Direct Answer
The question confronts modern confidence by pointing out that Christians closest to the apostles were in a better historical position than we are. If even they could not understand the apostles, then modern individuals and denominations should be cautious about assuming superior faithfulness.
Support from Transcript
- The transcript says Polycarp and Clement of Rome “received the gospel directly from the apostles.” - Bercot asks, “How could they possibly have misunderstood them?” - He follows with the challenge: “If they did, what hope is there for us?” - Irenaeus is said to have received the gospel from those who got it directly from the apostles. - Bercot argues that the second-century Christians had “less than one century of drift.” - By contrast, he says modern Christians have had “19 and 20” centuries of drift.
Discussion Follow-ups
The transcript does not reject Bible study, but it does challenge isolated modern confidence that ignores early Christian witness.