Direct Answer
Bercot says Christians should humbly recognize that their beliefs may have been formed without exposure to early Christianity, repent of sectarian pride, and take at least one honest, objective look at the primitive church. Openness means temporarily letting the historical record speak before defending inherited conclusions.
Support from Transcript
- He says every person once had a mind “open to hear God’s truth.” - He asks whether anyone explained “what the early Christians believed” when our minds were open. - He says, “Nobody ever gave me that opportunity, nor is it likely that it was ever given to you.” - Therefore, “our entire belief systems were formed” without trying “historic Christianity.” - He admits that established belief systems make it “difficult for us to objectively look at early Christianity.” - He says, “We owe it to ourselves to take at least one honest, objective look.”
Discussion Follow-ups
The transcript connects this openness with repentance: Bercot says Christians need “heartfelt repentance for our sectarian spirit.” Humility begins by admitting we may not have examined all the evidence fairly.