The Apocalyptic Gospel Podcast: Recent Episodes
The Apocalyptic Gospel
The Apocalyptic Gospel Podcast explores the Gospel as a first-century Jew would have understood it. A conversation about the Gospel, the Kingdom of God, or the Day of the Lord in the first century would have evoked a body of ideas not immediately present with a simple word study of these terms. In this weekly podcast, Bill, John, and Josh mine the Torah, Biblical Prophets, and Second Temple writings for the origin and development of these ideas as we help give context to this first-century Jewish message and encourage disciples of Jesus to boldly proclaim it and patiently wait for the God of Israel to fulfill his covenantal promises.
In this episode we discuss Jesus’ “illustration” of the shepherd and the gate from John 10:1-18. Jesus speaks these words in response to the negative reaction by the religious leaders to the healing of blind man (9:40). Akin to the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus invokes Israel’s prophetic indictment of self-serving leadership. As the “good shepherd,” Jesus asserts his messianic role as the eschatological Davidic shepherd (Eze 34; Ps Sol 17).
Show notes
- The Gospel of John and the Memra tradition - Genesis 15; Jeremiah 1; Psalm 119; Psalm 33:6; Proverbs 8 (3:53)
- Parables/illustrations in John (14:34)
- The apocalyptic context of John 10:1-18 (18:40)
- Shepherd/sheep in Jewish literature - Jeremiah 50:6-7; Psalms of Solomon 17:21; 39-42; Ezekiel 34:4, 23 (25:00)
- “Thieves and bandits” (28:10)
- “Abundant life” and the resurrection - John 5:28-29; 6:40, 54; 10:28; 11:25; 20:31 (34:09)
- One flock, one shepherd, and the regathering of the lost tribes - Ezekiel 37:15-28; Testament of Joseph 19; 1 Enoch 89:72; 4 Ezra 13:39-50 (37:57)
- Wrapping up (47:30)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the persistent widow from Luke 18. Jesus speaks this parable in context to the discussion of the sudden and apocalyptic coming of the messianic kingdom in Luke 17:20-37. As has been common throughout Jewish liturgical history, this parable is spoken to encourage faith and prayer for the coming of the Messiah and the day of the Lord.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable - Luke 17:20-37 (5:32)
- Allegory: the widow and the judge - Lamentations 1:1; Isaiah 54:4 (13:02)
- The “elect” in its covenantal context - Isaiah 65:9-22; 1 Enoch 1:8-9 (18:14)
- The delay and losing heart (22:18)
- Similar language in Second Temple literature - Sirach 35:14–25; 36:1-29 (28:35)
- Liturgy and the redemption of Israel - Isaiah 62:1-7; Amidah; Didache 10:5-6 (35:56)
- Modern approaches to the parable (47:35)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the dishonest manager from Luke 16. Within an apocalyptic context, the parable is quite simple and straightforward. The dishonest manager responds wisely in light of his own future judgment, whereas the “sons of this age” (v. 8) respond unwisely with their “unrighteous wealth” (v. 11), spending it on that which does not lead to “eternal dwellings” (v. 9) in the age to come.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable (4:42)
- Understanding allegory in the parables (8:43)
- “Shrewd”, “astute”, and “wise” (12:50)
- The unrighteous steward is actually the hero in the story (15:09)
- Background to the parable in the Tanakh and Second Temple literature - Sir 5:8; 29:10-11; 2 Baruch 44:9-15; 1 Enoch 63:9-10 (18:26)
- Modern approaches to the parable (27:36)
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this twelfth Q&A episode. Among many topics, we discuss dispensationalism, Galatians and circumcision, interacting with other disciples who hold to supersessionism and preterism, the idea of Jesus as a failed apocalyptic prophet, and how first century Jews understood “Abraham’s bosom”.
Show notes:
- How does your eschatology differ from the eschatology expounded upon in the Scofield Reference Bible? (2:27)
- How do you reconcile Paul’s discussion about circumcision having no value in Galatians with him circumcising Timothy in Acts? (19:03)
- How should we relate to pastors and other believers who teach supersessionism and preterism? (33:58)
- Can you help me understand why some New Testament scholars call Jesus a "failed apocalyptic prophet"? (42:30)
- How would first century Jews understand the concept of “Abraham’s bosom”? (54:01)
In this episode we discuss the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son found in Luke 15. Jesus uses familiar imagery in each of these parables to indict the religious leaders for their lack of concern for the sinners and marginalized within Israel. Particularly, the imagery of sheep/shepherds and God as Israel’s father were commonly known based on the covenant (Deut 32) and the prophetic tradition (Isa 63; Jer 50; Ezek 34; etc.). Rather than an individualized or ethnicized interpretation, these parables are best understood in an intra-Jewish (apocalyptic) context.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of these parables (4:33)
- Shepherds and sheep in Jewish literature - Jeremiah 50:6-7; Ezekiel 34:1-6, 22-24; Psalms of Solomon 17:21, 39-42; Ex. Rab. 2:2 (10:29)
- Proleptic rejoicing in light of the messianic banquet - Isaiah 35:1-10 (25:54)
- The prophets and the parable of the lost son - Jeremiah 31:18-20 (30:09)
- Diaspora living among the Gentiles (33:40)
- Israel’s God as father - Deuteronomy 32:4-6; Isaiah 63:16, 64:18 (37:54)
- Modern approaches to the parables (42:09)
In this episode we discuss the parables of the Tower and the Army in Luke 14. As with his other parables, Jesus affirms the apocalyptic framework that was common in first century Judaism. He calls the crowds to persevering discipleship by "hating" one’s life and renouncing family, possessions, and security in order to “complete the tower” (Luke 14:28-29) and endure until the end and, thus, to inherit eternal life.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable (5:15)
- Semitic hyperbole: Jesus said to “hate” your own life - Malachi 1:2-3; Deuteronomy 33:8-9 (8:36)
- He “cannot be my disciple”: permission vs. ability unto perseverance (13:28)
- Bearing the cross - 2 Maccabees 7; Romans 8:17-18 (16:07)
- Building a tower and counting the cost (18:03)
- Renouncing everything in this age - Luke 12:33; Mark 10:21; Luke 18 (19:27)
- Salt and saltiness - Luke 9:62 (27:50)
- Modern approaches to the parable (31:25)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the Barren Fig Tree from Luke 13:6-9. This parable uses familiar imagery from the prophets to reiterate the urgent need to repent and to live life in light of the coming judgment. Within the context of Jewish remnant theology, this parable is best understood as Jesus reminding his audience that unless they repent (vv. 1-5), they will be cut down and perish in the coming judgment.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable (4:45)
- Vineyards and figs in the prophetic tradition - Isaiah 5; Jeremiah 8:13; Hosea 2:12; Joel 1:7; Isaiah 34:4; Zechariah 3:10 (8:11)
- Judgment becomes a redemptive mechanism for God’s ultimate faithfulness to the covenant - Jeremiah 4:1-10 (11:49)
- Remnant theology apocalypticized - Isaiah 11:10-11; Zechariah 8:12-13; 4 Ezra 12:33-34 (17:49)
- The national and individual response to the covenant - Deuteronomy 29:18-20; Malachi 3:13-15 (22:58)
- Modern approaches to the parable (29:27)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the Rich Fool from Luke 12:13-21. Jesus exhorts his followers to steward wealth with sobriety in light of the coming judgment and the age to come. The apocalyptic context of the parable is often overlooked in commentaries, but Jesus’ words to his first-century hearers are just as applicable today as they were then (if not more!).
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable (5:54)
- A lack of sobriety concerning the coming judgment - 1 Corinthians 15:32-34; Isaiah 22:12-13; Matthew 24:38 (9:57)
- The rich are oppressing the poor - 1 Enoch 97:3-9; Luke 16:19-31; James 4:13-14; 5:1-6 (18:34)
- Being “rich toward God” - Matthew 6:19-21; Proverbs 19:17; Luke 12:32-34 (23:26)
- The incompatibility of inaugurated eschatology with Jesus’ teachings on money and reward (28:50)
- Modern approaches to the parable (35:19)
- The appropriate response to Jesus’ parable - 1 Timothy 6:17-19 (41:55)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the Good Samaritan from Luke 10:25-37, emphasizing divine mercy and love of neighbor. The immediate context of the parable highlights many apocalyptic themes which frame its interpretation. This parable was spoken not to subvert Jewish apocalyptic eschatology or define a new kingdom ethic, but like many of Jesus’ other parables, was given to evoke a moral response of repentance in light of the age to come and the day of judgment.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable - Matthew 22:34-40; Mark 12:28-34 (4:24)
- Is this parable highlighting a concern for ritual purity? Leviticus 21:1-2 (14:55)
- Divine mercy and loving one’s neighbor is a common emphasis in second-temple Judaism - Leviticus 19:18, 34; Jubilees 36:4-8; Testament of Isaachar 5:1-2; Testament of Dan 5:1-3 (20:37)
- Baseless hatred in the Talmud - b. Yoma 9b (27:43)
- Modern approaches to the parable (30:48)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the talents from Matthew 25:14-30. Like many of Jesus’ other parables, common apocalyptic themes frame his message. The day of judgment and accounting is foregrounded in light of Jesus’ call to live faithfully and wholeheartedly for the age to come. These common apocalyptic themes are then rehearsed immediately after the parable of the talents in Matt 25:31-46.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable (4:28)
- The master, the minas/talents, and the settling of accounts - 4 Ezra 7:33-38 (9:08)
- A parable of delay and the appropriate response - Luke 19:11; 1 Corinthians 7 (15:36)
- Modern approaches to the parable (25:31)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the wise and foolish servants in Matthew 24 and the parable of ten virgins in Matthew 25. The parallels in Mark and Luke indicate that the details communicated in the parables need not be understood allegorically. Rather, Jesus is simply exhorting his disciples to sobriety and urgency in light of common Jewish apocalyptic expectations concerning the day of God and the coming of the Messiah.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parables - Ascension of Isaiah 5:1; Life of the Prophets Isaiah 1; Hebrews 11:37 (4:11)
- The lamps and the oil are not allegorical (11:03)
- “The delay” in Jewish thought - 2 Peter 3:4; Psalm 90:4; Ezekiel 12:22; Habakkuk 2:3; 2 Baruch 21:8; Tobit 14:4; 1QpHab 7:1-14 (14:45)
- Early application of the parable: the Didache - Didache 16:1-8 (27:28)
- The apostolic witness of “staying awake” - 2 Timothy 4; 1 Peter 1:13 (30:33)
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this eleventh Q&A episode. Among many topics, we discuss supersessionism, God’s purposes for the Gentiles in this age and the age to come, and Zionism.
