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Great Blessing and Great Responsibility - Genesis E5 EPISODE 288

The word "blessing" brings to mind a variety of images for all of us. But what exactly does it mean when God blesses someone? And where did the curse come from? In this episode, Tim and Jon start exploring the third movement of Genesis, tracing the theme of blessing and curse. View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? Part one (00:00-18:35) Part two (18:35-37:40) Part three (37:40-51:30) Part four (51:30-1:01:42) Referenced Resources The Blessing and the Curse: Trajectories in the Theology of the Old Testament , Jeff S. Anderson Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS "Endless Beginnings" by Smile High and Teddy Roxpin Show produced by Cooper Peltz. Edited by Dan Gummel and Zach McKinley. Show notes by Lindsey Ponder.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.

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Episode 2
Understanding the Law Part 1: The LAW
In this episode, Tim and Jon go deeper into the themes introduced in our video, "The Law." What is the purpose of the Old Testament law, and what does it have to do with Christians today? The guys will talk about how the laws were given to the ancient Israelites and how they contribute to a larger narrative about human nature and God's plan for creation. There's a lot to unpack here, and there's definitely something we can learn by understanding these ancient commands. In the first part of the episode (01:28-22:02), the guys talk about some of the issues with calling the first five books of the Bible, or the Torah, "the law." These books contain laws for the people of Israel, but "torah" actually means teachings or guidance. Even the laws that you do find are usually in a narrative structure. In the last part of the episode (22:16-47:03), the guys talk about the purpose of the law. The law wasn't given to the whole world; it was given for the covenant people of Israel. The reason they exist was so that Israel would be set apart from other nations and God could bless all of the nations through them. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "The Law." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BGO9Mmd_cU Book References: The Pentateuch as Narrative by John H. Sailhamer The Year of Living Biblically: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Bible as Literally as Possible by A.J. Jacobs Scripture References: Exodus 20-23 Numbers 14-15 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 3
Understanding The Law Part 2: The Prophets
In this episode, the guys continue their discussion of the law with a look at the prophets. The prophetic books in the Bible are an interesting follow up to the Torah. The prophets seemed to really be getting at God's heart behind the law, and they were desperate to see Israel come out of their rebellion. Tim and Jon will wrap up their discussion by looking at Jesus' response to the law. He was the answer to Old Testament prophecies, but he didn't come to get rid of the law, Jesus came to fulfill it. As Jesus followers, we have to wrestle with what this means for us. In the first part of the episode (00:56-12:18), the guys talk about Jeremiah and Ezekiel's response to Israel's disobedience. They warned of consequences to rebellion, but their primary message was the radical heart change that needed to take place. In the next part of the episode (12:33-21:30), Tim and Jon talk about Jesus challenging the common interpretations of the law in the Gospels. He boiled down all of God's commands to the great command: love God and love people. Jesus wasn't focused on the letter of the law, but the heart behind it. The religious leaders of the day had becoming totally wrapped up in legalism and had lost sight of the purpose behind the laws. In the next part of the episode (21:46-33:57), the guys discuss the central debate of the New Testament: should Jesus followers have to follow the commands even if they aren't Jewish? The apostles were divided on this, and it's a question that Paul comes back to throughout his letters. In the final part of the episode (34:12-50:05), the guys wrap things up with a discussion on what the law should mean for Jesus followers today. Though these laws likely won't affect our day-to-day lives, there is profound wisdom to be gained, especially when we understand God's purpose for giving them. When we look at the context the laws were given in, we can see God's heart for his people and his creation. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "The Law." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BGO9Mmd_cU Scripture References: Matthew 5 Deuteronomy 6 Galatians Romans 14 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 4
The Kingdom of God Part 1: The Kingdom of God Is the Gospel, starting from Genesis 1
In this episode, Tim and Jon look at a key Biblical theme that traces throughout the entire Bible--the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God is central to Jesus' message, but it can be confusing to understand completely. The guys will discuss why Jesus talked about the Kingdom so much and what that should mean to us as Jesus followers. Before they dive into the discussion, Tim will give a brief explanation of the concept of the Kingdom and its introduction into Scripture in Genesis 1. In the first part of the episode (01:05-07:00), Tim and Jon talk about Jesus' message in the Gospels. The New Testament authors boiled down Jesus' message to, "repent, for the Kingdom of God is near." We tend to think of Jesus as a moral teacher, but his lessons on morality and love only make sense if the Kingdom of God and his reign are coming to change the world. In the next part of the episode (07:20-14:02), the guys talk about what it means for the reign of God to arrive in Jesus. The image of God is an idea in Scripture that is connected to this Kingdom, and both of these ideas are anchored in Genesis 1. In the final part of the episode (14:24-29:18), the guys look at what it means for God's Kingdom to be seen through humans. Psalm 8 is a poetic reflection on Genesis 1 and humanity's role in God's creation. God rules the world through humans, and human rule is tied to being made in God's image. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Gospel of the Kingdom." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmFPS0f-kzs Scripture References: Genesis 1 Psalm 8 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 5
The Kingdom of God Part 2: Co-Ruling with Jesus
In this episode, Tim and Jon discuss Jesus' authority over heaven and earth and what it means for humans to rule with Jesus. The guys talk about what it will be like for God's Kingdom to be fully realized. The Bible tells us that God's Kingdom arrived in Jesus, but the fullness of that Kingdom is yet to come. What went wrong with the establishment of God's Kingdom, and how does he plan to fix it? In the first part of the episode (01:22-13:20), Tim and Jon talk about Jesus as the one who has authority over heaven and earth. What does this mean exactly, and how are humans invited into this with Jesus? In the next part of the episode (13:40-17:29), the guys talk about the New Jerusalem that's introduced in Revelation 22:1-5. This is a key passage in understanding how humans will serve and reign with Jesus in God's Kingdom. In the next part of the episode (18:02-23:22), the guys look at how God responds to humans setting up their own kingdoms. In the book of Genesis, we see that humans keep getting in the way of God's plan. God's covenant promise with Abraham and the children of Israel was all about trying to correct what went wrong with God establishing his Kingdom on earth. In the final part of the episode (23:45-43:37), Tim and Jon talk about Israel's many rebellions--their rejection of God's Kingdom and the creation of their own kingdoms. They take a look at God as King and how he challenges human kingdoms throughout the Bible. Finally, the guys talk about the tension between God being a King now but also one who will bring his Kingdom later. This is the "now and not yet" theology of the Kingdom of God. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Gospel of the Kingdom." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmFPS0f-kzs Scripture References: Revelation 22 Genesis 3 Exodus 15 Deuteronomy 17 Psalm 96 Isaiah 52 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 7
Heaven and Earth Part 1: What is the Old Testament referring to as "Heaven"?
In this episode, Tim and Jon begin their conversation about heaven and earth starting in Genesis 1. This is the first time "heaven" appears in the Bible. "The heavens" literally means "the sky." Did the ancient Israelites think God lived in the sky? Maybe. The guys will talk more about this and what it means for God's space and human space to overlap. In the first part of the episode (01:27-08:57), the guys talk about the idea that heaven is in the clouds. How did we get there? Tim will break down the Hebrew word for heaven and explain a bit more about what the ancient Israelites believed about God's heavenly space. In the second part of the episode (09:17-18:59), the guys will talk about the significance of temples for the ancient Israelites. Temples were the place where the divine and human space overlapped, and this was incredibly important to the ancient Israelites. In the next part of the episode (19:19-25:15), Tim and Jon talk about Jesus as the ultimate meeting place of heaven and earth. Throughout the gospels, Jesus calls himself the temple of God and makes clear that he is God's temple presence made accessible for humanity. In the final part of the episode (25:45-40:57), the guys talk about the ways we see this overlap between heaven and earth throughout Scripture. We see it through Jesus, through visions of heaven, like Jacob has in Genesis 28, and ultimately we see it in the garden of Eden. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Heaven & Earth." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zy2AQlK6C5k Scripture References: Genesis 1 Genesis 28 Psalm 11 Psalm 103 1 Kings 8 Isaiah 6 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Analogs by Greyflood
Episode 8
Heaven and Earth Part 2: When Heaven Meets Earth
In this episode, Tim and Jon continue their discussion from last time about what it means for God to be in "the heavens" and transcend humans. They'll go a little bit deeper and talk about what it looks like for God's space and human space to overlap. The biblical story begins with the mingling of these two spaces, and it was only after human rebellion that they became separated. The guys take a look at what Scripture says about heaven and earth and the future hope that one day God's presence will permeate all of creation again. In the first part of the episode (02:19-19:43), the guys discuss the imagery of cherubim in the Bible. The picture that most of us have of cherubim--chubby babies with wings--is pretty far off from what the Bible is trying to tell us about God's heavenly space. Eden was a picture of God's ideal--human and heavenly space intermingling--and Jesus is a representation of that. In fact, you can't separate Jesus from God's presence and holiness. There are little explosions of Eden everywhere that Jesus goes. In the second part of the episode (20:11-24:34), the guys talk about the concept of resurrection and new creation. The redemption of creation that is promised is completely wrapped up in the idea of God's presence once again filling human spaces. In the last part of the episode (25:08-36:58), Tim and Jon look at the symbolism behind temples in the Bible. Kings built temples as symbols of hope for restoring God's presence among his people, but Jesus declared that he was the new temple and God's bodily presence on earth. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Heaven & Earth." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zy2AQlK6C5k Book References: The Resurrection of the Son of God by N.T. Wright Scripture References: Genesis 1-2 Isaiah 2 Isaiah 11 Psalm 73 Isaiah 26 Daniel 12 Ezekiel 37 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 9
Heaven and Earth Part 3: Jesus, The Ultimate Heaven & Earth Meeting Place
In this episode, the guys wrap up their discussion on heaven and earth. The guys will solidify the idea that Jesus is the meeting place of heaven and earth. He is God's temple presence on earth, and his resurrection is the first part of God's plan for a new creation. Not only do the New Testament authors draw on temple imagery to talk about Jesus, but they also use it in reference to people and communities of believers. What does this mean for followers of Jesus? And finally, what happens to us after we die? In the first part of the episode (03:06-15:28), the guys look at the story of Pentecost and the start of the Jesus movement. Because of the events in the book of Acts, we know that God's presence exists in followers of Jesus. We're not just humans; we're like little mobile units of God's presence. In the second part of the episode (15:50-27:52), Tim and Jon talk about the implications of Christians having the presence of God within them. God's presence in us means that we are able to see glimpses of his Kingdom now while holding out hope for the fullness of his Kingdom that is coming. This is what the now-and-not-yet Kingdom of God is all about. In the last part of the episode (28:26-41:57), the guys try to shed light on the question of life after death. Though we're given few specifics about the afterlife in the Bible, we know that both Jesus and the New Testament authors fully believed that some part of us would be in the presence of God awaiting the new creation after we die. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Heaven & Earth." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zy2AQlK6C5k Scripture References: Acts 2 Colossians 1 1 Corinthians 6 1 Corinthians 11 Luke 23 Philippians 1 2 Corinthians 5 Revelation 6 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 10
Image of God Part 1: Humans as Middle Management
What does it mean that humans are created in the image of God? In this episode, the guys discuss the biblical theme of the image of God and its implications for Jesus followers. As humans, we bear the image of God, but what is the purpose of this for us--what is the purpose for God? Creating images of gods was a fairly familiar concept in the ancient world, but representing the image of God, not through a statue or idol but through your very being, has profound significance. In the first part of the episode (01:31-13:58), the guys talk about Genesis 1. This passage tells us that humans were created in God's image and then given the task to rule over creation. Compared to the Babylonian creation myth, the biblical story of creation gives a worldview and social order that is pretty unique. In the second part of the episode (14:14-26:10), Tim and Jon talk about the purpose behind God creating humans in his image. After God creates Adam and Eve, he tasks them with subduing creation? What does this mean? How should we be "subduing" God's creation? In the final part of the episode (26:26-44:50), the guys talk about the ancient context of creating images of gods. What were images of gods in the ancient world? Statues or idols were viewed as a special connection to the god they represented. This is true of humans too. Humans are the realization of God's presence--his temple on earth. God's rule here on earth is not through elite kings, it is through humans multiplying, gardening, and making neighborhoods. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Image of God." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbipxLDtY8c&t=2s References: The Babylonian Creation Story (Enuma elish) from Grand Valley State University http://faculty.gvsu.edu/websterm/Enuma_Elish.html The Historical Roots of Our Ecological Crisis by Lynn White, Jr. https://www.uvm.edu/~gflomenh/ENV-NGO-PA395/articles/Lynn-White.pdf Scripture References: Genesis 1-2 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 10
Image of God Part 1: Humans as Middle Managment
What does it mean that humans are created in the image of God? In this episode, the guys discuss the biblical theme of the image of God and its implications for Jesus followers. As humans, we bear the image of God, but what is the purpose of this for us––what is the purpose for God? Creating images of gods was a fairly familiar concept in the ancient world, but representing the image of God, not through a statue or idol but through your very being, has profound significance. In the first part of the episode (01:31-13:58), the guys talk about Genesis 1. This passage tells us that humans were created in God’s image and then given the task to rule over creation. Compared to the Babylonian creation myth, the biblical story of creation gives a worldview and social order that is pretty unique. In the second part of the episode (14:14-26:10), Tim and Jon talk about the purpose behind God creating humans in his image. After God creates Adam and Eve, he tasks them with subduing creation? What does this mean? How should we be “subduing” God’s creation? In the final part of the episode (26:26-44:50), the guys talk about the ancient context of creating images of gods. What were images of gods in the ancient world? Statues or idols were viewed as a special connection to the god they represented. This is true of humans too. Humans are the realization of God’s presence––his temple on earth. God’s rule here on earth is not through elite kings, it is through humans multiplying, gardening, and making neighborhoods. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Image of God." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbipxLDtY8c&t=2s References: The Babylonian Creation Story (Enuma elish) from Grand Valley State University http://faculty.gvsu.edu/websterm/Enuma_Elish.html The Historical Roots of Our Ecological Crisis by Lynn White, Jr. https://www.uvm.edu/~gflomenh/ENV-NGO-PA395/articles/Lynn-White.pdf Scripture References: Genesis 1-2 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 11
Image of God Part 2: God and Human's Makeover
In this episode, Tim and Jon talk about what it means to be remade into the image of God. This is a different Christian narrative than we usually hear, but it's all right there in the Bible. The guys will talk about the image of God throughout the New Testament and how humans reigning on God's behalf is part of the gospel. In the first part of the episode (02:15-5:52), the guys confront the familiar Christian narrative that says humans are terrible and screwed up and God just puts up with us. Humans are sinful, sure, but they're also treasured by God and a crucial part of his plan for humanity. The biblical story is not about how terrible people are. It's about God's plan for the world and how he will restore and heal the image of God in humans and fulfill the original calling he gave in the garden. In the second part of the episode (06:19-12:10), Tim and Jon talk about God's plan for humans to reign on his behalf as the image is repaired. Paul picks up the language of the image of God to talk about Jesus and the process of becoming new humans and being renewed according to the image of God. In the next part of the episode (12:29-19:24), the guys discuss what our divine purpose is as humans. Do we try to advance the human project (moral progress), or do we withdraw (remove ourselves) as we wait for God's new creation? In the next part of the episode (19:46-29:50), the guys talk about what went wrong with the image of God in humans and why it's in need of repair. How does the image of God connect to the garden and the knowledge of good and evil? In the final part of the episode (30:21-47:19), the guys talk about the garden of Eden as it relates to God's image. There is a familiar narrative that the garden was perfect and then humans came in and ruined everything, but as Tim will point out, it's more complex than that. The garden was only the beginning; it had potential for perfection, but it wasn't God's plan for creation fully realized--not yet. Genesis is not the end of the story. As image bearers of God, there is still hope for the completion of the story and the fullness of God's Kingdom. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Image of God." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbipxLDtY8c&t=2s References: What is the Hope for Humanity? A discussion of technology, politics, and theology with N.T. Wright and Peter Thiel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9Mlu7sHEHE Scripture References: Psalm 8 Genesis 1 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 12
Image of God Part 3: The Garden Was Not Perfect
In this episode, Tim and Jon wrap up their discussion on the image of God. Scripture tells us that humans are made in the image of God, but what does that actually mean for our lives? Do we exist simply to glorify God, or does bearing the image of God mean we have a greater responsibility? As Christians, we tend to think we have to divide secular and sacred, but as the guys will unpack, this doesn't have to be the case and we can choose to reflect God and his image in all that we do. In the first part of the episode (01:15-04:48), Tim and Jon talk about why the garden shouldn't be considered perfection. The garden was good, but it is only the beginning of the story! God's story will be complete when humans are fully united to God and his creation is redeemed. In the next part of the episode (05:15-16:58), the guys talk about the parent/child relationship between God and humans. It's crucial to understand that God wants to share his creation with us! Just like in the garden, humans will one day reign with God. The Westminster Confession of Faith is a well-known confession of the church of England. You may be familiar with it: "Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever." In the next part of the episode (17:19-35:16), the guys unpack this a little bit and point out the problems with taking this bystander approach to humanity's purpose on earth. Glorifying and enjoying God is only a small part of bearing the image of God. So what does it mean for humans to bear the image of God? In the last part of this episode (35:45-1:07:14), the guys will talk about the implications of the image of God for followers of Jesus. We're not simply a representation of God, we get to work with him to bring about his purpose on earth! But we have to realize that we are image bearers who don't always represent God well. What does it look like for us to renew our hearts and minds to better represent God to the world? Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video on the image of God. You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbipxLDtY8c Book References: The Westminster Confession of Faith by the Westminster Assembly Why Business Matters to God: (And What Still Needs to Be Fixed) by Jeff Van Duzer Scripture References: Genesis 1-2 Psalm 86 Psalm 8 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 13
Image of God Part 4: Glory of God
In this episode, Tim and Jon talk about the glory of God and what it means for humans to glorify him. Does glorifying God simply mean singing songs or acting a certain way? Why is God so interested in his glory? This all connects back to the image of God. The glory of God is one of those terms that is thrown around a lot in Christian culture, but what does it really mean? In the first part of the episode (01:10-08:46), the guys talk about how the image of God is connected to the glory of God. Does glorifying God mean that we need to get out of the way or remove ourselves? We as humans bear the image of God, and we're going to represent God in the world simply because of who we are. But can choose to represent God well, and this too can be glorying. In the next part of the episode (09:13-17:00), Tim and Jon talk about what it looks like to glorify God in our everyday activities. It doesn't always have to be about singing praise songs. Paul talks about how everything we do, we can do to the glory of God. In the next part of the episode (17:20-29:21), the guys talk about the Hebrew word, "kavod," one of the words used for "glory" in the Bible. Kavod literally means "heavy," but metaphorically it means one's reputation or significance. Humans have our own kavod, but the image of God that we bear is also kavod. In the next part of the episode (29:51-40:07), the guys continue to unpack this idea of kavod. The verb version of this word is, "kaved." Kaved means to speak or act in a way that brings kavod to someone. This is an interesting nuance, and it's best understood as respect or honor. In the final part of the episode (40:38-52:37), the guys talk about why we glorify God--why does God need us to do this? This is a question that we get tripped up in as Jesus followers, but we're losing sight of what kavod really means. We're not just trying to help God look important. We are invited to increase God's kavod, his reputation and honor. Whatever we do, we can do it to God's honor and glory. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Image of God." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbipxLDtY8c&t=2s Scripture References: Psalm 71 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 14
Intro to Wisdom Literature
In this episode, the guys give an overview of wisdom literature in the Bible. Proverbs, Job, and Ecclesiastes are considered wisdom literature. Each book has unique ideas and ancient wisdom about the world, but all of the books are trying to teach the audience what it means to live a good life. In the first part of the episode (01:31-05:28), Tim and Jon discuss the purpose of wisdom literature. These books are full of ancient wisdom that has been passed down for centuries. They're the insights of wise, God-fearing people accumulated throughout the generations to become God's word to his people. There is a specific context in which the books were written, but they are universal and still totally applicable to us today. In the next part of the episode (05:40-12:22), the guys talk about the differences among the wisdom books of the Bible. The books come from distinct time periods in Israel's history, and each one offers a unique perspective that we need to interpret as a whole. In the final part of the episode (12:34-31:52), the guys talk about how these books stand out against the rest of the Old Testament. The wisdom authors express doubts and questions about other parts of the Bible. These doubts are not to discredit the rest of Scripture--it's about compelling the readers toward an honest faith. We have to be willing to acknowledge and wrestle with doubts and questions, and the wisdom books can guide us in this. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our wisdom series of videos. You can view all of the videos in this series on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLH0Szn1yYNeeKPNIy7YXjO3MGD8h8ifhr Scripture References: Proverbs Job Ecclesiastes Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 15
Wisdom of Ecclesiastes Part 1: Not Another Proverb...
In this episode, Tim and Jon begin their discussion on the book of Ecclesiastes. This is an interesting book in Scripture, and the author is relentlessly trying to get the reader to rethink their black and white mindset. It can be a bit depressing to read, and it doesn't quite give you the same type of feel-good wisdom that the book of Proverbs does. The guys will try to get at what this book is trying to teach us and what the author thinks it means to live a good and godly life. In the first part of the episode (02:14-09:57), the guys talk about the two distinct voices in Ecclesiastes. We know that it was written by a son of David, which could mean an actual king, or it could mean someone who wrote in the tradition of the wisdom of the kings. Getting a little bit of context about the author will help us to figure out what this book is trying to say. In the next part of the episode (10:18-17:28), the guys discuss the Hebrew word, "hevel," used thirty-eight times in this short book. "Hevel" is roughly translated to "vanity," but as Tim points out, this is not the best translation. Hevel technically means smoke or vapor, but it is also used metaphorically to mean absurd or an enigma. In the next part of the episode (17:51-34:46), the guys talk about the way Ecclesiastes stands out among the other books in the Old Testament. Is this book scandalous among the Jewish Scriptures? In the final part of the episode (35:09-51:20), the guys unpack the concept of the "good life" that Ecclesiastes is teaching about. What does it mean to live a good life? What are our motives for pursuing the good life if there is so much hevel? Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video on the book of Ecclesiastes. You can view it on our youtube channel here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeUiuSK81-0 Scripture References: Ecclesiastes Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 16
Wisdom Series: Proverbs
In this episode, Tim and Jon talk about the ancient wisdom found in the book of Proverbs. The author of Proverbs is this incredible teacher who offers guidance for just about everything humans will encounter in their lives, but is it just a book of wisdom sayings that we can memorize and put on our walls? The guys will go on to explain that wisdom, and the Hebrew concept of "chokmah," is much more than that. In the first part of the episode (01:52-10:00), the guys talk about the Hebrew word for wisdom, "chokmah." In the Bible, God uses chokmah to design the entire universe, and humans can access this divine wisdom. But it's not just about using wisdom to know the pattern of the universe; we can use it to design our life. In the next part of the episode (10:25-22:00), the guys talk about chokmah as more than an impersonal force. The wisdom found in Proverbs is not just about goodness and reality, it's also about street smarts. This is the second nuance of chokmah. In English, wisdom is something that we think of as intellectual. Chokmah can mean a type of knowledge or moral law, but it also implies application. Proverbs is trying to persuade you to use this chokmah to change your life. In the next part of the episode (22:22-31:13), Tim and Jon talk about how we can apply chokmah in our lives. Chokmah is an attribute of God that we can actually interact with and use in our lives. But it's not about passively gaining knowledge; it leaves us with a responsibility. In the next part of the episode (31:45-41:13), the guys talk about some of the warnings in the book of Proverbs. Proverbs warns against becoming "wise in our own eyes." We can think we're using chokmah and making wise decisions, but we're not. This is where the concept of the fear of the Lord comes in. In the final part of the episode (41:42-48:55), the guys talk about what it looks like to fear the Lord. Sometimes a wise decision in our culture can look different from making a decision using chokmah. It's about staying aligned with our moral compass and the heart of God in every aspect of our lives. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video on the book of Proverbs. You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gab04dPs_uA References: What is the Hope for Humanity? A discussion of technology, politics, and theology with N.T. Wright and Peter Thiel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9Mlu7sHEHE Scripture References: Proverbs Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 17
Wisdom of Ecclesiastes Part 2: The "Teacher" vs. Jesus
Hanging out with Ecclesiastes isn't fun. We need to be exposed to the Teacher's words as a helpful exercise to have our illusions dismantled. His words are like a Goad (a pointy stick to get Sheep to go in the right direction). The endless march of time that results in death for everyone. Everything dies. Humans and Animals. From our point of view (under the sun) humans don't seem to be any better than animals. We can see that all living creatures go to the dirt and we don't have any concrete proof of what happens after that. We can't prove that humans have any advantage over the animals. As a follower of Jesus we have a worldview based on the claim of the Apostles that Jesus raised from the dead so we see this differently than the Teacher in Ecclesiastes. Music Break More on the March of Time and death from a cosmic scale. Ecclesiastes has a whole poem about aging. We are all going towards old age and old age is miserable. Ecclesiastes also talks about chance. Life is unpredictable. Chance screws with all of us. You can't guarantee that when you do the right thing it will work out. Death, Time and Chance Music Break The Teacher, surprisingly, still wants us to be wise. The Teacher realizes that being wise is the right thing to do. There are no guarantees but better odds. What does it mean to be overly righteous and overly wise? It is good to be righteous and strive to live an upright moral life. But when that is your sole focus and mindset and you believe you deserve things you have the wrong perspective. The one who Fears God will avoid all extremes. Being overly righteous will destroy you. There is so much good to be done in the world if you try to do it all you will destroy yourself. Music Break What are we suppose to do with all of this: Death, March of Time, Chance, Be Wise but no guarantees. Acknowledging all of this isn't becoming an atheist or agnostic but it is the secret to enjoying life. Come to terms with your inability to control all your life circumstances. This mindset is the silver bullet for enjoying your life. Blaze Pascal "We do not rest satisfied with the present. We anticipate the future as too slow in coming, as if in order to hasten its course; or we recall the past, to stop its too rapid flight. So imprudent are we that we wander in the times which are not ours and do not think of the only one which belongs to us; and so idle are we that we dream of those times which are no more and thoughtlessly overlook that which alone exists. For the present is generally painful to us. We conceal it from our sight, because it troubles us; and, if it be delightful to us, we regret to see it pass away. We try to sustain it by the future and think of arranging matters which are not in our power, for a time which we have no certainty of reaching. Let each one examine his thoughts, and he will find them all occupied with the past and the future. We scarcely ever think of the present; and if we think of it, it is only to take light from it to arrange the future. The present is never our end. The past and the present are our means; the future alone is our end. So we never live, but we hope to live; and, as we are always preparing to be happy, it is inevitable we should never be so." Remember to live. Music Break Life is full of things that are out of your control and don't always make sense. Death and Chance and Time put those in your face all the time. Well then what should we do? Be wise. Fear the Lord. Be present. Enjoy what is in front of you. Don't try to control it. Just enjoy it. It hurts you to hear these things but you need to hear it. Don't go any further. We've gone far enough. Here is the conclusion of the matter. Fear God and keep his commandments. Even though this doesn't make sense to me know I still will be held accountable to it. Justice will come. Life won't always be shrouded in Hevel. One day the fog will be lifted. The teacher is talking about "life under the sun" or our metaphor "life in the fog". Life still has a meaning long into the future even amidst my inability to see it in the present.
Episode 18
Story: God and Money
In this episode, the guys explore the story of two Harvard Business School graduates who were confronted with a biblical view of money that changed their lives. In the first part of the episode (01:12-09:51), Tim and Jon talk about what the Bible says about money. On one hand it says it's the root of all evil--kind of intense. But on the other hand it also talks about ways to use your money to bless others. How does the Bible ask us to view money? In the next part of the episode (10:08-22:15), Jon talks to John Cortines and Gregory Baumer. John and Gregory were two young, successful Christians making more money than most of us can dream of. They were faithful Christians tithing to their church regularly, but when they took an elective class at Harvard Divinity school about God and money, everything changed for them. In the next part of the episode (22:42-37:26), John and Gregory talk about how God completely flipped the way they think about money on its head. For a project in their class, they sent out an anonymous survey asking how much people make, save, and give. The project took on a life of its own, and they were left with some startling results and convictions. In the final part of this episode (37:58-1:02:40), we get to see how John and Gregory walked out their newfound convictions. They acted in faith and trusted God with their money in an extreme way. Their obedience wasn't always easy, but when they trusted God beyond just cutting a ten percent tithe check every month, they experienced true joy and freedom. References: God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School by Gregory Baumer and John Cortines Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 19
The Wisdom of Job Part 1: Suffering Well
In this episode, the guys take a bird's eye view of the book of Job. Job is considered wisdom literature, and it aims to teach the reader about justice, suffering, and the role of God in the lives of humans. The author is intentionally trying to ruffle some feathers. This book is all about calling into question the reader's views of God and the world. In the first part of the episode (02:15-09:02), Tim and Jon give an overview of Job and talk about what it's trying to communicate. The book doesn't give us a clear answer as to why Job is suffering, but it does teach us about the character of God and offers a model for how to handle suffering. In the second part of the episode (09:30-13:05), the guys talk about the problem of evil and why bad things happen to good people. Job is an excellent study on this question. If a good and powerful God created this world, then why do people, including good people, suffer? In the next part of the episode (13:34-23:03), the guys talk about the order that humans try to impose on the world. This is a major theme in the book of Job. This is a book where we see things happening that don't fit our category of order, but God has wisdom and a way of ordering the world that is beyond our understanding. Next (23:34-34:24), the guys talk about how Job comes to understand God's divine wisdom and judgement. In Job, we see that the world can't be run by a system, it has to be run by God's judgement. In the next part of the episode (34:53-46:34), the guys talk about some of the overarching themes in Job that connect to the larger narrative of Scripture. This story is teaching its readers to trust God's way of running the world. In the final part of the episode (47:03-51:13), Tim and Jon wrap things up by giving an overview of all of the wisdom literature in the Bible and look at how Job fits into the larger story. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video on the book of Job. You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GswSg2ohqmA Book References: Job (The NIV Application Commentary) by John H. Walton Scripture References: Job Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 20
The Wisdom of Job Part 2: Where on Earth is "Uz"?
In this episode, Tim and Jon continue their discussion on Job. How exactly does Job fit in with the other wisdom book of the Bible? It's kind of a weird book. Job takes place in Uz, a non-Israelite town, and it features non-Israelite people. It seems out of place, but it's also a book that other biblical authors refer to throughout Scripture. We have to wonder about the differences between Job and the other books of the Bible. Is Job a literal account, or is it a wisdom parable that is intentionally fiction? In the first part of the episode (02:14-09:42), the guys talk about the first two chapters of Job. In this section, God's justice is questioned, but the story is not trying to teach about the origins of human suffering. The guys try to get at what this first part may be trying to teach us. In the second part of the episode (09:57-22:50), Tim and Jon talk about the heavenly scene in Job and discuss why the author chose to include it. The point of the heavenly scene isn't to tell us how God makes decisions. It asks the question of whether or not it is a good policy for God to always reward the righteous. In the next part of the episode (23:09-26:57), the guys break down the structure of the book, specifically chapters three through twenty-seven. These chapters are the poetic core of the book called "the cycles." In the final part of this episode (27:12-41:30), the guys spend some time discussing Job's friends. His friends are working within a human framework that says that God rewards the righteous and brings wrath upon sinners, yet Job continues to defend his innocence throughout the book. What is really going on here? Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video on the book of Job. You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GswSg2ohqmA Scripture References: Job Ezekiel 14 Numbers 22 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 21
The Wisdom of Job Part 3: Job Vs. Elihu
In this episode, Tim and Jon try to tackle some of the glaring questions about the story of Job. They talk about the surprise friend, Elihu, who seems to show up out of nowhere towards the end of the story. They also spend some time discussing Job's speech in chapter 28. There's a lot to unpack in that chapter, and understanding it may give us clues as to what this book is all about. Finally the guys look at Job's final showdown with God and how God responds to Job's accusations of being unjust and unfair. In the first part of the episode (01:53-07:29), the guys talk about Job's surprise friend, Elihu. He comes into the story and reaffirms for Job that God is just, but he also hints at a more complex understanding of God's justice. Yes, he is just, but he's also God, and he's capable of disciplining someone to avoid future suffering. In the second part of the episode (07:51-17:22), the guys discuss Job's speech in Chapter 28. This chapter is all about God's divine wisdom. Job talks about humans as creative and ingenious, but they also can't fully access God's wisdom or understand his ways. In the next part of the episode (17:43-30:41), Tim and Jon talk about God's response to Job's accusations. God basically gives Job a virtual tour of the universe, describing all of the incredible things that he has created. We see here that Job doesn't really have the vantage point by which to accuse God. In the next part of the episode (31:04-46:20), the guys talk about the Behemoth and the Leviathan, ancient creatures that God brings up during his tour of the universe. Why would the author choose to include this? We can see that even in God's good world, there can be suffering and tragedy only because the world is a raw and wild place. In the final part of the episode (46:47-59:11), the guys talk about Job's repentance and humility before God at the end of the book. Job's story teaches us that God doesn't always run the world on the principle of just recompense. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video on the book of Job. You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GswSg2ohqmA Scripture References: Job Psalm 74 Isaiah 27 Revelation 12 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 24
Luke Part Three: Good News for the Poor
In this episode, Tim and Jon discuss the first six chapters of the gospel of Luke. Luke stands out among the other gospels because it is all about Jesus' message being first for the poor and outcasts. This made the religious leaders of the day mad, and Jesus' ministry was totally revolutionary in a culture that was all about status and wealth. Luke's gospel is constantly calling back to the Hebrew Scriptures, and it emphasizes, again and again, that Jesus is the Messiah that the prophets talked about. In the first part of the episode (02:01-11:10), the guys talk about the literary genius of the gospel of Luke. Luke's account oozes with Old Testament allusions, and he did this so that his audience would see how connected Jesus is to Israel's story and history. In the next part of the episode (11:41-19:28), the guys spend a lot of time talking about why Luke included the story of Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River. The symbolism between Jesus' baptism and the crossing of the children of Israel into the promised land is unmistakable! Jesus was making a bold statement. He was here to usher in a new age for Israel. In the next part of the episode (19:59-25:55), the guys continue to talk about the unique quality of Luke's gospel. Even the structure of the book is different than the other gospels. Luke continues to use Old Testament imagery, specifically the exodus motif, so that his audience can't ignore the connection between Jesus and Israel's story. In the next part of the episode (26:25-42:14), Tim and Jon talk about Luke 4. This is the story of Jesus reading from Isaiah 61 proclaiming that he is the Messiah that the prophets talked about. This is another incredibly bold statement from Jesus. He goes on to describe this new age and his upside-down Kingdom that will mean freedom for the poor and oppressed. In the final part of the episode (42:44-56:08), the guys discuss the honor/shame culture of Israel during Jesus' ministry. It was this context that made his ministry to the outcasts so scandalous. This is the main point of Luke's gospel. In Jesus' new Kingdom, God's mercy rules, and no person is exalted above another. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our first two videos on the Gospel of Luke. You can view them on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OLezoUvOEQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0k4GbvZUPuo References: Echoes of Scripture in the Gospels by Richard B. Hays Scripture References: Luke 1-6 Isaiah 40 Isaiah 61 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 25
Luke Part Four: Jesus, Rebels, and Resurrection
In the fourth part of their discussion on the gospel of Luke, Tim and Jon talk about the strange story in Luke 9 of the transformation of Jesus on the mountain. In this travel section, we find many parables of Jesus, and the banquets and parties he attended. Jesus is fascinated with parties, and he even used them to talk about what the Kingdom of God is like. These stories continue to reinforce that Jesus' mission was first for the outsiders, a message that gets him into trouble with religious leaders of the day. Tim and Jon continue to discuss many more parts of Luke's account. The final meal Jesus had with his disciples, followed by his arrest and execution. Two disciples who unexpectedly run into Jesus but don't recognize him until he reveals himself to them. The transformation of Jesus on the mountain calls back to Mount Sinai as he becomes like the ancient of days enthroned in heaven, gleaming like shiny metal and fire. A series of parables about two things: money and dinner parties. Luke is clearly trying to make a point with what he chooses to include in his account. The contrast between Jesus' arrival to Jerusalem and his eventual execution as a rebel. Jesus using the Passover meal with his disciples to talk about his death. In Luke's version of the last supper, the innocence of Jesus is emphasized. And lastly, what is Luke trying to teach his readers by including the encounter on the road to Emmaus? Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video series on the Gospel of Luke. You can view the first two videos on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OLezoUvOEQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0k4GbvZUPuo Scripture References: Luke 9-24 Daniel 7 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories This is the last episode on the Gospel of Luke. If you haven't listened to the previous three, we'd recommend listening for context to this episode. Luke Part 1: An intro to reading the Gospels - https://thebibleproject.simplecast.fm/episodes/51526-luke-part-1-an-intro-to-reading-the-gospels Luke Part 2: An overview of Luke - https://thebibleproject.simplecast.fm/episodes/53624-luke-part-2-an-overview-of-luke Luke Part 3: Good News for the Poor - https://thebibleproject.simplecast.fm/episodes/55068-luke-part-3-good-news-for-the-poor
Episode 26
Story: Friend of Sinners
In this episode, Jon talks to Harvey Turner, a youth group flunkie turned drug dealer, who encountered God in an unexpected way. As a wayward kid searching for meaning and majesty in life, Harvey was fascinated by the way Jesus loved and pursued the outcasts and people like him. Having grown up going to church, this Jesus he found in the Bible was nothing like the Christians he was used to. His life was transformed. He saw Jesus as a friend of sinners who valued relationships above everything else, and he began to try to live as Jesus did. In the first part of the episode (02:14-06:39), Harvey describes himself as a kid who was always searching for life’s greater meaning. He was fascinated with majesty, and he saw some of that in Jesus, but he couldn’t get past the heavy message of morality that he found at youth group. In the second part of the episode (06:39-20:44), Jon talks to Harvey about how he dealt with his anger after the church had let him down in his search for something more. He found release from his anger through drugs and hip hop. He was deep into a rough scene, selling drugs on the streets of Reno. After a rap concert took a violent turn, Harvey ended up in jail. In the final part of the episode (20:49-35:48), we see how the Gospel drastically transformed Harvey’s life. Harvey found Jesus and his radical message of love for all people in the midst of a rock bottom moment. He was totally changed by the message of the gospel, and he has dedicated his life to sharing this message. Book Credit: Friend of Sinners: An Approach to Evangelism by Harvey Turner Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories. Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories. I Got 5 On It by Luniz It’s All Bad by E-40
Episode 28
What's in your Bible?
In this episode, Tim and Jon give an overview of the entire Bible with a focus on the Hebrew Scriptures. They also spend some time going deep into the structure of the book from beginning to end. The Bible, like any other book, experienced human revision. The guys talk about what it means for the Bible to be a work of literary genius created by humans and also the divine word of God. There's a lot to unpack here--let's go. In the first part of the episode (01:25-54:15), the guys talk about the structure of the Old Testament. In its earliest form, the Hebrew Bible is broken up into three sections called the Tanak. This is the structure that Jesus would've been familiar with, and understanding this helps us to better interpret the way Jesus talked about and referenced Scripture. In the last part of the episode (54:45-1:10:51), the guys talk about the New Testament. The New Testament is structured much differently than the Old Testament. Some of the books were meant to be taught in a church setting, and some were targeted at a specific group of people. The guys will explain why it's important to understand the New Testament in this light. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called "What is the Bible?" You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak06MSETeo4 Book References: Complete Jewish Bible: An English Version of the Tanakh (Old Testament) and B'Rit Hadashah (New Testament) by David H. Stern Scripture References: Jeremiah 37 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 30
The Holy Spirit Part 2: God's Ruakh
In this episode, Tim and Jon continue to unpack the concept of the Holy Spirit. Last time, they focused on the spirit of God. This time, they'll look at what the word spirit means and the difference between God's spirit and human spirit. Scripture is full of examples of God's spirit influencing and empowering people, but is this really still happening? What does the spirit of God have to do with us today as followers of Jesus, and how will God use his spirit and use people to fulfill his purpose for creation? In the first part of this episode (01:33-18:36), the guys look at the Hebrew word for spirit, "ruakh." They track the ruakh of God throughout Scripture, so that we can begin to understand the purpose of God's spirit. They also talk about what it means for humans to have a spirit. In the next part of the episode (19:00-40:43), Tim and Jon break down the four different definitions of ruakh. They look at the way God's spirit empowers people in Scripture, working with their human spirit to accomplish God's will in the world. God uses some pretty bad guys in the Bible, but understanding the different aspects of God's ruach can help make this a little more clear. In the final part of the episode (41:26-51:38), Tim and Jon look at the Hebrew prophets and the way they spoke about the ruach of God. God's ruach and the new creation are directly connected. The Messiah is described as one who will be fully permeated by the ruach of God, and his coming will completely change the way creation operates. The prophets reiterate what so much of the Hebrew Scriptures are pointing to: The only hope for creation and humanity is for God to recreate humans through his spirit. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video, "Holy Spirit." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNNZO9i1Gjc Scripture References: Psalm 33 Psalm 51 Genesis 41 Exodus 31 Deuteronomy 34 Micah 3 Isaiah 11 Ezekiel 37 Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Blue Skies by Unwritten Stories Flooded Meadows by Unwritten Stories
Episode 34
Heaven and Earth Part 4: How Did the Biblical Authors Imagine Life After Death?
This episode is the backstory to a question that we ask ourselves a lot at The Bible Project. Maybe you ask yourself this question too. What happens when we die? Where did the biblical authors think a person went after they died? Do we go to heaven, and what does the Bible tell us about heaven? This is a question that is really helpful to work and think through, and there's a ton to unpack. We put all of our thoughts into a new workbook we created called, "Heaven and Earth." Look for the link to download in the credits below. In the first part of the episode (02:22-37:10), the guys talk about some of the confusing language in the Bible about heaven. In the Gospel of John, Jesus talks about "his Father's house" and him "going to prepare a place for you." What ideas were Jesus and John trying to communicate with these sayings? The ideas might surprise you. In the second part of this episode (37:27-55:19), the guys talk about what it means for heaven and earth to overlap. In his gospel, John talks about Jesus followers being "not of this world." What does this mean? Is Heaven wholly other? And what is the purpose of heaven and earth meeting if we are just going to fly off to heaven when we die? Tim unpacks the way John uses language in his gospel and what this phrase might mean. God's world is good, and it's worthy of being redeemed, and this is crucial to grasp in how we think about heaven. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Heaven & Earth." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zy2AQlK6C5k References: Heaven & Earth workbook by The Bible Project: https://thebibleproject.com/product/heavenbook/ The Gospel of John and Christian Theology by Richard Bauckham Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Analogs by Greyflood
Episode 34
Heaven and Earth Part 4: What Did The Biblical Writers Think Happens After You Die?
This episode is the backstory to a question that we ask ourselves a lot at The Bible Project. Maybe you ask yourself this question too. What happens when we die? Where did the biblical authors think a person went after they died? Do we go to heaven, and what does the Bible tell us about heaven? This is a question that is really helpful to work and think through, and there’s a ton to unpack. We put all of our thoughts into a new workbook we created called, "Heaven and Earth." Look for the link to download in the credits below. In the first part of the episode (02:22-37:10), the guys talk about some of the confusing language in the Bible about heaven. In the Gospel of John, Jesus talks about "his Father's house" and him "going to prepare a place for you." What ideas were Jesus and John trying to communicate with these sayings? The ideas might surprise you. In the second part of this episode (37:27-55:19), the guys talk about what it means for heaven and earth to overlap. In his gospel, John talks about Jesus followers being “not of this world.” What does this mean? Is Heaven wholly other? And what is the purpose of heaven and earth meeting if we are just going to fly off to heaven when we die? Tim unpacks the way John uses language in his gospel and what this phrase might mean. God’s world is good, and it’s worthy of being redeemed, and this is crucial to grasp in how we think about heaven. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, “Heaven & Earth." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zy2AQlK6C5k References: Heaven & Earth workbook by The Bible Project: https://thebibleproject.com/product/heavenbook/ The Gospel of John and Christian Theology by Richard Bauckham Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Analogs by Greyflood
Episode 37
Day of the Lord Part Three: Solomon, the Richest Man in Babylon?
In this episode, Tim and Jon cover a lot of ground on the biblical theme, Day of the Lord. As God's chosen people, Israel is supposed to be a nation set apart, a counter-nation to Babylon. But we'll see how God's people make their journey from an oppressed people to the oppressors. God's commitment is to dismantle human empires that rise to power and redefine good and evil, even if that means that God will have to defeat his own chosen nation. The story picks up with King Solomon in ancient Israel. He is considered to be one of the richest and wisest men who ever lived. But as Tim and Jon discuss, things aren't always as they seem. In the first part of the episode (02:25-23:42), the guys unpack the rise and fall of King Solomon. Solomon had a great beginning and good intentions as Israel's king, but he got caught up in power and no longer thought of himself as under the authority of God. The story of Solomon is about the oppressed becoming the oppressors, and to the ancient prophets, Solomon's downfall is viewed as a "Day of the Lord." In the next part of the episode (24:07-1:01:46), the guys look at how leaders like Pharaoh and Solomon are made. Solomon is a prime example of how even good intentions can become corrupted. The guys wrap up this episode by setting the stage for the Roman empire and Christ's coming to earth. Video: This episode is designed to accompany our video called, "Day of the Lord." You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEBc2gSSW04 References: What is the Hope for Humanity? A discussion of technology, politics, and theology with N.T. Wright and Peter Thiel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9Mlu7sHEHE Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Ready to Make Way by Greyflood
Episode 40
Day Of The Lord Part Six: Revelation and Jesus in Modern Politics
This is our final episode in our Day Of The Lord series. In this episode Tim and Jon discuss the book of Revelation. It's perhaps the most famous and obvious thing people think about when talking about a future "Day Of The Lord." Tim and Jon dive in and tackle some of the tough imagery in Revelation. The guys also pose another penultimate question: When will Jesus come back? Spoiler alert: no one knows. The first ten minutes of the show talks about some of the New Testament and Pauline ideas on the Day of the Lord. Specifically coming from 1 Thessalonians. Then Tim and Jon move on and discuss Revelation. The last part of the show, beginning at 28:30 is dedicated to discussing modern political implications of following Jesus. How are Christians supposed to live in a world that has Babylonian tendencies? This episode is designed to accompany our new Day of the Lord video on our youtube channel. Check it out and let us know what you think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEBc2gSSW04&t=3s EPISODE RESOURCES Joshua Ryan Butler - The Skeletons in God's Closet http://joshuaryanbutler.com/books/the-skeletons-in-gods-closet/ Mere Fidelity Podcast - "The Righteous Mind": Jonathan Haidt's thesis that conservatives and liberals are divided https://mereorthodoxy.com/mere-fidelity-righteous-mind/ EPISODE BIBLE REFERENCES 1 Thessalonians 5:1-4 Revelation 5:1-10 and 19:11-19 Isaiah 63:1-4 EPISODE MUSIC Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Where Peace and Rest are Found by Greyflood The Butler's Son by Greyflood Next episode we will do a Day of the Lord Q+R. Have a question? Record it and send it to [email protected]. Deadline 9am May 23rd 2017.
Episode 41
How to Read the Bible Intro: What is the story of the Bible?
The Bible can often seem like a weird ancient book that many people use to say different things. These things can even sometimes lead to using the Bible to oppress or hurt others or the world. And on top of the confusion, reading the Bible can also be tedious and confusing, so most of us just stick to the parts we know and understand. But what is the story of the Bible? Like the big, meta story? The ideas in this episode might surprise you. In this episode Tim and Jon discuss the big, narrative arcs of the Bible. What is the Bible really talking about? Sin? Salvation? Judgement? Tim and Jon first discuss the importance of the, oftentimes overlooked, Old Testament, which is essential in understanding the overall narrative of the Bible. They then discuss the centrality of the texts (the Bible) to second temple Jews, Jesus, and the early Christian church, and the uniqueness of such texts. The Bible is BIG and can be confusing. Tim and Jon cover the major movements of the Old Testament, and the over-arching point! What is this Kingdom of God Jesus is talking about, and how is this in contrast the default condition humanity finds itself in? This episode is designed to accompany our new video series and our new video called "The Story Of The Bible". You can view it on our youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_CGP-12AE0 Book References: The Power Paradox: How We Gain and Lose Influence by Dacher Keltner The Prince by Nicollo Machiavelli Show Music: Defender by Rosasharn Music Good Morning by Unwritten Stories All Night by Unwritten Stories Chilldrone by Unwritten Stories
Episode 43
How to Read the Bible Part 1: Reading the Bible Aloud in a Community?
This is our first episode in our series "How To Read The Bible." Tim and Jon discuss the differences in ancient and modern ways of reading scripture, including why the Hebrew people would read scripture together as a group. The guys also talk about how challenging it can be to read the Bible by yourself. In the first half of the show (0-34:00) the guys talk about the differences between modern day emphasis on application the reading of God's word, and the Old Testament emphasis on "responding" to hearing God's word. The second half of the show (34-50:00) Tim exposits on the ancient Hebrew practice of reading the Torah out loud together. A practice that was instituted in the Old Testament and has continued all the way through to modern times in today's synagogues. Tim also talks about an interesting piece of Jewish history, the Dura Europos Synagogue. Jon asks why is it so important to read the Bible together as a group. The last ten minutes of the show the guys ask what the origins of the sermon are and why ancient Israel had such a difficult time remembering what God had done for them. We have a video coming out later this month that will accompany this podcast series. You can view all our videos on our youtube channel: youtube.com/thebibleproject Additional Resources: The Word Of Promise: Dramatic Reading of The Bible App. Dura Europos Synagogue in Syria [see Wikipedia] Jeffrey Tigay, ?The JPS Torah Commentary: Deuteronomy? Mesha Stela [see Wikipedia] Music Credits: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Acquired in Heaven by Beautiful Eulogy The Truth about Flight, Love and BB Guns by Foreknown
Episode 44
How to Read the Bible Part 2: Is Reading The Bible Together Just a Form of Group Think?
This is our second episode in our How To Read The Bible Series. At the beginning (0-21:40) Tim and Jon start the episode talking about how the ancient Hebrew practice of reading the Torah aloud spun out into the New Testament. Jesus himself participated in public readings of Hebrew scriptures, and actually announced his public ministry at one. The second part of the show (21:40-34:36 ) the guys have a fascinating discussion on the sociology and group identity formation elements of Christianity. They discuss ideas by famed sociologist Peter Berger about how humans both create environments and are created by environments. Jon wonders if Christianity is just a social construct or if there is something real to gather around. In the final part of the show (34:36-End) Tim shares part of an essay by N.T. Wright called "How is the Bible Authoritative?" Tim and Jon discuss the differences between stories and facts, how stories have a different kind of power than facts, and why it's more powerful to view the Bible as a story, not as a rulebook. This show is designed to accompany our new video on reading Scripture together in a community. You can check it out on our Youtube page here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BO1Y9XyWKTw Show Resources: The Didache - early Christian manual on discipleship. Wikipedia Resource. Desiring The Kingdom. By James Smith. The Social Construction of Reality: A Treatise in the Sociology of Knowledge. By Peter Berger The Sacred Canopy: Elements of A Sociological Theory of Religion. By Peter Berger. Essay: How Is The Bible Authoritative? By N.T. Wright Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind. By Yuval Noah Harari Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music The Size of Grace by Beautiful Eulogy Conquer by Propaganda
Episode 45
How to Read the Bible Part 3: Intro to Literary Genres and the Stories We Tell Ourselves
This is part 3 in our series of how to read the Bible. In this episode, Tim introduces us to the three main times of literature styles found in the Bible. Narrative, poetry and prose discourse. The first half of the show (0-28:15), Tim introduces us to the three forms of literature in the Bible and how they are laid out using the analogy of a grocery store. The guys talk about the challenge of reading the Bible. Wishing that they had UN automatic translation headphones. In the second half of the show (28:15-40:00), the guys talk about some of the inner psychological stories we tell ourselves. And how stories are a way to make sense of the world. Tim shares a quote from CS Lewis talking about the importance of reading expanding our worldview. Tim explains that many people expect the Bible to be a set of moral instructions, but actually the narrative structure of the Bible is much more open-ended. The last part of the show (48:00-End), the guys discuss how our brains are hardwired for narratives and how the stories of the Bible work in our brains. Jon muses about maybe all of life and the Bible can be distilled down to asking "What do I desire?" and Tim breaks down the structure of Psalm 19. Next week the guys will dive into the Scriptures and talk about some examples of the different types of literary styles. This show is designed to go with our new youtube video series, "How to Read the Bible" you can check it out here: "we will update this Thursday, June 22 when it launches"! Additional Resources: An Experiment in Criticism by C.S. Lewis The Skeptical Believer by Daniel Taylor Read The Bible For A Change by Ray Lubeck The Secular Age by Charles Taylor Music Credits: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Good Grief by Beautiful Eulogy Respect, Power and Money by Eshon Burgundy
Episode 48
Heaven + Earth: Q + R
We've gotten requests to take our Q+R Youtube sessions and put them on the podcast for people to enjoy listening to, without the hassle of watching a Youtube video :) This is a Q+R on our Heaven and Earth video. Thank you to all our supporters! You are so meaningful to us! Q's and Timestamps: Why does the Bible Project video only talk about heaven and earth and not hell? (1:15) Could people have gotten injured in the Garden of Eden before the fall? (4:09) Uniqueness of Hebrew temples v other culture temples in the ancient world (8:15) Is there a disembodied state? What does Jesus mean when he says "you will be with me in paradise today" to the thief on the cross? (10:24) What is the relationship between the "thousand year reign" of Jesus and heaven? (14:30) At the end of the world, does Jesus come here? Or does he take us away and then bring heaven to earth. (17:50) In the Old Testament God seems to say "just be a good person, love your neighbor etc" but in the New Testament, it seems like God wants to "save you from hell." Why the change? (21:06) What was the Old Testament Hebrew Kings' knowledge of Heaven/Hell/Sheol. (30:25) Is or Isn't there marriage in heaven? (34:45) Is love the meaning of the universe? What does the Lord's Prayer mean "on earth as it is in heaven?" And what does it look like for Heaven and Earth to unite? (39:45) Links: Original video conversation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DH55c_GfPO0 Heaven and Earth video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zy2AQlK6C5k&t=1s Music Credits: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music
Episode 53
How to Read the Bible Part 5: Why isn't there more detail in Bible stories?
Why aren't there more details in Bible stories? Many of us have wondered something like this and sometimes walk away from the Bible confused. We don't know why a character did what they did, or what they looked like, or even what the "moral of the story" is. And this is frustrating to modern readers because we like lots of detail. We want to know everything about a character and the setting and the story background. This week Tim and Jon take a look at why so many of the stories in the Bible are perplexing. It's because they were intentionally designed that way, in an ancient style of writing known as Jewish Meditation Literature. Using the story of Cain and Able, the guys ask why are so many of the details in the story left out? Is this lazy writing or is there a purpose behind it? Watch our video on Jewish Meditation Literature here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhmlJBUIoLk&t=209s&list=PLH0Szn1yYNedn4FbBMMtOlGN-BPLQ54IH&index=4 This podcast series is partnered with our Youtube series on "How to Read the Bible" you can view the series here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLH0Szn1yYNedn4FbBMMtOlGN-BPLQ54IH Thank you to all our supporters! Show Resources: Jordan B Peterson: https://jordanbpeterson.com/jordan-b-peterson-podcast/ Jerome Walsh: Old Testament Narrative: A Guide to Interpretation.? Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music Lifepainting by Musciojad Color Grade Agape by ALERT312
Episode 55
Leviticus Q+R
This summer we've been releasing a Q+R series we did on Youtube covering hard questions in the Old Testament. This week we are in the book of Leviticus, a very confusing, very ancient book. Tim and Jon discuss issues about being "unclean" in the Old Testament, whether Christians should get tattoos and many other things. Thank you to all our supporters! You are so meaningful to us! Q's and Timestamps: What's the deal with the law against tattoos in leviticus? And how should modern christians interpret these ancient, obscure laws? (6:34) What's the deal with the law against tattoos in leviticus? And how should modern christians interpret these ancient, obscure laws? (6:34) Would the original readers of Leviticus have known the divisions between ceremonial and moral laws? (14:50) Would the original readers of Leviticus have known the divisions between ceremonial and moral laws? (14:50) Why animal sacrifices in the old testament? Why not tree or grain sacrifices? (19:00) What is the deal with menstruation and uncleanness? (30:23) Urim and thummim in the Bible? Casting lots and flipping coins? (35:08) In what ways should Christians who are referred to as priests in the new testament emulate the priests in the old testament? (38:55) How does the offering model in the Old Testament relate to tithing and the giving practices in the new testament? (41:57) Links: Original video conversation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgs_287IGKo Leviticus videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJ-FekWUZzE and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmvyrLXoQio Additional Resources: Eric Zanger, German theologian. "who died tragically before he completed his work on the psalms"
Episode 60
How to Read the Bible Part 7: Understanding Plot and Narrative in Bible Stories
This week we continue our series on How to Read the Bible. How should we read stories in the Bible? Tim and Jon discuss how understanding the unique ways plot and narrative are used by the Hebrew authors to write Bible stories can impact how we read the Bible. When most people read a Bible story, they might just dive in and expect Bible stories to be exactly like modern stories. But they aren't. They are thousands of years and many cultures removed from each other. The first half of the show (0-23:20) Tim and Jon outline biblical narrative and talk about how sometimes Bible stories can seem overly simplistic, but they are actually extremely sophisticated. The second half of the show, the guys discuss specific plot techiques Bible stories use to deliver their message. (24:00-end). Tim outlines the purposes of plot, place, time and people in Bible stories. Each tool is used differently at different times for Biblical authors. Tim uses the Old Testament story of Gideon to illustrate some of the literary design techniques that are used in that story. Thank you to all our supporters! Show Resources: Our How to Read the Bible video series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLH0Szn1yYNedn4FbBMMtOlGN-BPLQ54IH The Treachery of Images by Rene Magritte John Sailhammer: Introduction to Old Testament Theology Sean McEvenue: Introduction to Biblical Interpretation NT Wright: The New Testament and the People of God Show Music: Alone: Beautiful Eulogy Defender Instrumental: Rosasharn Music
Episode 61
Justice Part 1: What's the Biblical Vision of Justice?
This is our first episode in our new series on the theme of Justice in the Bible. When most of us hear the term "justice" we think of courtrooms, judges and cops. Some of us might think of biblical justice as "God's Judgement". What did the Hebrews believe justice looked like? And what was the biblical vision for a "just society?" In the first part of the conversation (0-22:50) Tim outlines where the words "Justice" and "Righteousness" come from in the Bible and what they meant in their original context. The guys speculate about why every person seems to have an ingrained idea of "fairness". Tim shares three common perspectives of Justice from a Harvard professor (Brian Sandel) book Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do? Justice is Maximizing Welfare Justice is Respect of Individual Freedom Justice is Promoting Virtue In the second part of the show (22:51-44:45) Tim outlines the famous verse in Micah "do justice, love mercy" and what that verse originally meant to Hebrews. The guys talk about the differences between retributive justice and restorative justice. Tim shares the prophets ideas of the quartet of the vulnerable: widows, orphans, immigrants, the poor. Finally, (44:50-end) the guys discuss the story of the Hebrew Exodus, and how that story framed many images in the Bible about justice. Thank you to all our supporters! You can learn more about the bible project on our website: https://thebibleproject.com/ Resources: Books: Annie Dillard: Pilgrim At Tinker Creek Michael Sandel: Justice: What's The Right Thing To Do? Show Music: Defender Instrumental: Rosasharn Music Flooded Meadows: Unwritten Stories You Can Save Me: Beautiful Eulogy Exile Dial Tone: Beautiful Eulogy
Episode 64
Jonah Q + R
This is our final episode in our Youtube Q+R Series. In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to questions on the Old Testament book of Jonah. Below are the questions and time marks they appear. You can view the original video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLIabZc0O4c&t=1s&list=PLH0Szn1yYNeeVFodkI9J_WEATHQCwRZ0u&index=21 Want to learn more about the ancient empire of Assyria and how it impacted the Bible? Tim references the "Lachish Carvings" in the podcast, check out more info here! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lachish_reliefs Thank you to all our supporters! Learn more about what we're up to and sign up to receive more free resources from us at: www.thebibleproject.com Jonah Overview - 0-6:30 Is Jonah a real person or a parable? (6:30) If God is interested in choosing upright people to work with, why would God choose Jonah, who doesn't seem to be an upright man? (16:10) Why is Jonah so angry about God showing compassion on Nineveh? (20:00) Why do we think Jonah's five word sermon in Jonah 4 is the whole thing? How do we know the rest wasn't lost? (28:45) How do you know that Jonah is "angry" with God? (32:55) What happened between the book of Jonah and Nahum? Was the Nineveh's repentance a fluke? (36:43) What is Jesus talking about in Matthew 12 and the sign of Jonah? (39:35) How does Jonah describe God's character and how does that compare to how Job describes God's character? (44:25) Show Resources: Lachish Carvings: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lachish_reliefs Show Music: Defender Instrumental by Rosasharn Music. Show Produced by: Jon Collins and Dan Gummel
Episode 65
You Are A Soul
This is our first episode related to our new word studies video on the Hebrew word "Nephesh" which often gets translated as "soul" in English bibles. In Hebrew the most basic meaning of the word is "throat." Which seems weird to us. So how did we get "soul" from "throat"? Tim and Jon discuss. In the first part of the episode (0-12:30), Tim and Jon outline where the word "soul" comes from (Old English), and why most people think that a core teaching of the Bible is people "having souls." Jon asks how much you can really separate the ideas of a person's "mind, soul, and body." In the second part of the episode (12:30-41:20), Tim explains that the Hebrew word "Nephesh" is an extremely common word in the Hebrew Old Testament. It occurs over 700 times, but less than 10% of the time is it translated as "soul." It also gets translated as "life", "heart", "you", "people" and several other words. Tim outlines some famous verses in the Old Testament that use the word soul. Like Psalm 42 " As the deer pants...My soul thirsts for you" the original meaning is Hebrew is "my throat thirsts for you." Tim explains that the word Nephesh is designed to show the essential physicality of a person. Whereas "soul" connotes the non-physicality of a person. In the third part of the episode (41:20-end), Tim says "Nephesh" isn't just used to describe humans, but also used to describe animals and what the land produced in Genesis. "And God said 'Let the waters teem with living Nephesh.'" The bottom line, biblically, is that people don't have souls. They are souls. They don't have "nephesh" they are "nephesh." And the ultimate hope for Christians is not a disembodied existence living as souls, but an embodied existence living in their Nephesh. You can check out our new word studies video on Nephesh here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_igCcWAMAM Thank you to all our supporters! Check out more free resources on our website: www.thebibleproject.com Show Resources: The Shema: Deuteronomy 6:4-5 Original uses of the word Nephesh meaning throat: Psalm 23 Psalm 42:1-2 Isaiah 58:11 Show Music: Defender Instrumental: Rosasharn Music River Deep: Retro Soul (Danya Vodovoz, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8B1tVfm832w) Lotus Lane: The Loyalist Herbal Tea: Artificial Music Show Produced By: Jon Collins and Dan Gummel
Episode 66
Let's Get Physical
According to the Bible, we don't have souls, we are souls. And people will live forever not in a disembodied existence as a soul, but in an embodied existence. So what do we do with physical/body desires like hunger and sex? In part 1 (0-9:00) Tim outlines some other uses of the word "nephesh" in the Old Testament including translating the word as "person" or "people" and calling kidnappers and murderers "nephesh thief" and "nephesh slayer." In part 2 (9:00-17:25) the guys discuss the uses of "nephesh" when referring to the human physical desires for food or water (like in Psalm 42) and sex. In Song of Solomon, the erotic love poetry book in the Old Testament, in the original Hebrew, the writer expresses physical desire for their lover using the word "nephesh." Tim and Jon discuss why we've spiritualized the physical sexual desires of people. In the third part (17:25-end) of the episode, Tim explains that animals and immigrants are described as "nephesh" in the Bible and the "righteous" people are called to respect their "nephesh." Tim outlines Psalm 35 and explains that the author uses the word "nephesh" in seven different ways in this Psalm. Tim says it's a great example of the diversity and depth of the word. You can view our video on the word Nephesh here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_igCcWAMAM&index=5&list=PLH0Szn1yYNeclOdfwWBawnNT5ZkGFHxBf Thank you to all our supporters! Check out more free resources on our website: www.thebibleproject.com Produced by: Jon Collins and Dan Gummel Show Music: Defender Instrumental- Rosasharn Music The Darkest Night - Alert 312 Pop Romantic - The Bluest Star
Episode 67
What Happens After We Die?
Want to participate in our Nephesh Q+R? Have a question about your "soul"? Send us your question [email protected]. Don't forget to tell us your name and where you're from! What happens to our souls after we die? This is our third episode on the Hebrew word "Nephesh". It usually gets translated as "soul" in modern bibles. But to the hebrews the word often meant "throat". This episode Tim and Jon discuss the Hebrew concepts of an afterlife. The Hebrews would often use the word "Nephesh" when talking about eternal life in the Scriptures. In part 1 (0-7:00), the guys talk about the difficulty of getting the nephesh concept across in a short video. They discuss the possible gradients of ways to read the Shema. In part 2 (7:00-17:30), Jon asks "Isn't there some sort of non material part of me that survives death?" To which Tim replies "Yes." But it's not necessarily what you think. Tim says the biblical authors refuse to speculate about what happens after death, only that the authors say we are "with the Lord." He uses Psalm 16 and Psalm 49 as an example. Psalm 16:8-10: I have set the Lord continually before me; Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will dwell securely. For You will not abandon my nephesh to the grave; Nor will You ballow Your Holy One to see the pit. You will make known to me the path of life; Tim says Bible scholar NT Wright calls it "life after life after death." In part 3 (17:30-end), the guys discuss the concept of Nephesh in the New Testament. Nephesh is translated with the Greek word "psuche." It's often used to describe a person as an embodied, living organism. A few of Jesus' famous sayings with the word "psuche" include: Matthew 6:25 Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your psuche, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Luke 17:33 Whoever tries to save their psuche will lose it, and whoever loses their psuche will preserve it. Psuche can also be used to describe the animating life-energy of a person (very similar to pneuma/ruakh) Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of psuche and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, psuche and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you to all our supporters! Show Resources: Our video on the word Nephesh: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_igCcWAMAM More resources on our website www.thebibleproject.com N.T. Wright, The Resurrection of the Son of God. Music Credits: Defender Instrumental: Rosasharn Scream Pilots: Moby Boost: Joakim Karud Back To Life: Soul II Soul: Non-Profit and Educational Fair Use Produced by: Jon Collins and Dan Gummel
Episode 69
Characters In The Bible
Have you ever wondered what Jesus looked like? Or maybe why the Bible rarely tells us what a person what thinking? Characters in Bible stories are described and portrayed very differently compared to characters in modern stories. In this episode Tim and Jon discuss character design in the Bible. The guys start out (0-9:50) showing how our modern tradition of telling every detail about a character in a story, where they are from, what they look like, what their inner thoughts are, comes from Greek story telling tradition. This is the exact opposite of ancient Jewish storytelling. The biblical authors didn't rely on telling you about a character, instead, they would tell you what they did. The characters themselves remain very mysterious. Tim says this lack of detail is done intentionally so the reader has to work for an interpretation. In the second part of the episode (9:50-21:13), Tim explains the two ways biblical authors use character details. One, a narrator will use "direct characterization." A specific detail will be given because it is useful in the story. We are told Saul is tall because later, we find out that David is short. We are told Joseph is handsome because later, Potiphar's wife attempts to seduce him. Jon asks if this technique is used because the of the constraints of passing stories on pre printing press. The second way is the names of characters. In Hebrew literature, a character's name represents the very essence of their being and shows their role in the story. Saul means "The one who was asked for" because Israel asked him to be king. The two sons of Naomi in the book of Ruth, their names are Mahlon and Chilion mean "one who is sick" and "to die". Their only role in the story is to die and set up the plot conflict. In the third part of the episode, (21:13-25:56) Tim explains that just because a character does something in a story, doesn't mean the author is endorsing the action. Many authors use a minimalist technique of telling the reader the character's choices but not saying why the character made these choices. A famous is example is when Moses kills the Egyptian who was beating the Hebrew. We don't know why Moses killed him, we only know that he did. Biblical narrators refuse to tell us if a character is "good" or "evil" instead they let us decide for ourselves. In the fourth part of the episode (25:56-end) Jon asks why. Why would biblical authors take the risk of their work being misinterpreted? Tim says the Biblical authors want readers to puzzle over the ambiguities of their stories because it is meant to represent the ambiguities that are inherent in life. The big narrative of the Bible puts meaning and purpose in the world, but individual stories are meant to create a feeling of opaqueness and mystery. More Bible Project resources are here on the website: thebibleproject.com Watch the accompanying video to this content here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EQDGax19xk Thank you to all our supporters! Show Resources: Shimon Bar-Efrat, ?Narrative Art in the Bible? Adele Berlin, ?Poetics and Interpretation of Biblical Narrative? Meir Sternberg, ?The Poetics of Biblical Narrative: Ideological Literature and the Drama of Reading? Robert Alter, ?The Art of Biblical Narrative? Yairah Amit, ?Reading Biblical Narrative Cormac McCarthy, ?The Road? and ?The Border Trilogy: ?(1) All the Pretty Horses, ?(2) The Crossing, ?(3) Cities of the Plain. Music Credits: Defender Instrumental: Rosasharn Music Educated Fool: Jackie Hill Perry Ruby: CJBeards Flooded Meadows: Unwritten Stories Produced By: Dan Gummel. Jon Collins. Matthew Halbert Howen.
Episode 83
Acts E1: The Startup of Christianity
This is episode 1 in our series on the book of Acts! In part 1 (0-19:20) Tim and Jon cover the opening verses in Acts 1. Acts 1 is designed to seamlessly connect with the end of the book of Luke. Tim comments that Luke has laid the plot line of the book of Acts on top of the plot of the book of Luke. There are three main movements in both books. 1) The Galilee mission of Jesus with the disciples mission in Jerusalem, 2) the missionary journeys of Jesus with the missionary journeys of Paul, and 3) the arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem with the arrival of Paul in Rome. In part 2 (19:20- 24:40) Tim makes a point that the title of the book is "The Acts of Jesus through the Holy Spirit" because Jesus and the Holy Spirit are the only two characters that are consistent throughout. Jon asks a question about titling of ancient scrolls. In part 3 (24:40-35:55) the guys discuss the question the disciples ask Jesus "Is it at this time you will restore the kingdom to Israel?" and Jesus answer in Acts 1:7-8 ""It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." Was this a dodge answer from Jesus? Tim says no. But in fact this verse unlocks the structure of the entire book of Acts. The disciples will start by being Jesus witnesses in Jerusalem, then moving into Judea and Samaria, then moving to other parts of the world. In part 4 (35:55-end) the guys discuss the use of the phrase "the kingdom of God." Tim says this phrase frames the entire book: Acts 1: (repeated 2x): Jesus spends 40 days teaching the disciples about "the kingdom of God" (1:3) generating their question about arrival of "the kingdom" (1:6). Philip goes to Samaria to "announce the good news of the kingdom of God" (8:12). Paul and Barnabas challenge the disciples in Antioch that entering the kingdom of God requires suffering (14:22. Paul arrives in Corinth "bearing witness to the kingdom of God" (19:8). Paul describes his ministry in Ephesus as a period of "preaching the kingdom" (20:25) Acts 28: (repeated 2x): Paul under house arrest in Rome "bears witness to the kingdom of God" (28:23) and ends the book "announcing the kingdom of God" (28:31). Thank you to all our supporters! more info at www.thebibleproject.com Show Resources: Eckhard J. Schnabel, Acts, Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament Alan Thompson, The Acts of the Risen Lord Jesus, Produced By: Dan Gummel. Jon Collins. Matthew Halbert-Howen Music: Acquired in Heaven: Beautiful Eulogy Excellent: Beautiful Eulogy Conquer: Beautiful Eulogy Defender Instrumental: Rosasharn Music
Episode 86
Acts E4: Saul & Subversive Christianity
In part 1 (0- 14:00), Paul was a zealous Pharisee before he converted to following Jesus. Tim says this "zeal" that Paul showed as a Pharisee is a hyperlink to an Old Testament story in Numbers 25 where the priest Phineas exercised "zeal" to preserve the Jewish law. Jon comments that zeal is an interesting emotion that is complicated to understand in religious movements. Tim comments that Paul never lost his zeal; he just redirected it upon his conversion to Jesus. In part 2 (14:00-25:30), the guys discuss Acts 13 and the missionary journeys. Tim explains that there were more missionary journeys going on than just those recounted in the book of Acts. He references a book called "The Lost History of Christianity" by Philip Jenkins. Regarding Paul's missionary journeys, Tim recounts that Paul bridged the gap between Jews and Gentiles, and Luke recounts this with all these short stories about converts like Lydia the Gentile purple merchant, Timothy the child of a Jewish mother and Greek father, the Philippian jailer, a rough and tough character, and Dionysius the Areopagite an ancient intellectual aristocrat. Luke desires to portray Paul as a person who reaches a diverse group of people with the message of Jesus. In part 3 (25:30-36:00), the guys discuss the circumcision controversy portrayed in Acts 15. Should Gentile converts to Christianity be required to observe traditional Jewish customs? This is one of the fundamental questions underpinning the whole New Testament, but it's largely missed today because Christianity is now majorly non Jewish. Tim says the disciples determined what to do by using a passage from the Old Testament prophet Amos found in Amos 9:11-15. In part 4 (36:00-48:45), the guys discuss what ancient Rome was like and why Christianity was viewed as a threat to the Roman empire. The Roman economy was made up largely of indentured servants and slaves. Roman religion was polytheistic. Tim cites quotes by scholars Kavin Rowe and Larry Hurtado saying that Christians posed both an economic and religious threat to the Roman society. Why? Because they refused to participate in communal worship of the Roman gods or in the economy built on violent nationalism. Tim says this is evident in the stories Luke shares, like the one about the silversmith Demetrius in Acts 19. He views Christianity as a threat to the entire religious and economic system of the world and incites a riot in Ephesus against Paul. In part 6 (48:45-53:05), Tim shares a few quotes from NT Wright. The guys discuss how modern Americans' lives look very similar to Roman lives. We tend to worship sex and money as a culture, but without the mythology wrapped around it. Are Americans or modern westerners that much different from our historical Roman predecessors? Perhaps we're more alike than we care to believe. In part 7 (53:05-59:50), the guys cover Acts 17. Wherever Christianity spread, there tended to be riots as the local communities felt the Christians were disrupting their way of life. Tim says that Luke was purposefully portraying the Jesus movement on a collision course with the Roman world. Paul and other Christians would create disruption wherever they went, yet they were preaching a gospel of peace. In part 8 (59:50-end), the guys make an interesting historical observation that the foundation for religious liberty and the separation of church and state comes from the ancient church fathers like Tertullian arguing for their right to worship the Jewish God, but serve a Roman emperor. Thank you to all our supporters! Produced By: Dan Gummel, Jon Collins, Matthew Halbert-Howen Resources: Philip Jenkins, Lost Christianity Kavin Rowe, World Upside-Down: Reading Acts in a Graeco-Roman Age Larry Hurtado, Destroyer of the Gods Larry Hurtado, Why on Earth Did Anyone Become Christian? N.T. Wright, Paul and the Faithfulness of God Music: Beautiful Eulogy, The Fear of God Beautiful Eulogy, Come Alive (Hidden) Beautiful Eulogy, Come Alive Moby, Shot in the Back of the Head Shipwrecked, Noah Dixon KV, Wild Rosasharn Music, Defender Instrumental
Episode 89
Metaphor E1: Metaphor & Our Imagination
This is our first episode in our three-part series on the use of metaphor in the Bible! In part one, the guys discuss the metaphors used in Psalm 46. 1 God is our refuge and protection, found to be a great help in times of distress 2 Therefore we won't be afraid when the land shifts when the mountains totter into the heart of the seas; its waters roar, they churn, mountains quake at its swelling. Selah. 4 A river whose streams make glad the city of God, The holy dwelling places of the Most High God 5 God is in its midst, it will not totter; God will help it when morning dawns. 6 The nations roar, the kingdoms totter; He raised His voice, the land melted. 7 The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our tall fortress. Selah. 8 Come, behold the works of the Lord, Who has wrought desolations in the land. 9 He makes wars to cease to the end of the land; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariots with fire. 10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the land." 11 The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our tall fortress. Selah. ????????????- In this Psalm, there are some obvious metaphors used. Specifically, God // protective refuge (v.1) // tall fortress (v.7)? God // Jerusalem temple // river Chaotic, pounding ocean waves // nations at war? God melting earth // God breaking nations // God's exaltation.? These are vivid images, but what is going on here? Every culture has its own way of developing metaphors and imagery unique to their history and experience. Biblical poetry is drawing on a core "encyclopedia of production," from which the poets draw to develop images and metaphors. In part two, the guys go over the core images that are presented above. Why would a poet use these image pairings and combine them in this specific way? Jon comments on how metaphors change over time and within each culture. For example, when the steam engine was popular and represented a huge change in society, people would say things like, "he's hot-headed" or "my gears are turning." Then once computers came along, our cultural metaphors shift to sayings like, "let me process that." In part three, Tim and Jon discuss the differences between these figures of speech: Metaphor: Describing one thing as if it were another. Example: "She is a ball of fire." Simile: Explicit comparison between two things. Example: "She is like a ball of fire." Metonymy: Referring to something by naming what it's associated with. Example: "The pen is mightier than the sword." "Hollywood produces so many films." Synecdoche: Naming a whole thing to refer to part of it, or naming part of a thing to refer to the whole of it. Example: "The U.S. won a gold medal today!" "Portland is a quirky town." " My hands were tied in this situation." "Let's do a head-count." Thank you to all our supporters! You can find our more about The Bible Project and get free resources at www.thebibleproject.com Show produced by: Dan Gummel, Jon Collins Show Music: Defender, Instrumental Magnificent Defeat, Josh White Show Resources: Umberto Eco, The Name of a Rose Books by George Lakoff and Mark Turner: More Than Cool Reason: A Field Guide to Poetic Metaphor Metaphors We Live By
Episode 134
God's Wisdom in the Law - Law E3
In part 1 (0-21:30), the guys recap their conversation so far. Jon says that often the law is the first place people go who look to take issue with the Bible, saying it's archaic or barbaric. Tim points out that too often, we don't understand how cross-cultural it is to read the Bible. Instead, we often impose our own cultural mindset on the Bible. Jon recalls from their discussion that the ancient law code of Israel was not the supreme authority, but instead illustrative of the relationships between the parties involved. In part 2 (21:30-26:30), Tim talks about the wisdom of the laws in the Hebrew Scriptures. Tim shares this quote: "The Hebrew Bible strongly suggests that the earliest forms of disputes... were resolved... by intuitions of justice against a background of custom, rather than appeal to formulated rules. The biblical sources which talk about the establishment of the judicial system in Israel give no indication that judges were to use written sources. Rather, judges are urged to avoid partiality and corruption and to 'do justice.' But what was the source of such justice? The version attributed to king Jehoshaphat is the most explicit, 'God is with you in giving judgment' (2 Chronicles 19:6). Divine inspiration is also attributed to the king in rendering judgment: Proverbs 16:10, 'Inspired decisions are on the lips of a king; his mouth does not sin in judgment.' Solomon's judgment (1 Kings 3:16-28) is presented as an example of just such a process.... This is not to say that judges were expected to go into some kind of trance or function as an oracle. Rather, they were called to operate by combining local custom with divinely guided intuitions of justice...relying on the 'practical wisdom' that existed within the social consciousness of the people as a whole." (Bernard Jackson, Wisdom Laws, 30-31) In part 3 (26:30-40:30), Tim says the laws embody a set of ideals. Laws related to similar topics work together as a symbolic ritual system. They embody a set of ethical, social, and theological ideals for God's ancient covenant people, "a kingdom of priests and a holy nation" living out the Garden-of-Eden ideal in the world. He shares five ideal "buckets" or categories to help readers understand different laws: Ritual Calendar: The 7-day Sabbath cycle is all about the anticipation and re-enactment of new creation (note the literary design of the days in Genesis 1: There is no end to the seventh day). Ritual sacrifices: sacrifices involved offering the life of a blameless representative who would "ascend" to the heavenly mountain on behalf of the offerer (Leviticus 1 begins with the "'olah" or "ascent" offering) Ritual holiness: symbolic purity boundaries embodied the conviction that God's presence is the source of all life, and health is separate from the mortal and immoral Civil law: creating a new-creation community structured to carry the poor and prevent injustice toward the vulnerable Criminal law: zero tolerance for those who corrupt the holy covenant family: no blood feuds, theft, idolatry, or sexual behavior that disrupts the social web In part 4 (40:30-end), Tim goes over the sacrifices in the "ritual sacrifices" bucket. He cites a book by Michael Morales called Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord? A biblical theology of Leviticus. Tim also goes over civil and criminal laws in ancient Israel. Jon asks Tim for a few specific examples. Tim goes to these passages: Deuteronomy 24:21-22 "21 When you harvest the grapes in your vineyard, do not go over the vines again. Leave what remains for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow. 22 Remember that you were slaves in Egypt. That is why I command you to do this." Deuteronomy 25:1-4 "1 When people have a dispute, they are to take it to court and the judges will decide the case, acquitting the innocent and condemning the guilty. 2 If the guilty person deserves to be beaten, the judge shall make them lie down and have them flogged in his presence with the number of lashes the crime deserves, 3 but the judge must not impose more than forty lashes. If the guilty party is flogged more than that, your fellow Israelite will be degraded in your eyes 4 Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain." Deuteronomy 25:11-15 "11 If two men are fighting and the wife of one of them comes to rescue her husband from his assailant, and she reaches out and seizes him by his private parts, 12 you shall cut off her hand. Show her no pity." "13 Do not have two differing weights in your bag?one heavy, one light. 14 Do not have two differing measures in your house?one large, one small. 15 You must have accurate and honest weights and measures, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. 16 For the Lord your God detests anyone who does these things, anyone who deals dishonestly." Tim admits that these laws are very hard to understand. He points out that there are no narratives of these laws actually being put into practice. Regarding verses 11-12, Tim points out that the woman would have been endangering the entire family and bloodline by seizing a man's genitals. Tim also notes that the differing weights are about not counterfeiting money. Thank you to all our supporters! Show produced by: Dan Gummel, Jon Collins Show Music: "Defender Inst" by Tents "Good Morning" by Amine Maxine "I don't need you to say anything" by Le Gang "Shipwrecked" by Moby? Show Resources: Bernard Jackson, Wisdom Laws Michael Morales, Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord? A biblical theology of Leviticus?
Episode 136
The Law as a Revolution - Law E4
In part 1 (0-17:00), The guys quickly recap their conversation so far. Tim then dives into a third perspective on the Hebrew laws in the Old Testament. The third perspective is that the laws embody and revolutionize ancient Eastern conceptions of justice. The laws are formulated in the language and categories of ancient Near Eastern law, so that Israel's law was comprehensible to their neighbors while also representing an irreversible cultural revolution. Tim notes that in all the other ancient covenant documents (Hittite, Assyrian) only one is between a king and a people, while dozens of others are between one king and another king. Covenants are agreements between kings. But the Biblical story depicts the laws as stipulations between God and all the Israelites: "I will be their God and they will be my people." This is the same kind of language we find in the Song of Solomon, "I am my beloved's and he is mine" (Song of Solomon 6:3). This is marriage covenant language. Tim uses some quotes from Joshua Berman to make his points. "In the ancient near east, various gods had consorts and goddess wives, while the common man was subject, a slave and servant of the king and the tribute-imposing class. For these cultures to conceive of the marriage between a god and a group of humans, would have been as unthinkable as for us to imagine the marital union of a human and a cat... The Bible's most revolutionary idea... is the idea of God as a personality who seeks a relationship of mutuality with human agents. In the neighboring cultures of the ancient Near East, humans were merely slaves of the king. In the Bible, they are transformed into a servant king who is married to a generous sovereign, a wife in relation to her benefactor husband. When God seeks "love" from Israel, it involves both the political sense of loyalty between parties to a treaty as well as the kind of intimacy known in a faithful, intimate relationship between a man and woman." (Berman, Created Equal, 46) This concept of a human family married to God is founded on the concept of humanity in Genesis 1-2. All humanity, male and female, is the divine royal image over all creation. And while the Davidic king could be called the "son of God," it was only as the representative of all Israel who is the "son of God" (Exodus 4:22). The king and all the Israelites are themselves equals under their "divine king" Yahweh. Tim again cites Joshua Berman: "While in Egypt and Mesopotamia, the bridge figure between the divine and human was the king, deified (as in Egypt) or more of a demi-god (Mesopotamia). He was the top of the socio-religious structure with the economic elite, and this was mirrored by the hierarchy of the gods. NOT SO in biblical Israel. God's covenant was with the entirety of Israel, focused on the "common man." I maintain that it is in the covenant, properly conceived in in ancient Near Eastern setting, that we may discern a radically new understanding of the cosmic role of the common man within the thought systems of the ancient Near East, one that constituted the basis of an egalitarian order." (Berman, Created Equal, 29) In part 2 (17:00-25:15), Tim explains why Israel's law codes consistently downgrades the role of the king in contrast to their neighbors. The king is not the sole, chief, divine authority; rather, Yahweh is king, and the human king is subservient to the Scriptures (Deuteronomy 17) and to prophets who speak on Yahweh's behalf. He is a leader in war, but he is not the chief. He can participate in the temple, but he is not the high priest. He is subservient to the law, but he is not the lawgiver. This is all in contrast to Egypt and Babylon. Tim also explains that the laws allowed Israel's economy to be oriented toward landed families, which were called to include the immigrant, poor, and orphans. It is the first ancient example of "welfare society." You can see examples of laws about not maximizing profit to allow work in the fields in Ruth chapters 2-3. Other examples include laws about the seven year debt release, Jubilee land and debt release, not charging interest on loans for the poor, giving a tithe for local loans for failing farmers. Tim again cites Berman: "The biblical laws about land and assets introduce a reformation of the ancient worldview aimed at achieving a social equality, but of a very specific king. It is not the egalitarianism developed since the French Revolution with its emphasis on the individual and inalienable human rights... Rather, it takes the form of an economic system that seeks equality by granting sacred value to the extended family household, where people assist one another in farming labor and in granting relief to other households in need. Ancient Israel was a tribal association of free farmers and ranchers, living in a single and equal social class with common ownership of the means of production. This system was a rejection of statism (= the nations state owns all land) and feudalism (= military lords own all land), demonstrated by the fact that it was free of tribute to any human king, and their tribute was a shared burden of funding the temple. Israel defined itself in opposition to the empire of oppression embodied by Egyptian slavery, and also in opposition to the centralized monarchies that surrounded and took up residence in Israel." (Berman, Created Equal, 87) Tim points out that a scholar named David Bentley Hart has influenced his thinking on this subject. Tim says that the Judeo-Christian heritage is the most beautiful thing about Western civilization. In part 3 (25:15-30:00), Tim teaches through a specific law that is usually very disturbing to modern readers. Deuteronomy 21:10-14 10 When you go to war against your enemies and the Lord your God delivers them into your hands and you take captives, 11 if you notice among the captives a beautiful woman and are attracted to her, you may take her as your wife. 12 Bring her into your home and have her shave her head, trim her nails 13 and put aside the clothes she was wearing when captured. After she has lived in your house and mourned her father and mother for a full month, then you may go to her and be her husband and she shall be your wife. 14 If you are not pleased with her, let her go wherever she wishes. You must not sell her or treat her as a slave, since you have dishonored her. Tim points out that this law does not promote the practice it seems to promote. Instead, it creates boundaries for a common cultural practice, which are eventually designed to obliterate the practice all together. This law is in reaction to other ancient cultures that didn't have any rules or give any thought to how soldiers should treat their captives. In part 4 (30:00-43:10), Tim brings up an important point to keep in mind when reading biblical law: The laws play an important but ultimately subordinate role in the plot of the larger biblical storyline that leads to Jesus. Humanity's failure to obey the divine command is part of the plot conflict that prevents them from being God's image-partners in ruling creation. The laws illustrate the divine ideal while also intensifying that conflict, creating the need for a new human and a new covenant. Tim notes that the first divine command is in the garden of Eden: Genesis 2:16-17 16 The Lord God commanded the man, saying, "From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; 17 but from the tree of knowing good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die." Tim says the failure to "listen to the voice of God" (breaking the divine command) results in exile from the Eden-mountain, leading to death. Genesis 3:17, 24 17 Then to Adam He said, "Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten from the tree about which I commanded you, saying, 'You shall not eat from it'; 24 So He banished the human; and at the east of the garden of Eden He stationed the cherubim and the flaming sword which turned every direction to guard the way to the tree of life. In part 5, (43:10-end) Tim notes that this theme of listening or not listening to the divine command continues through the Bible. Exodus 19:4-6 4 'You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings, and brought you to Myself. 5 'Now then, if you will listen listen to My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; 6 and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel." Tim notes that the story immediately after this story is the story of the golden calf, which shows Israel's obvious failure to listen. Tim points out that Israel's covenant choice is the same as Adam and Eve and all humanity. Deuteronomy 30:15-20 15 "See, I have set before you today life and good, and death and evil; 16 in that I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways and to keep His commandments and His statutes and His judgments, that you may have life and multiply, and that the Lord your God may bless you in the land where you are entering to possess it. 17 "But if your heart turns away and you will not obey, but are drawn away and worship other gods and serve them, 18 I declare to you today that you shall surely perish. You will not prolong your days in the land where you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess it. 19 "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. So choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants, 20 by loving the Lord your God, by listening to His voice, and by holding fast to Him; for this is your life and the length of your days, that you may live in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them." Tim notes that Israel's inability to "listen to the voice" of God, leading to death and exile, traps humanity in the power of death, which necessitates the messianic age and the new covenant. Jeremiah 31:31-34 31 "Behold, days are coming," declares the Lord, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, 32 not like the covenant which I made with their fathers in the day I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, although I was a husband to them," declares the Lord. 33 "But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days," declares the Lord, "I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. 34 "They will not teach again, each man his neighbor and each man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they will all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them," declares the Lord, "for I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more." Ezekiel 36:26-28 26 "Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27 "I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances. 28 "You will live in the land that I gave to your forefathers; so you will be My people, and I will be your God. Tim concludes by sharing that the law isn't about an "Old Covenant or New Covenant" question. Instead, the law illuminates and explores the portrait of humanity repeatedly failing to listen to the divine voice. Show Produced by: Dan Gummel, Jon Collins. Show Music: "Defender Instrumental" by Tents "Cartilage" by Moby "All Night" by Unwritten Stories "Good Morning" by Unwritten Stories The Pilgrim? Show Resources: Our video on the law: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sew1kBIe-W0 Joshua Berman: Created Equal: How the Bible Broke with Ancient Political Thought?
Episode 258
Timelines, Dinosaurs, and the Purpose of Creation - Ancient Cosmology Q+R
Are Genesis 1 and 2 literal? What's up with the differing timelines in those chapters? Where are the dinosaurs in the Bible? How do you know what ancient Hebrew words really meant? In this episode, Tim and Jon tackle your questions from the Ancient Cosmology series. Thanks to our audience for all your incredible questions! View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? How Can You Know the Correct Meaning of Ancient Words? (5:52 - 12:06) Can You Understand the Bible Without Other Resources? (12:06 - 21:04) What Is the Purpose of Creation in Genesis 1-2? (21:04 - 28:45) Are Genesis 1 and 2 Literal? (28:45 - 42:14) Where Are Dinosaurs in the Bible? (42:14 - 49:24) How Did Other Biblical Authors Interpret Genesis 1 and 2? (49:24 - 55:30) Referenced Resources Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. John H. Walton, The Lost World of Genesis One: Ancient Cosmology and the Origins Debate John H. Walton, The Lost World of Adam and Eve: Genesis 2-3 and the Human Origins Debate Robin A. Parry, The Biblical Cosmos: A Pilgrim's Guide to the Weird and Wonderful World of the Bible Alister McGrath (multiple works on the intersection of Christian and scientific cosmology) John Polkinghorne (multiple works on the intersection of Christian and scientific cosmology) Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS Show produced by Dan Gummel, Zach McKinley, and Cooper Peltz. Show notes by Lindsey Ponder. ?Audience questions collected by Christopher Maier. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 274
Inspiration, Quiet Time, and Slaying Your Giants - Paradigm Q+R #1
How were the books of the Bible selected? What should we do if we have a hard time reading the Bible? How does the Bible apply to daily life? In this episode, Tim, Jon, and Carissa respond to your questions from the Paradigm series so far. Thanks to our audience for all your incredible questions! View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? Do Christians Need To Have a Daily Quiet Time? (0:38) What's the Difference Between Inspired and Inerrant? (9:57) What Bible Did Jesus Use? (31:09) Should We Call the Bible the Word of God? (37:14) Should the Apocryphal Books Be in the Protestant Bible? (45:40) What About the JEDP Theory? (55:52) How Should We Apply Scripture to Our Lives? (1:03:30) What Do You Do if the Bible Was Used Against You? (1:09:20) Referenced Resources The Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy Five Views on Biblical Inerrancy (Counterpoints: Bible and Theology) , J. Merrick The Pentateuch: International Perspectives on Current Research , Thomas Dozeman Paradigm Change in Pentateuchal Research , Matthias Armgart " Was the Documentary Hypothesis Tainted by Wellhausen's Antisemitism? ," Alan T. Levenson Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS Show produced by Cooper Peltz. Edited by Dan Gummel and Zach McKinley. Show notes by Lindsey Ponder. ?Audience questions collected by Christopher Maier. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 303
Two Takes on the Test at Mount Sinai -- Feat. Carmen Imes
Did Israel pass or fail God's test at Mount Sinai? And what did Yahweh mean when he made Israel a "nation of priests"? In this episode, Tim and Jon talk with long-time friend and Hebrew Bible scholar Dr. Carmen Imes. Tim and Carmen share differing interpretive perspectives of the Exodus story, reminding us that the Bible is meant to be meditated upon and studied within a community. View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? Part one (00:00-18:45) Part two (18:45-30:30) Part three (30:30-40:45) Part four (40:45-1:01:20) Referenced Resources Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters , Carmen Joy Imes Baker Commentary on the Old Testament Godly Fear or Ungodly Failure?: Hebrews 12 and the Sinai Theophanies , Michael Kibbe The Pentateuch as Narrative: A Biblical-Theological Commentary , John H. Sailhamer Abraham's Silence: The Binding of Isaac, the Suffering of Job, and How to Talk Back to God , J. Richard Middleton Carmen Joy Imes, "The Lost World of the Exodus: Functional Ontology and the Creation of a Nation," For Us, but Not to Us: Essays on Creation, Covenant, and Context in Honor of John H. Walton, edited by Miglio, Reeder, Walton, and Way Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience the literary themes and movements we're tracing on the podcast in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS "Levitate," "Nostalgia," and "Nice and Easy" by Junior State Show produced by Cooper Peltz. Edited by Dan Gummel and Zach McKinley. Show notes by Lindsey Ponder. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by Hannah Woo and Ashlyn Heise. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 305
What Is Atonement? - Leviticus E2
A God who wants nothing more than to dwell with humanity, a way forward to a repaired relationship between Heaven and Earth, atoning sacrifices meant to communicate grace (not punishment)?you'll find all of this in Leviticus. While the laws governing Israel's sacrificial system can be some of the most challenging parts of the Bible to read, they're an integral part of the unfolding story of the Bible. In this episode, Tim and Jon discuss the surprising beauty of sacrifice and atonement in the opening movement of Leviticus. View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? Part one (00:00-8:01) Part two (8:01-17:00) Part three (17:00-46:24) Part four (46:24-1:13:16) Referenced Resources The Temple: Its Symbolism and Meaning Then and Now , Joshua Berman Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord? A Biblical Theology of the Book of Leviticus, L. Michael Morales Atonement and the Logic of Resurrection in the Epistle to the Hebrews , David M. Moffitt Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience the literary themes and movements we're tracing on the podcast in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS "Pieces (Instrumental)" by I AM FRESH MUSIC "You Can Save Me" by Beautiful Eulogy "The First Day (Instrumental)" by Hear the Story Show produced by Cooper Peltz. Edited by Dan Gummel and Tyler Bailey. Show notes by Lindsey Ponder. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by MacKenzie Buxman and Ashlyn Heise. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 305
What Is Atonement? ? Leviticus E2
A God who wants nothing more than to dwell with humanity, a way forward to a repaired relationship between Heaven and Earth, atoning sacrifices meant to communicate grace (not punishment)?you?ll find all of this in Leviticus. While the laws governing Israel?s sacrificial system can be some of the most challenging parts of the Bible to read, they?re an integral part of the unfolding story of the Bible. In this episode, Tim and Jon discuss the surprising beauty of sacrifice and atonement in the opening movement of Leviticus. View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? Part one (00:00-8:01) Part two (8:01-17:00) Part three (17:00-46:24) Part four (46:24-1:13:16) Referenced Resources The Temple: Its Symbolism and Meaning Then and Now , Joshua Berman Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord? A Biblical Theology of the Book of Leviticus, L. Michael Morales Atonement and the Logic of Resurrection in the Epistle to the Hebrews , David M. Moffitt Interested in more? Check out Tim?s library here. You can experience the literary themes and movements we?re tracing on the podcast in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? ?Defender (Instrumental)? by TENTS "Pieces (Instrumental)" by I AM FRESH MUSIC "You Can Save Me" by Beautiful Eulogy "The First Day (Instrumental)" by Hear the Story Show produced by Cooper Peltz. Edited by Dan Gummel and Tyler Bailey. Show notes by Lindsey Ponder. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by MacKenzie Buxman and Ashlyn Heise. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 308
Did God Try To Kill Moses? - Exodus Q+R
Why did God say he was going to kill Moses? What exactly was God's test for Abraham on Mount Moriah and Israel on Mount Sinai? What's the connection between the ten plagues and the ten commandments? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions about the Exodus scroll. Thanks to our audience for your incredible questions! View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? What Was God's Test for Abraham on Mount Moriah and Israel on Mount Sinai? (00:00-31:57) What Can We Learn From the Genesis and Exodus Pharaohs? (31:57) Did God Try To Kill Moses? (37:46) Are There Other "Floods" Prevented by Intercessors? (47:35) What's the Connection Between the Ten Plagues and Ten Commandments? (52:24) How Important Is Ancient Culture To Understanding Biblical Law? (55:18) Will We All Have Equal Access to God in the New Creation? (1:01:46) ??Following Up on the Test Involving Manna (01:09:57) Referenced Resources To Climb or Not To Climb? Israel's Ascent in Exodus 19:12-13 (SBL 2012) , Michael Kibbe Abraham's Silence: The Binding of Isaac, the Suffering of Job, and How To Talk Back to God , J. Richard Middleton The Exodus You Almost Passed Over , Rabbi David Fohrman The Lost World of the Torah: Law as Covenant and Wisdom in Ancient Context , John H. Walton and J. Harvey Walton Created Equal: How the Bible Broke with Ancient Political Thought , Joshua A. Berman Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience the literary themes and movements we're tracing on the podcast in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS Show produced by Cooper Peltz. Edited by Dan Gummel and Tyler Bailey. Show notes by Lindsey Ponder. Audience questions collected by Christopher Maier. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by MacKenzie Buxman. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 327
What Do Moses and a Rock Have to Do With Jesus? - Numbers Q+R
Are numbers in the Hebrew Bible literal? Is it dangerous to adapt God's laws? Does Israel's conquest of Canaan justify other historical conquests? In this episode, Tim and Jon explore audience questions about the Numbers scroll. Thanks to our audience for your insightful questions. View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? Are Repeated Numbers Literal or Literary Embellishments? (1:20) Why Does Israel's Population Decrease in Numbers? (16:25) What Does Jesus' Title "The Rock" Have to Do with Moses? (21:45) Is it Dangerous to Adapt God's Laws? (34:34) Does Israel's Conquest of Canaan Justify Other Historical Conquests? (47:35) What's With All the 10s and 2s? (52:22) What Are Some Resources for Seeing Edenic Themes in the Torah? (01:01:58) Referenced Resources Ani Maamin: Biblical Criticism, Historical Truth, and the Thirteen Principles of Faith , Joshua Berman A Defense of the Hyperbolic Interpretation of Numbers in the Old Testament , David M. Fouts Deuteronomy 1-11 (The Anchor Yale Bible Commentaries) , Moshe Weinfeld Jesus and the Land: The New Testament Challenge to "Holy Land" Theology , Gary M. Burge Unsettling Truths: The Ongoing, Dehumanizing Legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery , Mark Charles, Soong-Chan Rah The Christian Imagination: Theology and the Origins of Race , William James Jennings Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience the literary themes and movements we're tracing on the podcast in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS Show produced by Cooper Peltz with Associate Producer Lindsey Ponder. Edited by Dan Gummel, Tyler Bailey, and Frank Garza. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by Hannah Woo. Audience questions compiled by Christopher Maier. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 333
Which Laws Still Apply? - Deuteronomy Scroll Q+R
Which ancient Israelite laws still apply today and which don't? Should the law be divided into moral, civil, and ceremonial categories? And why did Jesus quote Deuteronomy when Satan tempted him? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to audience questions about the Deuteronomy scroll. Thanks to our incredible audience for your questions. View full show notes from this episode ? Timestamps? Which Laws Still Apply and Which Don't? (1:30) Can Laws Be Categorized as Moral, Civil, and Ceremonial Rules? (12:52)? Were Jesus and His Disciples Considered Sojourners Under the Law? (22:47) Why Did Jesus Quote Deuteronomy When Satan Tempted Him? (27:55) How Did Jesus Connect Idolatry and Adultery? (33:38) Did the Prophets Really Use Moses' Song to Confront People? (37:48) How Many Covenants Did Yahweh Make with Israel? (44:38) Referenced Resources Old Testament Ethics for the People of God , Christopher J. H. Wright John H. Sailhamer Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience the literary themes and movements we're tracing on the podcast in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS Show produced by Cooper Peltz with Associate Producer Lindsey Ponder. Edited by Dan Gummel, Tyler Bailey, and Frank Garza. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by Hannah Woo. Audience questions compiled by Christopher Maier. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 343
What Is God's Name? - Re-Release in Honor of Michael Heiser
This episode is a special re-release of an interview we did in 2018 with Dr. Michael Heiser. Mike has been a significant influence to Tim's own scholarship and, by extension, much of BibleProject's content, as well as to thousands of other people. Mike is in the final stages of his battle with pancreatic cancer, and we want to honor his incredible life by sharing this episode again.? View the original episode ? Timestamps? Part one (00:00-18:05) Part two (18:05- 33:00) Part three (33:00-44:30) Part four (44:30-59:18) Referenced Resources Old Testament Theology , Gerhard von Rad The Genius of John: A Composition-Critical Commentary on the Fourth Gospel , Peter F. Ellis The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible , Michael S. Heiser Angels: What the Bible Really Says About God's Heavenly Host , Michael S. Heiser Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience the literary themes and movements we're tracing on the podcast in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS "Faith," "In the Distance," and "Moments" by Tae the Producer If you are interested in assisting the Heiser family with meal donations or in donating to help cover expenses in the coming weeks, please use this link.? If you'd like to send a card to the Heiser family, you can write to the Awakening School of Theology. They will collect all cards and deliver them to the Heiser family. AWKNG School of Theology P.O. Box 23621 Jacksonville, FL 32241 If you wish to donate directly to the Heisers via Venmo, search for their account at @Mike-Heiser-4. Show produced Dan Gummel and Jon Collins. Re-released with assistance from Producer Cooper Peltz with Associate Producer Lindsey Ponder, Lead Editor Dan Gummel, and Editor Tyler Bailey.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 343
What Is God?s Name? ? Re-Release in Honor of Michael Heiser
This episode is a special re-release of an interview we did in 2018 with Dr. Michael Heiser. Mike has been a significant influence to Tim?s own scholarship and, by extension, much of BibleProject?s content, as well as to thousands of other people. Mike is in the final stages of his battle with pancreatic cancer, and we want to honor his incredible life by sharing this episode again.? View the original episode ? Timestamps? Part one (00:00-18:05) Part two (18:05- 33:00) Part three (33:00-44:30) Part four (44:30-59:18) Referenced Resources Old Testament Theology , Gerhard von Rad The Genius of John: A Composition-Critical Commentary on the Fourth Gospel , Peter F. Ellis The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible , Michael S. Heiser Angels: What the Bible Really Says About God's Heavenly Host , Michael S. Heiser Interested in more? Check out Tim?s library here. You can experience the literary themes and movements we?re tracing on the podcast in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? ?Defender (Instrumental)? by TENTS ?Faith,? ?In the Distance,? and ?Moments? by Tae the Producer If you are interested in assisting the Heiser family with meal donations or in donating to help cover expenses in the coming weeks, please use this link.? If you?d like to send a card to the Heiser family, you can write to the Awakening School of Theology. They will collect all cards and deliver them to the Heiser family. AWKNG School of Theology P.O. Box 23621 Jacksonville, FL 32241 If you wish to donate directly to the Heisers via Venmo, search for their account at @Mike-Heiser-4. Show produced Dan Gummel and Jon Collins. Re-released with assistance from Producer Cooper Peltz with Associate Producer Lindsey Ponder, Lead Editor Dan Gummel, and Editor Tyler Bailey.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 384
Does the Dragon Sometimes Win? - Chaos Dragon E13
In the story of the Bible, the dragon is a recurring symbol of chaos, death, and destruction. The good news is, Yahweh is the dragon slayer, and he gives humans power over the dragon too. But in the Bible?and in our own lives?we can encounter stories like Job's. The scroll of Job explores what happens when a righteous person, someone who should be experiencing God's Eden blessing, gets their life co-opted by the dragon instead. In this episode, join Tim and Jon as they explore the story of Job. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Part one (00:00-14:13) Part two (14:13-20:05) Part three (20:05-29:56) Part four (29:56-37:55) Part five (37:55-46:28) Part six (46:28-59:31) Referenced Resources Piercing Leviathan: God's Defeat of Evil in the Book of Job (New Studies in Biblical Theology, Volume 56), Eric Ortlund Playing With Dragons: Living With Suffering and God , Andrew R. Angel Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS Additional sound design by the BibleProject team Show produced by Cooper Peltz with Associate Producer Lindsey Ponder, Lead Editor Dan Gummel, and Editors Tyler Bailey and Frank Garza. Mixed by Tyler Bailey. Transcript edited by Grace Vang. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by Hannah Woo. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 384
Does the Dragon Sometimes Win? ? Chaos Dragon E13
In the story of the Bible, the dragon is a recurring symbol of chaos, death, and destruction. The good news is, Yahweh is the dragon slayer, and he gives humans power over the dragon too. But in the Bible?and in our own lives?we can encounter stories like Job?s. The scroll of Job explores what happens when a righteous person, someone who should be experiencing God's Eden blessing, gets their life co-opted by the dragon instead. In this episode, join Tim and Jon as they explore the story of Job. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Part one (00:00-14:13) Part two (14:13-20:05) Part three (20:05-29:56) Part four (29:56-37:55) Part five (37:55-46:28) Part six (46:28-59:31) Referenced Resources Piercing Leviathan: God's Defeat of Evil in the Book of Job (New Studies in Biblical Theology, Volume 56), Eric Ortlund Playing With Dragons: Living With Suffering and God , Andrew R. Angel Interested in more? Check out Tim?s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? ?Defender (Instrumental)? by TENTS Additional sound design by the BibleProject team Show produced by Cooper Peltz with Associate Producer Lindsey Ponder, Lead Editor Dan Gummel, and Editors Tyler Bailey and Frank Garza. Mixed by Tyler Bailey. Transcript edited by Grace Vang. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by Hannah Woo. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 391
Kicking Off a Year With Sermon on the Mount
Most of us have probably heard sayings from Jesus' famous teaching, commonly called the Sermon on the Mount. It's only 100 verses, but the sermon has created an enduring legacy that has shaped countless lives throughout history. In this first episode of a yearlong series on the Sermon on the Mount, Tim and Jon introduce some new voices and share stories of influential people who were inspired by Jesus' words. Then the team lays out the basic facts of the Sermon on the Mount and the different ways it's been interpreted over 2,000 years. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Meet the Team and Hear Stories (00:00-18:08) Chapter 2: The Basics of the Sermon (18:08-32:22) Chapter 3: Interview with The Chosen Creator, Dallas Jenkins (32:22-44:15) Chapter 4: Domestication Strategies for the Sermon Throughout History (44:15-56:21) Referenced Resources " Letter from the Birmingham Jail" by Martin Luther King, Jr. The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom The Sermon on the Mount, Utopia or Program for Action? by Pinchas E. Lapide Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Afternoon" by Man with Roses "Wave of Sorrow" by U2 "Judge Not" by Bob Marley and the Wailers "Think of Mind" by sero Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the Lead Producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Tyler Bailey is our audio engineer and editor, and he also provided our sound design and mix. Brad Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 391
Kicking Off a Year With Sermon on the Mount – Sermon on the Mount E1
Most of us have probably heard sayings from Jesus’ famous teaching, commonly called the Sermon on the Mount. It's only 100 verses, but the sermon has created an enduring legacy that has shaped countless lives throughout history. In this first episode of a yearlong series on the Sermon on the Mount, Tim and Jon introduce some new voices and share stories of influential people who were inspired by Jesus’ words. Then the team lays out the basic facts of the Sermon on the Mount and the different ways it’s been interpreted over 2,000 years. View more resources on our website → Timestamps Chapter 1: Meet the Team and Hear Stories (00:00-18:08) Chapter 2: The Basics of the Sermon (18:08-32:22) Chapter 3: Interview with The Chosen Creator, Dallas Jenkins (32:22-44:15) Chapter 4: Domestication Strategies for the Sermon Throughout History (44:15-56:21) Referenced Resources “ Letter from the Birmingham Jail” by Martin Luther King, Jr. The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom The Sermon on the Mount, Utopia or Program for Action? by Pinchas E. Lapide Interested in more? Check out Tim’s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the Lead Producer for today’s show. Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Tyler Bailey is our audio engineer and editor, and he also provided our sound design and mix. Brad Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 392
Can We Be Agents of Chaos With Good Intentions? - Chaos Dragon Q+R 2
Does the dragon always deceive humans into sinning? Can we become agents of chaos even when our intentions are good? What does it mean that Satan "entered into" Judas at the last supper? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions from the second half of the Chaos Dragon series. Thank you to our audience for your thoughtful questions! View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Does the Dragon Always Deceive Humans Into Sin? (00:00-7:36) Are the Scales in Paul's Eyes a Reference to the Dragon? (7:36-14:22) Are the Dragon Rahab and Rakhab in Jeremiah Connected? (14:22-21:22) Was the Chaos Dragon Created To Be Evil? (21:22-26:55) Can We Become Agents of Chaos Even With Good Intentions? (26:55-32:03) What Does It Mean That Satan "Entered" Judas? (32:03-47:45) Referenced Resources Liddell and Scott's Greek-English Lexicon The New Strong's Expanded Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, James Strong Killing a Messiah: A Novel , Adam Winn Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS Show produced by Cooper Peltz with Associate Producer Lindsey Ponder, Lead Editor Dan Gummel, and Editors Tyler Bailey and Frank Garza. Mixed by Tyler Bailey. Podcast annotations for the BibleProject app by Hannah Woo. Audience questions compiled by Christopher Maier. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 394
The Hebrew Bible's Connection to the Sermon on the Mount
Sermon on the Mount E2 - As a Jewish rabbi, Jesus was immersed in the Hebrew Bible, or what Christians often call the Old Testament. The Hebrew Bible tells the story of God working with ancient Israel to bring about his Kingdom. And in the New Testament, Jesus claimed that God's Kingdom was at long last arriving in him. In this episode, Tim and Jon walk through the three parts of the Hebrew Bible, showing how they connect to what Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount. Plus, Michelle, Dan, and Aaron go on a field trip to look at a Torah scroll to better understand how the Hebrew Bible is designed. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Repentance in the Sermon on the Mount (00:00-12:35) Chapter 2: Exploring a Hebrew Bible Scroll (12:35-17:57) Chapter 3: How Jesus Interprets the Torah (17:57-25:00) Chapter 4: The Hebrew Bible's Differing Book Order?Including the Prophets (25:00-27:38) Chapter 5: The Sermon on the Mount as the Fulfillment of Prophetic Hope (27:38-35:21) Chapter 6: The Last Book of the Hebrew Bible and the Writings ( Ketuvim ) (35:21-37:22) Chapter 7: The Sermon on the Mount as Wisdom Literature (37:22-40:43) Chapter 8: How the Hebrew Bible's Structure Provides Context for the Sermon on the Mount (40:43-43:54) Referenced Resources Sermon on the Mount: A Beginner's Guide to the Kingdom by Amy Jill Levine Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Dan Gummel is the Creative Producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Yanii Evans and Tyler Bailey are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer and provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Aaron Shaw. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.?
Episode 395
The Sermon on the Mount's Place in the Gospel of Matthew
Sermon on the Mount E3 - The Sermon on the Mount is one of five major speeches Jesus gives in the Gospel of Matthew, and there are many similarities between these speeches. What is Matthew doing in his gospel that is unique from the other gospels? And how does this shape his portrayal of Jesus? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss how the Sermon on the Mount fits into the larger context of the Gospel of Matthew. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps Chapter 1: Jesus' Five Speeches in Matthew (00:00-14:55) Chapter 2: How Matthew 5-7 and 23-25 Work Together (14:55-18:09) Chapter 3: The Structure of the Sermon on the Mount and Conclusion (18:09-22:55) Chapter 4: A Reading of the Sermon on the Mount (22:55-40:33) Referenced Resources Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Additional Music by Tyler Bailey and Matthew Halbert-Howen Show Credits Dan Gummel is the Creative Producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Yanii Evans and Tyler Bailey are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Jonathan Pennington. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 396
What Does "Blessed" Mean? (The Beatitudes Pt. 1)
Sermon on the Mount E4 - What does Jesus mean when he calls people "blessed" in the first section of the Sermon on the Mount? The Greek word translated as "blessed" is makarios , and its Hebrew equivalent is ashrey , which means "the good life." But there's another Hebrew word for blessing, barukh, which refers to blessings from God. In this episode, Tim, Jon, and guests unpack what it means to be blessed according to Jesus' counterintuitive message as he ushers in the kingdom of the skies.? View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: What Jesus Means by "Blessed" (00:00-13:24) Chapter 2: The Meaning of Ashrey in Other Hebrew Literature (13:24-17:55) Chapter 3: What Is the Good Life? (17:55-21:06) Chapter 4: Jesus Reframes the Good Life (21:06-33:33) Referenced Resources The Wisdom of Ben-Sira (Ecclesiasticus) by Yeshua Ben Sirach Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Dan Gummel is the Creative Producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey and Yanii Evans are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Ben Tertin, Breon Gummel, and Rick McKinley. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 397
The Powerless, Grieving, and Unimportant (The Beatitudes Pt. 2)
Sermon the Mount E5 - What does it mean to be poor in spirit, mourning, and meek? Jesus uses these words in the opening of the Sermon on the Mount, and the guys examine them in biblical Greek and Hebrew, finding that a better translation may be "powerless," "grieving," and "unimportant." These are the people that Jesus believes will have the "good life." How can that be? In this episode, Jon, Tim, and guests explore the first triad of the Beatitudes, shedding light on how those at the bottom of society are actually better prepared to receive the kingdom of the skies. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: A Kingdom for the Powerless (01:25-13:50) Chapter 2: Comfort for the Grieving (13:50-21:07 Chapter 3: Making Space for Grief (21:07-24:15) Chapter 4: An Inheritance for the Unimportant (24:15-35:19) Chapter 5: Portraying a Jesus-Style Revolution (35:19-40:40) Referenced Resources A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Gospel According to Saint Matthew (The International Critical Commentary, Vol. 1) by Dale C. Allison Jr., Christopher M. Tuckett, Graham I. Davies Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Defender (Instrumental)" by TENTS Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen Show Credits Dan Gummel is the Creative Producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey and Yanii Evans are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Ben Tertin, Josh Espasandin, Rose Mayer, and Nyssa Oru. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 398
The Type of People God Is Forming (The Beatitudes Pt. 3)
Sermon on the Mount E6 - What does it look like to have our desires and actions completely aligned with God's will? In the second triad of the Beatitudes, Jesus paints a picture of the kind of people God is forming in the Kingdom of the Skies. In this episode, Tim, Jon, and guests break down the biblical words for righteousness, justice, mercy, and purity throughout the Bible, leading up to Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Hungering and Thirsting for Righteousness (0:00-6:32) Chapter 2: Right Relationships, Justice, and Equity (6:32-13:18) Chapter 3: Righteousness and Trust in God (13:18-24:17) Chapter 4: What Jesus Means by Mercy (24:17-32:53) Chapter 5: The Challenge of a Pure Heart (32:53-42:18) Chapter 6: Portraying Purity of Heart in Art (42:18-46:47) Referenced Resources Matthew 1-7: Volume 1 (International Critical Commentary) , W.D Davies, Dale C. Allison Jr., and Christopher M. Tuckett Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music ? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Dan Gummel is the Creative Producer for today's show. Tim Mackie is our Lead Scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey and Yanii Evans are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Ben Tertin. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 399
What Does It Mean to Make Peace? (The Beatitudes Pt. 4)
Sermon on the Mount E7 - What will it cost us to live like Jesus in our world? In the third and final triad of the Beatitudes, Jesus declares that the good life belongs to the peacemakers. But making peace Jesus-style will mean conflict, pain, difficulty, and even persecution. In this episode, Tim, Jon, and others explore the cultural tensions surrounding Jesus, his audience, and the four ancient groups who tried to make peace and how Jesus' teachings created conflict with all of these groups. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: The Meaning of Peacemaking (0:00-7:18) Chapter 2: The Four Kinds of People in Jesus' Audience (7:18-18:14) Chapter 3: Jesus Makes Peace Differently (18:14-21:12) Chapter 4: Why Peacemaking Leads to Persecution (21:12-24:27) Chapter 5: Investing in the New Creation (24:27-37:52) Chapter 6: A Musical Summary of the Beatitudes (37:52-44:10) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Dan Gummel is the Creative Producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our audio editor and engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Ben Tertin and Rose Mayer. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 400
The Salt of the Land and the Light of the World
Sermon on the Mount E8 - Why does Jesus call his followers salt and light? In the Hebrew Bible, salt is a metaphor for God's long-lasting covenant with Israel, connected to priestly sacrifices, ritual purity, and social bonds. And the Hebrew word for light, or , shares a wordplay with torah , meaning God's wise instruction. God's wisdom given in the Torah is a light for Israel that they are called to share with the nations. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss the meanings of salt and light, showing how Jesus applies these covenant words to his new community of followers. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: The Meaning of Salt and Light in the Bible (0:00-9:29) Chapter 2: A Key Hebrew Wordplay Between "Light" and "Instruction" (9:29-11:49) Chapter 3: Light and God's Torah in the Book of Isaiah (11:49-29:21) Chapter 4: Salt and Light as Metaphors for the Covenant (29:21-46:29) Referenced Resources Matthew 1-7: Volume 1 (International Critical Commentary ) by W.D Davies, Dale C. Allison Jr., and Christopher M. Tuckett? The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing: A Theological Commentary by Jonathan T. Pennington Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Dan Gummel is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our audio editor and engineer, and he provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Jonathan Penngington. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 401
What Does Jesus Think of Old Testament Laws?
Sermon on the Mount E9 - What did Jesus mean when he said he came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets? In Jesus' day, the laws from the Torah were over a thousand years old. And the Jewish people under Roman occupation weren't able to follow all of the laws perfectly, leading to countless interpretations of how the people could observe the Torah. So what made this rabbi from Nazareth's approach to the law any different? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss Matthew 5:17-20, unpacking its historical context, most perplexing phrases, and the greater righteousness that Jesus is introducing to his listeners. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Short Recap of the Sermon So Far (0:00-3:03) Chapter 2: Interpreting the Torah in Jesus' Day (3:03-16:03) Chapter 3: The Sky and Land, the Least and the Greatest (16:03-28:14) Chapter 4: Jesus Differs from the Pharisees on Righteousness (28:14-34:27) Chapter 5:? Righteousness in Matthew's Gospel Compared to Paul's Letters (34:27-40:17) Chapter 6: Introducing Jesus' Idea of the Greater Righteousness (40:17-47:18) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen? BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Dan Gummel is the Creative Producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey and Aaron Olsen are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 402
How Is Anger the Same as Murder?
Sermon on the Mount E10 - In Matthew 5:21-48, Jesus reveals the divine wisdom of Israel's Old Testament laws through six case studies. In the first case study, he expounds on one of the Ten Commandments, "Do not murder" (Exod. 20:13). After acknowledging this command, Jesus takes it further by saying that anyone who is angry with his brother or publicly shames someone is also guilty of murder. What does he mean? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss Matthew 5:21-32, exploring key concepts?such as murder, contempt, and divine justice?and what they tell us about the value of human beings. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: What Jesus Is Doing in These Case Studies (0:00-8:45) Chapter 2: Overview of Matthew 5:21-32 (8:45-18:09) Chapter 3: Insults, Contempt, and the Value of Human Beings (18:09-26:11) Chapter 4: The Paradox of the Crime and the Punishment (26:11-32:07) Chapter 5: The Meaning of the Word Gehenna (32:07-56:15) Referenced Resources The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing by Jonathan T. Pennington The Gospel of Matthew (New International Commentary on the New Testament) by R.T. France The Geography of Hell in the Teaching of Jesus by Kim Papaioannou The Fate of the Dead by Richard Bauckham Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen? BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our audio engineer and editor, and he provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 403
Why Do the Beatitudes Matter for the Overworked and Hopeless? - Sermon on the Mount Q+R 1
Why do we not find the Sermon on the Mount in the gospels of Mark or John? Why is "blessed" not a good translation of the word makarios ? And if Jesus says that mourning, powerlessness, and poverty are the key to the good life, should we pursue those things? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions from the first seven episodes of the Sermon on the Mount series. Thank you to our audience for your incredible questions! View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Why do we not find the Sermon on the Mount in the gospels of Mark or John? (1:05) Why is "blessed" not a good translation of makarios ? (9:43) Why does Matthew 5:3 matter to people who feel overworked, crushed, oppressed, domesticated, complacent, powerless, and hopeless? (19:25) Should we pursue mourning, powerlessness, and poverty if that is the good life? (27:34) Is there something I should be doing to attain the blessings in the Beatitudes? (27:58) How can we "bless the Lord?" (37:27) Isn't there more to righteousness than right relationships with others? (46:18) Is the meekness Jesus describes the same as Moses' meekness in Numbers 12:3? (52:24) Are there techniques early Christians used that could help us today to remember and reflect on the sermon? (60:17) Referenced Resources Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Tyler Bailey is our audio engineer and editor, and he provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's host is Jon Collins. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 404
Jesus' Vision for Sex and Desire
Sermon on the Mount E12 - In Matthew 5:27-30, Jesus references the Torah's command to not commit adultery (Exod. 20:14), going on to say that any man who lusts (or "goes on looking") at a woman commits adultery with her in his heart. So what is his solution to avoid lust? Cut off a hand and gouge out an eye! Whoa?what is Jesus talking about? In this episode, Jon, Tim, and special guest Lucy Peppiatt discuss the meaning and impact of lust, the Bible's original ideal for men and women, and Jesus' countercultural vision for sex and marriage in the Kingdom of the skies. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: The Impact of Lust and a Solution to the Problem (0:00-24:40) Chapter 2: The Genesis 1 Ideal for Men and Women and How It Falls Apart (24:40-34:30) Chapter 3: The Revolutionary Christian Vision for Marriage and Sex (34:30-47:39) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. If you'd like to learn more from our guest Lucy Peppiatt, you can take her 1 Corinthians Class in BibleProject Classroom. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey and Frank Garza are our audio editors, and Tyler Bailey also provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Lucy Peppiatt. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 405
How Jesus Responded to the Divorce Debate
Sermon on the Mount E13 - In Matthew 5:31-32, Jesus offers a quote from the Torah about when it is lawful to divorce, and then he shares his perspective. But what is the context of these words, and how would Jesus' original audience have heard them? It's easy for modern readers to miss, but Jesus is entering a longstanding debate concerning a passage about divorce in Deuteronomy 24?and his take is surprising. In this episode, Jon, Tim, and special guest Jeannine Brown discuss the story surrounding divorce in ancient Israel, the Bible's ideal of covenant loyalty, and the wisdom we can find in Scripture to navigate divorce in our culture today. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: The Context of Jesus' Words on Divorce (00:00-11:51) Chapter 2: Divorce in Ancient Jewish Culture (11:51-23:06) Chapter 3: Divorce Compared to the Genesis 1-2 Ideal (23:06-42:49) Referenced Resources Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels (The IVP Bible Dictionary Series) by Joel B. Green, Jeannine K. Brown, Nicholas Perrin The Gospel of Matthew (New International Commentary on the New Testament) by R.T. France The Gospel of Matthew (New International Greek Testament Commentary) by John Nolland? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen? BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the Creative Producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey, Frank Garza, and Aaron Olse are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Jeannine Brown. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 406
Why Does Jesus Say Not to Swear Oaths?
Sermon on the Mount E14 - In Matthew 5:33-48, Jesus offers three case studies about how people can work together in spite of conflict. The first case study focuses on the ancient practice of oath keeping. By the time of Jesus, ancient Israelites no longer spoke the divine name of Yahweh out of respect, but they would still swear oaths by things closely related to God?like the sky, land, temple, etc. Some people used these oaths as a loophole because they felt less serious to break ("I only swore by the temple!"). In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss Jesus' teaching on oaths, which demonstrates God's wisdom on the integrity of our words and the danger of even small deceptions. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: The Historical Background of Oaths (00:00-13:22) Chapter 2: The Heart Beneath Oaths (13:22-30:44) Chapter 3: Oaths From the Evil One (30:44-46:15) Referenced Resources The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen Additional music by UpsiDown BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey, Frank Garza, and Aaron Olsen are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he also provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 407
What Jesus Means by "Turn the Other Cheek"
Sermon on the Mount E15 - In Matthew 5:38-42, Jesus offers wisdom from the Torah about retaliation, justice, and nonviolent resistance to injustice. He references a series of laws in Exodus 21, Leviticus 24, and Deuteronomy 19, all of which contain the familiar language of "eye for eye, tooth for tooth." Jesus reveals the surprising wisdom within these laws, using real-life scenarios that would have been familiar to oppressed Israelites living under Roman occupation: turning the other cheek, giving your cloak, and going the extra mile. In this episode, Jon, Tim, and Michelle discuss how these actions can open up our imaginations for boldly standing against injustice in creative, nonviolent ways. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Cultural Background of "Eye for Eye" (00:00-20:45) Chapter 2: The Meaning of "Do Not Resist" (20:45-28:13) Chapter 3: Turn the Other Cheek (28:13-39:20) Chapter 4: Give Up Your Coat (39:20-45:30) Chapter 5: Go the Extra Mile (45:30-01:01:00) Referenced Resources The Gospel of Matthew: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary by Craig S. Keener The JPS Torah Commentary: Exodus by Nahum M. Sarna Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare Strength to Love by Martin Luther King Jr. Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey, Frank Garza, and Aaron Olsen are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 408
Why Does Jesus Want Us to Love Our Enemies?
Sermon on the Mount E16 - In Matthew 5:43-48, Jesus shares his sixth and final case study based on the wisdom of the Torah, and it may be the most challenging one yet. The first three case studies focused on treating others as sacred image-bearers of God. The fourth and fifth case studies offered guidance on how to handle conflict. And in the final case study, Jesus concludes with wisdom on how to respond to people who not only dislike us but even desire our harm. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss one of Jesus' most famous teachings: "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Recap of the Sermon so Far (00:00-11:16) Chapter 2: Unpacking "Love Your Neighbor and Hate Your Enemy" (11:16-20:12) Chapter 3: Who Is My Neighbor? (20:12-33:47) Chapter 4: Loving Like God and the Meaning of Teleios (33:47-51:36) Referenced Resources The Gospel of Matthew (New International Commentary on the New Testament) by R. T. France? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Better Days" - Evil Needle "Inner Glow" - Bao & Packed Rich Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey, Frank Garza, and Aaron Olsen are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 409
What "Hypocrite" Means to Jesus
Sermon on the Mount E17 - In Matthew 6, Jesus transitions from sharing a vision for righteousness that fulfills the Torah and Prophets to talking about how true righteousness impacts religious practices. Religious practices?like prayer, serving the poor, or generosity?are meant to align our hearts with God. But Jesus noticed that many people in his day were doing religious practices to promote their own name and status. He called this behavior hypocrisy, which meant something different to him that it does to us today. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss the original meaning of the word "hypocrite" and the differing motivations people can have for doing right by God and others. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: The Meaning of "Hypocrite" (00:00-10:06) Chapter 2: Seeking Reward from People or God (10:06-15:38) Chapter 3: A Reward of Honor (15:38-31:16) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Silk" by El Train "Brush Strokes" by Blue Wednesday and morningtime Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our audio engineer and editor, and he also provided our sound design and mix. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 410
Jesus' Surprising Warning About Religious Practices
Sermon on the Mount E18 - In Matthew 6, Jesus turns his attention to religious practices of his day, specifically generosity to the poor, prayer, and fasting. But Jesus gives a surprising warning about these practices: if you do religious practices to get praise from people, then you're missing the point. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss these three religious practices and reflect on the pitfalls of making religious devotion about yourself. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Honor in Jesus' Day (00:00-6:32) Chapter 2: Giving to the Poor (6:32-26:00) Chapter 3: Prayer (26:00-34:15) Chapter 4: Fasting (34:15-54:14) Referenced Resources Fasting: The Ancient Practices by Scot McKnight Christianity's Surprise: A Sure and Certain Hope by C. Kavin Rowe Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Descend" by dryhope "Polaroid" by Ward Wills Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our audio engineer and editor, and he also provided our sound design and mix. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 411
Why Say "Kingdom of the Skies" Instead of "Kingdom of Heaven"? - Sermon on the Mount Q+R 2
Sermon on the Mount Q+R 2 (E19) - How do we reconcile Jesus' words about the Law with other New Testament teachings? How is God's justice with gehenna different from karma? And why does the BibleProject translation of the Sermon on the Mount refer to the Kingdom of Heaven as the Kingdom of the skies? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions on the first four case studies about righteousness (episodes 9-14) in the Sermon on the Mount series. Thank you to our audience for your incredible questions! View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Why are there so many sets of threes in the Sermon on the Mount? (1:42-8:06) How do we reconcile Jesus' words about the Law with other New Testament teachings? (8:06-18:10) Does Jesus contradict his teaching in Matthew 5:22 when he calls the Pharisees "blind fools" in Matthew 23:17? (18:10-26:06) What is the difference between God's justice with gehenna and the philosophical idea of karma? (26:06-32:19) Why does Jesus not mention abuse as a legitimate reason for divorce? (32:19-42:12) Would Jesus say not to legally swear to tell the truth with your hand on the Bible? (42:12-46:14) Why do you refer to the Kingdom of Heaven as the Kingdom of the skies? (46:19-53:46) Referenced Resources Style and Structure in Biblical Hebrew Narrative by Jerome T. Walsh Four Views on Hell: Second Edition (Counterpoints: Bible and Theology) , by Zondervan and edited by Preston Sprinkle Interested in more? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen? BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising editor, and Aaron Olsen edited and mixed today's episode. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Audience questions compiled by Christopher Maier. The hosts of today's episode are Jon Collins and Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 411
Why Say “Kingdom of the Skies” Instead of “Kingdom of Heaven”? – Sermon on the Mount Q+R 2 (E19)
Sermon on the Mount Q+R 2 (E19) – How do we reconcile Jesus’ words about the Law with other New Testament teachings? How is God’s justice with gehenna different from karma? And why does the BibleProject translation of the Sermon on the Mount refer to the Kingdom of Heaven as the Kingdom of the skies? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions on the first four case studies about righteousness (episodes 9-14) in the Sermon on the Mount series. Thank you to our audience for your incredible questions! View more resources on our website → Timestamps Why are there so many sets of threes in the Sermon on the Mount? (1:42-8:06) How do we reconcile Jesus’ words about the Law with other New Testament teachings? (8:06-18:10) Does Jesus contradict his teaching in Matthew 5:22 when he calls the Pharisees “blind fools” in Matthew 23:17? (18:10-26:06) What is the difference between God’s justice with gehenna and the philosophical idea of karma? (26:06-32:19) Why does Jesus not mention abuse as a legitimate reason for divorce? (32:19-42:12) Would Jesus say not to legally swear to tell the truth with your hand on the Bible? (42:12-46:14) Why do you refer to the Kingdom of Heaven as the Kingdom of the skies? (46:19-53:46) Referenced Resources Style and Structure in Biblical Hebrew Narrative by Jerome T. Walsh Four Views on Hell: Second Edition (Counterpoints: Bible and Theology) , by Zondervan and edited by Preston Sprinkle Interested in more? Check out Tim’s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today’s show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising editor, and Aaron Olsen edited and mixed today’s episode. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Audience questions compiled by Christopher Maier. The hosts of today’s episode are Jon Collins and Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 412
How Does Jesus Teach Us to Pray? (The Lord's Prayer Pt. 1)
Sermon on the Mount E20 - We are now halfway through studying Jesus' most famous sermon, which brings us to the Lord's Prayer. What's the significance of a prayer being right here at the center? And what's the purpose of regularly reciting a short prayer like this one? In this episode, Jon, Tim, and others kick off a five-part series on the Lord's Prayer, exploring its structure, core ideas, and historical background.? For more information about writing and sharing your own Lord's Prayer song, visit our website here. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: A Story of the Lord's Prayer in Jerusalem (00:00-6:23) Chapter 2: The Epicenter of the Sermon on the Mount (6:23-10:52) Chapter 3: Reading the Prayer (10:52-18:50) Chapter 4: The Structure of the Lord's Prayer (18:50-22:02) Chapter 5: The Core Ideas of the Lord's Prayer (22:02-25:30) Chapter 6: Interview About Liturgies With James K. A. Smith (25:30-36:49) Chapter 7: Historical and Cultural Background of the Lord's Prayer (36:49-50:17) Chapter 8: How the Lord's Prayer Shaped Jesus (50:17-52:04) Chapter 9: Writing a New Lord's Prayer Song (52:04-59:12) Referenced Resources You Are What You Lov e by James K. A. Smith Jewish Liturgy: A Comprehensive History by Ismar Elbogen Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Open Wings" by Liron Meyuhas "From Srinager" by Guy Buttery Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the lead producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Tyler Bailey is our audio engineer and editor, and he also provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to James K.A. Smith, Brian Hall, Liz Vice, and the BibleProject scholar team, and to Dan Gummel who commissioned and supported the production of this episode. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 412
Why Did Jesus Give Us a Prayer? (The Lord’s Prayer Pt. 1)
Sermon on the Mount E20 – We are now halfway through studying Jesus' most famous sermon, which brings us to the Lord’s Prayer. What’s the significance of a prayer being right here at the center? And what’s the purpose of regularly reciting a short prayer like this one? In this episode, Jon, Tim, and others kick off a five-part series on the Lord’s Prayer, exploring its structure, core ideas, and historical background. View more resources on our website → Timestamps Chapter 1: A Story of the Lord’s Prayer in Jerusalem (00:00-6:23) Chapter 2: The Epicenter of the Sermon on the Mount (6:23-10:52) Chapter 3: Reading the Prayer (10:52-18:50) Chapter 4: The Structure of the Lord’s Prayer (18:50-22:02) Chapter 5: The Core Ideas of the Lord’s Prayer (22:02-25:30) Chapter 6: Interview About Liturgies With James K. A. Smith (25:30-36:49) Chapter 7: Historical and Cultural Background of the Lord’s Prayer (36:49-50:17) Chapter 8: How the Lord’s Prayer Shaped Jesus (50:17-52:04) Chapter 9: Writing a New Lord’s Prayer Song (52:04-59:12) Referenced Resources You Are What You Lov e by James K. A. Smith Jewish Liturgy: A Comprehensive History by Ismar Elbogen Check out Tim’s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS “Open Wings” by Liron Meyuhas “From Srinager” by Guy Buttery Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the lead producer for today’s show. Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Tyler Bailey is our audio engineer and editor, and he also provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to James K.A. Smith, Brian Hall, Liz Vice, and the BibleProject scholar team. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 413
What Does "Hallowed Be Thy Name" Mean? (The Lord's Prayer Pt. 2)
Sermon on the Mount E21 - Prayer is at the center of the center of the Sermon on the Mount. And it's in this section of teaching that Jesus gives us a simple prayer that we can participate in. It's only 12 lines long, but it contains a universe of ideas that center us with God. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss the first half of the prayer: "Our Father who is in the skies, may your name be recognized as holy. May your Kingdom come and your will be done as it is in the skies so also on the land."?? View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Our Father (00:00-9:38) Chapter 2:? In the skies (9:38-16:20) Chapter 3: May your name be recognized as holy (16:20-26:15) Chapter 4: May your kingdom come, and may your will be done (26:15-36:01) Chapter 5: Checking in on the Lord's Prayer Song (36:01-40:33) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Empty" by Oddfish "High Beams (feat. Dotlights)" by Kreatev & 88JAY "And That's Okay" by Ian Ewing "Stay" by Yasper Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode, Aaron Olsen mixed the episode, and Tyler Bailey was supervising editor. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Special thanks to Brian Hall, Liz Vice, and the BibleProject Scholar Team. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 414
What Does Jesus Mean by "Daily Bread"? (The Lord's Prayer Pt. 3)
Sermon on the Mount E22 - The first half of the Lord's Prayer features three requests on behalf of God and his Kingdom: he is our Father in the skies, whose name we recognize as holy and whose way of life we want to see on the land. The second half of the Lord's prayer focuses on four personal requests, where we seek to align our needs with God's wisdom. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss the first request of "daily bread" and its connections to stories and wisdom in the Hebrew Bible.?? View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Recap up to This Point (0:00-10:47) Chapter 2: The Meaning of "Daily Bread" in Greek (10:47-16:55) Chapter 3: "Daily Bread" in Exodus or Abundance in Proverbs? (16:55-34:36) Chapter 4: Reorienting Toward Radical Trust and Dependence (34:36-43:52) Referenced Resources Jesus: A Very Short Introduction by Richard Bauckham Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohan BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Flows" by Abnuu "Lost Memories (feat. Bastien Brison)" by ?DYSSEE & Ruck P Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode, and Tyler Bailey was supervising editor. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Special thanks to Brian Hall, Liz Vice, and the BibleProject Scholar Team. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 415
What Forgiveness Is and Isn't (The Lord's Prayer Pt. 4)
Sermon on the Mount E23 - The second half of the Lord's prayer contains four requests on behalf of the person praying. The second personal request is for God to forgive us. But forgiveness is not just a transaction between individuals or between God and humans. Forgiveness plays a central role in the arrival of God's Kingdom. In this episode, Jon, Tim, and Michelle explore what forgiveness is, what it isn't, and what it looks like to set each other free.? View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: A Conversation on Release, Repair, and Delivery from Sin (00:00-28:19) Chapter 2: Forgiveness in the Life and Teachings of Jesus (28:19-36:54) Chapter 3: Is There a Limit on Forgiveness? (36:54-01:05:38) Referenced Resources New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology in Exegesis , Mois?s Silva Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided our sound design and mix. Tyler Bailey was supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Special thanks to Brian Hall, Liz Vice, and the BibleProject Scholar Team. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 415
What Forgiveness Is and Isn't (Lord's Prayer Pt. 4)
Sermon on the Mount E23 – The second half of the Lord’s prayer contains four requests on behalf of the person praying. The second personal request is for God to forgive us. But forgiveness is not just a transaction between individuals or between God and humans. Forgiveness plays a central role in the arrival of God’s Kingdom. In this episode, Jon, Tim, and Michelle explore what forgiveness is, what it isn't, and what it looks like to set each other free. View more resources on our website → Timestamps Chapter 1: A Conversation on Release, Repair, and Delivery from Sin (00:00-28:19) Chapter 2: Forgiveness in the Life and Teachings of Jesus (28:19-36:54) Chapter 3: Is There a Limit on Forgiveness? (36:54-01:05:38) Referenced Resources New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology in Exegesis , Moisés Silva Check out Tim’s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today’s show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided our sound design and mix. Tyler Bailey was supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Special thanks to Brian Hall, Liz Vice, and the BibleProject Scholar Team. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 416
Does God Lead Us Into Temptation? (The Lord's Prayer Pt. 5)
Sermon on the Mount E24 -? Many of us first learned the King James translation of the final, personal request in the Lord's Prayer: "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." But does God actually lead us into temptation? In a motif that weaves throughout the Hebrew Bible, we see God allowing tests to strengthen his partnership with humans. When this motif picks up in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is the one experiencing testing. In this episode, Tim, Jon, and Michelle explore the theme of testing and temptation throughout the Bible and in the life of Jesus. From his own experience, Jesus teaches us to pray for protection from temptation and for rescue when it comes. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: (00:00-24:17) Chapter 2: (24:17-32:48) Chapter 3: (32:48-56:55) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided our sound design and mix. Tyler Bailey was supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Special thanks to Brian Hall and Liz Vice. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 417
Do Jesus' Teachings Conflict With Old Testament Violence? - Sermon on the Mount Q+R 3
Sermon on the Mount Q+R 3 (E25) - What does Jesus mean when he describes people entering the Kingdom of the skies? Are the promises in the Beatitudes possible now, or do we need to wait for the new creation? How did Jesus respond to other perspectives on how to treat our enemies? How do we reconcile Jesus' teachings on creative nonviolence with violence in the Old Testament narratives? Why does Jesus tell his followers to be perfect when the Bible repeatedly mentions that all humans fail? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions from episodes 15-22 in the Sermon on the Mount series. Thank you to our audience for your thoughtful questions! View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: What Do You Have to Do to Enter God's Kingdom? (0:00-10:07) Chapter 2: Is It Possible to Experience the Kingdom of God Now? (10:07-18:27 Chapter 3: How Do Jesus' Teachings About Nonviolence Fit With Violence in the Hebrew Bible? (18:27-27:47) Chapter 4: How Should Jesus' Disciples Advance God's Kingdom? (27:47-40:46) Chapter 5: Why Does Jesus Tell His Followers to be Perfect When He's the Only Perfect Human? (40:46-53:32) Referenced Resources The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis Flood and Fury: Old Testament Violence and the Shalom of God by Matthew J. Lynch and Helen Paynter The Violence of the Biblical God: Canonical Narrative and Christian Faith by L. Daniel Hawk Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided our sound design and mix. Tyler Bailey was supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Christopher Maier compiles our audience questions. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 418
What Kind of Treasure Is in Heaven?
Sermon on the Mount E26 - The third section of the Sermon on the Mount's main body opens with a call to examine how we think about our stuff. Jesus makes it clear that how we relate to our money and possessions reveals how we relate to God and neighbor. He urges his listeners to not store up their treasures here on Earth but in the sky. But what is sky treasure? In this episode, Tim, Jon, and Michelle explore the differences between our earthly values and the values of God's Kingdom in the skies. When we sacrifice our present pleasure and security to better love God and each other, we invest in the coming new creation which contains everything we'll ever need.? View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Don't Store Up Your Treasures (00:00-10:50) Chapter 2: Where Moth and Eater Can Ruin (10:50-22:25) Chapter 3: The Sky Treasure (22:25-34:24) Chapter 4: Attaining Eternal Wealth (34:24-51:03) Chapter 5: Love People and Love God With Your Things (51:03-1:00:17) Referenced Resources A Treasury of Scripture Knowledge by R.A Torrey The Gospel of Matthew (The New International Commentary on the New Testament) by R.T. France Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Unknwn" by Masked Man "Let Go (Philanthrope Remix)" by Boukas & A D M B "Hnstly" by Afroham & C y g n "30" by G Mills Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey was supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided our sound design and mix. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 419
How Is the Eye the Lamp of the Body?
Sermon on the Mount E27 - Jesus continues addressing our relationship to money and possessions with a riddle about the eye being the lamp of the body-a reference to a common cultural metaphor in which "having a bad eye" meant someone was stingy. By saying that the eye is the lamp of the body, Jesus highlights how our relationship to our possessions reflects our true character. In this episode, Tim, Jon, and Michelle explore how generosity creates possibility, while clinging tightly to our stuff causes us to lose everything. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Lay Up Treasures in Heaven (0:00-6:58) Chapter 2: The Riddle Goes Like This (6:58-25:50) Chapter 3: Light and Dark (25:50-30:14) Chapter 4: The Generous Eye Creates Possibility (30:14-39:08) Referenced Resources Liddell and Scott's Greek-English Lexicon by Henry George Liddell and Robert Scott The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing by Jonathan T. Pennington Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Bushwick" by cocabona "The Upper Room" by The Doppelgangaz "Cookie" by Benno Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided our sound design and mix. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 420
What Does Jesus Say About Money? (Featured Episode)
Sermon on the Mount E28 - In his third teaching on money, Jesus issues a warning about elevating wealth to the position of God in our lives. To describe wealth, Jesus uses the word " mammon, " which can be translated as "the thing in which you trust." What happens when we put our trust in our wealth? And what can it look like to be free from the love of money? In this episode, Tim and Jon and special guests explore the power we give our possessions and the upside-down wisdom that sharing, not hoarding, gives us the security we're seeking.? View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Ultimate Value and Allegiance (0:00-9:32) Chapter 2: What is Mammon? (9:54-15:16) Chapter 3: Unrighteous Mammon (15:16-25:00) Chapter 4: Can Wealth and Justice Coexist? (25:00-39:29) Chapter 5: The Story of Bishop Hannington Bahemuka (39:29-1:01:03) Referenced Resources The New Testament and Rabbinic Judaism (Jordan Lectures) by David Daube Dictionary of Deities and Demons in the Bible by Karel van der Toorn, Bob Becking & Pieter W. van der Horst Jesus, a Jewish Galilean: A New Reading of the Jesus Story by Sean Freyne Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the lead producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey edited today's episode. Tyler Bailey also provided our sound design and mix and served as supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Bishop Bahemuka Hannington. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 420
What Does Jesus Say About Money?
Sermon on the Mount E28 – In his third teaching on money, Jesus issues a warning about elevating wealth to the position of God in our lives. To describe wealth, Jesus uses the word “ mammon, ” which can be translated as “the thing in which you trust.” What happens when we put our trust in our wealth? And what can it look like to be free from the love of money? In this episode, Tim and Jon and special guests explore the power we give our possessions and the upside-down wisdom that sharing, not hoarding, gives us the security we’re seeking. View more resources on our website → Timestamps Chapter 1: Ultimate Value and Allegiance (0:00-9:32) Chapter 2: What is Mammon? (9:54-15:16) Chapter 3: Unrighteous Mammon (15:16-25:00) Chapter 4: Can Wealth and Justice Coexist? (25:00-39:29) Chapter 5: The Story of Bishop Hannington Bahemuka (39:29-1:01:03) Referenced Resources The New Testament and Rabbinic Judaism (Jordan Lectures) by David Daube Dictionary of Deities and Demons in the Bible by Karel van der Toorn, Bob Becking & Pieter W. van der Horst Jesus, a Jewish Galilean: A New Reading of the Jesus Story by Sean Freyne Check out Tim’s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the lead producer for today’s show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey edited today's episode. Tyler Bailey also provided our sound design and mix and served as supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Bishop Bahemuka Hannington. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 421
What Does Jesus Say About Money? (Studio Conversation)
Sermon on the Mount E28 -?In his third teaching on money, Jesus issues a warning about elevating wealth to the position of God in our lives. To describe wealth, Jesus uses the word " mammon, " which can be translated as "the thing in which you trust." What happens when we put our trust in our wealth? What does Jesus mean by "unrighteous wealth?" And what can it look like to be free from the love of money? In this uncut episode, join Tim and Jon in a long-form dialogue exploring the Parable of the Shrewd Manager and how we can only have one ultimate allegiance?God or money.? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Hate One and Love the Other (00:00-13:44) Chapter 2: What is Mammon? (13:44-20:34) Chapter 3: Wealth and the Dishonest Manager (20:34-42:50) Referenced Resources The New Testament and Rabbinic Judaism (Jordan Lectures) by David Daube Dictionary of Deities and Demons in the Bible by Karel van der Toorn, Bob Becking & Pieter W. van der Horst Jesus, a Jewish Galilean: A New Reading of the Jesus Story by Sean Freyne Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Buschwick" by cocabona "Red Gamba" by Lalinea Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by producer Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olson also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 421
What Does Jesus Say About Money? (Uncut)
Sermon on the Mount E28 – In his third teaching on money, Jesus issues a warning about elevating wealth to the position of God in our lives. To describe wealth, Jesus uses the word “ mammon, ” which can be translated as “the thing in which you trust.” What happens when we put our trust in our wealth? What does Jesus mean by “unrighteous wealth?” And what can it look like to be free from the love of money? In this uncut episode, join Tim and Jon in a long-form dialogue exploring the Parable of the Shrewd Manager and how we can only have one ultimate allegiance—God or money. Timestamps Chapter 1: Hate One and Love the Other (00:00-13:44) Chapter 2: What is Mammon? (13:44-20:34) Chapter 3: Wealth and the Dishonest Manager (20:34-42:50) Referenced Resources The New Testament and Rabbinic Judaism (Jordan Lectures) by David Daube Dictionary of Deities and Demons in the Bible by Karel van der Toorn, Bob Becking & Pieter W. van der Horst Jesus, a Jewish Galilean: A New Reading of the Jesus Story by Sean Freyne Check out Tim’s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music “Buschwick” by cocabona “Red Gamba” by Lalinea Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by producer Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olson also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 423
What Does Jesus Say About Anxiety? (Studio Conversation)
Sermon on the Mount E29 (Studio Conversation) -? In Jesus' fourth and final teaching on money, he offers his listeners an antidote to the worry that accompanies life's daily troubles. Jesus teaches that the path to a peaceful mindset is found in what we focus on?or seek. Seeking the Kingdom of the skies leads to investing in what is permanent and trusting in God's abundance. In this uncut episode, join an uninterrupted conversation with Jon and Tim about how understanding God's character can help us live without worry, knowing that even death does not separate us from God's generosity. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps Chapter 1: With Your Whole Self (00:00-8:00) Chapter 2: Your Heavenly Father Knows Your Needs (8:00-36:37) Chapter 3: Let Tomorrow Worry About Itself (36:37-50:30) Chapter 4: Your Heart's Treasure (50:30-1:11:04) Referenced Resources Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Stay" by Yasper "A Bird in the Rain" by Ariel T & Guillaume Muschalle "Fountain" by Misha & Jussi Halme Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by producer Lindsay Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 423
What Does Jesus Say About Anxiety? (Uncut)
Sermon on the Mount E29 (Uncut) – In Jesus’ fourth and final teaching on money, he offers his listeners an antidote to the worry that accompanies life’s daily troubles. Jesus teaches that the path to a peaceful mindset is found in what we focus on—or seek. Seeking the Kingdom of the skies leads to investing in what is permanent and trusting in God's abundance. In this uncut episode, join an uninterrupted conversation with Jon and Tim about how understanding God’s character can help us live without worry, knowing that even death does not separate us from God’s generosity. View more resources on our website → Timestamps Chapter 1: With Your Whole Self (00:00-8:00) Chapter 2: Your Heavenly Father Knows Your Needs (8:00-36:37) Chapter 3: Let Tomorrow Worry About Itself (36:37-50:30) Chapter 4: Your Heart’s Treasure (50:30-1:11:04) Referenced Resources Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen Check out Tim’s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS “Stay” by Yasper “A Bird in the Rain” by Ariel T & Guillaume Muschalle “Fountain” by Misha & Jussi Halme Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by producer Lindsay Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 424
What Does Jesus Say About Anxiety? (Featured Episode)
Sermon on the Mount E29 -? In Jesus' fourth and final teaching on money, he offers his listeners an antidote to the worry that accompanies life's daily troubles. Jesus teaches that the path to a peaceful mindset is found in what we pay attention to or seek. And seeking the Kingdom of the skies leads to trusting in God's abundance. In this episode, Jon, Tim, and Michelle explore how communities who understand God's character can live without worry, knowing that even death does not separate us from God's generosity. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: With Your Whole Self (00:00-7:31)? Chapter 2: Live Like the Birds (07:31-14:24)? Chapter 3: A Conversation on Merimnao With Brittany Kim and Stephanie Tam (14:24-22:35) Chapter 4: Even Death Cannot Separate Us From the Generosity of God (22:35-33:37)? Chapter 5: "We Become What We Pay Attention To" with Curt Thompson (33:37-54:05)? Chapter 6: The Highest Values (54:05-57:12)? Chapter 7: The Harmony of the Cosmos (57:12-1:03:17) Referenced Resources Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen? Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices That Can Transform Your Life and Relationships by Curt Thompson, M.D. Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "Shambles" by When Mountains Move Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the lead producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Tyler Bailey also edited this episode, provided our sound design and mix, and served as supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Brittany Kim and Curt Thompson. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 424
What Does Jesus Say About Anxiety?
Sermon on the Mount E29 – In Jesus' fourth and final teaching on money, he offers his listeners an antidote to the worry that accompanies life’s daily troubles. Jesus teaches that the path to a peaceful mindset is found in what we pay attention to or seek. And seeking the Kingdom of the skies leads to trusting in God's abundance. In this episode, Jon, Tim, and Michelle explore how communities who understand God's character can live without worry, knowing that even death does not separate us from God’s generosity. View more resources on our website → Timestamps Chapter 1: With Your Whole Self (00:00-7:31) Chapter 2: Live Like the Birds (07:31-14:24) Chapter 3: A Conversation on Merimnao With Brittany Kim and Stephanie Tam (14:24-22:35) Chapter 4: Even Death Cannot Separate Us From the Generosity of God (22:35-33:37) Chapter 5: “We Become What We Pay Attention To” with Curt Thompson (33:37-54:05) Chapter 6: The Highest Values (54:05-57:12) Chapter 7: The Harmony of the Cosmos (57:12-1:03:17) Referenced Resources Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices That Can Transform Your Life and Relationships by Curt Thompson, M.D. Check out Tim’s library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music “Shambles” by When Mountains Move Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the lead producer for today’s show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Tyler Bailey also edited this episode, provided our sound design and mix, and served as supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Brittany Kim and Curt Thompson. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 425
Is There Ever a Time to Judge Others?
Sermon on the Mount E30 - After the four-part section on our relationship to money, Jesus turns to addressing our relationships with each other. He begins with the command to not judge. But judging can mean condemnation?or it can mean evaluation. So when is it acceptable to judge someone? And what does that mean for how we will be judged? In this episode, Tim and Jon unpack a challenging command that calls for a deep understanding of God's generosity to compel us to respond generously to each other.? Timestamps Chapter 1: God, Money, and Relationships (00:00-10:47) Chapter 2: Measurements in the Marketplace (10:47-15:43) Chapter 3: Judgement (15:43-28:20) Chapter 4: Sorting The Field (28:20-48:28) Referenced Resources The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life In God by Dallas Willard Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Vermont Canyon" by Teddy Roxpin & Maximillian "Sundown" by Enough Cereals Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 426
Why Does Jesus Talk About Pearls and Pigs?
Sermon on the Mount E31 - Is it possible to evaluate the behavior of others in a healthy way? Jesus offers two parables that illustrate the wisdom needed to evaluate someone else's behavior. The first parable invites us to examine ourselves before others, and the second parable reminds us the necessary discernment for this happens only in a community of faith. In this episode, Tim and Jon discuss Jesus' teachings on how and when to speak into the lives of others. Timestamps Chapter 1: To Judge or Not to Judge (00:00-10:30) Chapter 2: You, Your Brother, and the Speck (10:29-28:17) Chapter 3: Pearls, Pigs, and Dogs (28:17-51:32) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "And that's okay" by Ian Ewing "Saib" by Porto Leone ft. FloFilz Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 427
What Does Jesus Mean by Ask, Seek, and Knock?
Sermon on the Mount E32 - In his fourth teaching on relationships and conflict in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus encourages his listeners to ask God for what they need. Because the three previous teachings don't directly tell us how to respond in specific situations, Jesus emphasizes that the challenges of relationships require wisdom that comes from a deep dependence on God. In this episode, Tim and Jon discuss Jesus' invitation for his followers to relate to God as a loving and generous Father who delights in giving us good gifts. Timestamps Chapter 1: Ask, Seek, Knock (00:00-19:25) Chapter 2: James and the Sermon on the Mount (19:25-34:48) Chapter 3: Connecting My World to the Wisdom of Jesus 9 (34:48-54:24) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Casette" by Ward Willis "La Verdure" by Makzo, Guillaume Muschalle Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 428
What Makes the Golden Rule the Greatest Command?
Sermon on the Mount E33 - The final teaching in the main body of the Sermon on the Mount is commonly known as the Golden Rule: do to others what you would have them do to you. Jesus says that all of the Law and Prophets?everything he has come to fulfill?are contained in this one statement. How? In this episode, Tim and Jon unpack what many consider Jesus' most famous teaching. Join us as we examine how the Golden Rule fits into the intentional design of the Sermon on the Mount, reinforcing the central theme of how God's desires reshape our own.? Timestamps Chapter 1: The Golden Rule as a Compass (00:00-9:55) Chapter 2: The Complex Motivation of the Human Heart (9:55-36:21) Chapter 3: Establishing a Heavenly Kingdom (36:21-50:27) Chapter 4: What's Next? (50:27-55:09) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Will You Play With Me?" -=by Lalinea "Lakes" by sero "Ecstasy" by MILANO Show Credits Stephanie Tam is the lead producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Tyler Bailey and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Tyler Bailey also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Special thanks to Michael Helmy and to Dan Gummel for supporting and commissioning this episode. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 429
The Narrow and Wide Gates
Sermon on the Mount E34 - Jesus closes the Sermon on the Mount by presenting his listeners with a choice, illustrated in three parts. He first describes two gates and two paths. The narrow gate is difficult to enter, but it opens up the way to life. The wide gate is easy to navigate, but it leads to ruin. In this episode, Tim and Jon explore the choice we all must make after listening to Jesus' words and how the decision to live out our true calling as humans is challenged daily by paths that appear easier. Timestamps Chapter 1: The Wide and Narrow Gates We Walk Through (0:00-12:49) Chapter 2: The Narrow Door (12:49-28:32) Chapter 3: The Few and the Many (28:32-45:16) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Golden" by Aarigod "Longing" by Chase Mackintosh Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 430
If We Don't Forgive Others, Will God Not Forgive Us?
Sermon on the Mount Q+R 4 (E35) - Can Jesus' riddle about the good eye and the bad eye also apply to Genesis 3? Does the Bible offer conflicting views on the topic of testing? What is the connection between asking God for our daily bread and Jesus calling himself the "Bread of Heaven?" Does God forgive us only after we forgive others? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions from episodes 22-28 in the Sermon on the Mount series and share some of the Lord's Prayer song submissions. Thank you to our audience for your thoughtful contributions to this episode! Listen to the rest of the Lord's Prayer songs on our website ? Timestamps? Did Jesus Have Genesis 3 in Mind When He Taught About Good Eyes and Bad Eyes? (00:00-17:45) Does the Bible Contradict Itself When it Comes to God Testing Us? (17:45-45:33) Is Jesus Himself the "Daily Bread" He Tells Us to Pray For? (45:33-56:06) Does God Forgive Us Only After We Forgive Others? (56:06-01:04:42) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "The Lord's Prayer" by Sean Bullo "MSG on the Ukulele" by Adalia Socha "The Prayer of Jesus" by Chris and Kristen Whiteley Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided our sound design and mix. Tyler Bailey was supervising engineer. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Special thanks to Christopher Maier for his help compiling audience questions. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 431
True and False Prophets
Sermon on the Mount E36 -? In the second part of the final section of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus emphasizes the tension present in the choice between two paths. How do we know if someone is leading us toward the path to life, and whose voice should we listen to? Jesus uses the images of a sheep in wolf's clothing and trees bearing fruit to emphasize the wisdom needed to identify those who truly represent him. In this episode, Tim and Jon wrestle with the challenge of discerning God's words and recognizing the true destination of someone's path, regardless of the direction they claim. Timestamps Chapter 1: How Do You Know The Difference? (00:00-11:11) Chapter 2: Mislabeling Prophets (11:11-28:55) Chapter 3: Should I Be Suspicious? (28:55-43:57) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Kauai" by Loyae "Meadow Terrain" by Mama Aiuto Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 432
A House on Rock and a House on Sand
Sermon on the Mount E37 -? The final teaching of the Sermon on the Mount addresses the most important aspect of the choice Jesus presents to his listeners. Where does the path that we choose lead us? Jesus describes two builders?a foolish man who builds his house on sand and a wise man who builds his house on rock. When the storm comes, the house on sand is destroyed, while the house on rock remains standing. This seems straightforward, but unpacking the biblical themes of houses, cities, and floodwaters reveals deeper implications for Jesus followers in every generation. Listen in as Tim and Jon conclude their discussion of the sermon by exploring how Jesus' teachings equip us to weather storms outside of Eden, just as Jesus' life ultimately overcame the floodwaters of death. Timestamps Chapter 1: The Simple-Minded (0:00-22:03) Chapter 2: When The Storms Come (22:03-30:50) Chapter 3: Neither Compromise Nor Revolt (30:50-39:53) Chapter 4: If You Live By the Way of Jesus (39:53-53:17) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Lost Call" by Suuna & tulki "Soulangeana (feat. Dom R)" by Illiterate "Clementine." by chromo, the dreamer Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 433
This Isn't the End
Sermon on the Mount E38 - When Jesus finishes the Sermon on the Mount, his first audience responds with astonishment. What will our response be? And where will that response lead us? In this episode, Tim, Jon, Michelle, and members of our audience reflect on their journeys through the sermon. Listen to how meditating on Matthew 5-7 has changed them and how these words of Jesus are guiding them to seek God's wisdom moving forward.? Timestamps Chapter 1: How Jesus' First Listeners Responded to the Sermon on the Mount (00:00-24:10) Chapter 2: A Lifetime of Meditating (24:10-33:59) Chapter 3: Jon and Tim Share Personal Reflections (33:59-48:02) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS "Don't Be Anxious" by Maddy Belskus Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, and he edited and mixed today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today's hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar. Special thanks to our incredible audience for their thoughtful reflections. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 434
Abundance or Scarcity (Re-Release)
What comes to mind when you think of generosity? Is it sharing your money, resources, or even time with others? For the biblical authors, generosity is much more than an act of kindness?it's a reality woven into the universe, starting with the generous Creator. In this re-released of our 2019 series on generosity, Jon and Tim start by exploring Jesus' perspective on resources and the Hebrew Bible's portrayal of God's gracious abundance. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: The Theme of Generosity in the Bible (00:00-7:58) Chapter 2: Generosity for the Poor, Anxiety About Life, and Birdwatching (7:58-36:25) Chapter 3: The Story of Generosity in the Hebrew Bible (36:25-53:06) Chapter 4: The Corruption of Abundance (53:06-1:07:04) Referenced Resources You can find our Generosity theme video here. Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Conquer" by Beautiful Eulogy "Shot in the Back of the Head" by Moby "Scream Pilots" by Moby "Analogs" by Moby BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Dan Gummel, producer; Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer and remixed this episode for re-release. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 436
The Abraham Experiment (Re-Release)
What happens when humans misuse the gifts God gives them? From Eve's attitude toward the births of Cain and Seth, to the Tower of Babel, to Abraham's response to the promised land, the stories in Genesis reveal a tension between God's abundant generosity and humanity's selfish responses. This tension continues when the people of Israel reside in the promised land?a gift they repeatedly misuse. In this re-released episode from 2019, Tim and Jon trace the theme of generosity and scarcity from Genesis to Deuteronomy, uncovering what it means for us today. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: First-Born and Second-Born (00:00-20:05) Chapter 2: God Chooses the Unlikely One + TheTower of Babel (20:05-32:21) Chapter 3: Abraham Gets the Ultimate Gift (32:21-44:00) Chapter 4: Rescued Slaves (44:00-1:02:51) Referenced Resources A Commentary on the Book of Genesis: Part I - From Adam to Noah by Umberto Cassuto Created Equal: How the Bible Broke with Ancient Political Thought by Joshua A. Berman You can find our Generosity theme video here. Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Quietly" by blnkspc_ "Mind Your Time" by Me.So "Cruising" by Evil Needle BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Dan Gummel, producer; Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer and remixed this episode for re-release. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 438
Jesus as the Ultimate Gift (Re-Release)
How is God's generosity meant to change us? In the Bible, God's gifts are intended to bring about transformation in our lives. This generosity challenges our natural tendencies toward selfishness, calling us to live in a community that freely shares and truly loves one another. In this re-released episode from 2019, Tim and Jon explore the teachings of Jesus and the apostles on generosity and ponder the centrality of generosity to the Gospel itself. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Indiscriminate Gifting (0:00-16:32) Chapter 2: Give to Your Enemies (16:32-33:35) Chapter 3: Grace and Gifts (33:35-45:01) Chapter 4: A Blank Checkbook from Jesus (45:01-56:21) Referenced Resources Paul and the Gift by John M. G. Barclay? You can find our Generosity theme video here. Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Clouded Thoughts" by goosetaf "Reminisce (feat. HM Surf)" by goosetaf "Murmuration" by Blue Wednesday & Shopan BibleProject theme song by TENTS? Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Dan Gummel, producer; Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer and remixed this episode for re-release. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 439
What Do Mountains Represent in the Bible?
The Mountain E1 ? What comes to mind when you think of mountains? Is it a strenuous climb or a feeling of smallness as you gaze on the majesty of nature? The biblical authors had similar connotations with mountains, presenting them as sublime, in-between spaces?that are also treacherous! This tension between majesty and danger led ancient Israel and their surrounding neighbors to connect real mountains to "The Mountain," a cosmic place where Heaven and Earth overlap and the divine and human realms become one. In this episode, Jon and Tim introduce our new theme series, The Mountain. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps ? Chapter 1: Introduction to Biblical Mountains (0:00-7:13) Chapter 2: What Is a Mountain in the Bible? (7:13-19:22) Chapter 3: What Do Mountains Mean in the Bible? (19:22-40:43) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Ast?r" by Kissamil? "Soulangeana, ft. Dom R" by Illiterate "Twins" by Rose Noir BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 440
A Mountain Rising From the Chaos Waters
The Mountain E2 ? Ancient Israel's neighbors believed that the world originated as a mountain rising up out of the chaos waters. The gods ruled from this great cosmic mountain, fighting battles with nature and issuing decrees that kept the world in order. So how did this surrounding culture impact the cosmology of the Bible? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss what the cosmic mountain meant in the Ancient Near Eastern context and how the biblical authors adapted and subverted this symbol in surprising ways. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps ? Chapter 1: Recap and Intro to Cosmic Mountains in the Ancient Near East (0:00-6:52) Chapter 2: Egyptian and Mesopotamian Cosmic Mountains (6:52-17:54) Chapter 3: Canaanite and Phoenician Cosmic Mountains (17:54-28:17) Chapter 4: Psalm 48: The True Cosmic Mountain (28:17-38:40) Referenced Resources The Cosmic Mountain in Canaan and the Old Testament by Richard J. Clifford "The Common Temple Ideology of the Ancient Near East" by John M. Lundquist Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Are We There Yet?" by The Bridge, Efechto & D. Steele "Lozari" by L'ind?cis "Lily (Floriana)" by Timothy Brindle BibleProject theme song by TENTS? Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 441
Is the Garden of Eden on a Mountain?
The Mountain E3 ? The biblical authors portray Eden as a cosmic mountain?an overlapping Heaven and Earth space in God's presence. Humans are placed on the Eden mountain and given a choice: Will they trust God's voice and wisdom, or will they seize the knowledge of good and bad on their own terms? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss the drama that plays out on the first cosmic mountain and how it becomes the pattern for every future mountaintop story in the Bible. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Recap of What We've Learned So Far (0:00-12:33) Chapter 2: The Cosmic Eden Mountain (12:33-33:27) Chapter 3: The First Humans Fail the Mountain Test (33:27-58:50) Referenced Resources The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus by L.M. Morales (Link to PDF, since book is not available for sale) The Symbolism of the Biblical World: Ancient Near Eastern Iconography and the Book of Psalms by Othmar Keel Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Dreamscape Lagoon" by Enzalla "Rain or Shine" by Birocratic & Middle School BibleProject theme song by TENTS? Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 442
How Can We Discern Who Is a True or False Prophet?
Sermon on the Mount Q+R 5 (E39) - Should we judge abusive behavior in others? Do we need faith in Jesus and the Holy Spirit to be righteous? And how can we discern who is a true or false prophet? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions from episodes 30-38 in the Sermon on the Mount series, where we explored Matthew 7:1-27. Plus, we share more of the Lord's Prayer song submissions. Thank you to our audience for your thoughtful contributions to this episode! View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: "Are the opening and closing of the sermon at odds with each other?" (00:00-12:50) Chapter 2: "What about judging abusive behavior?" (15:52-27:04) Chapter 3: "How can we be peacemakers but avoid throwing pearls before swine?" (29:43-33:55) Chapter 4: "Is there a pattern in the Bible of angels guarding significant doorways?" (33:55-40:37) Chapter 5: "How can we discern who is a true or false prophet?" (43:40-59:46) Chapter 6: "How do you think Jesus connects the Spirit's power with living righteously?" (1:01:41-1:11:44) Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music? "The Lord's Prayer 3" by Poor Bishop Hooper "Thine Is the Kingdom" by Aryn Michelle "Creator of the Cosmos" by Andrew Eoff "The Lord's Prayer" by Wes Crawford "Our Father (Lord's Prayer)" by Middlebrook Music, Andrew Bingham Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided our sound design and mix. Tyler Bailey was supervising engineer. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 443
Noah and Abraham Surrender on the Mountain
The Mountain E4 ? After the exile from the first cosmic mountain of Eden, humanity spirals into depravity and violence. God chooses to expedite their inevitable destruction through a catastrophic flood, but he preserves the family of Noah. Coming out of the ark on Mount Ararat, Noah offers the life of a precious animal?an act that deeply pleases God. And then Abraham, one of Noah's descendants, offers an even more precious sacrifice on Mount Moriah. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss Noah as the Bible's first mountaintop intercessor and how his story sets a pattern that then plays out in the story of Abraham and Isaac on Mount Moriah. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Recap and Noah's Precious Sacrifice on Mount Ararat (0:00-19:44) Chapter 2: Abraham's Call and Later Folly (19:44-31:36) Chapter 3: Abraham Surrenders on the Mountain (31:36-55:21) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Castles" by SwuM & Chris Mazuera "Dreamscape Lagoon" by Enzalla BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 444
Moses, the Intercessor on Mount Sinai
The Mountain E5 ? Moses has a complicated identity. He's an Israelite, but he was raised in the house of Pharaoh. He was born in Egypt, but he flees to live in the wilderness with the Midianites. And there in the wilderness, he meets God on two separate occasions on Mount Sinai. The first time, God commissions Moses to deliver the Israelites from slavery. And the second time, while Moses is up on the mountain with God, the recently freed people down below are already breaking the covenant by worshiping a gold calf. Will Moses stand in the gap for the people in this moment of crisis? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss Moses as a successful mountaintop intercessor, showing what can happen when a human trusts God on the cosmic mountain. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Recap of the Mountain Theme So Far (0:00-13:37) Chapter 2: Moses' Identity and Commissioning on Mount Sinai (13:37-35:34) Chapter 3: Moses Rescues Israel and Intercedes for them on Mount Sinai (35:34-1:02:08) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Sum Sum" by Ben Bada Boom "Garden Trees" by T.Check & Kofi Anonymous BibleProject theme song by TENTS? Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 445
David, the Failed Intercessor on Mount Zion
The Mountain E6 ? In 2 Samuel, David is crowned king of a unified Israel, and after choosing Jerusalem as his capital city, he brings the ark of the covenant to Mount Zion. It seems like things are going great?a priestly king has unified the tribes and all of Israel's enemies are subdued! But it doesn't last. After committing adultery and murder, David also foolishly calls for a census of his army (which according to the Law, no Israelite leader was supposed to do). And things just get worse. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss the failures of David and how his story highlights the need for a faithful intercessor who will surrender his life on the mountain for the good of the people. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: David Establishes His Capital on Mount Zion (0:00-18:31) Chapter 2: David Fails by Calling for a Census 18:31-35:13) Chapter 3: Intercession on the Future Temple Mount (35:13-51:20) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript here. Referenced Resources 1 and 2 Chronicles, Volume 1: 1 Chronicles 1-2 and Chronicles 9: Israel's Place Among Nations by William Johnstone Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Change of Pace" by UpsiDown "Piano Room" by Matthew Halbert-Howen BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 446
What Went Wrong With Solomon on Mount Zion?
The Mountain E7 ? After King David's failures, we hope that his son Solomon will fare better on the cosmic mountain of Mount Zion. And initially, he does! In a cosmic mountain moment when God offers to give him anything he wants, he humbly asks only for wisdom to discern good from bad. In response, God gives him wisdom plus material blessing, leading to an era of unparalleled abundance and peace in the cosmic mountain city of Jerusalem. During this time, the king builds a splendorous temple on Mount Zion. But with no limits on his power or resources, Solomon soon compromises. Slave labor, hundreds of wives, foreign gods?what happened here? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss Solomon's highs and lows, exploring how too much good can corrupt even the wisest of leaders. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps Chapter 1: Wisdom and Great Abundance (0:00-20:56) Chapter 2: Prosperity and Compromise (20:56-39:42) Chapter 3: Further Compromise and Downfall (39:42-53:49) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "The Turnaround" by UpsiDown "Aste?r" by Kissamil? BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 447
Elijah's Contrasting Mountain Tests
The Mountain E8 ? On two different mountains, we witness mountain tests with two very different Elijahs. On Mount Carmel, he partners with God in challenging the false prophets of Baal, leading to the people's repentance and renewal of trust in God. But then only a chapter later, Elijah is on Mount Sinai accusing the people and loathing his prophetic calling. Why the sudden shift? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss the contrasting mountain test stories of 1 Kings 18-19, reflecting on the human tendency toward fear, condemnation, and false narratives?even after great success. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps ? Chapter 1: Recap of the Series So Far (0:00-9:53) Chapter 2: Elijah Tests the People on Mount Carmel (9:53-32:36) Chapter 3: Elijah Fails the Test on Mount Sinai (32:36-53:06) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Surrender (Instrumental)" by Beautiful Eulogy "Movement" (artist unknown) BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode, and Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 448
Who May Dwell on God's Holy Mountain?
The Mountain E9 ? The mountain theme shows up again and again in biblical narrative, but it's also prominent in the Psalms. Particularly in Psalms 15-24, the biblical authors reflect on the traits of the one who can ascend and dwell on God's holy mountain. At first, this question focuses on King David and his royal successors as they endure suffering, despair, and ultimately vindication, which leads to blessing for Israel and the nations. But eventually, it's not just the Davidic king but a whole community of the faithful ascending the mountain! In this episode, Jon and Tim survey the mountain theme through the Psalms scroll and reflect on what it takes to be with God there. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps ? Chapter 1: Recap of Where We've Been (0:00-10:21) Chapter 2: Psalm 2: God's Anointed One on a Mountain (10:21-19:34) Chapter 3: Psalms 15-24: The King and His Crew Ascend the Mountain (19:34-51:05) Chapter 4: A Hyperlink in Revelation 2 to Psalm 2 (51:05-1:02:39) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources The Arrival of the King: The Shape and Story of Psalms 15-24 by Carissa Quinn Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Sum Sum" by Ben Bada Boom "Sunkissed Cycles" by lloom "Aste?r" by Kissamil? BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 449
Looking Back at 2024 (And Celebrating Ten Years!)
In our final episode of 2024, Tim, Jon, and BibleProject CEO, Steve Atkinson, reflect on ten years of the project, all the resources we got to make and share this year, and the patrons who made it possible. The guys then give a sneak peek of what's coming up next for BibleProject in 2025. Timestamps Ten Year Anniversary and Our Patron Community (0:00-9:25) Strategic Relationships (9:25-19:49) 2024 Engagement With Our Resources (19:49-30:51) Looking Back at a Year in the Sermon on the Mount (30:51-35:41) 2025 Podcast Themes (35:41-37:43) Reading the Bible in Community (37:43-41:54) In Space With Astronaut Tracy Caldwell-Dyson (41:54-44:29) Gratitude (44:29-47:39) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources Watch our 2024 end of year video , where Jon and Tim explore "purple dot moments"?experiences of God's Kingdom here on Earth. Plus, catch a glimpse of what's coming in 2025.? Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Special thanks to our guest, Steve Atkinson.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 450
The Cosmic Mount Zion in Isaiah
The Mountain E10 ? The prophet Isaiah depicts Mount Zion as a cosmic mountain where Heaven and Earth overlap and God's blessings flow down to all of creation. But Isaiah also lived in the real Jerusalem that had Mount Zion at its center, which was filled with corruption, injustice, and idolatry. So in his prophecies, he balances hope in this future new Eden with warnings of judgment on Jerusalem's proud and corrupt elites. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss the many iterations of the mountain theme in Isaiah 2-4, including how Jesus and his disciples embody the imagery of Isaiah's anointed servant and the remnant community. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: The Ideal and Corrupt Mount Zion, Leading to Judgment (0:00-22:55) Chapter 2: A Day of Yahweh Against the Rich, Powerful, and Proud (22:55-32:32) Chapter 3: A Holy Remnant on a Renewed Mount Zion (32:32-53:40) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Bimmer M6" by Kreatev "Sunlight (feat. Jintonic)" by Kendall Miles BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 451
Jesus on Seven Mountains in Matthew
The Mountain E11 ? We've learned that mountains in the Hebrew Bible often become a space where Heaven and Earth overlap and human beings must choose between self-preservation or surrender and trust in God. The story builds our hope and expectation for a faithful intercessor on the mountain who can mediate God's blessings to the people below. As we turn to the New Testament, gospel writer Matthew is ready to spotlight who that faithful mountaintop intercessor is. In this episode, Jon and Tim walk through seven stories in the Gospel of Matthew where Jesus prays, teaches, does miracles, and more?all on mountains. View more resources on our website ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Theme Recap and Overview of Matthew's Seven Mountains (0:00-17:42) Chapter 2: The Mountains of Testing and Teaching (17:42-29:44) Chapter 3: Two Mountains of Prayer and Feeding, Plus One of Transfiguration (29:44-42:15) Chapter 4: Mountains of Apocalypse and Commissioning (42:15-55:16) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources Jesus on the Mountain: A Study in Matthean Theology by Terence Donaldson Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Dreams Come True" by Drips Zacheer "Moonlite" by Nokiaa & Deauxnuts "Go Slow" by little blue BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 452
Jesus Opens the Way to the Cosmic Mountain
The Mountain E12 ? If Jesus' role as the promised mountaintop intercessor was unclear from the mountain stories in the Gospels, the author of the letter to the Hebrews wants to make it explicit. Drawing together imagery of Moses on Mount Sinai, the levitical priesthood, and the Old Testament sacrificial system, Hebrews declares that Jesus is the eternal high priest who can ascend to the holy mountain for the people through the blood of his own sacrifice. In this episode, Jon and Tim wrap up our series on The Mountain by exploring Jesus' ascension to the heavenly cosmic mountain, thereby opening the door for humanity. View all of our resources for The Mountain ? Timestamps? Chapter 1: Recap of the Mountain Theme (0:00-11:31) Chapter 2: The Divine Son, Perfect Sacrifice, and Cosmic High Priest (11:31-40:14) Chapter 3: Draw Near to the Heavenly Mount Zion (40:14-58:28) Chapter 4: Diving Deeper into the Mountain Theme (58:28-1:02:37) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources Rethinking the Atonement: New Perspectives on Jesus's Death, Resurrection, and Ascension by David M. Moffitt Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music "Lozari" by L'ind?cis "The String That Ties Us" by Beautiful Eulogy BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode, and Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 453
We've Been on This Mountain Before
The Mountain Hyperlink Episode (E13) ? If you've been following along in our series on the mountain, you may have had moments where you thought, "I feel like I've heard this before." And that's because you have?we've been on this mountain before! There are so many themes in the Bible, from mountains to tabernacles, to tests and cities. And while we try to isolate and study themes on their own, the Bible intentionally weaves them together. So whenever you encounter one theme in the Bible, it's always connected to and building on other themes in a beautiful tapestry. Today, we're trying something new called a hyperlink episode, where we'll play clips from previous series that interact and overlap with the theme of the mountain. View all of our resources for The Mountain ? CHAPTERS ? Apocalypse on the Mountain (0:00-11:28) A Mountain Refuge City? (11:28-22:41) Priestly Failures on the Mountain (22:41-49:45) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES Clip 1 is from " A Walking, Talking Apocalypse ," episode 5 in our 2020 series, Apocalyptic Literature. Clip 2 is from " Jerusalem: A Tale of Two Cities ," episode 9 in our 2023 series The City. Clip 3 is from " Doomed to Fail? " episode 3 in our 2021 series, The Royal Priest. Check out Tim's library here. You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. SHOW MUSIC "Rest Until Dark" by Sleepy Fish "Canary Forest" by Middle School, Aso, & Aviino BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, and he edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host for today is Michelle Jones. Our creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 454
How Can We Live Out the Idea of the Mountain Now?
The Mountain Q+R (E14) ? Could the Tower of Babel be considered a man-made mountain? How does Yahweh asking Abraham to sacrifice Isaac on the mountain fit with his gracious character? And after Elijah's failure on Mount Sinai, why is he still regarded as a great prophet? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions from our series on the theme of the mountain. Thank you to our audience for your thoughtful contributions to this episode! View all of our resources for The Mountain ? Chapters Intro (0:00-3:52) How can we live out the biblical idea of sacred spaces in the modern world? (3:52-12:38) Could the Tower of Babel be considered a man-made mountain? (12:38-19:22) What do stones and bricks represent in the biblical story? (19:22-28:04) How does Yahweh asking Abraham to sacrifice Isaac fit with his gracious character? (28:04-39:45) After Elijah's failure on Mount Sinai, why is he still regarded as a great prophet? (39:45-48:30) Can Elijah's Mount Sinai experience help us understand contemplative prayer practices? (48:30-57:16) Conclusion (57:16-1:00:05) Official Episode Transcript View this episode's official transcript. Referenced Resources The New Isaac: Tradition and Intertextuality in the Gospel of Matthew by Leroy Huizenga Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Show Music BibleProject theme song by TENTS Show Credits Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, and he edited and mixed today's episode. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 455
An Exodus-Shaped Reality
The Exodus Way E1 ? Most followers of Jesus are familiar with three foundational biblical stories: the story of Jesus in the gospels, the creation story in Genesis, and the Exodus story. These narratives are referred to throughout the whole Bible, but the Exodus story is the most referenced story. Why is this narrative in Exodus so important? In this episode, Jon and Tim start a new series on the narrative theme of Exodus, what we're calling the "Exodus Way," showing how this story shapes the Bible's whole view of reality. CHAPTERS What Is the Exodus, and Why Is It Important? (2:25-17:09) The Most Referenced Story in the Bible 17:09-29:27 The Template of the Exodus (29:27-45:49) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT? View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES Echoes of Exodus: Tracing a Biblical Motif by Bryan D. Estelle You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Lax Incense" by Mama Aiuto & Daphn? "Treecko Is a Cool Starter" by Sleepy Fish & Coa BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 456
Exodus in the Creation and Flood Stories
The Exodus Way E2 ? The main beats of the Exodus Way are the road out of slavery, the road through the wilderness, and the road into inheritance. These moments become a narrative theme that plays out over and over in the story of the Bible. We even see them show up in Genesis before the events of the Exodus even happen! In this episode, Jon and Tim explore the significance of Exodus imagery in two early stories from Genesis, the creation and flood narratives. CHAPTERS Recapping Exodus as a Narrative Theme (0:00-6:30) Exodus in Creation: Genesis 1:1-13 (6:30-20:26) Exodus in the Flood: Genesis 7-8 (20:26-32:11) Connections to Baptism in 1 Peter 3:18-22 (32:11-45:17) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus by L.M. Morales (Link is to PDF, since book is not available for sale) "The Use of Water Imagery in Descriptions of Sheol" by Dominic Rudman (From the journal Zeitschrift f?r die alttestamentliche Wissenschaft; not available for purchase online) You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Onteora Lake" by Kyle McEvoy & Stan Forebee "Tumble's Lullaby" by Kyle McEvoy & Stan Forebee "Bloom" by Kyle McEvoy BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 457
How Did Israel End Up in Egypt?
The Exodus Way E3 ? Before we get to the Exodus story, we must first ask a question: How and why did Israel end up enslaved in Egypt in the first place? Throughout the book of Genesis, the biblical authors seem to imply that Abraham's descendants land in Egypt because of their patriarch's failures to trust God and do right by others. In this episode, Jon and Tim highlight the Exodus beats in Abraham's story, showing how they not only anticipate Israel's exile in Egypt but also the larger Exodus story found throughout the whole Hebrew Bible. ? CHAPTERS Recap and Setting Up Abraham (0:00-8:28) Abraham Out of Ur and Into Egypt (8:28-28:06) Slavery in Egypt Predicted (28:06-36:36) Oppression of Hagar the Egyptian Slave (36:36-58:21) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES And You Shall Tell Your Son: The Concept of the Exodus in the Bible by Yair Zakovitch? You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "By Chance" by SwuM "Skates" by SwuM "Homecoming" by Kyle McEvoy & Stan Forebee BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 458
Israel's Deliverance and the Song of the Sea
The Exodus Way E4 ? We're tracing the narrative theme of Exodus in the Bible, and we're finally ready to trace it in... Exodus! There are three main beats in this narrative theme: the road out of slavery, the road through the wilderness, and the road into inheritance. These three beats play out in Moses' life before Israel's Exodus from Egypt even begins. There are also key moments of justice and deliverance in the Exodus story?the Passover and Israel's crossing through the sea?which become the foundations for the Christian practices of communion and baptism. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss these three crucial beats in the Exodus scroll and how they are poetically drawn together in the "Song of the Sea," found in Exodus 15. CHAPTERS Recap and Setup for the Exodus Scroll (00:00-8:20) Three Beats of the Road Out in Exodus (08:20-30:47) The Song of the Sea (30:47-44:36) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Samething" by SwuM "Davita" by Kyle McEvoy & Stan Forebee BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza, Aaron Olsen, and Tyler Bailey edited today's episode. Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 459
The New Pharaohs of Joshua and Judges
The Exodus Way E5 ? By the time we get to the scroll of Joshua, the Israelites are preparing to enter the land of promise. But we quickly discover a reverse Exodus happening in the narrative. The Canaanite kings?who are depicted as new pharaohs?assemble with armies to meet Israel on the other side of the Jordan River. And in the midst of the story, a Canaanite woman in Jericho actually shows more faith than anyone! Then in the following scroll of Judges, the identity of the pharaohs shifts again?this time to the Israelites, who enslave themselves due to their own corruption and injustice. In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss how Joshua and Judges hyperlink back to the Exodus Way narrative theme, while also pointing to a coming Messianic leader who can lead us out of exile, through the wilderness, and into a true land of inheritance. CHAPTERS Recap of the Theme So Far (0:00-6:50) The Surprising Story of Rahab (6:50-20:15) Canaanite Kings as the New Pharaohs in Joshua (20:15-41:09) Israelites as the New Pharaohs in Judges (41:09-49:40) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES Berit Olam: Joshua by L. Daniel Hawk Joshua in 3-D: A Commentary on Biblical Conquest and Manifest Destiny by L. Daniel Hawk Every Promise Fulfilled: Contesting Plots in Joshua by L. Daniel Hawk You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here.? SHOW MUSIC "Mario Kart" by SwuM "Self Luv" by SwuM "Reflect" by SwuM & Benno BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 460
Isaiah's Promised New Exodus
The Exodus Way E6 ? By the time of the prophet Isaiah, the Assyrian Empire had already exiled the northern kingdom of Israel. Isaiah prophesied that the southern kingdom of Judah would survive Assyrian attack but that a new empire, Babylon, would one day take Judah into exile because of their injustice and idolatry. Within this world of empires, oppressors, and exiles, Isaiah prophesied about a more cosmic, permanent Exodus to come for God's people. In this episode, Jon and Tim explore the narrative beats of Exodus in Isaiah and how his prophetic images inspired the gospel writers. CHAPTERS Empires in the Time of Isaiah (0:00-12:48) The Messiah's Ultimate Road in and Road Out in Isaiah 11 (12:48-32:19) The Highway of God in Isaiah 40 and a New Exodus in Isaiah 43 (32:19-51:05) A New Exodus of Repentance in Isaiah 58 (51:05-59:07) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Haunt Me Home (feat. Catalina Bellizzi)" by Alert312 "Today Feels Like Everyday" by Mama Aiuto BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 461
Passover Psalms at the Last Supper
The Exodus Way E7 ? In Mark 14, we're told that Jesus and his disciples celebrated Passover and sang a hymn before going out to the garden of Gethsemane. So what hymn did they sing? Rabbinic tradition going back to the time of Jesus records that during Passover, Jewish people sang Psalm 113-118, a collection of songs known as the Passover Hallel. In this episode, Jon and Tim explore these six psalms' references to the Exodus story and what they might have meant to Jesus on the night of the last supper. CHAPTERS What Hymn Did Jesus and His Disciples Sing at Passover? (0:00-:6:15) Psalm 113: Seeing With Exodus Glasses (6:15-14:53) Psalms 114-115: Yahweh's Power Among the Nations (14:53-25:46) Psalms 116-118: Reflecting on Our Own Exodus Journey (25:46-34:58) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES The Babylonian Talmud The Tosefta You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Small Town Palm Trees" by Mama Aiuto - Topic "Penpals Perhaps" by Sleepy Fish & Coa "Where the Streets Are Cold & Lonely" by Mama Aiuto BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 462
Jesus as the New Moses?and Much More
The Exodus Way E8 ? Before the arrival of Jesus, Israelites already viewed their current circumstances and hopes for God's salvation through the lens of the Exodus. This is why the gospel authors tell the story of Jesus with language that points back to the main beats of the Exodus story. In this first episode of two on the gospels, Jon and Tim explore the many Exodus hyperlinks found in the stories of Jesus' birth, his baptism in the Jordan River, his testing in the wilderness, and his public ministry in Galilee.? CHAPTERS The Exodus Way in the Life of Jesus (0:00-5:42) Comparing Jesus and Moses' Birth Stories (5:42-19:45) Jesus' Baptism, Testing in the Wilderness, and "Saving" People (19:45-39:32) Jesus' Transfiguration on the Mountain Compared to Moses at Sinai (39:32-51:58) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES Text & Texture by Michael Fishbane You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Nimbus" by Toonorth "Lost Love" by Toonorth "Effervescent" by Toonorth BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 463
Jesus' New Exodus at Passover
The Exodus Way E9 ? All four gospel accounts build anticipation for Jesus to accomplish a new kind of exodus when he arrives in Jerusalem. But later in the gospel narratives, Jesus begins telling his disciples that he will be arrested and killed in Jerusalem before rising on the third day. So Jesus journeys to Jerusalem and confronts the religious establishment?notably only days before Passover! And before his arrest, he shares a Passover meal with his disciples and shockingly reinterprets the bread and wine to be about his coming death. What is Jesus doing, and how is his death related to the climactic Exodus event of Passover? In this episode, Jon and Tim trace the Holy Week story leading up to Passover and explore how Jesus' death fulfills the cosmic Exodus story of the Bible.? CHAPTERS Recap and Jesus' Prediction of His Death in Jerusalem (2:13-15:18) Jesus Compares His Death to Noah's Flood (15:18-23:17) Jesus Enters Jerusalem, Stirs Up Trouble, and Hosts a Passover Meal (23:17-49:38) The Cosmic Exodus (49:38-56:52) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare Last Supper and Lord's Supper by I. Howard Marshall The Historical Reliability of the Gospels by Craig L. Blomberg The Mishnah You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Chiaroscuro" by Toonorth "New Light" by Toonorth "Wistful" by Toonorth BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 464
Followers of "The Way" in Acts
The Exodus Way E10 ? The Exodus story was core to the identity of ancient Israel. Inspired by the prophet Isaiah's words, 1st-century Israelites were awaiting a new exodus, where a new Moses-like figure would deliver them from Roman oppression. The gospels present Jesus as that figure, who saves people from sickness, hunger, spiritual oppression, and even death itself. And following Jesus' resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit, the early Jesus movement became known as "The Way," carrying a message of salvation for all nations. In this episode, Jon and Tim explore how the new exodus people in the book of Acts embody the prophet Isaiah's vision. CHAPTERS Recap and Acts as an "Isaianic" New Exodus (0:00-9:44) Isaiah's New Exodus Language in Luke-Acts (9:44-26:18) Exodus and Acts' Shared Theme of the Victorious Creator God (26:18-35:03) A New Exodus for All Nations (35:03-45:24) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES Acts and the Isaianic New Exodus by David W. Pao You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Nimbus" by Toonorth "Silk" by El Train "Wistful" by Toonorth BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 465
Paul and the New Exodus People
The Exodus Way E11 ? After Jesus' death, resurrection, and ascension, his followers grew into a movement known simply as "The Way"?a new exodus people delivered from sin and death, following the narrow way of Jesus through the wilderness of our present world and awaiting entry into a promised new creation. The Apostle Paul is a central figure in this movement, commissioned by the risen Jesus to spread the good news of the new exodus to the nations. He planted churches in several Roman cities and wrote letters to congregations of Jewish and Gentile believers. Paul was a Jewish man steeped in Israel's Scriptures, which is why we see him infusing Exodus language and imagery into his letters to the early Church. In this episode, Jon and Tim explore Paul's letters to the churches in Corinth, Galatia, and Rome, discovering how Paul saw the death and resurrection of Jesus, the life of the Christian, and the larger story of creation as a cosmic exodus. View all of our resources for The Exodus Way ? CHAPTERS Recap of Where We've Been (0:00-3:01) Exodus Imagery in 1 Corinthians 5 (3:01-14:03) Exodus Language in Galatians (14:03-31:41) The Cosmic Exodus in Romans 8 (31:41-44:33) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES The Homilies of St. John Chrysostom on the Epistles of St. Paul to the Corinthians by John Chrysostom Paul and His Story: (Re)Interpreting the Exodus Tradition by Sylvia Keesmaat You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Lilo" by The Field Tapes & Middle School "Loving Someone You Lost" by The Field Tapes BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 466
N.T. Wright Interview: Baptism and the Exodus Story
The Exodus Way E12 (Bonus Interview) ? If we come to the New Testament without much knowledge of the Hebrew Bible, we may think that baptism is just something that John the Baptist made up and Jesus carried on for new disciples. But there are multiple levels of meaning in this practice, including ritual purification, Israel's passage through the Red Sea, entry into the promised land, and, most importantly for Jesus, a symbol of his death on our behalf. In this episode, Jon and Tim have a wide-ranging conversation with prolific author and theologian N.T. Wright about the meaning of baptism and its connections to the Exodus story. View all of our resources for The Exodus Way ? CHAPTERS Welcoming N.T. Wright (0:00-10:20) Baptism as Repentance and Ushering in the Kingdom (10:20-33:17) Baptism as Death and New Life in the Messiah (33:17-47:37) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES N.T. Wright mentions the online learning platform Admirato , which hosts dozens of his theology courses. God's Big Picture Bible Storybook by N. T. Wright "Sonnet X" or "Death, be not proud" from Holy Sonnets by John Donne You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Faithful" by Marc Vanparla "Sanctuary" by Asaph's Arrows BibleProject theme song by TENTS? SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Special thanks to N.T. Wright. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 467
The Seven Women Who Rescued Moses?and Israel
The Exodus Way E13 (Bonus Interview) ? The exodus from Egypt was a foundational story for ancient Israel, but without a special group of seven often overlooked women, the exodus would have never happened! In this episode, Jon and Tim have a conversation with BibleProject Scholarship Fellow Tamara Knudson about the seven women in Exodus 1-4 who save Moses?and by extension?all of Israel. View all of our resources for The Exodus Way ? CHAPTERS Introducing Tamara and the Seven Women of Exodus 1-4 (0:00-6:29) The Two Midwives and Moses' Mother (6:29-21:20) Pharaoh's Daughter and Moses' Sister, Miriam (21:20-31:08) Zipporah, Moses' Wife (31:08-46:39) Other Books of the Bible That Start With Women (46:39-54:54) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES Read the BibleProject article that Tamara contributed to: " 7 Powerful Women in the Bible Who Help Rescue God's People." Tim references a previous Q+R episode, " Did God Try To Kill Moses? " where they responded to an audience member's question about Exodus 4:24-26. Tamara references Carmen Imes' Exodus Overview Classroom course. You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Hope in the Morning ft. CRFT & GXNXSIS" by Lofi Sunday "Redeemer ft. Cassidy Godwin" by Lofi Sunday "That Gospel ft. Bobcat" by Lofi Sunday "Eden Dreaming ft. sxxnt." by Lofi Sunday BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Special thanks to Tamara Knudson. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 468
How Are the Passover and Yom Kippur Lambs Connected?
The Exodus Way Q+R (E14) ? What birth imagery do we find in Exodus? Are there hyperlinks elsewhere in the Bible that connect to Pharaoh's hardened heart? And is the circumcision story with Zipporah and Moses' son connected to Passover? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions from our Exodus Way series. Thank you to our audience for your thoughtful contributions to this episode! View all of our resources for The Exodus Way ? CHAPTERS Intro (0:00-2:27) Do the seven women in Exodus mirror the seven women in Genesis? (2:27-11:31) What birth imagery can we pull out of the exodus story? (11:31-24:27) Are there hyperlinks elsewhere in the Bible that connect to Pharaoh's hardened heart? (24:27-34:37) Is the circumcision story with Zipporah and Moses' son connected to Passover? (34:37-38:54) How are the Passover and Yom Kippur lambs connected? (38:54-58:57) Is there any connection between God's Spirit descending on Jesus like a dove at his baptism and the dove Noah sent out of the ark? (58:50-1:07:28) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES Find our special interview episode with BibleProject Fellow Tamara Knudson: The Seven Women Who Rescued Moses?and Israel Recovering Paul's Mother Tongue: Language and Theology in Galatians by Susan Grove Eastman In response to the question about God hardening Pharaoh's heart, Tim references our series on the Exodus Scroll , specifically episode 2, Yahweh and the Exodus. We also addressed this topic in the Exodus 1-18 Q+R Tim mentions Hebrew Bible scholars Richard Whitekettle, Jacob Milgrom, and Jonathan Klawans, though not any specific works by them. Jon mentions a previous episode where we discussed Zipporah and Moses' son: Did God Try To Kill Moses? Lamb of the Free: Recovering the Varied Sacrificial Understandings of Jesus's Death by Andrew Remington Rillera You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC BibleProject theme song by TENTS? SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 469
What Is the Deuterocanon or Apocrypha?
How the Bible Was Formed E1 ? If you've ever compared a Protestant Bible to a Catholic Bible, you may notice some additional books in the Catholic Bible, such as Tobit, Judith, 1 and 2 Maccabees, etc. These books, called the Deuterocanon by Catholics and the Apocrypha by Protestants, are Jewish Literature from the period after the Babylonian exile but before the time of Jesus. The Jewish people were back in the land, being ruled by Syria and other empires descended from Alexander the Great. As they read the Hebrew Bible, they created many new literary works, reflecting on stories in Scripture and what was happening in their own day. So how do we understand the status and value of these books when compared to the Hebrew Bible and New Testament? In this episode, Jon and Tim explore the background, history, and content of this Second-Temple Jewish literature. CHAPTERS Multiple Bibles on the Shelf (00:00-21:10) History of the Protestant Apocrypha (21:10-34:35) How Jesus and the Apostles Engaged With These Books (34:35-43:05) Why We're Talking About the Deuterocanon/Apocrypha (43:05-57:36) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha by James H. Charlesworth Old Testament Pseudepigrapha: More Noncanonical Scriptures , edited by Richard Bauckham, James Davila, Alex Panayotov You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Pure Joy ft. John Lee" by Lofi Sunday "Chillbop ft. Me & The Boys" by Lofi Sunday "Answered Prayers ft. PAINT WITH SOUND" by Lofi Sunday BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 470
How Was the Hebrew Bible Written?
?How the Bible Was Formed E2 ? The Hebrew Bible, or Old Testament, is a collection of 24 scrolls, passed down for generations, that tells the long, complicated story of ancient Israel. But who wrote these scrolls, and how did they come together in their final form? And how do we understand the claim that these books are the very voice of God? In this episode, Jon and Tim explore the formation of the Hebrew Bible and the crew who shaped its stories, poems, and laws into intricately designed literary works. CHAPTERS The First Writing Mentioned in the Torah (2:56-13:01) Prophets as a Spirit-Led, Multigenerational Literary Community (13:01-36:30) Divine Inspiration in a Diverse, Literary Mosaic (36:30-1:03:20) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES The Lost World Series by John H. Walton and others The Lost World of Scripture: Ancient Literary Culture and Biblical Authority by John H. Walton and Brent Sandy The Shape of the Writings (Siphrut: Literature and Theology of the Hebrew Scriptures) , edited by Julius Steinberg and Timothy J. Stone You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "StrollingThroughThePark ft. Goodiegumdrops" by Lofi Sunday "Radiance ft. solae" by Lofi Sunday BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, and he also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 471
When Was the Hebrew Bible Finished?
How the Bible Was Formed E3 ? Today, most Bibles are a single book that's easy to carry and flip through. But the Bible started as an assortment of scrolls, bound together into a collection. The Hebrew Bible?or the Old Testament?went through a centuries-long, iterative development process with a variety of scribes and prophets. It didn't come into its final form until roughly the time of Jesus. So how does this history interact with a view of Scripture as God's word? In this episode, Jon and Tim continue exploring the formation of the Bible, discussing how to hold a high view of these sacred texts while also acknowledging the humans who shaped them.? CHAPTERS An Inspired, Collaborative Work Over Centuries (0:00-12:00) A Final Shaping of the Hebrew Bible After Exile (12:00-26:59) The Second Temple Period's Flourishing Literary Culture (26:59-43:42) The Tanak's Standardization as the Masoretic Text (43:42-53:32) Wisdom Literature Designed for Meditation and Formation (53:32-1:00:03) Coming to Peace With the Bible's Formation (1:00:03-1:05:02) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES The Journey from Texts to Translations: The Origin and Development of the Bible by Paul D. Wegner You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Nice Day ft. Marc Vanparla, John Lee" by Lofi Sunday ?"Know My Name" by Lofi Sunday, Opto Music ?"But Hopeful ft. Maddox." by Lofi Sunday ?"Forever Yours ft. Cassidy Godwin" by Lofi Sunday BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, and he also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 472
How Did the New Testament Come to Be?
How the Bible Was Formed E4 ? In the last three episodes of this short series, we focused on the formation of the Hebrew Bible, or the Old Testament. We also talked about other works of literature from the Second Temple period, known collectively as the Deuterocanon or Apocrypha. Today, we'll finally explore yet another collection of Second Temple literature that was formed around the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus?the New Testament. In this episode, Jon and Tim look at the people in the early Jesus movement who wrote, collected, and distributed these biographies about Jesus and letters to churches across the Roman Empire. CHAPTERS The Fulfillment of the Hebrew Scriptures (0:00-13:51) What the Gospels Are and How They Came to Be (13:51-25:42) The Crew Who Shaped the New Testament (25:42-47:19) The Letters That Lasted (47:19-52:35) Sacred Scribal Abbreviations (52:35-1:05:01) Conclusion to Series (1:05:01-1:08:15) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES The Didache Jesus and the Eyewitnesses: The Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony by Richard Bauckham The Formation and Significance of the Christian Biblical Canon: A Study in Text, Ritual and Interpretation by Tomas Bokedal Check out the The Deuterocanon / Apocrypha video series. You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "at the pictures" by Lofi Sunday, Cassidy Godwin ?"little adventures" by Lofi Sunday, Cassidy Godwin ?"Church Pew ft. Oly.Lo, WISDM-02" by Lofi Sunday ?"Yo-05" by Lofi Sunday, Just Derrick BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 473
Pentecost and the Expected Unexpected Spirit (Re-Release)
The story of Pentecost in Acts 2 is brimming with rich imagery and hyperlinks from the Hebrew Bible. God's Spirit dramatically fills a house of Jesus' followers like a wind, and fire burns over the disciples' heads as they begin speaking languages from across the known world! What is happening here, and how is it a fulfillment of God's promises? In this re-released episode from our 2018 Luke-Acts series, Jon and Tim trace the significance of Pentecost, revealing how God's presence now dwells within his people and empowers them to advance his Kingdom mission. CHAPTERS Fire at Pentecost and the Place Where Heaven and Earth Meet (0:00-2:15) The Fiery Arrival of the Promised Helper (2:15-11:27) Overlaying Ancient Stories of God's Presence (11:27-24:12) Peter's Speech to the Crowd (24:12-31:13) Recovering the Exiles (31:13-35:37) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES " Pentecost: Acts 1-7 " from our Luke-Acts video series Acts (Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament) by Eckhard J. Schnabel The Acts of the Risen Lord Jesus: Luke's Account of God's Unfolding Plan by Alan J. Thompson You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Color Pallette 90" by Dan Koch "Do it Right" by Dan Koch "Fall Back" by Dan Koch BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS This episode was originally produced in 2018 by Jon Collins, Dan Gummel, and Matthew Halbert-Howen. Production of today's re-release is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 474
What Does Redemption Mean in the Bible?
Redemption E1 ? Following our series on the Exodus Way, we're going to explore a word that first shows up in the Exodus scroll, redemption. This word can mean lots of things: redeeming a coupon, redeeming an otherwise bad day, or?from a Christian perspective?being redeemed by Jesus. But what does redemption actually refer to in the story of the Bible? Jon and Tim kick off this new theme series by exploring how this word is used throughout Scripture and then defining the two Hebrew words that are translated as "redemption" or "redeem." CHAPTERS Biblical Redemption (0:00-11:08):? Jesus' Sacrifice as Redemption (11:08-29:23) The Meaning of Ga'al and Padah (29:23-48:36) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Cookie" by Benno "Venice Beach" by Randy Sharp BibleProject theme song by TENTS? SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 475
How Does Redemption Work in the Passover and Jubilee?
Redemption E2 ? Redemption involves a transfer of possession, and in the grand story of the Bible, humanity is under the possession of sin and death. But God's plan is to snatch us back from death and bring us to life?to redeem us. But how does this redemption actually work? In this episode, Jon and Tim look at the Torah rituals of Jubilee and Passover, discovering the life-saving redemption that God is up to in both of these rituals. CHAPTERS Recap and Setup for Redemption in the Torah (0:00-11:24) Jubilee as a Redemption of Land and People (11:24-31:05) Redemption in the Passover Rescue (31:05-01:01:20) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Where Is the Love" by Johnny Gorillas "Lonely Like This Moon" by Kicktracks BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 476
Redemption, Justice, and Cities of Refuge
Redemption E3 ? So far in this series, we've explored the theme of redemption in the Eden story and in several stories in Exodus. In this episode, Jon and Tim look at how redemption language shows up in Torah laws about cities of refuge and unsolved murders, highlighting God's provision for justice, the role of the blood redeemer, and communal responsibility in ancient Israel. CHAPTERS Recap of Where We've Been (0:00-10:50) Cities of Refuge and the "Blood Redeemer" (10:50-21:10) Preventing Bloodshed in the Land (21:10-29:29) A Sacrifice to Redeem a Guilty Community (29:29-47:20)? OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Hard Times" by Courtland Urbano "Blue Sky" by C y g n "Untitled" by unknown artist BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer who also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 477
Ruth, Naomi, Boaz, and a Cosmic Redemption
Redemption E4 ? During a dark time in ancient Israel, idolatry, injustice, and death ruled the land and its people. In the midst of a famine, a destitute widow tragically loses her husband and adult sons and is left alone with her immigrant daughter-in-law. It's a horrible situation, but God uses the faithful, loving, and generous acts of ordinary community members to redeem the widow's story. In this episode, Jon and Tim explore the cosmic redemption playing out in the short but profound story of Ruth. CHAPTERS Recap and Setup for Ruth (0:00-13:37) A Story Opening in Tragedy (13:37-27:26) In Comes the Redeemer (27:26-38:18) The Redeemer Redeems (38:18-53:43) Ordinary Acts of Love as Cosmic Redemption (53:43-1:04:40) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. REFERENCED RESOURCES You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC Four songs by Jackie Hill Perry "The Art of Joy" "Suffering Servant" "Ode To Lauryn" "Better" BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 478
If the Bible Was Written by Humans, Does that Change Its Reliability?
How the Bible Was Formed Q+R (E5) ? What is the relationship between the written word of the Bible and Jesus as the Word at the beginning of creation? How do we reconcile the Bible's editing process with Scriptures that forbid adding or taking away from God's word? And what should we do with other writings that closely followed the New Testament? In this episode, Tim and Jon respond to your questions from our How the Bible Was Formed series. Thank you to our audience for your thoughtful contributions to this episode! CHAPTERS Intro (0:00-1:16) Do you have any new learnings or discoveries since the Making of the Bible series? (1:16-7:45) Does the Bible being written by humans, but inspired by God, change its reliability? (7:45-17:07) What is the relationship between the written word of the Bible and Jesus as the Word at creation? (17:07-31:00) How do you reconcile humans editing the Bible during its development with Scriptures that command not to add to or take away from God's Word? (31:00-42:18) What should we do with other writings that closely followed the New Testament? (42:18-1:00:46) Outro (1:00:46-1:02:52) REFERENCED RESOURCES The first question references the Making of the Bible series from Tim's podcast Exploring My Strange Bible. The Journey from Texts to Translations: The Origin and Development of the Bible by Paul D. Wegner The Apostolic Fathers in English by Michael W. Holmes New Testament Apocrypha, vol. 1: More Noncanonical Scriptures , edited by Tony Burke The Apocryphal New Testament , edited by J. K. Elliott Check out our newly released video series, The Deuterocanon / Apocrypha. You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC BibleProject theme song by TENTS? SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.? Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
Episode 479
Yahweh the Redeemer in Isaiah
Redemption E5 ? For many centuries, ancient Israel lived in the land of promise but consistently broke their covenant with Yahweh. The prophet Isaiah warned the people that their corruption and idolatry would lead them back into slavery?not to Egypt but to the empires of Assyria and Babylon. After these two exiles happen, the prophecies in the book of Isaiah shift surprisingly from correction and warning to comfort and hope. In this episode, Jon and Tim explore Isaiah 40-66. These chapters contain a higher density of the word "redemption" than any other part of the Hebrew Bible. CHAPTERS Recap and Setup for Isaiah 40-66 (0:00-7:38) Comfort From Yahweh the Redeemer (7:38-25:33) The Redeemer of Vulnerable Israel (25:33-41:02) REFERENCED RESOURCES You can view annotations for this episode?plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes?in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here. SHOW MUSIC "Forgotten Dreams" by Aves "Hilltops ft. JK Beatbrook" Lofi Sunday BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.
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