After Class Podcast: Recent Episodes
Ronald D. Peters, John C. Nugent, Samuel C. Long
What happens when you lock an Old Testament, New Testament, and Theology professor in a room to discuss provocative topics related to bible and theology? Find out as you listen to the podcast of three professors from Great Lakes Christian College engage the sorts of questions students ask ... after class. Featuring (from left to right in the logo) Samuel C. Long, Ronald D. Peters, John C. Nugent
Many of us yearn for the days of old when God would speak clearly to his people. But burning bushes, dreams, visions, and visitations seem to be in short supply. Does God still speak and guide His people? Find out what the guys have to say about the spiritual discipline of guidance in today's episode.
Many Christians get very passionate about worship and debate so many aspects—styles, songs, actions, and more. Yet, so much of what the modern church centers around is corporate worship. As the series on spiritual disciplines continues, the guys turn their attention to worship and emphasize the importance of submission and unity in corporate worship, debating the role of singing and the practical aspects of worship practices.
In a world where people keep their private lives private and their sins hidden, God’s Kingdom is characterized by openness, honesty, and grace. But in order to experience those qualities, God’s people must be willing to confess their sins to each other and hold each other accountable. In this episode, the guys talk about the benefits of confession and ways that we can make this spiritual discipline a part of our faith.
Servant leadership, service trips, servant's heart, served your way right away. Our culture talks a lot about service, but what does it look like as a spiritual discipline? Can people engage in service as a discipline without even knowing it? Find out on today's episode.
In a world where we don’t like being told what to do, what does it look like to put yourself under someone else’s authority intentionally and why would that even be a good, healthy act? Find out today as the ACP guys discuss the spiritual discipline of “submission.”
Introverts – rejoice! There is a spiritual discipline just for you. Technically it is for everyone and might even be more beneficial for extroverts. Regardless, tune in today as the guys walk through the spiritual discipline of solitude to see how getting away from it all can open up our communication with God.
Springtime is the season for cleaning, decluttering, and the inevitable garage sales to aid those efforts. Could that be a spiritual discipline? Is simplicity a spiritual issue or it just a fad to figure out what “brings joy”? And furthermore, is it just about our stuff or could our schedules use some decluttering? Find out today as the guys talk about the spiritual discipline of simplicity.
If studying is just committing a bunch of factoids to memory, then what does it look like to be a spiritual discipline? Or maybe study as a spiritual discipline looks differently and has a different purpose. Tune in to today’s episode as the guys discuss study and what it means to dedicate ourselves to God’s Word.
While intermittent fasting has been shown to help with weight loss, should we also use it to draw near to God? What does fasting for spiritual purposes even look like? In this episode the guys consider the rationale behind fasting as a spiritual discipline and they might just challenge some of the modern practices among Christians.
What is prayer, really? Is it communication, conversation, connection — or something more? In this episode, the guys (with Todd) explore the rich spiritual discipline of prayer — not as spell-casting or performance, but as intentional dialogue with God. We talk dependence, posture, and why prayer isn’t just something you do when you’re in trouble.
Throughout the Bible we are encouraged to meditate on God’s Word, but what does that really mean? Is it some mystic encounter with Scripture or with God? Do we need to hum while doing it? Find out today as we begin a new series on spiritual disciplines. Also, a special guest will join us for this series. Tune in to find out who!
The book of Acts narrates the birth and early history of the church. But this history is presented piecemeal and doesn’t include all the drama that the individual churches went through. The Epistles give us one part of the “phone conversation” but plenty is left out. What would it look like to fill in the missing information? In this episode, the guys interview Frank Viola who has just produced a work that attempts to bring out some of these missing details. Check out their discussion about “The Untold Story of the New Testament Church.”
https://www.amazon.com/Untold-Testament-Church-Revised-Expanded/dp/0768461626
A new series has been released on Prime that dramatically depicts the life of David in 1-2 Samuel. The guys decided to watch the first few episodes and give their impressions and opinions. Is this latest attempt to bring the Bible to the big screen true to the story or just a cash grab? Check out this episode to see what the guys think.
As we conclude our walk through “Priestly Presence,” the ACP guys interact with the idea of praise and worship. Though the function of “song leading” was not originally in the priestly job description, King David added it to their duties. So the priests used this new job to give words for the people to praise, but also to critique the kingship. So what does priestly praise have to do with the church? How can we speak to powers, and maybe even be subversive while also being pure of speech? Find out in today’s episode.
Deuteronomy 6 commands parents to teach their children the Torah. But before the advent of scribes and Pharisees, who taught Torah to the parents? If you have been following along in this series, you already guessed it—the priests! God’s intention was for the priests to teach Torah for the Israelites to be transformed to counteract the effects of sin in the world. In this episode, the guys talk about one aspect of the fall—the degeneration of nature and humanity’s relationship with it.
The Levites went from Zeroes to Heroes when they stood up for Yahweh’s covenant in the face of the golden calf. From then on, they were responsible for “stewarding the sacred” as it related to life and blood. What does it mean to be “pro-life” like the priests were and how does that impact how we view others? Find out as the guys discuss the concepts found in chapter 6 of “Priestly Presence.”
Whether you like hosting people in your home or not, hospitality is part of our culture. In fact, it has been a major defining characteristic of cultures since the beginning of time and many cultures are judged based on their hospitality or lack thereof. The Israelite priests also practiced hospitality, often in generous and risky ways. In this episode, the guys discuss how their example challenges our notions of who and how we should treat those in our midst, especially the ones who society deems unworthy of hospitality.
Owning property and building a home on that land has been a goal for humanity since civilizations began. It remains a goal for most people even to this day. Yet the hassles and responsibilities that come with such ownership (like a mortgage!) often frustrate us. The Israelite priests lived as resident aliens amidst their own people, releasing them from many of those responsibilities and frustrations and freeing them up to function differently in their own society. What might that teach modern Christians? Tune in to today’s episode to find out!
