Watch How Jesus Became God

How Jesus Became God is a compelling documentary series included in The Great Courses Signature Collection that features renowned historian and biblical scholar Bart D. Ehrman. The show is an in-depth exploration of the early debates and disputes within the Christian community that led to the emergence of the doctrine of the divinity of Jesus Christ.

The series offers an intriguing and informative look into the various perspectives at play, as it considers the evolution of beliefs surrounding Jesus' identity from his life and teachings, to his death and resurrection, and ultimately, to the formulation of the doctrine of the Trinity that became the orthodox Christian position.

Each episode of the series provides historical context and scrutinizes primary sources to reveal how various interpretations of Jesus' story emerged and evolved, as well as the political, social, and cultural factors that influenced them. Ehrman and his team use animated maps, diagrams, and charts to help illustrate the complex theological and philosophical concepts being discussed, making the series accessible to even those who may be new to the subject matter.

The show covers pivotal moments and figures in early Christianity, such as the Council of Nicaea in 325 CE, which was called to settle disputes amongst the bishops of the church about the nature of Jesus' divine and human aspects. It also serves as a platform for moving deeper into the personalities behind debates such as Bishops Arius and Athanasius. The series also examines the development of texts such as the Gospel of John, which argues for Jesus' divinity in a way that differs from other writings in the New Testament.

Throughout the series, Ehrman engages with fellow scholars, presenting differing viewpoints and interpretations of key texts and events. The discussions convey the richness and complexity of the debates, as well as the ongoing influence of those debates on modern Christianity. The conversations also extend beyond the academic realm to consider the impact that beliefs about Jesus' identity have had on society, politics, and art.

One of the most notable features of the series is Ehrman's ability to present the material in a way that is engaging and thought-provoking, without simplifying or dumbing down the content. He uses vivid and descriptive language to tell the stories and incorporates humor and personal anecdotes to make the series relatable and accessible.

Overall, How Jesus Became God provides an illuminating deep-dive into one of the most significant and enduring theological debates in the history of Western civilization. It is informative, engaging, and thought-provoking, making it an excellent choice for anyone interested in the history of Christianity or the philosophy of religion.

How Jesus Became God is a series that ran for 1 seasons (24 episodes) between July 25, 2014 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection