Candida Moss reveals the hidden contributions of enslaved Christians to the New Testament in part 1 of our riveting conversation where we talk about her latest book God’s Ghostwriters: Enslaved Christians and the Making of the Bible. What roles did these enslaved individuals play in shaping the most influential texts in Christian history? Moss shares her groundbreaking research, uncovering how these overlooked figures were crucial to the creation and transmission of biblical manuscripts. How does understanding the involvement of these enslaved authors transform our perception of biblical inspiration and the very foundation of Christian texts?

We dive into the complexities of ancient dictation, shorthand, and the collaborative process between early Christian leaders and their enslaved scribes. What are the implications of these practices for our understanding of authorship and authenticity in the New Testament? Moss also tackles the uncomfortable truth of Christianity’s historical complicity in slavery and offers insights on how modern believers can reconcile this. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional views and prompts deeper reflection on the origins of the Bible. How might these revelations reshape your understanding of scripture and its place in history?

Takeaways

• Enslaved Christians played crucial roles in creating and transmitting the New Testament.
• Understanding the involvement of enslaved authors reshapes our perception of biblical inspiration.
• The use of ancient dictation and shorthand by enslaved scribes influenced the final biblical texts.
• Early Christian leaders often worked closely with enslaved scribes in the writing process.
• Christianity’s historical complicity in slavery is a significant and often overlooked aspect.
• These practices raise questions about authorship and authenticity in the New Testament.
• Insights on how modern believers can reconcile the uncomfortable truths about Christianity’s past.
• Detailed exploration of how biblical manuscripts were created and transmitted.
• Encourages a deeper reflection on the origins of the Bible and its historical context.
• These revelations have the potential to significantly change our understanding of scripture and its place in history.

After Show