really, who’d have thunk it???

      Okay, but in the interest of full disclosure, Ehrman ADMITS he’s no longer a believer. He convinced himself out of his own belief. Does it get any better than this? Yeah, ’cause now he wants to convince you, too.

      Isn’t that just so special?

      Report Post » Taquoshi  
    • ILUVJESUS
      Posted on May 16, 2011 at 11:48pm

      The bible areas mentioned in this article have been addressed in Christian books years ago. Did he not study these? Does he have an axe to grind?

      Report Post » ILUVJESUS  
    • Shoalster
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 12:25am

      OK. But I still want to know. Are the women supposed to keep shut or not?

      Report Post »  
    • JJ Coolay
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 12:40am

      The New Testament books attributed to Jesus’ disciples could not have been written by them because they were illiterate.
      ___________________________

      Ever heard of a scribe?

      Report Post » JJ Coolay  
    • zteater
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 1:58am

      I am under the belief that faith based on denying alternative thought patterns is categorically blind-faith. However, true faith lies in maintaining reverence after listening, studying, and accepting some legitimacy of other ideologies.

      God granted us free will and free thought; remember to use it.

      Report Post »  
    • wickerlight
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 3:50am

      Unfortunately there is a temptation to become agnostic when one deeply studies ANE texts. One must remain humble and stand firm in their faith. Human religion has done more to devastate man’s faith than to bring him to a practical understanding of God.

      his holy church dot org

      Report Post » wickerlight  
    • Obama_Sham
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 6:57am

      @Ivank

      “And there will always be someone who claims the bible is a fake… It ususally comes from those who are either agnostic or educated beyond their sensibilities.”

      You do understand the meaning behind agnostic, right?!? I have yet to meet an agnostic that says any religion and/or their beliefs are fake… If an agnostic says that then he/she is not agnostic… He/she is atheist…

      Report Post » Obama_Sham  
    • Eliasim
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 8:36am

      No. Actually he is right, because in that day and age fisherman would definitely most likely be illiterate, and that would explain why they had others write it down for them as they spoke. And also remember Jesus said to the Apostles, “If they will do this to me, then what will they do to you?” If the Apostles stay true to Jesus, they would have been crucified promptly. And therefore it was the mother of Jesus whom was given the Great wings of an eagle and taken away by the disciple Jesus loved. And if anyone should know anything at all: the disciple who was loved by Jesus had the least amount of reason to be a liar.

      Report Post »  
    • seas
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 10:48am

      Hogwash. The bible is God’s word. the Writers were instruments used by God to write his word.

      Report Post »  
    • jackrorabbit
      Posted on May 17, 2011 at 11:03am

      Let’s see, perhaps you need to look at the Greek for the women or the words around them, because one set is performing a Godly service through prophesy, and the other is interupting the service and the teaching that the pastor is doing. Seems that the book of Ecc. “time speech” is lost on him. There is a time for EVERYTHING under Heaven. There is a time for the congregation to speak out, and a time for them to be silent and learn from the pastor.
      As for his “theory” of writing style, look no further than Stephan King, to refute that one. He has written books in both styles. So is Stephen King not the author of all of his books?
      What a ludicrous assumption. Paul was highly educated, because he was a “Jew among Jews” and one that hated Christians, and was well studied in all the laws etc. before his conversion on the road to Damascus. Is it not also possible that Paul wrote some of the letters by dictation, and as such created the different style. I could go on, but I think this is more than enough evidence to prove this fool knows nothing.

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    • jonesy411
      Posted on May 18, 2011 at 9:15pm

      The antintllectualism here scares me. Remember to thank God for the scholars who are able to refute Ehrman. Daniel Wallace has some good things to say about Ehrman’s views.

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