Do the clothes make the man? The high priest seemed to think so. But the priesthood was not just about fancy clothes and sacrificing animals. A holistic approach to being a priest takes into account many more duties. Join the guys in this episode as they unpack these duties and discuss how they expand the role of a priest. This study will also answer many of the cons that the priestly posture the church might take toward the world.
Have you ever wondered what kind of church you attend or what kind of church you would like to be a part of? As the guys continue their series taking a look at John’s book, “The Fourfold Office of Christ,” they investigate different priorities that churches have based on the 4 offices of Christ. What are the pros and cons of a church that focuses on speaking truth to powers, trying to initiate reform through power, serving the lowly and downtrodden, or trying to enable people to live out their holy calling? Tune in to find out!
A new year means a new After Class Podcast series! The guys take an initial look at John’s new book “Priestly Presence” which they will use to guide this series. This first episode focuses especially on how Christians should relate to the world. They engage Richard Niebuhr’s paradigm that he laid out in his book “Christ and Culture” to look for common ground as well as deficiencies. This should prove to be a practical series for Christians wondering how to navigate our tumultuous times.
Start the new year right by wrapping up last year's Micah series. In this final installment about Micah, the guys explore the closing chapter. Micah returns one final time to lament over the pervasive corruption, injustice, and betrayal in society, painting a bleak picture of human failure. Yet, even amidst this despair, a profound hope emerges. Micah transitions from judgment to hope, expressing unwavering faith in God's power to restore and forgive. Then the guys wrap up this series with some final observations and conclusions about Micah as a whole.
In today’s episode on Micah 5-6, the After Class guys are dropped into a courtroom drama where God lays out His case against Israel. Through the iconic verses like Micah 6:8, we reflect on what it means to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. This episode unpacks the timeless relevance of Micah’s challenge to align our lives with God’s priorities. Join us as we reflect on how Micah’s message calls us to hope and transformation in today’s world.
In this very special episode, they guys turn their attention to Christmas…sort of. As they exegete Micah 4-5 they come across an interesting Messianic prophecy about Bethlehem which opens up a discussion about the nature of fulfillment and actually fulfillment in Jesus. Tune in to hear what they have to say about the role of Jesus this Christmas season.
As the guys take a look at Micah Chapter 3 through 4 verse 5, they encounter some serious imagery that Micah employs to lay into the leaders of the people. How bad are they? Apparently they are as bad as cannibals. They do not deserve to eat butterscotch discs. Wonder what butterscotch candies have to do with Micah’s message? Check out today’s episode.
As the guys dig into the text of Micah, they begin by talking about the clever Hebrew word plays that are easy to miss in translation. But these word plays have a purpose—to set up the nations for the judgment that is coming. Tune in today to see whether Micah’s message of judgment has any relevance for today!
An 8th-century minor prophet with a major message! The guys dive into the book of Micah, the prophet from the countryside who prophesied to the southern kingdom—a people at the top, with the autonomy to decide how to use their financial and religious freedom. It is in this time of prosperity and freedom they find themselves drifting away from God and becoming more like the nations around them. Micah's message might be more relevant to our time than you think. Tune in this week as the guys lay the foundation for their new series.
There are laws that once were, but that we are no longer beholden to in Christ. Are we experiencing a shift in God’s progressive narrative in our time? Do we have reason to believe that God is changing His view on sexual ethics? Find out why that is a flawed principle to begin with. In today’s episode, the guys present their concluding thoughts and illustrate both the consistency and change we find in God as He reveals Himself through His Word and actions, engaging with and redeeming His creation, and some application points for us moving forward.
Did God give bad laws? Did He intentionally set His people up for failure to demonstrate His glory and grace? Does God change His mind about His moral standards? Was the Law given solely to terrify us? In today’s episode, the guys unpacks these questions and shares why they believe there are better ways to interpret the texts in their original context and language.
Today, the guys discuss what they have experienced in their study of God and change, bringing their insights into conversation with conclusions drawn by others. While God experiences a dynamic relationship with His creation, does this mean He also broadens or changes His moral requirements for His people? Tune in today to find out!
So far, we have seen that God experiences change at some level while interacting dynamically with His creatures. Now, we consider the counter-evidence as we wrestle with the scriptures that reveal a broader perspective on how we might understand God and change. How do we deal with the apparent contradiction: does God change His mind or not?
Our host continue their discussion about what the Bible says about God changing his mind.
How do we interpret the language that depicts God as being provoked to emotion? What does this tell us about God and His changing mind? Is the language used univocal, equivocal, or analogical? The hosts wrestle with this in today’s episode of the After Class Podcast.
The Bible sometimes depicts God as changing his mind, some have used this narrative to promote a view that God has changed his mind about sexual ethics in our time.
While not dealing with this topic exclusively, the guys begin a new series investigating the question:
What does the Bible say about divine change?
Prayers, oils, elders, sickness, and sin: the guys unpack the power of prayer and oil and the various interpretations in today’s episode as they conclude the book of James.
The USA presidential debate has just taken place. Interestingly, the guys did an episode on Kamala back in Season 2. Check out Episode 2.10 - Indecent Proposal. Today, they turn to the last chapter of the Book of James and Section Three of the address. Here, Sam, John, and Ron wrap up the 'slow to anger' dialogue and enter into the conclusion of James.
We're back at it again this week! The Guys continue the reading of James and dig into what John calls "section three" as they transition to the slow to anger section. When worldly ideology meets Kingdom ideology, sparks may fly! Check your blood pressure and tune into today's episode!
You’re not done with James, and neither are we! Tune back in today for James part three!
