About This Class
About the Professor
Bill Mounce
Bill Mounce has had a distinguished career as an author, translator, and teacher. As the founder of BiblicalTraining.org and also serving on The Committee for Bible Translation to create the NIV translation of scripture, Bill is well-known for his best-selling biblical Greek textbook ‘Basics of Biblical Greek’ amongst other acclaimed works.
Lessons
The New Testament was formed through oral tradition before being written down by eyewitnesses and apostles. Jesus’ teachings were memorized through repetition, common in rabbinic methods, and later recorded as the need to preserve them grew. Key figures like Paul, Peter, and others wrote with authority, and by the 60s AD, a core set of accepted beliefs—orthodoxy—had emerged. Despite modern skepticism, strong evidence like eyewitness accounts, the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and the willingness of early Christians to face persecution support the New Testament’s reliability. Its authority lies in those who lived with Jesus and faithfully conveyed His message.
0% CompleteAre Matthew, Mark, and Luke telling the same story—or different ones? In this fascinating lesson, we explore why these three Gospels, called the Synoptics, are strikingly similar in some places yet surprisingly different in others. You’ll discover how each writer selected stories based on their purpose and audience, and how this intentional process shapes our understanding of Jesus. We’ll also explore the theory of shared sources like Mark and “Q,” and practice harmonizing Gospel accounts—especially around Jesus’ birth. If you’ve ever wondered why the Gospels don’t match perfectly, this class offers thoughtful answers and inspiring insights. Come explore with us!
0% CompleteIn this fascinating lesson, we explore the vital question: How did we get the Bible? Focusing on the New Testament canon, you’ll discover how the early church recognized which books were truly inspired—based on apostolic authorship, doctrinal consistency, and widespread church usage. Why were some books accepted and others, like the Gospel of Thomas, rejected? What role did persecution, heresy, and the death of eyewitnesses play in shaping the canon? You’ll also wrestle with whether the canon is closed and whether the church got it right. Join us as we uncover the compelling history behind the Bible you hold today.
0% CompleteEver wondered how the Bible we read today came from ancient handwritten texts? In this engaging lesson, we explore the fascinating world of manuscript transmission—how the original writings of the New Testament were copied and preserved through centuries. You’ll learn what textual variants are, why no original autographs remain, and how scholars determine the most accurate readings among over 6,000 Greek manuscripts. Though some differences exist, none impact core doctrines, and over 99% of the text is certain. Discover how this process, known as textual criticism, strengthens rather than weakens our confidence in Scripture’s reliability and integrity. Come explore with us!
0% CompleteIn this engaging session, we explore how the Bible went from ancient Greek and Hebrew texts to the many English translations we read today. Why do translations differ, and can we trust them? Absolutely! With clarity and care, you’ll learn how language works, why word-for-word and meaning-based translations both have value, and how translators faithfully balance accuracy and readability. Drawing on decades of experience with both the ESV and NIV committees, Dr. Mounce shares real-world examples and practical guidance for choosing and using your Bible. Come gain fresh confidence in Scripture—and discover how to study it more deeply and faithfully.
0% CompleteIn this final section of the class, we ask a life-shaping question: Do you truly trust the Bible? Join us as we explore the doctrine of inspiration and what it means for Scripture to come from the very mouth of God. We’ll examine whether Jesus, Paul, and others spoke truth, whether the Gospel accounts are accurate, and—most importantly—whether you’re ready to trust Scripture with your life. This isn’t just theology; it’s preparation for the storms of life. Come wrestle honestly with doubts, test your beliefs, and find a foundation strong enough to carry you through anything. Let’s think it through—together.
0% CompleteIn this thought-provoking lesson, we dive deeper into the doctrine of inspiration—what it means for Scripture to come from the very mouth of God. You’ll explore two key views: dictation and dynamic inspiration, and why most Christians affirm that God used human authors without overriding their voice. We’ll also look at the scope of inspiration—whether Scripture is fully trustworthy (inerrant) or only in matters of faith and practice (infallible). Along the way, we’ll tackle apparent contradictions and discover how harmonization and historical context can offer clarity. Come wrestle with these questions and strengthen your confidence in the truth of God’s Word.
0% CompleteIn this final session, we reflect on what falls outside the scope of biblical inspiration—like footnotes, translations, chapter numbers, and even grammatical oddities—while reaffirming that the original writings are fully trustworthy. Dr. Mounce also shares the why behind his confidence in Scripture: its claims about itself, its unparalleled ability to explain reality, and the deep inner confirmation of the Holy Spirit. With humility and clarity, you’re invited to think deeply, test your assumptions, and arrive at your own conviction. Because when life gets hard—and it will—you need to know where you stand with the Bible. Join the conversation, and decide.
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BiblicalTraining® wants every Christian to experience a deep and loving relationship with Jesus by understanding the life-changing truths of Scripture. To that end, we provide a high-quality Bible education at three academic levels taught by a wide range of distinguished professors, pastors, authors, and ministry leaders that moves from content to spiritual growth, all at no charge. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit funded by gifts from our users. We currently have over 180 classes and seminars, 2,300 hours of instruction, registered users from every country in the world, and in the last two years 1.4 million people watched 257 terabytes of videos (11 million lectures).
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