Show notes:
- What does the parable about the new and old treasures in Matthew 13:52 mean? (2:22)
- What are some of the primary ways modern Christianity has deviated from the theology of the early church? (6:52)
- Can you please discuss a few of the primary passages used by the eternal torment view as well as the annihilationist view? (17:39)
- How do Jews and Gentiles integrate in God’s plans/purposes both now and in the age to come? (24:05)
- How are we to address West Bank settlements? How are we to address the suffering of the Palestinians? (35:11)
- Did ancient Jews always have a linear view of history? Were Jews always apocalyptic? (52:03)
- What do you think about a pre-Adamite race? (54:04)
- Is there a date on John's dissertation being published? (55:52)
- What are the implications of believing and discipleship between the young earth and old earth paradigms? (56:30)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the wedding feast from Matthew 22 and Luke 14. In both accounts, apocalyptic themes set the context for the telling of the parable. While typically viewed as a parable about salvation history and 70AD, Jesus’ primary audience is expressly named as “the chief priests and Pharisees” (Matthew 21:45). The parable is simply about responsiveness to Jesus’ and John’s proclamation of the coming judgment, kingdom, and resurrection (cf. Luke 14:14).
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable (4:32)
- This parable is not about salvation history (13:03)
- The burning of the city in the parable is not allegorical of 70AD (17:36)
- The wedding garment (21:36)
- “Many are called, few are chosen”: Jewish-apocalyptic remnant theology - 2 Baruch 44:12-15; 4 Ezra 7:47-48 (25:54)
- Appropriate attire at the wedding - b. Shabbat 153a (30:12)
- Modern approaches to the parable (32:28)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the tenants from Matthew 21:33-45. This parable, spoken against the chief priests and Pharisees, condemns the corrupt stewardship of their authority and their mismanagement of the Temple. Rather than an annulment of the covenant between God and Israel and an affirmation of supersessionism, the parable is a strong affirmation of God’s enduring covenant with the people of Israel and intention for the Temple within the commonly held Jewish apocalyptic ideas of the day.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable and the quote of Psalm 118 (3:56)
- The context: the cleansing of the temple - Targum Isaiah 5:2, Isaiah 56:6-7 (10:14)
- The priesthood at the time of Jesus - 1 Maccabees 14:41–42; Matthew 23:3 (17:06)
- Condemnation of the temple leadership and the parable of the two sons - Matthew 21:27-32 (23:01)
- Covenant maintenance through the prophetic witness (27:32)
- Supersessionist assumptions and remnant theology - 2 Samuel 7:23; Psalm 33:12; Isaiah 26:1-2 (33:19)
- Modern interpretations of the parable (41:36)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the vineyard laborers from Matthew 20:1-16. Following the story of the rich young ruler and the disciples’ inheritance of the twelve thrones in the age to come (19:16-30), this parable highlights the “payment of wages” (20:8) and God’s generosity toward Israel’s marginal (i.e. the disciples). Thus, both sections conclude with the apocalyptic, two-age saying, “the first [in this age] will be last [in the age to come]” (19:30; 20:16).
Show notes
- The historical, apocalyptic context of the parable (5:42)
- The well-known elements of the parable - Leviticus 19:13; Deuteronomy 24:14-15, Isaiah 5:1-7; Jeremiah 12:10 (8:54)
- The payment of wages and heightened apocalyptic expectation - Luke 19 (10:01)
- The first, last, and the parallels in context - Matthew 20:16, 27 (22:57)
- Modern approaches to the parable (28:35)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the unforgiving servant from Matthew 18:21-35. Jesus speaks forcefully of divine mercy and forgiveness within the traditional Jewish apocalyptic expectations concerning the “settling of accounts” (v. 23). When this eschatological framework is marginalized or ignored, the gravity and impact of Jesus’ teaching concerning forgiveness is lost.
Show notes
- The apocalyptic context of the parable: the day of judgment - Luke 7:40-42; Matthew 18:1, 7, 8, 9, 14 (5:12)
- Many of the details of this parable are not particularly allegorical (12:10)
- Understanding the debt - Luke 11:4; Luke 7:41-50 (20:39)
- Forgiveness in Judaism - Leviticus 19:18; Sirach 28:2; b. Rosh HaShanah 17b–18a (26:02)
- Lack of appreciation for the “settling of accounts” - Matthew 24:50; 25:19; Luke 16:2 (30:58)
- Jesus is not introducing a “new kingdom ethic” (36:14)
In this episode we discuss the parable of defilement in Matthew 15 and Mark 7. The parable is set in context to Jesus’ conflict with the Pharisees concerning the hypocrisy of their traditions. The explanation of this parable, particularly in Mark’s gospel, has been widely used to support the idea that Jesus abrogated the Torah’s dietary instructions. By examining the context and the various translations of Mark 7:19, it becomes clear that Jesus is actually upholding Jewish dietary laws and is simply emphasizing “the weightier matters of the law,” so to speak.
Show notes
- This parable is often used to show that Jesus was redefining Jewish ideas (4:04)
- Context of the parable: understanding ritual purity - Manual of Discipline 5:13-14; Galatians 1 (8:52)
- An indictment of hypocrisy - Matthew 15:-3-9; Mark 7:9-13; Matthew 23:16-22 (19:30)
- Mark’s missing verse and the parable’s explanation - Mark 7:15-17; Matthew 15:16-20 (26:33)
- The phrase added by translators changes the parable’s meaning - Mark 7:19 (30:00)
- Apocalyptic convictions - Matthew 15:13 (39:19)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the strong man from Matthew 12. After healing a demon-possessed man, Jesus responds to the accusation of the Pharisees that he drove out the demon by the power of Satan. The parable of the strong man is part of a larger argument that the Pharisees’ accusation is both illogical (vv. 25-29) and immoral (vv. 31-32), which is the basis of their eschatological judgment (vv. 36-37). The parable simply argues that Jesus’ power over demons proves that he is indeed “the Son of David” (v. 23), and he will thus plunder Satan’s house at the end of the age.
Show notes
- The context around the parable - Matthew 12:25-32; Mark 3:23-27; Luke 11:17-23 (5:40)
- The healing on the Sabbath and messianic expectations - Matthew 12:9-14 (8:52)
- The illogical and immoral accusation of the Pharisees (15:14)
- Exorcism in the New Testament and Jewish literature - Mark 9:38; Acts 19:13-14; Josephus, Antiquities 8.2, 5; Tractate Meilah 17b (19:14)
- The kingdom of God will most certainly come upon you - Matthew 12:28 (22:50)
- “Come upon you” is not a positive thing in this context - Deuteronomy 28:15; Jeremiah 40:3; Daniel 9:13; Zephaniah 2:1-2; Targum Ezekiel 7:6-7; Luke 21:34-35; Matthew 23:36; Ephesians 5:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:3; James 5:1; Revelation 3:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16 (31:16)
- Revisiting the parable in context without realized eschatology - Isaiah 49:24-25; Jubilees 23:29; 1 Enoch 10:4-7; 1 Enoch 54:4-6 (41:08)
In this episode, we discuss the parable of the children in the marketplace from Matthew 11 and Luke 7. This short parable follows a complicated discussion about the imprisonment of John the Baptist, but is often read outside of that context and through the lens of realized eschatology. Rather than reimagining the commonly held Jewish apocalyptic eschatology of the time, the parable was simply an indictment concerning the false accusations of the religious leaders that John was demonized and Jesus was a glutton. On the day of judgment, the wisdom of their lives will ultimately be vindicated.
Show notes
- Who are the children and the playmates in the parable? (4:45)
- Wisdom will be justified - Luke 7:35 (8:35)
- Many modern commentators read it in the opposite way and incorporate realized eschatology (13:00)
- The Jewish apocalyptic context assumed by the question of John’s disciples: Are you the Messiah? - Matthew 11:3 (21:06)
- Jesus’ question to the crowds: Who was John? - Matthew 11:7-11; Luke 7:29-30 (24:24)
- The kingdom suffers violence - Matthew 11:12; Matthew 23:13 (29:13)
- John as the messianic forerunner - Matthew 11:13-15 (33:52)
- Summarizing the parable within the context (42:47)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the wineskins (and the patched garment) from Matthew 9, Mark 2, and Luke 5. Contrary to the popular interpretation of a radical redefinition and subversion of Jewish apocalyptic eschatology, this parable communicates the simple principle of dysfunctionality or maladaptation. You cannot force Jesus’ disciples to fast while the Messiah is with them. It does not work. But when he is “taken away” (cf. Isa 53:8 LXX), they will fast. Through this parable, Jesus (and the Gospel authors) sought to establish the discipline of fasting in the early church.
Show notes
- Fasting and Jewish apocalypticism - Matthew 9:14-15; Isaiah 53:7-8 LXX (4:03)
- The common supersessionist approach - Origen, Blomberg, and Wright (10:09)
- The purpose of the parable: dysfunctionality and maladaptation - Joshua 9:12-13 (24:18)
- Other parables that simply teach a principle - Luke 10:27, 29; Luke 12:15; Luke 11:8 (29:48)
- How should we understand this parable if there is no radical redefinition of Jewish eschatology? (34:45)
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this tenth Q&A episode. Among many topics, we answer your questions about the parable of the mustard seed and leaven, replacement theology, understanding the role and purpose of Israel, and we make some observations about tithing and Greek words in the New Testament.
Show notes:
- Could the parable of the mustard seed be about the growth of the word of the gospel? (2:13)
- Is Jesus introducing replacement theology and de-emphasizing the importance of Jerusalem in John 4? (11:06)
- Is there some persuasive counterargument we can make for understanding Israel on pragmatic grounds without having to resort to simply asserting "we should understand Israel properly because the Bible says so"? (24:15)
- Is there biblical support for the millennial kingdom? (34:31)
- What is your take on the meaning of John 1:17? (44:48)
- Why is leaven required in the Thanksgiving and Wave Offering? (55:09)
- Does 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 suggest that the return of Christ can happen at any time? (56:50)
- How should we relate to those who believe that we should be “bringing heaven to earth”? (59:21)
- Can you comment on the biblical support for tithing? (1:02:51)
- Does the Greek word for “forever” convey a worldview of apocalyptic expectation? (1:07:00)
In this episode we discuss the parable of the two houses and the words of Jesus immediately leading up to it in Matthew 7:15-27. Much of the imagery is drawn from the Tanakh and 2nd Temple literature, and the ideas would have been commonly understood within the Jewish apocalyptic narrative. Jesus criticizes and corrects the leadership of Israel for their hypocrisy and pretense, calling his disciples to radical obedience to his words and a singular focus on the age to come.
Show notes
- Beware of false prophets - Matthew 7:15-20; Isaiah 56:10-11; Jeremiah 23:1-2; Ezekiel 34; Shabbat 31b; Yoma 9b (9:04)
- Good trees and bad trees / fruit - Matthew 7:16-20, cf. Matthew 12, Matthew 15, 1 Corinthians 3 (19:27)
- The outward signs without the fear of God - Matthew 7:21-23; Shabbat 12b (25:07)
- The parable of the two houses - Matthew 7:24-27; Ezekiel 13:9-13; Isaiah 24:19-21; Proverbs 10:24-25; Proverbs 12:7; Life of Adam and Eve 49:1-3 (30:07)
- The two houses and realized eschatology (40:52)
In this episode, we discuss the metaphors found in the Sermon on the Mount (Mt. 5-7). After first rehearsing the importance of seeing the teachings of Jesus in their historical context, we look at the familiar metaphors of salt, light, the eye as the lamp of the body, and the narrow gate. These metaphors were common tools used to communicate a familiar prophetic message to the people of Israel in context to their covenantal calling.
Show notes
- Hermeneutics and history (3:59)
- Matthew 5:13 and “the salt of the earth” - Leviticus 2:13; Ezekiel 43:24; Jubilees 21:11; Numbers 18:19; 2 Chronicles 13:5; 2 Kings 2:19; Ezekiel 16:4; Colossians 4:5; Luke 14:34-35; Luke 21:24 (9:09)
- Matthew 5:14-16, the “light of the world”, and the “city on the hill” - Isaiah 49:6; Isaiah 42:6, Isaiah 60:3; Isaiah 62:1-2; 2 Baruch 77:13; Isaiah 2:2-4 (19:07)
- Matthew 5:19-24 and the “eye is the lamp of the body” - Deuteronomy 15:9 (32:00)
- Matthew 7:13-14 and the “narrow gate” - 4 Ezra 7:6-14 (37:47)
In this episode we discuss the parables of the net, the hidden treasure, and the pearl from Matthew 13. These three parables maintain the same Jewish apocalyptic eschatological context highlighted in the explanation of the parable of the weeds (Matthew 13:36-43). The parable of the net reinforces the context of an eschatological judgment, with the righteous inheriting eternal life and the wicked, eternal destruction; while the parables of the pearl and treasure portray the wisdom of the person who gives everything to inherit eternal life on the last day.
Show notes
- General observations about these particular parables - Matthew 13:44-50 (5:02)
- The parable of the net - Matthew 13:47-50; Jeremiah 16; Ezekiel 20, 29 (6:53)
- Some scholars ignore the parable of the net (9:28)
- Parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl - Matthew 13:44-46 (16:19)
- Treasure in Jewish tradition and apocalyptic literature - 2 Baruch 23:7-24:2; 4 Ezra 8:50-54 (28:41)
- “Inheritance” in the letters of the New Testament - 1 Peter 1:4; 1 Timothy 6:18-19 (33:07)
- A radical call to singularly focus on the age to come - Luke 14:33; Matthew 19; 1 Peter 1:13 (36:03)
In this episode, we explore the parable of the wheat and the tares/weeds, the parable of the mustard seed, and the parable of the leaven. In light of common Jewish apocalyptic expectations, these parables all communicate a common theme of the flourishing of the wicked in this age and God’s patient response toward evil. Rather than positive parables speaking of the growth of a spiritualized kingdom, these parables are primarily negative in tone meant to indict pride and hypocrisy in light of the coming judgment.
Show notes
- Reviewing the phrase “the kingdom of heaven” and the agricultural metaphor - Tg. Ezekiel 7:6-7; Tg. Zechariah 14:9; 4 Ezra 8:41 (5:37)
- Interpreting the parable of the weeds - Matthew 13:36-43 (12:20)
- The parable is not a radical redefinition of Jewish apocalyptic eschatology - 2 Baruch 54:15-21 (20:57)
- The parables of the yeast and mustard seed - Matthew 13:31-33; Luke 12:1; 1 Corinthians 5:6-8; Galatians 5:7-9; Daniel 4:12; Ezekiel 17:23; 4 Ezra 4:30-31 (23:29)
- “Growing”, “expanding”, and “spreading” are words never associated with “the kingdom” - Isaiah 9:7 (34:51)
In this episode, we examine Jesus' parable of the sower found in Matthew 13:3-9. We begin by reviewing popular contemporary interpretations of the parables. As a feature particularly important to all of them, we delve into the Jewish tradition of using agricultural metaphors in communication, with a focus on second-temple literature's emphasis on the sowing and reaping motif in discipleship. Within that historical context, we explore how this understanding provides deeper insight into the parable of the sower.
Show notes
- How the parable of the sower is typically read within Christian circles (6:37)
- The agricultural metaphor in the Tanakh - Psalm 37:1-2; Psalm 72:16-17; Psalm 90:3-6; Psalm 92:6-8; Psalm 103:13-16; Isaiah 5:21-24; Isaiah 40:6-9; Isaiah 51:11-13; Ezekiel 17:1-10; Malachi 2:17, 3:1-4,16 (15:51)
- The agricultural metaphor in Jewish apocalyptic literature - 4 Ezra 4:26-32; 4 Ezra 8:38-45; 4 Ezra 9:26-37 (33:27)
- How the parable ought to be understood - Matthew 13:18-23; Daniel 2; Berakhot 55a; Avot 5:2 (44:38)
In our opening episode for season 4 of our show, we introduce the parables of Jesus and discuss his intended audience and their purpose. Rather than a redefinition of Jewish eschatology or Jesus giving new, gnostic revelation, the parables are spoken to the calloused and are meant to evoke a moral response of repentance. Jesus’ parables are communicating the same ideas as Israel’s prophetic tradition, highlighting the need for covenant faithfulness in light of Israel’s assumed apocalyptic eschatology.
Show notes
- Common confusion around the parables of Jesus (4:26)
- To whom did Jesus speak the parables? (11:07)
- Why did Jesus speak in parables? (22:08)
- Parables in the Tanakh (36:01)
- Parables in Jewish apocalyptic literature (40:38)
- The secrets of the kingdom: Daniel 2:18, 30; Matthew 13:11 (51:15)
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this ninth Q&A episode. We discuss revival, the Trinity, and different hermeneutical tools that Christians have used over the centuries. We also explore how Paul uses the Hebrew Bible, and conclude with some thoughts on some common critiques on the historicity of the Tanakh.
Show notes:
- Does Matthew 24:14 describe an end-time revival or awakening? (2:13)
- What do you think about common medieval exegesis methods and how they relate to a first-century apocalyptic worldview? (5:03)
- Is Paul’s quote of Psalm 68 in Ephesians 4 proof of realized eschatology? (15:30)
- What are your thoughts on the Trinity from a first-century viewpoint? (22:25)
- How do we know the account of God’s faithfulness within the Tanakh is actually reliable? (32:47)
Resources:
Blasphemy and Exaltation in Judaism - Darrell Bock: https://amzn.to/3EHH1Fo
The Jewish Targums and John’s Logos Theology - John Ronning: https://amzn.to/3g42tdF
Inconsistency in the Torah - Joshua Berman: https://amzn.to/3MruBDm
Ancient Near Eastern Texts Relating to the Old Testament - James Pritchard: https://amzn.to/3Vt4Wyf
Our YouTube channels:
Bill: https://youtube.com/channel/UC2d-sl7y9qVzNO5Q1ZnKTgQ
John: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ1av6sMf4gJF1-XzfOBSzw
Josh: https://youtube.com/channel/UCdPUmfz4hx49LbZR5w_B4HQ
In this final episode of the season, we discuss Ezra-Nehemiah, and 1-2 Chronicles and their later interpretation in second-temple apocalyptic literature. Being traditionally understood as the head of the Great Sanhedrin, Ezra in particular is transformed into an apocalyptic prophet proclaiming the urgency of the end of the age. The Chronicles largely summarize earlier content of 1-2 Samuel and 1-2 Kings with an emphasis on messianism, which plays into eschatological expectations in the second-temple period.
Show notes
- Overview of Ezra-Nehemiah (2:11)
- The confusion around Ezra in Second Temple Literature - 4 Ezra/2 Esdras (7:33)
- Ezra as an end-time prophet - Ezra 7:1,6; 4 Ezra 1:1; Ezra 3:10-13; Haggai 2:3; 2 Esdras 4 Ezra 3:28–36; 7:74; 14:3-18 (12:23)
- The apocalyptic material, propaganda, and discipleship (23:21)
- Overview of Chronicles (27:37)
- Messianism in 1 and 2 Chronicles - Psalms of Solomon 17 (31:35)
- Wrapping up our season on the Tanakh (38:17)
In this episode, we discuss the book of Daniel and its influence on later Jewish apocalyptic literature and the New Testament. We highlight particular themes common to the apocalyptic worldview, including the kingdom of God, the son of Man, and the eschatological persecution of the saints. Daniel is best understood and read through the lens of God’s covenantal faithfulness to Israel and its projection forward in an apocalyptic view of history.
Show notes
- Introduction to Daniel (3:04)
- Why is Daniel in the Ketuvim instead of the Nevi’im? (4:07)
- Dating the book of Daniel - Ezekiel 14:12-14; Ezekiel 14:19-20; Ezekiel 28:1-3 (7:52)
- Daniel as apocalyptic literature (14:47)
- Daniel, the covenant, and the apocalyptic view of history (16:14)
- The aim of history is the apocalyptic kingdom of God - Daniel 9 (17:24)
- Daniel in second temple apocalyptic literature - Syb. Or. 4:49ff; 4 Ezra 12:10-13, 31-34; 1 Enoch 47:1-3; 1 Enoch 46:3-5; 1 Enoch 90:20 (24:54)
- Daniel in the New Testament - Matthew 24:15, 30 (33:25)
In this episode, we discuss the Five Scrolls: Song of Solomon, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, and Esther. Though seemingly disparate in content, authorship, chronology, and genre, Jewish tradition groups these five books within the Ketuvim. We discuss some of the reasons why, and how later tradition reads these books messianically and eschatologically.
Show notes
- The Five Scrolls and the Targums (2:43)
- Song of Solomon - Ezekiel 16:7-8; Isaiah 62:5; Hosea 1-2; Targum Canticles 8:4-8 (12:16)
- Ruth - Targum Ruth 1:1; 2:12; 4:22 (31:22)
- Lamentations - Targum Lamentations 1:1; 2:22; 4:22 (38:18)
- Ecclesiastes - Targum Qohelet 1:2; 12:13-14; 1 Enoch 102:6-103:4 (43:17)
- Esther - Targum Esther 1:1 (50:50)
Resource: Targum and Testament Revisited by Martin McNamara - https://amzn.to/3L6DGB4
In this episode we continue our interview with David Mitchell, Biblical scholar and pastoral musician. We explore some of the eschatological themes found in the Psalms and how these play out in the prophetic literature. We also look at the themes of the Psalms in apocalyptic literature, which give context to the New Testament’s quotations of the Psalms, especially Psalm 110.
Show notes:
- The central eschatological themes found in the Psalter (2:18)
- How do you see the Psalter’s effect on the late prophetic material or on the prophetic material in general? (7:59)
- How do you see these ideas projecting forward into 2nd temple/apocalyptic literature? (12:48)
- How do you see these eschatological ideas of the psalms continued in the New Testament? (19:50)
- Psalm 110, Hebrews 10, and Melchizedek (26:26)
- A discussion on David’s writings (34:52)
- The prophetic nature of the Psalms and the academic motivation to keep them in history (43:22)
In this episode we interview David Mitchell, Biblical scholar and pastoral musician. We explore some of his work on the Psalms from his book The Message of the Psalter: An Eschatological Programme in the Book of Psalms. David discusses the primary theme of his book with us – namely, that the Psalms have been organized in a way that is intended to convey an eschatological narrative. David shares some of the other theories behind the organization of the Psalms, and then shares a few examples to help illustrate how both the content and the redaction of the Psalms were intended to heighten eschatological expectation.
Show notes:
- What prompted David’s interest in the Book of Psalms? (4:22)
- The Psalms were redacted with a particular purpose (16:08)
- The eschatological meta-narrative behind the organization of the Psalter (25:38)
- The Psalms as a multi-author work, compiled to reinforce the hope of Israel (35:35)
In this episode we begin our discussion of the Ketuvim with the Wisdom tradition in the Tanakh. Along with the prophetic tradition, the wisdom tradition played a key role in the development of Jewish apocalypticism. Today we survey the Psalms, Proverbs, and Job, highlighting how they are incorporated into later apocalyptic themes such as the delineation of the righteous and the wicked at the final judgment, the resurrection of the dead, and messianic hope.
Show notes
- What is the Wisdom tradition? (2:52)
- What does Wisdom literature have to do with Jewish apocalyptic? (8:18)
- The Psalms - Psalm 1; 2; 78; Targum Psalms 18:29; 27:13; Wisdom of Solomon 3, 5 (15:31)
- Proverbs - Proverbs 1:20-33; Daniel 1:17; Daniel 2:20-22, 31-45; 4 Ezra 4 (28:11)
- Job - Job 19; Job 42; Job 14:14 (LXX); Job 42:17 (LXX); James 5:11 (42:20)
** We had a little trouble with our recording this week. You may hear some small audio clicks and pops during this episode. Our apologies!
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this eighth Q&A episode. Topics include the relationship of apocalypticism to pacifism and fatalism, Messianic Judaism, and the importance of historical studies. Also, don’t miss our rapid fire round (which, as usual, is not so rapid).
Show notes:
- Can you comment on what “salt and light” and “city on a hill” meant for a first-century Jew? (2:10)
- How do historical studies fit into the larger trajectory of theological development? (9:12)
- Why do some scholars believe there were different versions of “Christian Judaism” in the first century? (18:06)
- Is there time in the age to come? (26:21)
- To what extent do the grafted-in Gentiles inherit the promises to the Jewish people? (29:32)
- On the killing of the Caananites: Didn’t God use His covenant people to bring retribution on a non-covenant people that continued in rebellion? (31:47)
- Should messianic Jews should maintain Torah observance? (34:37)
- Are there any books, websites or articles that talk about what John said about the Greek, Roman and Jewish narratives of the gospel? (39:15)
- Is Matthew 24 about 70AD, the end of the age, or something else? (41:25)
- Can you explain the relationship of apocalypticism to pacifism and fatalism? (44:30)
In this episode we finish our discussion of the Minor Prophets with Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. We discuss the various themes found in each book and the role that these post-exilic prophets play in the development of apocalyptic thought. Generally written around the building of the second temple, the authors consistently use apocalyptic scenarios to motivate Israel’s covenant faithfulness in the stewardship of their election.
Show notes
- The return from exile played no small role in the “apocalypticization” of exile/repentance/return themes (2:02)
- Haggai: Neglecting the temple, the covenantal blessings and curses, and Zerubbabel - Haggai 1:10-11; Deuteronomy 28:22-40; Haggai 2:1-9; Deuteronomy 30; Haggai 2:6-9; Hebrews 12:28-29 (5:55)
- Zechariah: Covenant maintenance “apocalpyticized” through visions and oracles - Zechariah 1:1-6; 4:8; 6:11-13; 7:8-14; 8:2-3; 9:10; 12-14 (17:27)
- Zechariah quoted in the New Testament - Zechariah 9:9; Revelation (29:24)
- Malachi: the fame of the Lord among the nations, disillusionment, and the coming judgment - Malachi 1:11; 2:17; 4:1; 1 Corinthians 3; Matthew 3 (37:22)
In this episode we discuss the minor prophetic books of Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah. As we’ve seen already in the other prophetic books from Isaiah to Amos, the themes of covenant discipline in light of eschatological hope are highlighted repeatedly throughout. Each book has its own particular emphasis and angle, but the covenantal cycle from Deuteronomy 28-30 is always presumed, and this cycle is pushed to its ultimate end by later apocalyptic writers and the authors of the New Testament.
Show notes
- Obadiah - Obadiah 15-18; Zechariah 12-14 (3:57)
- Jonah - Jonah 4:1-3; Matthew 12:38-41; Acts 10 (12:08)
- Micah - Micah 3:5-8; Micah 6:1-2; Micah 4:1-5; Micah 5:2-4; Micah 7:18-20 (24:58)
- Nahum - Nahum 1:7-8, 15; Nahum 3:19; Tobit 14:3-4 (34:29)
- Habakkuk - Habakkuk 2:2-4; Hebrews 8; Habakkuk 3:11-13 (41:12)
- Zephaniah - Isaiah 13; 2 Maccabees 6:13-16; Zephaniah 3:19-20 (52:10)
In this episode we begin our discussion of the Minor Prophets with the books of Hosea, Joel, and Amos. As with the other written prophets, “the Book of the Twelve” highlights the themes of covenantal maintenance, eschatological distress, and ultimate restoration for Israel. Hosea’s marriage imagery, Joel’s emphasis on the day of the Lord, and Amos’ concern for injustices are all framed within the common covenantal narrative.
Show notes
- Intro to the Minor Prophets and Israel’s covenant dynamic - Amos 4; Deuteronomy 28; 1 Enoch 89:51-53; 2 Baruch 62 (2:35)
- Hosea: idolatry and the marriage metaphor - Hosea 3; Ezekiel 20; Jeremiah 30-32; 4Q434; Hosea 6:4-11 (11:21)
- Joel: the covenantal dynamic in an apocalyptic context - Joel 2:30-3:2 (23:24)
- Amos: idolatry, hypocrisy, and injustice - Amos 7:10-17; Amos 5:18-20; Amos 9:8-11 (37:37)
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this seventh Q&A episode. Topics include Gentiles and the Torah, scholars like Albert Schweitzer and C.H. Dodd, John 3 and Ezekiel 36, and God’s promises. We also give some practical advice about how to relate to others who see the Gospel differently.
Show notes:
- What is the purpose of the Law for ancient Jews and according to the New Testament? (2:24)
- What are your thoughts on Albert Schweitzer? (14:04)
- Can you discuss more of the connection between John 3 and Ezekiel 36 more? (21:14)
- How does the Jewish apocalyptic framework for the Gospel frame the cross? (22:50)
- Do you have any advice on being members of a church where the doctrine is so different than what we believe? (26:09)
- What are “the promises” in the New Testament? Do they refer back to Abraham, Issac, and Jacob? (34:02)
In this episode we discuss the book of Ezekiel and its later interpretation in apocalyptic literature and the New Testament. Just as with the other written prophets, Ezekiel continues the theme of covenantal maintenance, using Israel’s history as a mechanism to describe their future eschatological exile and redemption. Several features in Ezekiel become important to the later apocalyptic writers, including heavenly visions, eschatological imagery, and the way in which these serve to communicate the certainty of God’s covenantal promises.
Show notes
- A brief overview of Ezekiel (1:32)
- The centrality of the covenantal dynamic - Ezekiel 1:1-2; Tg. Ezek. 2:9-10 (5:52)
- Influential elements in Ezekiel that later characterize apocalypticism (10:44)
- The angelic mediary - Ezekiel 8-11 (14:59)
- Heavenly revelation and divine sovereignty - 1 Enoch 14:18-22 (16:32)
- Eschatological revelation and the recapitulation of Israel’s history - Ezekiel 20 (20:03)
- The purpose of written prophecy - Deuteronomy 31:21-29; Isaiah 30:8; Habakkuk 2:2-3 (23:55)
- Gog and Magog - Ezekiel 38-39; Sib. Or. 3.319-323; Mishneh Torah, Kings and Wars 12:2 (29:46)
- Ezekiel in Second Temple Literature - Ezekiel 36-37; Romans 11:15; 1 Enoch 90:3-4, 18, 20; 4 Maccabees 18:14-19 (35:36)
- Ezekiel in the New Testament - Revelation 4-5; 1 Enoch 14; John 10 (42:26)
In this episode we discuss the book of Jeremiah and the playing out of the covenantal cycle as developed in Deuteronomy. Various passages illustrate this cycle, but chapter 25 particularly sets the pattern of covenantal determinism which is developed in the apocalyptic literature. A unique example of the forward projection of Jeremiah’s covenantal cycle is also seen in the Baruch tradition.
Show notes
- Brief overview of Jeremiah (3:18)
- Covenantal maintenance in Jeremiah - Jeremiah 2:1-3, 23-24, 26-27; 3:12-18; Jeremiah 16:9-15; Jeremiah 23:1-8; Jeremiah 30:1-18 (5:18)
- Covenantal determinism in Jeremiah and Jewish apocalyptic literature - Jeremiah 25:11-13; 4 Ezra 12-13 (19:46)
- Chronology and numerology in context to the covenant (25:43)
- The New Covenant - Jeremiah 31:31-34; Deuteronomy 30:1-6; 1 Baruch 2:31-35 (32:04)
- The apocalypticizing of Jeremiah - 2 Baruch 10:2-5 (39:01)
In this episode we discuss messianism in the book of Isaiah. In light of the day of the Lord and the coming restoration of creation, Isaiah portrays the Messiah as the head of Israel, who will redeem Israel and glorify Jerusalem. The Messiah functions as a servant of Israel who heals the nation and leads her to her glorious destiny. As Paul would put it, “I tell you that Messiah became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs” (Romans 15:8).
Show notes
- What is messianism? (2:25)
- Messianism in Isaiah - Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 11:1-9; Testament of Judah 24:1-6 (6:15)
- The Servant Songs: Who is the servant? - Isaiah 41:8-10; Isaiah 44:1-2, 21; Isaiah 48:20; Isaiah 49:3 (13:12)
- The language of “servant” assumes calling for a role or purpose - Isaiah 42:1, 6-8; Isaiah 42:19-20; Isaiah 49:5-6 (19:14)
- The Messiah as the head of Israel, the singular servant of the collective servant - Psalms of Solomon 17:21-24; 2 Baruch 70:9-10; 73:1 (28:27)
- The Servant and Isaiah 53 - Luke 24:26; Isaiah 52:13-14; Hebrews 2:16-18; Isaiah 7-8; Hosea 11:1; Matthew 2:15; Romans 15:8-9 (35:07)
- The restoration of the Servant - Isaiah 61:1-3; Luke 4:16-30 (52:59)
In this episode we look at the theme of redemption and restoration in the Book of Isaiah. The language of new heavens and new earth is uniquely Isaianic and captures the Jewish idea of the restoration of creation. However, this hope is understood in light of the covenant and the glorification of Jerusalem. The apocalyptic idea of the resurrection of the dead develops within this context and finds its epicenter on Mount Zion.
Show notes
- The varying historical narratives about the future redemption (2:01)
- The geographical nature of the redemption: Isaiah 2:2-4; Isaiah 62:1, 6-7; Genesis 12:1-3 (4:37)
- A more universal vision of redemption and resurrection: Isaiah 25:7-8; Isaiah 26:19; 4 Ezra 7:30-34 (14:11)
- The scope of the redemption: Isaiah 65:17-19; 1 Enoch 45:4-5; 1 Enoch 91:15-17; Jubilees 1:29; 2 Peter 3; Revelation 21:1-2 (23:12)
In this episode we discuss how Isaiah is understood and pushed forward by later apocalyptic writers, Jesus, and the authors of the New Testament. Isaiah begins the written prophets in the Nevi'im, which revolve around the maintenance and projection of the covenant through divine judgment and redemption. The primary elements of Jewish apocalyptic thought (the day of the Lord, the resurrection of the dead, and the coming Messiah) are all heavily influenced by the Book of Isaiah. In this episode we focus on the theme of theophany and the day of the Lord.
Show notes
- The prophets and German objective rationalism (2:01)
- Framing Isaiah in context to God’s covenant with Israel (6:16)
- Brief overview of Isaiah (10:31)
- A major apocalyptic theme of Isaiah: theophany and the Day of the Lord (14:29)
- The covenantal hardening in Isaiah 6 and the parables: Mark 4:11-12 (15:26)
- Redemption by the Lord alone in Isaiah 2: Isaiah 2:11-12, 17-19; Matthew 23:12, 33; Revelation 6:15-17 (22:16)
- The importance of Isaiah 13 in the apocalyptic tradition: Isaiah 13:6, 9-13; Matthew 24:29 (27:31)
- Gehenna, Topheth, and Isaiah 30: Isaiah 30:30-33; Isaiah 34:2-4 (31:13)
- The Day of the Lord, the Gospel, and Isaiah 40: Isaiah 40:5, 9-10; Isaiah 52:7; Luke 3:3-6 (37:11)
- Redemption by the Lord alone in Isaiah 63: Isaiah 63:1-5; 64:1-2; 66:15-16 (44:25)
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this sixth Q&A episode. Topics include enjoying life within an apocalyptic view of the world, the meaning of “ekklesia”, the messiah’s relationship to the day of the Lord, the parable of the wineskins, revivals within an apocalyptic view, and how to weed through various competing theological narratives.
Show notes:
- How does love and joy fit into the gospel? (2:12)
- What does ‘ekklesia’ mean if it doesn’t mean ‘church’? (13:54)
- How do first century Jews relate the Messiah and the Day of the Lord? (20:46)
- Do you believe in a dispensational or apocalyptic view of the temple in Ezekiel 40-48? (24:23)
- How do I explain to someone that the cross is so much more deep than personal salvation? (25:55)
- If you could recommend only three scholars or books to read, what would be your go to? (34:21)
- In Matthew 9, what does Jesus mean when he talks about wine and wineskins? Is he talking about old Judaism vs. new Christianity? (36:33)
- What are your thoughts on revivals? (40:25)
In this episode we give a brief overview of 1 and 2 Kings and focus on the unfolding and later projection of David’s dynasty. After the failure of the Davidic monarchy, Solomon is idealized and anticipated by the prophetic tradition, wisdom literature, and second-temple literature as the king who is filled with God’s wisdom and who leads the nation in righteousness and obedience. Rather than redefining or reimagining this expectation, the New Testament reinforces the hope for the restoration of David’s throne in Jerusalem.
Show notes
- Overview of key events in 1 and 2 Kings (1:43)
- The height of Solomon’s reign: 1 Kings 4:32-34; 10 (4:07)
- Solomon’s failure and the anticipation of the idealized king: 1 Kings 11, Deuteronomy 17 (7:31)
- The idealized king and kingdom in the prophetic and apocalyptic literature: Micah 4:6-8, Testament of Dan 5:12-13, Amos 9:11-14; 2 Baruch 61:1-8; 72:2; 74:2-3 (10:26)
- The idealized king and kingdom in the wisdom literature: Psalm 72; Psalm 132:10-17; Psalms of Solomon 17:21-26; Isaiah 11:1-6, 32-37 (22:44)
In this episode we discuss 1 and 2 Samuel, and particularly the Davidic covenant in 2 Samuel 7, with an eye toward its forward projection in the Tanakh, second-temple literature, and the New Testament. God’s election of David’s family and the city of Jerusalem play out in subsequent prophetic and apocalyptic traditions. God’s faithfulness to David and his descendants become the crucible of his faithfulness to creation as a whole.
Show notes
- A quick overview of the events of 1 and 2 Samuel (3:05)
- The Davidic Covenant: 2 Samuel 7 (6:02)
- The Davidic Covenant in the Writings and Prophets: Psalm 89:3-4, 20-29, 36-37; Psalm 2; Isaiah 9, 11, 16, 22, 55; Jeremiah 23:5, 33:20-21; Ezekiel 34, 37 (9:22)
- The “glorious throne” in Second Temple Literature: Ben Sira 47:11; 4 Ezra 12:31-34; 1 Enoch 45:3-5, 51:1-5 (26:58)
- The son of David and the Davidic throne in the New Testament: Matthew 19:28, 25:31, 1:1; Luke 1:32; Matthew 9:27-28; Mark 11:10 (36:13)
- Historical and modern distortions of David’s throne (47:36)
In this episode we discuss the books of Joshua and Judges and how they are understood in second-temple apocalyptic literature. Though not often talked about, when they are referenced, they are assimilated into the later apocalyptic tradition. The lack of references is also discussed in light of apocalypticism downplaying synergism and human involvement in ultimate salvation. Similarly, the rise of the martyrdom tradition in second-temple Judaism coincides with the development of apocalyptic hopes.
Show notes
- Why are Joshua and Judges placed with the prophets in the Hebrew Bible? (4:23)
- Joshua and Judges in Jewish apocalyptic literature: 2 Baruch 53-74; 59:1-2; 60:1-2; 1 Enoch 85-90; 89:39-42; Acts 7; 13 (7:03)
- The elephant in the room: divine sanctioning of warfare and the killing of God’s enemies (14:55)
- The apocalyptic tradition minimizes synergism and human partnership with God in bringing the redemption: Isaiah 63:1-6; Zechariah 14:2-3; Daniel 2:44-45; Deuteronomy 32:36; Daniel 12:7 (18:51)
- Martyrdom in the apocalyptic tradition: Daniel 7; 2 Maccabees 6-7 (32:27)
- Martyrdom, Jesus, and the apostles: Matthew 16; Luke 9; Revelation 7 (36:59)
In this episode we look more deeply at Deuteronomy and highlight how the Covenant and the Law are projected into the future both within the book of Deuteronomy as well as by later Jewish writers. Deuteronomy describes a cycle of covenant breaking, exile, repentance, and return that later becomes the foundation for Jewish eschatological conviction. This cycle thus becomes the engine of the apocalyptic hermeneutic in the second-temple period and in the New Testament.
Show notes
- Projecting the covenant and the law into Israel’s future - Daniel 9:11-13; 2 Maccabees 6:12–16 (1:40)
- The “covenantal cycle” of transgression, exile, repentance, return - Jeremiah 1:1, 11-12; 2 Kings 22:8; Ezekiel 1:1-3 (12:44)
- The cycle will not go on forever - Deuteronomy 4:30-31, 30:1-6, 6:6, 10:16; Jubilees 1:21-22 (19:26)
- Apocalyptic eschatology is built on the assumption of God’s faithfulness to the covenant - 4 Ezra 5:23-29; 4 Ezra 6:18-20 (27:14)
- The New Testament and the covenantal projection - Romans 9-11; Romans 11:11-16; Deuteronomy 32:18–21 (37:00)
In this episode, we give a brief overview of the book of Deuteronomy. We discuss some of the major themes of covenant, law, and land as we survey the book chapter by chapter. The book of Deuteronomy is often neglected in Christian tradition, but it was foundational for the oracles of the prophets and later the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.
Show notes
- Why an overview of Deuteronomy? (2:39)
- Deuteronomy 1-3: A review to reframe history toward a particular conclusion (4:36)
- Deuteronomy 4: Covenant, Law, and Land projected into the future (10:08)
- Deuteronomy 5: The Decalogue, Shabbat (17:00)
- Deuteronomy 6: The Shema (19:40)
- Deuteronomy 7: Israel’s election (22:46)
- Deuteronomy 8-11: Remembrance of God and his righteousness (24:44)
- Deuteronomy 12-26: Legal matters, kings and prophets, and how the Law is often misunderstood (33:02)
- Deuteronomy 27-28: Mount Ebal blessings and curses (45:39)
- Deuteronomy 29-30: Covenant renewal and future restoration (48:25)
- Deuteronomy 30: Joshua commissioned (51:10)
- Deuteronomy 31-34: Song of Moses, the final blessing, and Moses’ death (52:09)
In this episode we look at several themes in the book of Numbers that are pushed forward apocalyptically by second-temple literature and the New Testament. Many events in the Book of Numbers–for example, the manna, the snake on the pole, and the wanderings of Israel in the wilderness–are interpreted typologically within a Jewish apocalyptic framework. Though typology has been used throughout church history to change the Jewish hope, Jesus and the apostles simply assume an apocalyptic narrative when they speak of people and events from the Tanakh typologically.
Show notes
- An overview of Numbers (1:58)
- Manna in Numbers 11: 2 Baruch 29:5-30:2; Matthew 6; Psalm 78:25-28; 2 Corinthians 5:1-2; Midrash Rabbah on Eccl. 1:9; Mekilta on Exod. 16:25; Midrash Tanchuma, Beshallach 21:66 (4:18)
- Understanding typology vs. allegory in the New Testament (13:59)
- Origen, eschatology, and typology that sets up a new framework (15:49)
- The rabbinic tradition and typology (22:15)
- Typology with Justin, Trypho, and Augustine (25:09)
- Manna in John 6: Jesus is the Bread of Life (30:40)
- The snake on a pole in Numbers 21: John 3:14-17; Wisdom of Solomon 16:5–11 (37:27)
- The wilderness wanderings of Numbers: Hosea 2; Ezekiel 20:33-35; 1 Corinthians 10:1-11 (47:16)
In this episode we look at how Second Temple Jews, Jesus, and the apostles understand and project forward the major themes of Leviticus. Similar to how other themes in the Tanakh are “apocalypticized,” offering and sacrifice, the priesthood, and the calendar of feasts and holidays are understood in light of apocalyptic eschatology. For Jesus and the apostles, the major themes in Leviticus reinforce their native worldview and apocalyptic expectations rather than redefine them.
Show notes
- EP Sanders: Jews had multiple interests (7:33)
- Leviticus: offerings and sacrifices - Leviticus 5:17-18; 1 Enoch 19:1; Isaiah 1:11; Malachi 1:10; Jeremiah 6:20; 2 Enoch 45:3-46:2; Psalm 51; Hebrews 9:26-28 (9:25)
- Leviticus: the priesthood - Leviticus 8-10; Leviticus 10:10-11; Exodus 19; Ezekiel 44:23; 11QMelch; 2 Enoch 71-72; Psalm 110; 1 Peter 2:5-12; Acts 3; Acts 21; Acts 23 (21:02)
- Leviticus: the calendar - Leviticus 23-25; Exodus 23; 1 Enoch 72-82; Jubilees. 6; 11QMelch; Luke 22:14-18; Acts 1 (36:36)
In this episode we discuss how Second Temple Jews understood Moses and Mount Sinai. The giving of the Torah accompanied by angels, the revelation of the age to come, and the projection of Sinai eschatologically are all presumed by Jews at the time. These ideas, for example, are reflected in the account of the Mount of Transfiguration and in encounters with angels throughout the New Testament.
Show notes
- Moses and Mount Sinai: The involvement of angels - Jubilees 2:1; Galatians 3:19; Hebrews 2:2; Acts 7:53; Deuteronomy 33:2; 4Q377.2.11 (1:20)
- Angels revealing the New Jerusalem and Israel’s eschatological future - 2 Baruch 4:4-6 cf. Exodus 25; 2 Baruch 59:1-12 (9:22)
- How should we understand second temple authors “reading into” these details about Moses and Sinai? (14:34)
- Projecting Sinai eschatologically: fire and angels on the day of judgment - 1 Enoch 1:3-9 (21:12)
- Sinai becomes the central revelation of the Day of God/Messianic theophany - Jubilees 4:26; 2 Peter 1 (24:19)
Resource: From Sinai to Zion by Joel Richardson: https://joelstrumpet.com/?page_id=5755
In this episode we discuss the important figure of Moses, who takes on a unique authority in Second Temple literature, extending the narrative found in the Tanakh. Because of his special relationship with God, he is given unique revelation of the end times and the coming Messiah. Moses is also viewed as something of a precursor to the Messiah, one who will build God’s house and restore the kingdom to Israel.
Show notes
- Who is Moses? (2:06)
- How Moses shapes the hermeneutic of the Tanakh and Second Temple literature - Acts 15:21; Deuteronomy 4:30, 31:29; 4 Ezra 14:3-5 (3:52)
- Moses’ prophetic authority - 2 Baruch 59:4-8 (12:00)
- The “angelization” of Moses - 1 Enoch 89:35-36, 90:28-28; Hebrews 3; Testament of Moses 9:6-10:5 (14:47)
- Moses as a precursor to the Messiah - Hebrews 11:23-31; Deuteronomy 18:15-19; Acts 3:22, 7:37; Antiquities 20:97-99 (21:19)
In this episode we look at Isaac, Jacob, and his twelve sons and how Second Temple Jews read and interpreted them. Particularly, The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs gives us insight into how Jews framed the election and future of Israel. Jews at the time were not myopic nationalists who were unconcerned and uninformed about the nations, but rather they extended the Tanakh’s framework of the redemption of the nations by means of the salvation of Israel.
Show notes
- Placing the New Testament language in the conversation of the day - Matthias Henze (2:18)
- Apocalypticizing Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Esau - 4 Ezra 6:7-10 (4:17)
- Introduction to The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs - Genesis 49:1; Testament of Levi 1:1; Testament of Benjamin 10:2-9; Romans 2:9-10; 1 Corinthians 15:51; Matthew 19:28 (6:52)
- Israel’s election for the sake of the nations - Testament of Levi 14:4; 14:8 (16:19)
- Resurrection and judgment at the end of the age - Testament of Levi 18:4-6; 18:10-14; Matthew 8:11; Testament of Zebulun 10:1-2; Testament of Judah 24:1-6; 25:1-4 (25:27)
- The language and concepts of the New Testament are not new - Matthew 12:32 (32:31)
Resource: Mind the Gap by Matthias Henze: https://amzn.to/388tuZn
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this fifth Q&A episode. Topics include realized eschatology, dispensationalism, and supersessionism, the Transfiguration, and the New Covenant.
Show notes:
- Are we “under” the kingdom of God now? (2:43)
- What do you think about Paula Fredriksen’s understanding of Romans 1 and “the resurrection of the dead”? (12:44)
- Could you explain more about the “eschatology of the American Dream”? (19:05)
- Does the Transfiguration as seen in Matthew 16 mean that the kingdom is present in some way? (28:32)
- What is fundamentalism? Are you guys fundamentalists? (37:47)
- Do you think there is a degree to which at least some of the better promises of the New Covenant can be "realized" among believers today? (42:06)
- Are dispensationalists also supersessionists? (49:31)
In this episode we discuss how Jews in the Second Temple period framed Abraham within the apocalyptic narrative of redemptive history. The covenant with and election of Abraham was commonly understood in light of the eschatological judgment and the resurrection of the dead. Additionally, Abraham’s faith was also celebrated by Jewish writers of the period, but always in context to Israel’s eschatological hope. This helps us better understand the passages in the New Testament about Abraham and faith.
Show notes
- Abraham and eternal life in Second Temple Literature (3:12)
- How Abraham is typically understood in modern Christian tradition (4:48)
- How Abraham is interpreted in light of the larger apocalyptic narrative - 4 Ezra 3; Apoc. Abr. 22:3-5 (5:43)
- Abraham and the future restoration of Jerusalem - 2 Baruch 4; Hebrews 11 (10:42)
- Abraham, the age to come, and the coming judgment: the “bright waters” of Jewish eschatology - 2 Baruch 57 (15:17)
- The apostles’ understanding of Abraham - Romans 4, 15; Acts 7 (16:34)
- Faith and the binding of Isaac - Genesis 22; Judith 8; 1 Maccabees 2 (24:26)
In this episode we interview Rabbi Joshua Berman, professor of Tanakh at Bar-Ilan University in Israel. Rabbi Berman discusses some of his work related to critical scholarship and the Torah as well as some of his thoughts about Jewish election, the covenant, and the purpose of the Tanakh. He explains how through the election of Abraham, God creates a national culture among his descendants to be walked out as a holy people amidst the other nations. As an orthodox Jew living in the land, Rabbi Berman also gives his thoughts about the world’s present perception of Israel and what the future might hold for them as a people.
Show notes:
- What led Rabbi Berman toward a career in academia while at the same time functioning in his role as a rabbi? (6:15)
- How Rabbi Berman has navigated some of the waters of historical criticism about the Torah that many others have found too difficult to navigate (12:51)
- What is a synopsis for the purpose of the Torah? (21:29)
- The chosenness of Israel and Isaiah 2 (34:30)
In this episode we discuss the election of Abraham and its development in Second Temple Literature and the New Testament. God’s choice of Abraham after the Tower of Babel is understood as the antidote for the idolatry and rebellion that had come to define the rest of the world. Rather than modern concepts of election as developed in the Reformation, Second Temple Jews and the apostles of Jesus maintain the native context of God’s choice of Abraham’s descendants in the administration of redemptive history.
Show notes
- The context of the election of Abraham: the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11; LIB 6:4-5) (4:50)
- The covenant with Abraham: Genesis 15 (Joshua 24:1-2; Apocalypse of Abraham 15) (10:10)
- Israel’s calling to be a light to the Gentiles (Acts 13) (13:30)
- Turning from idolatry (Acts 17) (16:01)
- The “un-election” of Abraham? (Galatians 3; Genesis 17; Sirach 44:19-21) (17:54)
- The Gentiles glorify God for his mercy as a result of the promises to the Patriarchs (Romans 15:8-13) (28:17)
Studies in Torah class from The Ark Network: https://www.thearknetwork.org/studies-in-torah-class/
In this episode we discuss the rebellion narratives found in early Genesis. In Eden’s garden in Genesis 3, in the consensual marriage of the sons of God and the daughters of men in Genesis 6, and at Babel’s tower in Genesis 11 we see not only a paradigm for the redemptive narrative, but also of the great judgment on the Last Day. We develop the consistent pattern that binds the narratives and the role that they all play in presenting a paradigm for the eschatological redemption.
Show notes
- Transgression, limitation, and promise in Genesis 3, 6, and 11 (2:53)
- Genesis 3: Eden, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and the curse - Genesis 3:4-6, 14-19; Life of Adam and Eve 49; Wisdom of Solomon 2:24; Jubilees 4:29-30; 4 Ezra 3:7-11 (3:40)
- Genesis 6: The Nephilim and the Flood - Genesis 4:19; Genesis 6:2; 1 Enoch 15-16; 1 Enoch 65 (20:01)
- Genesis 11: The Tower of Babel - Jubilees 10:21; Wisdom of Solomon 10:5 (33:11)
- The promises - Genesis 3:15; Genesis 9:9; Genesis 12:1-3 (44:41)
Studies in Torah class from our friends in The ARK Network: https://www.thearknetwork.org/studies-in-torah-class/
In this episode we discuss creation as a paradigm for redemption. We looked at Genesis and the creation narrative as the seedbed of eschatological expectation in Jewish tradition. The Tanakh, like the later second temple Jewish literature, sees eschatological hope for everlasting life in context to a new heavens and a new earth. By the time of the New Testament writers, conversations related to eschatology and eternal life were conceptually inseparable from a renewed creation.
Show notes
- Understanding creation as a paradigm for redemption (2:27)
- Creation and redemption in the Tanakh - Gen. 5; Ps. 90; Targum Ps. 1; Targum Jer. 23 (6:17)
- Creation and redemption in the prophetic material - Isa. 25; Isa. 65; Isa. 11 (16:25)
- Creation and redemption in Second Temple literature - Jubilees 1; 2 Enoch 31, 33, 65 (21:47)
- The New Testament writers presume this same paradigm (28:19)
- Why inaugurationalism falls short as a paradigm for redemption (35:37)
In this episode we begin our discussion on Genesis and the Torah, highlighting some of the primary themes in the creation narrative of Genesis. While often read differently in our modern context than it would have been in the Ancient Near East as well as in second temple Jewish texts, the creation of the heavens and the earth sets the framework for divine sovereignty and for the future expectation of redemption.
Show notes:
- Genesis 1:1 and a brief history of interpretation: Platonic dualism (6:41)
- Modern ideas: flat earth, old/young earth (8:18)
- How did the Jewish people understand the heavens and the earth? (12:55)
- The “host of the heavens” (21:40)
- The heavens and divine sovereignty (23:30)
- The book of Jubilees and the Divine Council (27:04)
- The structure of the heavens and the earth as described by cosmic travel narratives (41:14)
- How did these things affect how the apostles lived? (46:24)
In this episode, we interview Dr. Matthew Thiessen, associate professor Religious Studies at McMaster University. We discuss the anti-Jewish bias often brought to the scriptures by traditional Christian readings of the Tanakh, and how this bias radically affects our readings of Jesus and Paul.
Show notes:
- How Dr. Thiessen got into New Testament studies (4:00)
- How Dr. Thiessen’s work has been aimed at anti-Jewish bias in Christian readings of the New Testament (7:02)
- A quick survey of anti-Jewish theology (10:04)
- Anti-Jewish Christian theology from the Holocaust onward (15:30)
- Anti-Jewish bias and our reading of Jesus (26:16)
- Anti-Jewish bias and our reading of Paul (38:01)
In this episode we look particularly at the issue of supersessionism, the idea that Israel and the Old Testament has been superseded and replaced by Jesus, the Church, and the New Testament. We dive into R. Kendall Soulen’s classic treatment on supersessionism in “The God of Israel and Christian Theology”, examining the various aspects of punitive, economic, and structural supersessionism and their effect on our reading of the Scriptures.
Show notes:
- Introducing R. Kendall Soulen (5:03)
- The standard canonical narrative (5:45)
- What is supersessionism or “replacement theology”? (13:30)
- Soulen’s “punitive supersessionism” (22:46)
- Soulen’s “economic supersessionism” (26:03)
- Soulen’s “structural supersessionism” (39:17)
- Why is this not a responsible way to read the scriptures? (48:10)
- How do we overcome this standard theological narrative? (53:06)
In this episode we introduce the themes for season 3 of our show. The Tanakh (a Hebrew acronym for the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings) is the foundation for “the Gospel” as Jesus and the apostles understood it. In season 3, our aim is to work through the books and main themes of the Tanakh to give disciples of Jesus confidence that if all you have is the Tanakh and some of the sayings of Jesus, you would in no way be disadvantaged in preaching the Gospel or discipling someone.
Show notes:
- What is the Tanakh and why is it the basis of the expectation and hope of first century Jews? (6:09)
- If all you have is the Tanakh and some of the sayings of Jesus, would you feel disadvantaged in preaching the Gospel or discipling someone? (7:42)
- Jesus interpreted the Tanakh apocalyptically (12:45)
- Some of the larger themes we’ll be looking at this season: creation, covenant, judgment (14:53)
- Creation and Adam in 2nd Temple Literature (15:28)
- God’s covenant faithfulness (19:09)
- Divine sovereignty in relation to creation and covenant (22:24)
- Themes seen in the prophetic literature: Isaiah 40:1-11 (24:22)
- Themes seen in 2nd temple literature: 2 Baruch 23:4-24:1 (34:14)
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this fourth Q&A episode. Topics include Messianic Judaism, the New Jerusalem and the heavenly mountain, inaugurated eschatology, and our usual rapid fire round with questions on the pre-tribulation rapture in John 14, the renewal of our minds, and Jewish prayer books. We also briefly give vision for our show’s next season. Don’t miss it!
In this episode we reflect on some of our favorite points from our last four interviews with Seth Roach and Daniel Jordan, Marc Tuzzolino, Joe and Terrie Wise, and Stephanie Quick and Devon Phillips. We discuss their testimonies and how the Jewish apocalyptic framework for the Gospel has impacted their lives and ministries. We reflected on how each of them imparted incredible wisdom for disciples to stay the course in light of the return of Jesus and the day of judgment.
In this episode we interview Stephanie Quick and Devon Phillips, laborers with Frontier Alliance International based in Northern Israel. Stephanie is a writer and producer and cohosts The Better Beautiful Podcast with Jeff Henderson, and Devon is a writer and contributor to FAI’s publication, THE WIRE. Stephanie and Devon share their experiences as they minister among Muslims and Israelis in the Middle East, and challenge Western believers to embrace the Gospel of the Kingdom wholeheartedly as the Day of the Lord draws near.
In this episode we interview Joe and Terrie Wise, currently serving as pastors in California’s Central Valley. Joe and Terrie share their experiences as church planters, pastors, and mentors over the last 34 years of ministry. Their mission is to encourage wholehearted love and faithfulness to Jesus in light of the age to come. Despite the challenges they’ve faced, they continue to be an example of faithfulness to young disciples as they encourage others to set their hope fully on the return of Jesus.
In this episode we interview Marc Tuzzolino, founder and leader of the Apocalyptic Accountability Group based in the Chicago area. Marc shares from the heart about his own history and how a season of reworking the Gospel led to deliverance from a life of immorality. Since then, Marc has seen tremendous fruit as he has led other men into fearing God and living a life of obedience and transparency in light of the day of judgment.
In this episode we interview Seth Roach and Daniel Jordan. Seth and Daniel have been involved with Torben Søndergaard and The Last Reformation movement, and they share about their fresh call to a wholehearted lifestyle of obedience to Jesus in light of the hope of his return. Seth and Daniel’s stories are provoking and encouraging to hear as they describe the Spirit’s witness to the Gospel with power, miracles, and deliverance.
In this episode we reflect on some of our favorite points from our last four interviews with Joel Richardson, Tim Miller, Mark Klafter, and Asher and Zachary. We discuss how Jewish election and eschatology give direction and help navigate the complexities of unfolding world events, as well as how the apocalyptic lens for the Gospel gives a sense of stability in the midst of difficulty and serves as a "guard rail" against licentiousness.
In this episode we interview Asher and Zachary, two young adults who have committed their lives to be disciples of Jesus. They share their journey of how they came into an understanding of the Gospel, what challenges they’ve faced specifically as young adults, and how the election of Israel, the return of Jesus, and the age to come have motivated righteous living among an otherwise self-centered generation of young people.
In this episode we interview Mark Klafter, a Jewish believer in Jesus and the son of a Hungarian Holocaust survivor. Mark was born in New York City in 1950 and came to know the Lord in a radical way in 1973. Mark shares his life story and how he came to identify as a Jewish disciple of Yeshua. From his long relationship with Art Katz to his encounter with the God of Israel at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem, Mark’s journey has led him to understand the centrality of Israel and the Jewish people to the gospel.
In this episode we interview Tim Miller, a missions trainer, Bible teacher, and the founder of the Daniel Training Network, a resource development ministry committed to equipping the church to follow Jesus faithfully until he returns. Tim shares some of his experiences over the last twenty years of ministry serving in various parts of Africa and the US. In addition to telling some dramatic stories, Tim encourages us to remain faithful through the simple elements of discipleship.
In this episode we interview Joel Richardson, speaker, author, teacher, and filmmaker. Joel's primary passion is to see the Gospel proclaimed throughout the Muslim world. He discusses how the Jewish apocalyptic framework for the Gospel has affected his life and ministry and given him tremendous hope in the midst of adversity and suffering. Meditation on the tangible hope of the restoration of all things and the resurrection of the dead propels us through the "meat grinder" of this age.
Connect more with Joel and his ministry at https://joelstrumpet.com
In this episode we reflect on some of our favorite points from the first four interviews of this season with David Gordon, Dalton Thomas, Dick Brogden, and Richee Parks. Because we did not want to fill the interviews with a lot of our own commentary, we decided to take a full episode to reflect on some of the things that were said. (Also, don’t miss the intro where we make fun of Bill’s taste in movies!)
In this episode we interview Richee Parks, who works full-time with the Daniel Training Network in Bloomington, MN. Richee is a husband and father of four and has a heart for youth ministry. He discusses discipleship within the family and among today’s youth, exploring some of the challenges faced in leading young people in modern “comfort Christianity” to become faithful witnesses of the gospel.
In this episode we interview Dick Brogden, founder of the Live Dead movement that plants churches among unreached people groups. Dick and his wife Jennifer have served as missionaries for 29 years working in Africa and the Middle East. They are deeply driven by the cross and the return of Jesus. Dick shares some personal stories and challenges disciples to live wholeheartedly for the Gospel. Buckle up, listeners... Dick's words will challenge you!
In this episode we interview Dalton Thomas, director of Frontier Alliance International (FAI). Having pioneered multiple ministries in the Middle East for the last decade, he shares with us his journey and some of the highs and lows associated with it. Dalton shares our conviction about the centrality of eschatology to the Gospel, and he is deeply motivated by the crucified Jewish Messiah, his return, and his inheritance among the Gentiles.
To connect with FAI, download their app or visit https://www.faimission.org.
In this episode we interview our dear friend David Gordon, pastor of People’s Church in Burlington, North Carolina. David has been in full-time ministry for over 30 years and shares some of the experiences, challenges, and successes that have accompanied his journey in the Jewish apocalyptic framework for the Gospel. Pastor David gives us practical insights into gaining clarity, confidence, and courage as we seek to be faithful witnesses to Jesus the Messiah.
In this special episode, John, Bill, and Josh discuss a pet project of theirs: the Nag Hammadi Library. As we prepare for season 2 of our podcast, join us for this profound episode as we express the depths of revelation and keep the kingdom from withering within us.
In this episode, we discuss practical points on how disciples live out and proclaim the gospel (as a first century Jew would have understood it) in light of the coming Kingdom of God, the resurrection of the dead, and the Day of the Lord. As we conclude season 1 of our podcast, we wanted to take an entire episode to discuss how the theological content of our first 30 episodes plays out in the life of the messenger, how it affects the proclamation of the message, and how it should impact the community around them.
In this episode we address the subject of chiliasm, popularly known as millennialism. Though there are few references in the Scriptures outside of Revelation 20 to "a thousand years", chiliasm is seen in various Jewish apocalyptic texts. This created fertile ground for chiliasm to take root in the early church after the Revelation given to the apostle John. Though chiliasm has become a point of contention in various theological traditions today, our proclamation of the gospel should remain consistent with the apostles’ emphasis on the cross and the return of Jesus.
In this episode we give an overview of the major themes and features found in the book of Revelation. The book is frequently associated with bizarre imagery, and is often seen as difficult to understand. Yet, when compared with the imagery and features common to second temple Jewish apocalyptic texts, the language and message of the book of Revelation become simple and clear - eschatological trauma and tribulation before eschatological glory.
In this episode, we take a look at the basic approaches to the Book of Revelation throughout church history: Futurism, Idealism, Historicism, and Preterism. The bulk of the content of the Book of Revelation is best understood in terms of the “messianic woes,” which were a defining component of the first-century Jewish apocalyptic narrative. Though the book has been a source of much contention and debate throughout the ages, it can be demystified and become a source of encouragement and perseverance for any disciple of Jesus.
In this episode we discuss the clear emphasis on Jewish eschatology in the General Epistles of the New Testament. We work through a number of passages that demonstrate the apostolic strategy of utilizing apocalyptic expectation to motivate discipleship. Because the world will not always function in the way it currently does, the apostles encourage disciples to live according to what is to come. In doing so, this leaves modern-day disciples an excellent example to follow - whether we are leading a large church or a small group of disciples.
In this episode, we discuss what the Apostle Paul had in mind when he wrote about the kingdom of God in his letters. In the vast majority of his references to the kingdom, Paul speaks in line with first-century Jewish apocalyptic expectations. Three passages (Rom. 14:17; 1 Cor. 4:20; Col. 1:13) are commonly cited as evidence for realized eschatology. On closer examination, however, these passages actually make more sense when approached apocalyptically (but not as understood by the “apocalyptic Paul” movement, which is...... let's just say we don't like it).