This week the guys dig into chapter two and being quick to listen. Quick, listen!
Back to the book of James! The guys continue where they left off last week with, “The believer who is poor still has reasons to boast, for he has been placed on high. But those who are rich should boast in how God has brought them low and humbled them, for all their earthly glory will one day fade away like a wildflower in the meadow” - let’s resume…
A book notoriously difficult to structure, once thought of as a loose compendium of wisdom with no specific audience, the book of James has been revisited in recent scholarship with a newly defined structure and specific, pointed criticisms. This week, the guys begin their walk through the book of James and ask the question: Who is the audience? John lays out the writing style and the framework of James in todays episode, setting the stage for future episodes.
Round two: Picking up where we left off, the guys attempt to summarize the New Testament in seven sentences. How would you do it? Tune in to today's episode to see if you chose the same verses as Sam, John, or Ron.
As summer break rapidly comes to an end, the guys begin a new experiment. Is it possible to tell the Old Testament story in seven sentences? What principles would one use? How does one capture the whole thing in such a short blurb? How many commas can one use? Will the guys come up with the same summaries? Find out in today’s episode.
The guys pause to speak about recent events, specifically, the attempt on Trump’s life. How do believers respond as kingdom representatives as they interact with events like this?
New edition, same story. Where First Maccabees tells the story of the facts, Second Maccabees slows down on certain details and illustrates them, sometimes in extreme fashion. Let’s investigate this second telling and see what wisdom we might glean as the guys wrap up the series on the Apocrypha.
This week, the guys dive into the Maccabees and reflect on the stories of Mattathias and his sons, who break away from sell-out Jews. What can we learn from Judas, "The Hammer," and the Maccabees? What does this have to do with the role of the priesthood? Tune in to find out!
This week, Sam, John, and Ron survey the book of Baruch to see what wisdom and encouragement we might impart from this pseudepigraphal work. When the world does evil as the world does, how might we interpret the events? What insights into faithfulness does Baruch provide? Find out in today's episode of the After Class Podcast.
This week, the guys dive into two wisdom books: Ben Sira (Sirach/Ecclesiasticus) and the Wisdom of Solomon. Watch over your daughters, take medicine, fear God, seek wisdom, and praise… men? What are we talking about? Tune in to find out!
Join Sam, John, and Ron as they survey the story of Judith, an imaginative, highly fictionalized romance, portraying an Assyrian invasion of Israel led by a man named Holofernes. He besieges the town of Bethulia, where a widow named Judith dwells. Find out how she kept her head under pressure, glorified God, and saved her people from the Assyrian invaders.
A man goes from a pious life of prosperity and joy to blindness and misery, all on account of bird poop and botched medical practices. A woman loses seven husbands and is accused of murder in the marital bed. Both parties call upon God and plead for a swift end to their lives. Yet God acts to redeem them instead. Join John, Ron, and Sam this week as they walk us through the story of Tobit to see what we might learn from this fascinating tale.
As we continue our studies of the Apocrypha, we turn to the additions to Esther that appear in the Greek translation of the story. What differences are there that do not appear in the Hebrew version? What does it add? How should we interpret it? Join John, Ron, and Sam as they find out in today’s episode of the After Class Podcast!
Join the guys as they read more apocryphal extensions and stories of Daniel. Be inspired and encouraged to maintain faithfulness to the living God in the face of man-made alternatives. When asked, 'Why do you not worship this [god/thing]?' reply boldly with Daniel, 'Because I do not revere idols made with hands but the living God, who created heaven and earth and has dominion over all living creatures.' For we do not worship Bel, nor the dragon, nor will we fear the flames of persecution. Nay, we shall exalt the living God and give praise to the one who holds all creation in His hands! Delay no further, click “play” and listen to today’s episode of the After Class Podcast!
God is concerned with justice, yet some of those who hold positions of power in His name abuse it. Congregants may give a blank slate to their leaders, mistakenly believing them incapable of evil. In the story of Susanna, we are presented with a narrative depicting the abuse of power and sexual exploitation—an ancient Jewish story that sheds light on a very contemporary problem.
Entering the world of the Apocrypha helps round out our knowledge of God, His people, and their worldview through history. The guys invite you to join in the mini-series on the Deuterocanonical 'Second Canon' writings that provide insight into the thoughts and lives of the exiled Jewish people who were awaiting the Messiah.
Today, the guys wrap up their series on creation care and present various views of our relationship with creation both now and in the future. What camp do you find yourself in? The escapist, survivalist, animist, creationist, restorationist, or new-creationist? If you don’t know what these views are, listen to the end of today's episode, and while you're at it, order a copy of John Nugent’s new book! https://a.co/d/gWLGGcN
Christ is the source of creation and the one who maintains it in its present form. He is currently at work in this world, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart. Anything we do to push against creation and pull it apart is working against Christ. However, Christ is reconciling all things, and the children of God—the church and the kingdom community—are as close to the new creation as the current creation can get. Tune in to today’s episode where the guys unpack New Testament passages that speak about our relationship to creation care.
Today the guys wrap up the Old Testament view of creation care. We are stewards and tenants of the land, but there is one who owns it all. Who set the world on its foundation? Who set the stars in the cosmos? Say among the nations, the Lord is king! Let us play in and with God’s good creation!
How much attention does God pay to how we treat the land?
In today’s episode, the guys discuss the interconnectedness of our life choices as God’s image-bearers and stewards of creation, and our treatment of the land. What we do matters. God’s restoration is not only for us but for all creation. Find out what the prophets say about it in today’s episode of the After Class Podcast.
Today, the guys continue through the Old Testament and venture into apocalyptic imagery, trees that clap their hands, and… God’s destruction of the earth? Is God culpable for the attacks brought on by nations? All this and more in today's episode of the After Class Podcast.
This past week, the guys were on spring break. Sadly, they could not find a time when they were all available to record a new episode. Therefore, we've chosen to air a previous episode. We thought it would be fun to repeat the recording made during the fourth birthday celebration. It was a great night of fun, fellowship, and frivolity. Enjoy!
The guys delve into Leviticus and Deuteronomy to explore how God’s laws, when followed, benefit all creation. What does it look like when we acknowledge that all things belong to God, and we are merely stewards of His property? What constitutes a Christian theology of land stewardship in today's context? Tune in this week to find out!
God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth." But, what does it mean to 'subdue' the earth? Join the guys this week as they continue to expand on how we can think about caring for God's creation.
God made us from the dirt. Is that why everything we touch is soiled?
The Bible says creation is important to God, so how do we, as His image bearers, think about care for creation? What does work, service, and worship look like in relation to creation? Does Ron hate animals? Tune in this week to find out!
How should Christians think about the messages that other Christians use in their efforts to share the good news of Christ? This week the guys give their hot take on the topic with their reaction to the Super Bowl, 'He Gets Us' advertisement. What went well? What could be improved? What is our response and responsibility as brothers and sisters in Christ? Tune in today to find out!
How does the Song of Songs inform the Christian experience? When using the Song of Songs to teach about sensual love, we must approach the topic with careful sensitivity. Join the guys this week as they outline a few qualifying factors to consider when discussing the biblical perspective on romance, sex, and how we speak about our partner, before we finally close the book on the Song of Songs.
Mandrakes, PDA, soulmates, and final thoughts all await you int this week’s episode of the After Class Podcast. Tune in to today's episode for the climax of the story and the conclusion of the series on the Song of Songs.
Feedback Frenzy! Did Song of Songs awaken a desire within you for the survey of another biblical book? Would you be interested in a series on intertestamental literature? We're all ears—we invite you to share your thoughts and feedback below, and as always, thanks for listening to the After Class Podcast!
What tickles your fancy? A big nose, watery eyes, a long neck with rounded belly and thighs? Resuming in Chapter 6, we find clues to authorship and gain more insight into the poetic expressions of love and depictions of beauty that bring us closer to understanding the culture of the time. Join the guys as they transition from flattery to foreplay in the narrative of the Song of Songs in this episode of the After Class podcast.
Nothing says romance like the After Class Podcast and the study of the Song of Songs: repeated dream sequences, obstacles, and poetic utterances of the one who is loved. Join the guys as they continue to investigate love and discern the depictions of the ruddy male love interest. Happy Valentine's Day!
Hey guys! Looking for some fresh ways to compliment your beloved? Eyes like doves, hair that flows like a flock of goats, and teeth like ewes; these are but a few of the ways you can extol your spouse in the way of this ancient sonnet. Join the guys in today’s episode as they investigate the poetic flattery of Song of Songs.
As the seasons shift from hot to cold, so do the nuances of love. The guys decipher more of the allusions, dreams, and poetic descriptions of the beloved and the love that should remain dormant until its appointed time. Moving through chapter two, Sam, John, and Ron delve deeper into our exploration of the Song of Songs.
She is the keeper of the vineyard, but not her own. Dark and alluring, she is not one to be overlooked. Her passions have been aroused, yet this serves as a warning to other women. Join Sam, John, and Ron this week as they dive into the poetic innuendos of Song of Songs and work to uncover a common thread in the skipping narrative. What could go wrong?
"The whole world was not worthy of the day in which this sublime song was given to Israel.” - Rabbi Akiva
What differentiates the Song of Songs from other ballads sung in the common pub? What purpose does it serve to the people of God? Why has a song about intimacy been included in the Holy Scriptures? The Song of Songs is the most interpreted book of the Bible, and over the years, interpretations have varied. In today's episode, the guys will survey those various interpretations as they get prepared to walk through the text itself.
New Year, New Series!
A preposition can wield immense power in altering meaning and establishing ownership. When ancient language becomes an intimate affair, where the eloquence of antiquity embraces the rhythmic sensuality of poetic expression, the modern reader may find themselves lost between the sheets of paper that the Bible is written on.
To kick off the New Year, John, Ron, and Sam delve into a biblical figure most associated with wisdom, Solomon. More specifically, the trio explores Solomon’s Song of Songs, seeking wisdom from this biblical poetry's approach to the often-taboo topic of sex.
Today, the guys ask: What does this book reveal about itself? Who are the characters, and did Solomon truly pen it? Join us as we set the stage for our study of Song of Songs, in today’s episode of the After Class Podcast
It's 2024! We are here to celebrate with you, the listener! As we enter the 7th season of the After Class Podcast the guys explore the theme of New Year's resolutions and share moments from their lives when they renewed their way of thinking about God’s word and the magnitude of His mission and witness to the world.
We want to thank you for sticking with us each week and for engaging with us through email and Facebook! A special thank you to Great Lakes Christian College and to all those who make the podcast possible!
Tune in and get personal with Sam, John, and Ron—perhaps you'll even experience your own paradigm shift this year!
Happy Birthday Jenelle!
Link to Drew Nyquist Professional Audio Production:
https://drewanthonynyquist.wixsite.com/drew-anthony-nyquist?fbclid=IwAR2Cw1FQcncqjB28ya__kiEJ4KypaG5d3apIXFRxIqwxQiLK6k4bMKCf7
Share your Christmas Morning with the After Class Podcast this year and listen to the reading of the birth of Jesus from Matthew & Luke. Each author has their own theological agenda and calls the reader to pay attention to different aspects of Jesus’s birth and salvation history.
Today, the guys read both perspectives and ask, how are the characters portrayed, and what is the author trying to do in their account?
Let's compare, contrast, and appreciate both accounts of the birth of our Lord.
Merry Christmas!
What is the nature of Christ's millennial kingdom referred to in the book of Revelation? What must happen before Jesus returns, and what part does the church play? The above questions are not answered in this podcast, but now that we have your attention: This week, Ron, Sam, and John engage the pre-, post-, and amillennial 'when's' of the Bible. When does it happen? What would the original audience have in mind? And what message does it hold for the martyrs? You are just in time to find out!
In last weeks episode, Sam, Ron, and John satirically covered the story of Shamgar, playfully pushing the limits of exegetical fallacies. Today, they revisit the story of Shamgar to offer correction and set the record straight, while pointing out how easy it can be to get carried away when we do not stick to sound hermeneutic principles.
The guys take a second look at Shamgar, questioning the traditional classification of Shamgar as a minor judge. With only two verses dedicated to his legacy in the scriptures, some might be led to believe he is not a significant figure. However, it’s not the size of the story, but the work it does that matters. Let’s slow down and take a closer look at how these two verses say more than you think.
Attention! The following episode is satirical and stretches exegetic and hermeneutic fallacies to their extremes. The views in this episode are meant to entertain the listener while showing how quickly we can go off the rails when interpreting the Bible. In the following episode the guys will expose these fallacies giving proper justice to the text. Listener discretion is advised.
#justiceforshamgar
We suffer through back pain, migraine, and Sams’s sarcasm to bring you today’s episode on evangelism in the NT. Who was the first evangelist and to whom and how was the message proclaimed? What does it look like today for our evangelism to be accompanied by signs? The Kingdom of God has broken into world history. There is a new kingdom reality and human dynamic to be experienced in the Lord, even now. How is it displayed in your life? How beautiful are your feet?
Today, the guys delve into evangelism and its origins for God’s people, starting with the Old Testament. How does God help His people piece together the puzzle to reveal the full picture of His plan for them and their mission to evangelize the nations? Do we have a reference, or are we simply holding onto corner pieces?
Are you being discipled by someone? If not, why not? Are you discipling someone? If not, why not? What is discipleship? What does it mean to make disciples? Interestingly, some of the most effective evangelists are recent converts, but who are they discipled by? Are we disciples of our favorite pop icons? Today, the guys discuss (you guessed it) discipleship, mentoring, and the role of dedicating your life to making disciples as a Christian.
"Yes, I believe in Jesus! What do I do now?"
Saying "Yes" to Jesus is an amazing moment full of joy, but it can also be a time of confusion, leaving one to wonder, "Where do I go from here?" In today's episode Sam, John, and Ron point to a few habits, best practices, and resources to guide new Christians on their walk. For those of us who have been seeking the Lord long enough to forget what it is like to be new, today's episode serves as a helpful reminder of how we can be intentional about welcoming others into the body of Christ.
Tune in to hear the discussion on why, and how to truly get connected.
Complementary Episodes:
Episode 1:28-2:3, Highpoints of the Bible story
Episode 2:4-2:9; 2:28-31, An Introduction to the Gospel
Episode 4:3-22 Introduction to the Bible
External Beginner Resources: Bible Project, Study Bibles such as the NRSV, NIV, etc., ChristianBook.com, A Christian Mentor
Invest in Christian Education – www.glcc.edu
Series of interest:
4:24 - 26 History of Israel
6:27 - 6:44 - God's People and the Use of Violence
Can we partake in occupations and activities that are contrary to the message of the cross? How do we view recreation, sports, video games, parenting, and political and global affairs through the lens of non-violent Christian activity? In today's episode, the guys conclude the series on God’s people and the use of violence, addressing remaining listener questions and sharing their final thoughts on the matter. Just in time for Halloween!
As we near the end of the series the guys draw conclusions on what it might look like to overcome evil with good in light of our study. Sam, John, and Ron return to the lead question of the series: What is an acceptable reaction to someone breaking into my house? Are there acceptable levels of physicality? Join Sam, John, and Ron as they present the implications and applications of our study on the Christian use of violence.
A few more passages, principles, and... perplexities?
The guys open to more listener-provided verses in today’s episode addressing Revelation, Maccabees, and Centurion encounters with Jesus & the Holy Spirit. We are to overcome evil with good and turn the other cheek. But is there ever a time for avoidance? Alternatively, can there be a place for the use of violence if it is part of your job?
In today’s episode, the guys begin to wind down the series and respond to listener emails.
If God’s people are not supposed to use violence, what do we make about the story of Phinehas? What about Jael, Nehemiah, and the Judges of the Old Testament?
Today you get your answer.
The temptation to use violence often comes from our desire to defend our belongings or our lives. We need to stop the narrative of acceptable violence and move toward maturity, actively pursuing peace and break through the power of enmity. In today’s episode, the guy’s survey multiple New Testament passages in rapid succession and ask the question, “Where does violence fit in with God’s people?”
Embracing Christ's example involves active participation. When we face revilement, will we respond with blessings? When persecution arises, will we endure with grace? When slander is directed at us, will we reply with kindness? Are we prepared to forsake worldly ideologies and wholeheartedly embrace an alternative way of life, even in the face of worldly opposition? We must ask ourselves, 'Which holds greater power: worldly violence or the path of Christ?'
Tune in for Sam, John, and Ron’s discussion on the matter.
Jesus was a pacifist, committed to enemy love, committed to peace, and renounced the sword… but that was Jesus. His unique vocation was to take on all the evil of the world and defeat it on the cross. We should not believe that Jesus expected his followers to do the same… or should we?
Join Ron, John, and Sam as they test that claim, beginning in Romans and continuing forward in the letters. Will the thesis stand up, or will the guys debunk flawed theology?
Tune in to find out.
On campus announcement!
Restoration Appreciation Week
Join us on campus or online on October 17th and 20th 2023.
