Bart Ehrman is a former evangelical Christian turned agnostic scholar and author who is best known for his critical approach to the Bible and the historical Jesus. While Ehrman affirms the crucifixion of Jesus as a historical event, his skeptical views on the Bible and the resurrection are not grounded in faith, and Christians can respond to his claims with confidence in the reliability of scripture and the true identity of Jesus Christ as the Son of God.
You may have come across the name Bart Ehrman in a book you picked up at the store, a video you stumbled upon online, or a conversation that left you wondering about what to think. He is one of the most well-known voices in modern biblical scholarship, and his writings have — for many believers and seekers alike — raised serious questions about the reliability of Scripture and the historical foundations of our faith. If his claims have ever troubled your heart or stirred your curiosity, you are not alone, and you are in the right place.
In this article, we will walk through who Bart Ehrman is, what he teaches about Jesus, and most importantly, how Scripture itself provides faithful, clear, and satisfying answers to the challenges he presents. Our goal is not to tear anyone down but to build you up — equipping you with a deeper confidence in the Word of God and in the Lord Jesus Christ, who declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Whether you are a new believer or someone who has walked with the Lord for decades, may this article strengthen your trust in the God who cannot lie and in the Bible that endures forever. Let us begin.
Who is Bart Ehrman?
Bart Ehrman is one of the most well-known biblical scholars in the modern era. He frequently appears in debates, interviews, and documentaries about the Christian faith. Many people encounter his name while searching for answers about Jesus and the Bible. As believers, it is important to understand who he is and what he teaches.
His Early Life and Education
Bart Denton Ehrman was born on October 5, 1955, in Lawrence, Kansas. As a young man, he was deeply committed to his Christian faith. In fact, he considered himself a devout evangelical Christian during his teenage years and early college life. He even majored in religious studies with a focus on the Bible. Furthermore, he went on to earn a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, where he studied under renowned scholars.
However, during his graduate studies, Ehrman’s faith began to change. As he learned more about the original Greek texts of the New Testament, he started questioning the reliability of Scripture. Eventually, he moved away from his evangelical roots. He ultimately completed his Ph.D. at Princeton, focusing on textual criticism of the New Testament and the writings of the early church fathers.
His Academic Career
Today, Bart Ehrman is a professor of religious studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. [1] He has authored or edited over thirty books, many of which have become bestsellers. Several of his most popular works include Misquoting Jesus, How Jesus Became God, and Heaven and Hell. He is particularly famous for his work on textual criticism — the study of how the Bible’s text has been transmitted over centuries.
His Shift in Beliefs
It is vital for Christians to understand Ehrman’s theological journey. He went from being a committed evangelical to an agnostic. As he has explained in his books, his crisis of faith began not with historical questions but with the problem of suffering in the world. He struggled to reconcile the existence of evil with the idea of a loving, all-powerful God. Consequently, he concluded that he could no longer believe in the God of the Bible.
Despite his personal journey away from faith, Ehrman often claims he is not anti-Christian. He says he simply follows the evidence wherever it leads. Nevertheless, his conclusions have had a significant impact on how modern secular culture views the reliability of the Bible and the person of Jesus Christ.
What Does Bart Ehrman Believe About Jesus?
To understand the claims made by Bart Ehrman, it is essential to look at the specific conclusions he has reached about the Jesus of the Bible. While he considers a historical person named Jesus existed, his views differ significantly from the traditional Christian faith. For believers, understanding these distinctions is crucial for strengthening our own convictions.
Dr. Ehrman generally views Jesus as a Jewish apocalyptic preacher. In his academic work, he argues that Jesus did not claim to be God during his ministry. Furthermore, Ehrman suggests that the divinity of Jesus was a later invention of the early church following the resurrection or even centuries after the Gospels were written. He often points to textual variations in ancient manuscripts as his evidence for the evolution of early Christian belief. Nevertheless, the Bible clearly states, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).
Ehrman also proposes that many of the sayings attributed to Jesus in the New Testament were not actually spoken by him but were added by later scribes or authors to attribute authority to their own ideas. [2]. As a result, he separates the “Jesus of history” from the “Christ of faith,” believing they are two distinct figures. However, Scripture affirms that Jesus is the same yesterday, and today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
Ehrman’s View on the Gospels
- Non-Divinity: He argues Jesus saw himself as a prophet, not divine.
