A Course by Dr. Bart Ehrman
The Scribal Corruption
of Scripture
Uncover the surprising history of the New Testament, revealing how the Bible was changed and the profound implications for its original writings.
How can we be sure we have the original writings of the New Testament?
Course Overview
How Can We Be Sure We Have The Original New Testament?
Bart's new course "The Scribal Corruption of Scripture: How The Bible Was Changed And How Readers May Never Know," delves into the heart of one of the most crucial questions for those interested in the Christian religion: How can we be sure we have the original writings of the New Testament? In a world where the first copies made by the authors have been lost to time, and we possess only hand-written copies of copies, often created centuries later, this course explores the authenticity of the New Testament texts.
While these lectures draw inspiration from Bart's best-selling book, there's no need to have read it to fully appreciate this course. Instead of simply rehashing the book's content, Bart will take a novel approach to essential questions, introducing fresh examples and diverse arguments to delve into the complexities of deciphering the original New Testament writings from surviving manuscripts.
Why You'll Love This Course
- Gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the New Testament's transmission.
- Understand the profound impact of scribal changes on Christian beliefs and practices.
- Learn why understanding the textual history of the Bible is crucial to understanding the modern world, whether you view it as divine revelation, a cultural artifact, or a historical document.
- Additional reading list to dive deeper
Your Instructor
Bart Ehrman
James A. Gray Distinguished Professor of Religious Studies Emeritus · University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Lecture Overview
Course Curriculum
1Doubts and Debates
50-60 minutes
Doubts and Debates
- Delve into the multitude of New Testament manuscripts
- Gain insights into their revealing aspects
- Navigate the trustworthiness of the text amidst abundant variations
- Uncover the profound influence of textual issues on crucial Christian doctrines
2Why Didn't Anyone Tell Me?
50-60 minutes
Why Didn't Anyone Tell Me?
- Delve into the "open secret" of textual uncertainties
- Explore the historical awareness of manuscript problems
- Gain insights into the varying opinions of experts, including Bart's own perspective, on the certainty of the original text
3Surely It Doesn't Matter. Does It?
50-60 minutes
Surely It Doesn't Matter. Does It?
- Uncover how even minor textual changes can wield significant influence over interpretations
- Examine the pivotal roles played by punctuation, single letters, and key words in shaping the text
- Gain insights into why scribes occasionally chose to intentionally modify passages
4Get Your Hands Off My Beliefs!
50-60 minutes
Get Your Hands Off My Beliefs!
- Uncover manuscript differences with profound impacts on early Christian beliefs
- Investigate variations linked to critical Christian doctrines
- Explore the implications of these textual uncertainties for matters of faith and culture
Included With Enrollment
Exclusive Bonus Resources
Enhance your learning experience with a comprehensive suite of resources, expert Q&A, and additional lectures.
Bonus #1
Comprehensive Resources Pack
Bonus #1
Comprehensive Resources Pack
Take your learning experience to the next level with our Comprehensive Course Resources Pack. This invaluable resource includes: Text Overviews of Each Lesson: Get a clear and concise introduction to the topics covered in each lecture. Perfect for refreshing your memory or previewing what’s ahead. Printable PDFs with Note-Taking Space: Keep track of important points, reflections, and insights during the course. Thought-Provoking Reflection Questions: Dive deeper into the material with prompts that encourage critical thinking. This Course Resources Pack is your personal guide to mastering the material, ensuring you stay engaged and never miss a key insight.
Value $40
Bonus #2
Exclusive Q&A Sessions
Bonus #2
Exclusive Q&A Sessions
Gain extra insights with our Exclusive Q&A Sessions. After each lecture, Bart Ehrman answers participant questions, adding clarity and depth to the course material. These Q&A sessions bring the dynamic, live experience to you, allowing you to explore topics in greater detail. This bonus offers a closer look at Bart’s expert responses to real questions, enriching your understanding and making your learning more interactive.
Value $60
Bonus #3
Audio Downloads
Bonus #3
Audio Downloads
Enjoy the flexibility of learning wherever you are with our Audio Downloads. Perfect for listening while in the car, working out, or anytime you're on the move. Each lecture is available as an audio file, making it easy to continue your education no matter where life takes you.
Value $20
Bonus #4
Bart's Spotlight Series Lost in Translation: Why Bible Versions Don’t Always Say the Same Thing
Bonus #4
Bart's Spotlight Series Lost in Translation: Why Bible Versions Don’t Always Say the Same Thing
What does it really mean when the Bible says "conversation" or "hell"? In this eye-opening lecture, renowned scholar Dr. Bart D. Ehrman explores the fascinating—and often overlooked—world of Bible translation. With wit and clarity, he reveals how language shifts, manuscript discoveries, and theological biases shape the Bibles we read today. You’ll never look at a familiar verse the same way again. From the beauty of the King James Version to the challenges of translating ancient Greek and Hebrew, Dr. Ehrman explains why no translation is ever truly neutral. Whether you're a believer, skeptic, or curious reader, this lecture will deepen your appreciation for the Bible's complexity—and the importance of the words we choose to represent it.
Value $160
Bonus #5
Self-Assessment Quiz
Bonus #5
Self-Assessment Quiz
Challenge yourself after completing your course with a customized quiz to the materials found in your "The Scribal Corruption of Scripture" course. Turn passive learning into active learning and turn short-term memory into long-term memory with our multiple choice, self-assessment quiz.
Value $20
Bonus #6
Downloadable eBook
Bonus #6
Downloadable eBook
Enjoy the convenience of having the entire course in a PDF. Whether you prefer reading on your tablet, phone, or just want a printable copy to annotate and revisit, this downloadable eBook gives you complete access to the content anytime, anywhere. Perfect for reviewing at your own pace—even offline.
Value $20
From Course Participants
What Students Are Saying
The Scribal Corruption of Scripture illuminates the hidden history behind the New Testament’s creation, fascinating and deeply informative
Interesting and very informative. An excellent course that is beneficial for both believers and skeptics alike
See What Most Readers Miss in Ancient Biblical Texts
4 core lessons, the Q&A recordings, audio downloads, and 6 bonus resources. Lifetime access.
Frequently Asked
Questions & Answers
Is this a LIVE course?
This course was recorded live on November 11-12, 2023. Purchase after November 12, 2023 and you'll enjoy lifetime access to the edited course and recorded Q&A.
Are any other discounts available?
Yes, if you have attended one of Dr. Ehrman's other events, such as the "Did Jesus Call Himself God?" or "Did the Christmas Story Really Happen?" webinars, you should have received an additional discount code during the webinar or via email.
Do you offer a money-back guarantee?
Absolutely! If you don't love the seminar, send us an email and we will refund 100% of your investment. You will have 30 days from the date of your purchase.
Alternatively, this course is available through The Biblical Studies Academy (BSA), our premium membership and training community.
Backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee · Lifetime access to all course materials
$1 from your purchase is donated to charity: water.