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this third Q&A episode. Topics include how to approach apocalyptic literature, inaugurated eschatology, Bible translations, and reading the Hebrew Bible in relation to other Ancient Near Eastern literature. We also have a “rapid fire” round of questions and preview some of our upcoming episodes. We welcome any questions relevant to the material we've been covering on this podcast, so send them in via the contact form on our website - apocalypticgospel.com.
In this episode we look at the relationship between the kingdom of God and prayer. The Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:2-4), the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8) and Jesus’ exhortation to prayer (Luke 21:34-36) are discussed in light of Jewish apocalyptic expectations. Rather than the common tendency to realize or spiritualize themes in these passages, Jesus exhorts his disciples to sobriety and to live in anticipation of the coming kingdom and redemption through prayer.
In this episode, we discuss the kingdom and expectations concerning the coming of the messiah and the eschatological banquet developed in the prophets, second temple literature, and the New Testament. The messianic banquet was forefront in the minds of Jesus and the apostles, particularly at the Last Supper. Rather than realizing or redefining these expectations, Jesus affirms the first century Jewish hope of “eating and drinking” at the messianic table (Luke 22:30) in the age to come.
In this episode we discuss some of the ideas of “hell” that were common in the first century Jewish world. Modern problems of worldview and translation often present the idea of hell as a metaphysical reality instead of the overtly eschatological reality that is actually being emphasized by Jesus. “Gehenna”, a Greek word used in the New Testament often translated as “hell”, is best understood in context to second temple Jewish literature and apocalyptic expectations.
In this episode we frame Matthew 5-7 within the framework of first century Jewish apocalypticism. Rather than introducing a universalized, spiritual definition of the kingdom of God, Jesus is functioning as a prophetic renewalist, calling Israel to repentance and wholehearted repentance. Hypocrisy and pretense will ultimately be exposed on the day of judgment. The hearer ought to live authentically and accordingly.
In this episode, we discuss Jesus’ words in Matthew 5 and Luke 6. The Beatitudes are often understood as abstract attributes that Jesus is exhorting his hearers to emulate. However, viewed in light of the apocalyptic tradition, the Beatitudes are understood as a discipleship mechanism to encourage perseverance unto the inheritance of the kingdom of God and eternal life.
In this episode we place the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) into the covenantal/apocalyptic setting in which Mary spoke it. The song significantly parallels that of Hannah in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 and echoes the themes that were expressed related to the covenant and God’s final vindication of His people. Likewise, Mary understands the birth of Jesus in context to the Davidic covenant, the day of judgment, and other major first century Jewish apocalyptic themes. We hope that this episode transforms and enriches your experience of Christmas and that it can truly become a source of encouragement as you eagerly wait for the blessed hope. Make Christmas Great Again!
In this episode we spend some time working through many of the parables of Jesus, which have a long history of (mis)interpretation. The parables are often mobilized as evidence for realized eschatology in the teachings of Jesus. However, when taken within the context of first century Jewish apocalyptic expectations the meaning and purpose of the parables become strikingly clear. Rather than redefining the kingdom of God, the parables are aimed primarily at Jesus’ unrepentant audience to awaken sobriety and the fear of God related to the coming judgment.
In this episode we work through some of the main passages in the Gospels referencing the kingdom of God that are commonly used to support realized eschatology. Passages that describe the kingdom being “at hand”, the kingdom “coming upon you”, or the kingdom being “within you” are most easily understood within a Jewish apocalyptic framework. Rather than Jesus and John the Baptist redefining or reimagining the common expectation of Jews in the first century, they simply affirm the words of the prophets about a future eschatological day of judgment and messianic kingdom.
In this episode we briefly survey the history of interpretation concerning “the kingdom of God” in the New Testament. In particular, the last century has seen a surge of studies grappling with the first-century context of this controversial phrase. Various theological camps wrestle with the idea of the kingdom in different and often conflicting ways. In the end, Jewish apocalypticism makes the most sense of the vast majority of its occurrences in the New Testament.
In this episode we present an introduction to the "kingdom of God" as understood by a first-century Jew: the Davidic, messianic kingdom as presented by common Jewish expectation at the time. Beginning with 2 Samuel 7 and the prophets then moving through the Targums and other Second Temple literature, we present a brief survey of the kingdom of God and the Jewish apocalyptic themes that accompanied the expectation of that kingdom.
This episode is a teaching that Bill Scofield gave in a small group setting. Beginning with an overview of how Jews came to think about eschatology in the first century, Bill goes on to develop John chapter 3 where he illustrates that Jews, including Jesus and his followers, maintained an apocalyptic eschatological framework. We hope it is an encouragement to you.
In this episode we develop the quote of Amos 9:11-12 in Acts 15. Rather than a redefinition of the prophets’ words about the Gentiles flowing to Jerusalem to worship the God of Israel, James quotes Amos 9 to affirm that the Gentiles turning to God in his time accords with the vision of the “eschatological pilgrimage” of the nations to Zion in the age to come. Like the cross and the Spirit, the novelty of God’s mercy being extended to the Gentiles is actually an affirmation of the apostles’ Jewish apocalyptic hopes.
In this episode, we take a deeper dive into Acts 15 to understand the primary question that is being asked and the answer that is being offered. We analyze three particular points in the passage that often create confusion: circumcision (v. 1, 5), “conversion” (v. 3), and the “yoke” (v. 10). Rather than being an anti-Judaism or anti-Torah council, the apostles answer the question of what to do with the Gentiles who are turning to the God of Israel.
In this episode we give an overview of Acts 15 and the Jerusalem Council where the apostles gather to discuss the issues brought up recently by many Gentiles turning to the God of Israel. Rather than redefining the hope of Israel, the apostles conclude that the Gentiles can be saved from the wrath to come and inherit eternal life without becoming Jews. We work through an overview of the major themes surrounding the discussion in the passage.
In this episode we explore Peter’s vision of the “great sheet” filled with unclean animals and the events which followed. Peter’s interpretation of the vision and the first sermon towards a Gentile audience are often interpreted within a redefined narrative of redemptive history which sees God establishing a ‘new people’. We revisit the events and the how they are described in Acts 10-11 to show that they are actually intended to reinforce the Jewish apocalyptic framework and the Gentiles’ place within that hope.
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this second Q&A episode. Topics include cross-cultural discipleship, why some solid Old Testament scholars reject first century Jewish eschatology, and how Jews perceived the destruction of the temple in light of Jesus’ words. Don’t miss the “rapid fire” round at the end!
In this week’s episode we discuss the language that the apostles used to describe the effects of the crucifixion of the Messiah. Terms like justification, redemption, propitiation, and reconciliation were understood within the context of first-century Jewish apocalyptic thought, rather than in contrast to it or disconnected from it. Passages like 2 Cor. 5 and Romans 5 illustrate clearly that Paul had the day of judgment and the resurrection of the dead in mind when he was theologizing about the cross.
The apostles understood the cross within a first century Jewish apocalyptic worldview. As seen in 1 Cor. 15:3, the interpretation of the Messiah’s death was handed down by the apostles and revolved around Isaiah 53 and the Levitical sacrificial tradition. Thus Paul’s gospel centered on Jesus Christ, “who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age” (Gal. 1:4).
In this episode, we talk through Peter’s use of Scripture in Acts 2. Rather than redefining or realizing Psalm 16 and Psalm 110, Peter employs an apocalyptic hermeneutic (i.e. approach to interpretation), which simply seeks to understand the Torah, Writings, and Prophets in light of their ultimate end. The Messiah was crucified, but God raised him up and seated him at his right hand, where he waits to execute the eschatological judgment of God’s enemies.
In this episode, we dive into the beginning of Peter’s explanation of the events of Acts 2. Rather than a redefinition of the ‘last days’, Peter affirms that their expectations were in accordance with the apocalyptic tradition. God promised, expressed in the citation of Joel 2, to pour out his Spirit before the coming Day of God and that all who repent will be saved from the wrath to come.
Common ideas in the church today associate Acts 2 and the giving of the Spirit as “the birth of the church” or a break from legalistic Judaism, but the apostles viewed the events of the day of Pentecost as a strong affirmation of Jewish apocalyptic expectations. In this episode, we begin to look at Acts 2 and what it meant for the early followers of the Messiah.
In this episode, we discuss the Jewish apocalyptic context of Acts 1:1-11. Instead of correcting the apostles’ expectations concerning the restoration of the kingdom to Israel, Jesus simply corrects the timing. The witness to the nations in verse 8 is understood within the presupposed Jewish apocalyptic narrative. God is the one driving history, and God is the one who has fixed the day of its conclusion.
Bill, John, and Josh tackle your questions in this first of many Q&A episodes. Topics include Acts 15, how Calvinism and Arminianism relate to Jewish apocalypticism, understanding “all Israel will be saved” from Romans 11, and tips on practical day-to-day discipleship.
In this episode, we discuss the issue of Jewish election in Paul’s thought. Continuing in his letter to the Romans, we look at a few passages that relate to Jewish priority and God’s enduring covenant with the Jewish people and how that relates to the discipleship of the Gentiles.
Romans 1:1-6 provides a unique glimpse into how Paul understood his own mission to the Gentiles. As discussed in last week’s episode on the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20), Paul understood his calling within the commonly presupposed Jewish apocalyptic narrative of redemptive history. Jesus’ resurrection confirmed his Davidic messiahship, and Paul sought to disciple the Gentiles into “the obedience of faith” (v. 5).
In this episode, we discuss the Jewish apocalyptic context of the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20). Messianic authority in Jewish literature is tied to divine judgment on the day of the Lord, and Jesus assumes the two-age framework of redemptive history in verse 20. In this light the discipleship of the Gentiles is into (rather than out of) the Jewish apocalyptic hope.
Acts 17 offers a unique picture into the Gospel that the Apostle to the Gentiles believed and proclaimed throughout the Jewish diaspora. In this episode, we see Paul offering a survey of history in order to explain the coming Day of the Lord as a means of calling Gentiles to repentance and faith. We survey the concept of the Day of the Lord briefly in the Jewish prophets and then follow the idea through later Jewish writings which laid the foundation for the proclamation of the Gospel and the coming day of judgment in the New Testament writings.
As we briefly survey ‘the Gospel’ in the New Testament writings, we find that the phrase imports a body of pre-existing Jewish ideas. We touch on its origins in the prophetic writings and in later Jewish apocalyptic literature to highlight how a Jew in the first century would have heard John the Baptist, Jesus, or one of the Apostles using this Jewish term to refer to their own message.
In this first episode of The Apocalyptic Gospel Podcast, Bill, John, and Josh introduce themselves, give some background and vision for the topics to be discussed in future episodes, and explain the podcast's somewhat odd title.
The first episode of The Apocalyptic Gospel Podcast with Bill Scofield, John Harrigan, and Josh Hawkins will release on July 1, 2020! For more on our podcast, visit us on our website at apocalypticgospel.com or follow us on Twitter at @ApocGospel.