- Textual Corruption: He emphasizes that copyists changed the Gospels over time.
- Apocalyptic Focus: He sees Jesus primarily as predicting the end of the age.
For Christians, these claims challenge the reliability of Scripture. In response, we trust the promise of God in Isaiah 40:8: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” While scholars like Ehrman focus on human error, we focus on the Holy Spirit’s perfect preservation of His Word throughout history.
Is Bart Ehrman still agnostic?
Bart Ehrman has not become a Christian. In his own words, he still considers himself agnostic about the existence of God. He describes this position as being unsure about whether any deity exists. However, he is no longer an atheist, as he once was, because he now views the question as unanswerable from a historical standpoint.
This shift is important for Christians to recognize. Ehrman’s agnosticism is not a convert’s faith in progress. Instead, it is a scholar’s retreat into uncertainty. He argues that the evidence is insufficient to make a definitive claim for or against God. This position, however, often feels more comfortable for intellectual inquiry and avoids the personal accountability that faith requires.
The Difference Between Agnosticism and Faith in Jesus
From a biblical perspective, genuine faith requires more than intellectual assessment; it demands a personal commitment. The Bible calls each person to move beyond uncertainty. We are invited to come to a saving knowledge of the truth. Consider these scriptural contrasts:
- Hebrews 11:6: Faith is the foundation. We must believe God exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.
- John 3:16-17: Christ was sent so the world might be saved through Him, not left in a state of perpetual doubt.
- Romans 10:9-10: Confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection leads to salvation.
Ehrman’s agnosticism stands in contrast to this biblical call. He remains in a state of “not knowing,” while Scripture calls us to a state of knowing and believing.
Why His Position Matters for Christians
Understanding Ehrman’s current stance helps Christians engage thoughtfully. His writings often challenge traditional Christian beliefs. He questions the reliability of the New Testament and the nature of Jesus’ divinity. However, his personal journey shows that intellectual doubt does not lead to faith. It often leads to a comfortable middle ground that avoids the cross.
As believers, we are called to be ready to give an answer for the hope we have (1 Peter 3:15). We can respect Ehrman’s scholarly work while firmly holding to the truth of God’s Word. His agnosticism is a reminder that historical analysis alone cannot produce saving faith. Only the Holy Spirit can open hearts to receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Did Bart Ehrman believe Jesus was crucified?
Yes, Bart Ehrman does believe that Jesus was crucified. In fact, he is quite clear on this point. Ehrman affirms that Jesus of Nazareth was a real historical figure who was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He has stated this repeatedly in his books and public lectures. [3]
However, it is important to understand the context of his belief. While Ehrman accepts the crucifixion as a historical fact, he interprets its meaning very differently from the Christian faith. Let us explore this further.
Ehrman’s Historical View of the Crucifixion
Bart Ehrman approaches the crucifixion from a purely historical and academic perspective. He argues that the crucifixion is one of the most certain facts about the life of Jesus. In his view, multiple sources — both Christian and non-Christian — confirm that Jesus was executed by Roman authorities.
Ehrman points to several key reasons why historians accept the crucifixion:
- Multiple independent accounts: The crucifixion is recorded in All four Gospels, as well as referenced by non-Christian sources such as the Roman historian Tacitus and the Jewish historian Josephus. [4]
- The criterion of embarrassment: Early Christians would not have invented a story about their Messiah being crucified, since crucifixion was considered shameful in the ancient world. The fact that they proclaimed it anyway suggests it truly happened.
- Roman historical records: Roman crucifixion was a well-documented practice, and the execution of a Jewish teacher named Jesus during Pilate’s rule fits within the known historical framework.
How Ehrman’s View Differs from the Christian Faith
While Ehrman affirms the historical reality of the crucifixion, he does not accept the theological significance that Christians assign to it. This is a critical distinction for believers to understand.
For Christians, the crucifixion is not merely a historical event. It is the very heart of the Gospel. Scripture tells us that Jesus died on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3, ESV).
Ehrman, on the other hand, views the crucifixion as the tragic death of a Jewish teacher and prophet. He does not believe that Jesus died as a substitutionary sacrifice for humanity’s sins. Furthermore, he does not accept the bodily resurrection of Jesus as a historical fact, which is the cornerstone of the Christian faith (1 Corinthians 15:14).