Today, the guys turn to Luke 22 and Jesus’ instruction to bring a sword. Why do they need it? Did Jesus change his mind? Was it just to fulfill prophecy? Is it just a practical tool for the road? Is it metaphorical, or perhaps it was Jesus in a moment of temptation? Join Sam, John, and Ron as they test the strength of these theories and more…
And what should we make of Jesus flipping tables and using a whip?
"If you are not in the business of forgiving other people, then God is not in the business of forgiving you.”
Today’s episode challenges many cultural norms and interpretations of how Christians should respond to violence. The guys open to Matthew to see how forgiveness ties into our study of violence. Instead of asking, “When is it appropriate for me to act violently,” we should ask, “How can I be as forgiving as the Lord?”
But how do we reconcile the above with Jesus' words, "I have not come to bring peace, but a sword."
Tune in to find out!
Blessed are the peacemakers, and those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake…
This week, the guys delve into Matthew and his recording of Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount. What is the difference between a peacemaker and a peacekeeper? Which should we be? Does peace only come under the threat of violence? Do the teachings of Christ undermine our inclination to defend ourselves? All this and more in today’s episode of the After Class Podcast.
New Testament. New context.
Join Sam, John, and Ron in today’s episode as they set the stage for understanding the New Testament’s view of violence, providing insight into the shift in the Israelite mindset. Once a people in a land God provided, now strangers in a land owned by foreign rulers. How did this new cultural, social, and political-economic structure affect the way they understood God's purpose for them? And how does it inform our understanding of violence and God's people today? Tune in to find out!"
This week the guys turn to the pages of wisdom literature in their study of Christian violence in the Bible.
In today’s episode, John, Sam, and Ron unpack “a time for war” in Ecclesiastes and examine the revenge of God’s people in the book of Esther.
How do those who find wisdom find peace, according to wisdom literature?
Also, tune in for a special promotion for the high school students in your life!
This week John, Sam, and Ron unpack the implications of Psalm 137:9, "Happy is the one who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks."
Tune in as the guys survey the Psalms, where God's people overtly and illustratively talk about violence and peace. According to this collection of writings, what do the righteous do when persecuted, and how does the above verse fit into a posture that relies on God's justice and vengeance?
This week we enter the world of the prophets to sample how they speak about violence.
What happens when the nations and rulers abuse the sword God gave them for justice? Is the vision of peace depicted throughout the Bible only for the next life, or is it a reality to be lived out now? In a world where national powers rely on horses and chariots, will you rely on God, armed only with His word?
In a world of perpetual violence and military arms races, would you start a community between warring countries with no military defense of your own? What if God told you to? We want to be strong, powerful, and impressive in every imaginable way; does this put us at odds with God’s role for his set-apart people?
In today's episode, follow the unfolding narrative as we transition from personal violence to corporate violence and national defense/offense. And perhaps more importantly for some, find out what God and Charles Barkley have in common!
This week the guys continue their walkthrough of scripture on the way to answering a listener's question: How do we respond to a break-in; does God condone killing in self-defense? What about the defense of the country? How seriously is the taking of life to God? In today's episode, Sam, John, and Ron investigate what scripture has to say about land stewardship, the taking of a census, the priest's role in warfare, and David’s use of mighty men. How do these inform our understanding of the Christian response to violence? Tune in to find out!
We may become coaxed by rage to act out in hostility, violence, and vengeance. Join the guys as they unpack more of God’s response and instruction to His people on how they should be witnesses to and uphold the sacredness of life.
Tune in this week for part two of our series on violence, self-defense, and Christian participation in bloodshed.
Sam, John, and Ron begin a new series this week in response to numerous listener requests. It is time to talk about Christian participation in violence. Is violence ever justified for a Christian? What about self-defense? We can agree that unprovoked killing is bad, but what about a killing resulting from self-preservation or retaliation?
Join the guys as they trace the theme of God’s people and their relation to violence through the Bible.
Related Episodes.
3.18 - Violence of the "Conquest"
3.28 - God's Wrath Revieled
3.29 - God's Wrath Revieled - Part Two
1.30 - Telling the Story: Raising Cain
In part two of our bad press miniseries: How should Christians respond to bad press about the brothers and sisters in the faith who are doing wrong? How do we persevere through bad press without growing weary? Can you love God and not love Christians?
Tune in this week to hear a perspective on how Christians can deal with bad press and witness to the world. Join Sam, John, and Ron as they unpack four principles identified in scripture.
- The world will hate you (Christians), expect bad press.
- When Christians do stupid things, we deserve bad press.
- We must Persevere through bad press – endure, build character, and hold onto your hope.
- Do not judge. Mind your own business, and do what God has called you to do.
New office, new studio, new episode, same podcast!
This week the guys engage the important topic of bad press. How do we respond when Christians are on the receiving end of bad press for something they have done? What guiding principles do we have to deal with ‘The Media’ which often lies or at best paints an imperfect picture?
Do we follow Matthew 18 in a digital age regarding Christians we have never met? Sadly, we are too familiar with many negative examples of Christians receiving bad press for bad actions, yet there is a biblical precedent for us to expect bad press for being Christians. How then does the Bible tell us we should act if bad press is inevitable?
Tune in this week to find out!
This week the guys take a break in the action to present their review of the movie Jesus Revolution; a story of Christian Hippies and the church in the 70's at Calvary Chapel in California. What stands out? What resonates? And what flops? Tune in to find out if you should add this movie to your watch list for the summer.
In previous episodes, Sam, Joh, and Ron delved into Augustine's doctrine of original sin and explored the Bible passages that either support or push against it. In today's episode, the guys summarize their findings and share their observations and convictions about original sin, and how the doctrine may have more to do with historical theological strongholds than biblical support.
