A Two-Lecture Course by Dr. Bart Ehrman

The Bible and Abortion: When Does Life Begin in the Bible?

Discover the Bible's Perspective on When Life Begins!

Uncover the biblical perspective on one of the most contentious topics in modern times!

Course Overview

Uncovering Biblical Insights on When Life Begins

Are you curious about what the Bible actually says about when life begins? In this illuminating two-lecture course, we delve into the fundamental question: When does life begin? Is it at conception, during gestation, viability, or at birth? What does the bible actually say about one of the most contentious topics in modern times?

Contrary to common assumptions, the Bible's stance on this topic may surprise you. Led by esteemed biblical scholar Dr. Bart Ehrman, this course confronts these complex questions head-on, dissecting the biblical perspectives on the unborn fetus. We will examine both sides of the debate, analyzing passages that advocate for the humanity of the embryo or fetus, potentially framing intentional termination as murder, alongside passages that may suggest otherwise.

This course is NOT about taking sides in the abortion debate. Instead, it's a factual exploration of the biblical texts, free from personal bias or agenda. Dr. Ehrman delves into the historical and cultural context surrounding these scriptures, providing a comprehensive understanding of their implications.

Key Questions Covered

Was abortion known to the ancient world?
Do the biblical authors ever discuss it?
Does Jesus address abortion, or say anything of relevance to it?
Are there any passages in the Old or New Testament indicating that biblical authors assumed or implied that life commences at conception or during gestation before birth?
Is there a single view in the Bible, or a variety of perspectives?
How might knowing the biblical view affect the modern debate?

Your Instructor

Dr. Bart Ehrman

James A. Gray Distinguished Professor of Religious Studies Emeritus · University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Bart D. Ehrman is the James A. Gray Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he taught from 1988 until his retirement in 2025. Recognized internationally for his scholarship on the New Testament and early Christianity, Professor Ehrman has written or edited thirty three books, including six New York Times bestsellers. His college level textbook The New Testament: A Historical Introduction to the Early Christian Writings has remained the best-selling text in the field for more than twenty-five years. His scholarly works have been published by Oxford, Harvard, Yale, and other premier academic presses, and his books have been translated into twenty-seven languages, reaching millions of readers worldwide. Beyond the classroom, Professor Ehrman is a widely recognized public scholar. He has produced nine acclaimed courses for The Great Courses, in addition to numerous online courses available through BartEhrman.com. His books and courses have sold more than two million copies. He also writes for his charitable blog, The Bart Ehrman Blog, which has raised millions for organizations addressing poverty, homelessness, and hunger. In addition, he hosts the weekly podcast Misquoting Jesus with Bart Ehrman, available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms, where he brings cutting-edge biblical scholarship to a global audience.

Included With Enrollment

Bonus Resources & Lifetime Access

Enroll today to receive lifetime access to the course and a complete companion library.

Bonus #1

Lifetime Access to this Online Course

Enjoy permanent access to the full two-lecture course.

Bonus #2

Two 50-minute lectures by Dr. Bart Ehrman

In-depth video lectures exploring the biblical perspective on when life begins.

Bonus #3

30-minute Q&A Session

Engage with Dr. Ehrman's insights during a dedicated Q&A session.

Bonus #4

Lesson overviews and questions for reflection

Complementary materials to enhance your learning and critical thinking.

Bonus #5

Additional reading list

Dive deeper into the topic with a curated list of further readings.

Bonus #6

Audio downloads for listening on the go

Access course content in audio format for flexible learning.

Bonus #7

Donation to charity: water

$1 from your purchase is donated to charity: water.

From Course Participants

What Students Are Saying

Very insightful. It helped me see several biblical passages from a completely new perspective.

M.R.

Mike RodriguezCourse Participant

I have always enjoyed Bart’s books, podcasts, and lectures. This course was fascinating, and as always, Bart didn’t let me down.

C.T.

Christian TillhedenCourse Participant

Unlock the Biblical Truth About When Life Begins

1 comprehensive lecture, the Q&A recordings, audio downloads, and 7 bonus resources. Lifetime access.

Frequently Asked

Questions & Answers

Is this a LIVE course?

This 2-lecture mini-course was recorded live on June 2nd, 2024. If you purchase this course after June 2nd, you will enjoy lifetime access to the recorded event. You will also receive advanced notifications of new live lectures and online courses.

What is the Special Bundled Price?

The regular retail price for 1 individual lesson with Bart Ehrman would normally be $14.95. With the special bundled course price you can enjoy lifetime access to this 2-lecture mini-course and Q & A session for $24.95.

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