In essence, Ehrman separates the historical event from its divine meaning. He can say “Jesus was crucified” without affirming “Jesus died for our sins and rose again.”
What the Bible Teaches About the Crucifixion
As Christians, we hold to a much fuller understanding of the crucifixion. The Bible teaches that:
- Jesus willingly laid down His life. Jesus said, “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord” (John 10:18, ESV). His death was not an accident or a defeat. It was the fulfillment of God’s eternal plan of salvation.
- The crucifixion was prophesied. Isaiah 53 foretold the suffering of the Messiah centuries before Jesus was born. Jesus Himself told His disciples that “the Son of Man must suffer many things” (Luke 9:22, ESV).
- Jesus’ death paid the penalty for sin. “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God” (1 Peter 3:18, ESV).
- The crucifixion was followed by the resurrection. Without the resurrection, the crucifixion would have no saving power. But Jesus conquered death, and through Him, we have eternal life (Romans 6:9).
A Summary of the Key Differences
The following table highlights the difference between Ehrman’s view and the Christian view of the crucifixion:
| Aspect | Bart Ehrman’s View | The Christian Faith |
|—|—|—|
| Did Jesus exist? | Yes | Yes |
| Was Jesus crucified? | Yes, as a historical fact | Yes, as a historical and theological fact |
| Why was Jesus crucified? | He was seen as a threat by Roman and Jewish authorities | He died as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity |
| Did Jesus rise from the dead? | No, he does not accept the bodily resurrection | Yes, the resurrection is the foundation of our faith |
| What does the crucifixion mean? | The death of a Jewish teacher | The salvation of all who believe in Him |
Our Response as Christians
Understanding that Ehrman affirms the crucifixion but denies its meaning should encourage us. The historical evidence for Jesus’ death on the cross is strong. Even secular scholars cannot deny it.
However, we must never separate the cross from the empty tomb. The crucifixion without the resurrection is a tragedy. But the crucifixion with the resurrection is the greatest victory the world has ever known.
As believers, we proclaim with confidence: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16, ESV). Jesus was crucified. He was buried. And on the third day, He rose again. This is the Gospel, and it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16).
What does Bart Ehrman think of the resurrection?
Bart Ehrman, a well-known scholar of the New Testament, has generated considerable discussion within both secular and Christian academic circles. He is famous for his journey from evangelical faith to agnosticism. Consequently, understanding his perspective on the resurrection of Jesus is essential for Christians who encounter his writings and want to be prepared with thoughtful, faith-affirming answers.
Ehrman’s View of the Resurrection
Ehrman does not deny that the earliest Christians believed Jesus was resurrected. However, he distinguishes between belief and historical certainty. He argues that, as a historian, he cannot affirm that the resurrection actually happened as a supernatural event.
In his view, people in the ancient world sometimes trusted in miraculous claims. Yet, he maintains that historians cannot prove miracles by historical method alone. Therefore, he concludes that the resurrection is a matter of faith, not established historical fact. [5]
| Bart Ehrman’s Position | What Scripture Affirms |
|---|---|
| The resurrection cannot be proven by historical tools. | The resurrection is affirmed by eyewitness testimony (1 Corinthians 15:3–8). |
| He sees the accounts as later theological interpretations. | The Gospels portray the resurrection as a real, physical, historical event (Luke 24:39–43). |
| He claims we only know that the disciples believed Jesus rose. | The bodily resurrection is the foundation of the Christian faith (1 Corinthians 15:14, 17). |
In short, Ehrman accepts that early Christians sincerely believed in the resurrection. Nevertheless, he separates that belief from the event itself. He treats the resurrection as something beyond the reach of historical verification. For him, historians can explore what people believed, not whether God actually raised Jesus from the dead.
The Difference Between Belief and Reality
One key issue is Ehrman’s distinction between the disciples’ belief in the resurrection and the historical fact of the resurrection. He often states that we can know people experienced something powerful after Jesus’ death. Yet, he remains unsure about what actually happened.
The Bible, however, presents the resurrection as a concrete event rooted in space and time. It is not merely an idea or feeling. The tomb was empty. Jesus appeared to many people (1 Corinthians 15:5–8). He ate with His disciples and showed His wounds (Luke 24:39–43). As a result, the apostles staked their lives on the reality of His risen body.
Why the Resurrection Is Central to the Gospel
Christians must understand that the resurrection is not an optional doctrine. It is the heart of the Gospel message. The Apostle Paul plainly states its importance:
- 1 Corinthians 15:3–4 (ESV): “Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.”
- 1 Corinthians 15:14 (ESV): “And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.”
- Romans 10:9 (ESV): “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
These passages teach that faith and salvation are inseparable from the risen Christ. If the resurrection is only a story, then disbelief might seem reasonable. However, if Jesus truly rose, that changes everything.
The Power of Scripture to Explain the Resurrection
Even though Ehrman is a careful scholar of early Christian writings, his conclusions are shaped by his assumptions. He views the world primarily through natural limits and human reasoning. Yet, Scripture calls believers to trust in God’s revelation.
- God is not bound by our methods of research (Isaiah 55:8–9).
- God has revealed Himself in creation, in Scripture, and supremely in Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:15–20).
- The Holy Spirit empowers believers to understand and embrace spiritual truths (1 Corinthians 2:10–14).
Therefore, while historians can study texts and contexts, they cannot replace God’s own witness to His Son. The resurrection is not only an event of the past. It continues to speak through the living Word.
A Christian Response to Ehrman’s Uncertainty
Christians can respect Ehrman honestly recounting belief among early followers. Even critics help us see that the first Christians were convinced Jesus had risen. However, as believers, we go further. We trust what the Bible declares about our risen Savior.
Jesus said:
- John 11:25–26 (ESV): “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.”
Because of this promise, we do not base our faith solely on historical arguments. We base it on the testimony of God’s Word and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The resurrection is more than a matter of scholarly debate. It is the living power of God that saves and sustains us.
When we understand what Bart Ehrman says about the resurrection, it can sharpen our faith. It can encourage us to know the Scriptures more deeply and to hold fast to Christ alone. The risen Jesus is not a theory. He is the living Lord who conquered sin and death for all who believe. No human denial can undo what God has done. Jesus Christ is risen, just as He said (Matthew 28:6).
What are Bart Ehrman’s most influential books?
Bart Ehrman has written numerous books that have shaped modern biblical scholarship. Understanding his most influential works helps Christians engage thoughtfully with his arguments. Below is a list of his key publications and their central themes.
Major Works by Bart Ehrman
- Misquoting Jesus (2005) – This book explores how scribes altered New Testament manuscripts over time. Ehrman argues that copyist errors and intentional changes affect our understanding of the original text. [3]
- Jesus, Interrupted (2009) – Here, Ehrman claims contradictions exist within the New Testament. He suggests early Christians held diverse, conflicting views about Jesus’ identity and teachings.
- How Jesus Became God (2014) – Ehrman contends that Jesus did not claim to be God during his lifetime. Instead, he argues, later followers elevated him to divine status after his death.
- The Triumph of Christianity (2018) – This work traces how a small Jewish sect grew into the dominant religion of the Roman Empire. Ehrman attributes its success to social and political factors, not divine intervention.
- Heaven and Hell (2020) – Ehrman examines popular beliefs about the afterlife. He questions traditional interpretations of biblical passages on eternal judgment and reward.
Why These Books Matter
These books are widely read in academic circles and popular media. They often appear in university courses and public debates. As a result, many people encounter Ehrman’s skeptical views without hearing a biblical response. Christians should be aware of these titles so they can address questions with grace and truth.
A Biblical Perspective
While Ehrman raises questions about Scripture, believers can trust God’s Word. The Bible affirms its own reliability: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). Furthermore, Jesus declared, “Your word is truth” (John 17:17). Therefore, even when scholars challenge the Bible, we stand firm on Christ’s authority and the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
How should Christians respond to Bart Ehrman’s writings?
Christian readers seeking the truth about Jesus can feel uneasy when encountering Bart Ehrman’s writings. His academic credentials and confident tone seem challenging. However, believers need not fear. Scripture itself warns that false teachers would arise (Matthew 24:24), yet God’s truth stands firm. A Christ-centered response is not avoidance of questions but engagement rooted in faith.
Here are practical steps for Christians to handle Bart Ehrman’s work while keeping Jesus central.
1. Keep Christ Preeminent in All Discussions
Whenever you encounter any critic of Christianity, let your first thought be: “How does this relate to Jesus Christ?” Paul’s example in 1 Corinthians 2:2 shines here: “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” This principle directs every response toward the person of Jesus.