The guys push back against the individualistic story of original sin with a broader interpretation of God's mission and the Kingdom of God. Join the guys as they unpack this narrative in today’s episode of the After Class Podcast.
In today's episode, the guys return to Agustin’s treatment of Romans 5:12, then investigate passages promoting alternatives to the doctrine of original sin. Will we find strong anti-original sin verses or just a series of general statements and observations?
The Bible says all are put to death for their own sin, so does God break his own principle by putting everyone to death for Adam’s sin? Who made us; our parents, ourselves, or God? Are we beautifully and wonderfully made in God’s image or are we sinfully made? Did God create us as vessels for sin?
You don’t want to skip this episode.
This week Sam, John, and Ron continue to look at what the Bible says about sin. The guys focus this episode on the passages that are routinely used to support the doctrine of original sin and see how they hold up to scrutiny. Of the many passages from the Old Testament that paint the picture of sinful humanity, most come from poetry. Should we be more careful about building doctrine off poetic sources? What about the New Testament, will we find strong support for Original Sin? Only one way to find out…
This week Sam, and John, try to keep Ron in the Old Testament as they begin laying the biblical foundation for our understanding of original sin. The guys delve into key questions such as the usage of the term "sin" in the Bible, and how the Bible's depiction of figures such as Cain, Enoch, and Noah relates to the notion that every inclination of the heart is evil all the time. The guys posit why the popular narrative, “Image bourn, image lost, image regained” improperly frames the story, and touch on what the Bible implies about God and his proximity to us in light of our sins.
Key interpretive differences:
Image-bearers vs sin-bearers.
This week the guys dig deeper into Augustine's history and the prevailing thoughts that influenced his theology. Was Pelagius really a heretic? How to make sense of the immaculate conception? And what do sex and a handshake have in common? All this and more in today’s episode of the After Class Podcast!
Do you know the origin of original sin? Join Sam, John, and Ron as they engage the topic by laying some groundwork and distinguishing between two approaches to the discussion of original sin. What did the great theological minds of Irenaeus, Tertullian, Origen, Cyprian, and Augustin have to say about original sin, and how did they shape our current understanding? Is original sin a core Christian doctrine or an optional way of interpreting certain passages? Tune into this week’s episode to find out!
Join Sam, John, and Ron as they welcome their guest, Brian Baldwin, to discuss the goddess Artemis of the Ephesians and how her influence may help us understand Paul's writing and extreme language about women in 1 Timothy. In this episode, the guys unpack Paul's writing about women's dress, their authority over men, the importance of Adam and Eve's birth order, and women being saved through childbirth, in the context of how the Ephesians viewed Artemis.
Buckle up!
Join John, Ron, and Sam this week as they examine how the merger of the imperial ruling class & theological influences from leading Christian thinkers impacted the practice and doctrine of baptism, beginning with the 4th century Constantinian turn and progressing through the Reformation, Revivalism, and the Church Growth Revolution.
What happened when the Roman Empire embraced Christianity and what effect did it have on the 5 dimensions of baptism?
5 Dimensions identified in previous episodes:
Missional - Salvific - Moral - Being baptized into the body of Christ - New social reality
While the scriptures serve as a critical foundation, the practice of baptism has also been influenced by a multitude of historical events. In this episode, John, Ron, and Sam explore the Jewish/Christian Schism of 100 AD and second-century Gnosticism's impact on the Church’s understanding of baptism.
In what way does the flood in the time of Noah prefigure baptism? Is baptismal water magically regenerative? Why would a robe be baptized in blood and how does it fit our study? On today's episode of the After Class Podcast, Sam, Ron, and John conclude their reading of the Bible’s passages on baptism and present the five dimensions of baptism that have emerged from our study.
Prompted by last weeks cliffhanger, Sam, Ron, and John resume with the question: If we are baptized to a new way of life, what does Paul mean when he wrote to the Corinthians about those who are baptized for the dead? Later in the episode, the guys touch on 're-repentance.' Should we get re-baptized later in life if we have lapsed in our early life? What about if you accepted Christ not knowing the fullness of what you were committing to; do you get re-baptized after your “ah-ha!” moment?
All this and more, in today's episode of the After Class Podcast!
This week, Sam, John, and Ron continue the developing theme of baptism as they engage the Pauline letters. The guys continue to navigate the implications of the new life we embrace through baptism and explore key questions: Should we practice group evangelism and corporate baptism? Are there age restrictions on abandoning your old life and embracing the new life? What is the baptism into Moses? And what will be the name of GLCC's new mascot!?
All this and more in today’s episode of The After Class Podcast!
This week the guys continue through the book of Acts picking up with the first Gentile baptism and investigating tough questions. How do we make sense of the spirit coming on someone before baptism vs. after the laying on of hands? What are the social implications of baptism?
Tune in with John, Ron, and Sam for part four of their study of the mode, method, and recipient of baptism.
What do we make of the different accounts of water baptism and those who perform it? Does water baptism come before spirit baptism? Sam, John, and Ron continue the discussion in part three of the series. The guys dive into the book of John and Acts this week and touch on flames, tongues, and the laying on of hands.
In today's episode, Sam, John, and Ron survey verses that broaden our view of the purpose for and recipient of baptism.
Join the guys this week as they explore Mark and Luke's traditional and non-traditional verses on baptism.
Students at Great Lakes Christian College are making decisions to take the next steps in their faith, prompting questions surrounding baptism.
What types of baptism are spoken about in scripture? What form does it take? Who is the recipient and what purpose does baptism serve? Join the guys this week as they dip into Matthew 3, 21:25, and 26:23.
The interpretation of the lists we find in scripture concerning leadership qualifications can dramatically impact who would serve in specific capacities (if at all). How do we regard these lists and what does it say to us that they are not identical between books of the Bible?