Specific actions include focusing your response on the person and work of Jesus, rather than getting lost in textual transmission issues. Shift discussions away from dead ends and toward the resurrected Lord, pointing people to the hope found in Him, and always asking how the text leads back to the cross.
2. Grow in Confidence in Scripture’s Reliability
Ehrman often highlights scribal errors in biblical manuscripts. These claims can shake weak faith. To respond, remember that 99% of these changes are minor, such as spelling differences. No core doctrine is even questioned. Believers can find confidence in the Bible’s unchanging message. Psalm 119:89 states, “Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven.” [source: https://www.biblegateway.com/
A few key truths about Scripture’s reliability include the scholars’ confidence and manuscript evidence. Text-critical scholars still affirm the New Testament’s historical trustworthiness. Furthermore, we have over 5,800 Greek manuscripts supporting the text. This is vastly more than any other ancient document. [source: https://www.csntm.org/
3. Turn Questions Into Testimony Times
Peter gives a clear command in 1 Peter 3:15: “…always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that you have…” A barista asks, “Have you read Ehrman?” This is a perfect opportunity to share Jesus.
Your talking points could be:
- “I know scholars like Ehrman raise real questions, and many are valid.”
- However, my faith rests on more than a debate or an argument.
- “My faith is built on a living Savior, Jesus changed my heart forever.”
- Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
4. Prioritize Discipleship Over Debate
Not every Christian is called to be an apologist. Some believers do not have a strong background. For young believers, it’s wise to counsel them away from advanced criticism for a while, as 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up…”
You can instead anchor your faith in Christ’s presence. Spend that time in prayer and worship. Study the Gospels deeply to know Jesus personally. Also, fellowship with other believers to grow together.
5. Trust in God’s Ultimate Authority
Ultimately, human arguments, even from respected scholars, do not define our faith. As it is written in Job 12:17, “He leads counselors away stripped…”. God’s word stands forever, no matter who questions it. Christians can respond to Bart Ehrman and others with both grace and conviction, always pointing back to Jesus.
The main responses to Ehrman include keeping Christ central. You should also build confidence in Scripture and turn questions into testimony. Prioritize discipleship and always remember God’s ultimate authority. May every encounter draw you closer to the unfailing truth of your Lord, Jesus Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bart Ehrman still agnostic?
Bart Ehrman formally announced that he is an agnostic.
He arrived at this position after years of personal study and questioning. He describes the primary reason for this as the problem of suffering.[6]
Even though he lacks faith in the Bible, he continues to study it.
In addition, he describes himself as an agnostic who does not know if any god exists.[6]
As Christians, we read the Scriptures and find a different message.
For instance, Romans 8:28 assures us that God works all things together for good for His children.
1 Peter 1:7 also reveals that our trials refine our faith like gold tested by fire.
Therefore, we find hope even when life is confusing.
Did Bart Ehrman believe Jesus was crucified?
Bart Ehrman affirms the historical crucifixion of Jesus.
He disagrees with the skeptic’s claim that Jesus never existed.[6]
However, he denies the theological meaning of that event.[6]
In addition, he sees it as a political execution, not a sacrifice for sin.
Christians must respond to Ehrman’s claims with a firm conviction of the truth.
Scripture teaches us that Jesus died for all people.
For instance, Isaiah 53:5 describes the suffering servant being pierced for our transgressions.
1 Peter 2:24 also tells us that Jesus bore our sins in His body on the cross.
We affirm that His death was a willing sacrifice to save us.
What does Bart Ehrman think of the resurrection?
Bart Ehrman dates the creed in 1 Corinthians 15 to within a few years of the crucifixion.[6]
This is a significant admission from a skeptic.[6]
Furthermore, he dates the writings of Paul to the middle of the first century AD.[6]
However, he concludes that this does not prove a bodily resurrection.[6]
Christians, on the other hand, believe that the resurrection is the foundation of our faith.
1 Corinthians 15:17 states that if Christ is not risen, our faith is empty.
In addition, Romans 1:4 declares that Jesus was declared Son of God in power by the resurrection.
We proclaim that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead.
Therefore, we find certainty in the Scriptures and historical evidence.
His Lord and Savior lives forever.