Join the guys as they answer another "mailbag question" in this week's one-shot episode.
Complementary Episodes:
Ep. 4.38: Elders REDUX
Ep. 2.33-2.48: 15-part series on women & the Bible.
After laying out a framework in episode one, Sam, Ron, and John continue their two-part series on rapture, resurrection, and Revelation. How do we understand the end of days? Who is gathered for what, and where does everybody go? How do we see the message of Israel’s hope in the context of the end times and the gathering of the elect?
Tune in this week as the guys look up what scripture has to say about meeting in the air.
Prerequisite Episode:
6.5 - Rapture: Part One – The Framework
Complementary Episodes:
1.22 – When We All Get to… Sheol?
1.23 - I’ll Fly Away…When I die?
1.26 – Ooh Heaven is a Place on Earth
1.27 – Not Heaven… But Not Quite Right
Part One: Reading “the end of days” through the lens of a biblical framework. Will believers be whisked away to Heaven, or has this popular interpretation left behind the Bible’s teaching? What are the implications of a new Heaven and a new Earth? Does God need a new dwelling place?
Join Sam, Ron, and John this week as they unpack the rapture in the context of God’s wider biblical hope for His creation.
Complimentary Episodes:
1.22 – When We All Get to… Sheol?
1.23 - I’ll Fly Away…When I die?
1.26 – Ooh Heaven is a Place on Earth
1.27 – Not Heaven… But Not Quite Right
“Sorry Old Testament, most theologians don’t use you.” An article from Christian Today hits Sam’s inbox and reignites a nearly 5-year-old ACP conversation. What benefit does consulting the OT provide preachers, teachers, and those who listen? Is the summation of the Bible story: Creation, Fall, Christ? Is Genesis 1-11 sufficient for setting the stage for God’s salvific work? And can we know the full story of God’s kingdom ethic without the OT?
Tune in to this week’s one-shot episode featuring a “Hot Take” on the beef between systematic and historical theology!
What does financial faith look like for the average believer? Is wealth an opportunity for influence and something we should strive for, or is it a snare leading to adultery? What does it look like for God’s people to bear witness to His design for human thriving through their finances? This week the guys conclude their 11-part series on faith and finances with some practical principles and applications that inform the answer to the question, “what should I do with my paycheck?” Is there a set of “Christian Basics” we might adhere to? Can we manage individual finances in such a way that onlookers get a glimpse of the Kingdom of God?
Tune in this week to find out!
As the series on finance continues, the guys focus on the some more teachings from Paul, especially how and why people are taken care of in the church.
With the new year - and the beginning of their sixth season the ACP guys continue their series on faith and finances. This week the guys zero in on Paul's letters to Corinth and what he had to say about finances. How does the approaching Kingdom affect our decisions about money, generosity, investments, etc?
This week the guys focus on Luke/Acts as they continue to look at faith and finances. What's the deal with giving alms? What does it look like to give to the poor if you're short on cash? And what is the relevance of the parable of the dishonest manager to this discussion?
It's time to see what Jesus taught about money, possessions, accumulating wealth, and generosity. This week the ACP guys look at the "least of these" - who are they and how are Christians expected to interact with them? And are all Jesus-followers required to give away all of their possessions?
This week the guys move into the New Testament as they consider how God expects his people to handle finances. But before looking at obvious "money" passages - they offer a discussion of God's Kingdom and the significant changes it brought from Old to New Testaments.
Biblical finances are still under the microscope this week as the ACP guys offer a quick recap of where they've been with the topic before summarizing some principles of tithing. What were the primary purposes of tithing for the Israelites and where did the "money" go?
What was the primary purpose of tithing in the Old Testament and how was the tithe utilized? This week the guys conclude their look at tithing in the OT before they shift to what tithing looked like in the New Testament.
What do Torah economics look like? This week the guys look at how God's design for finances finds its shape in Torah. How did God expect Israel to share what they had? What about tithing? What does it mean to tithe and where did the idea originate? Be sure to catch this discussion!
This week the guys continue to look at Torah as they discuss God's method of financial management. What does it look like for God's people to lend money to one another? What is the process if an Israelite found themselves in need of financial assistance? Does God's wisdom in this area match the wisdom of the world?
This week starts a new series for the ACP guys and it's all about finances. First they look in Torah to discover God's design for possessions and wealth for his people, Israel. How did God plan for the management of wealth within Israel and how did he expect them to handle their finances?
This week the guys interview Aaron Woods (GLCC alum & return guest) and "get-to-know" the minor prophet, Amos. Listen in as the guys deep dive into the history, context, and message of Amos with Aaron serving as "expert" on the topic of his dissertation.
This week the ACP guys welcome prolific author and friend of the podcast, John Mark Hicks. After hearing about his lecture at the Restoration Appreciation Week, the guys discuss Acts 2:42 and its application for modern churches.
This week the ACP guys welcome Branson Parler, author of the newly released "Every Body's Story: 6 Myths about Sex and the Gospel Truth about Marriage and Singleness". Listen in to catch engaging discussion about Branson's book and some of culture's myths about sex, marriage, and singleness.
This week as the guys conclude their prayer series they discuss if God has a gender and if not - is it appropriate to pray to God as Father and Mother? Listen in to see what the Bible has to say about God's gender and his position as our "mother".
What name for God should we use when we pray? Does it matter if we use the divine name (YHWH) in our prayer time? This week the ACP guys explore the divine name and the practice of using it in our everyday routine.
This week the guys conclude the series on the mechanics of prayer. Praying to the Father seems to be the primary example in Scripture - but does the doctrine of Trinity make the Father, Son, Spirit interchangeable when it comes to who receives our prayers?
In this bonus episode the guys talk beard-ology - what the Bible says about beards. All leading up to a special guest - Caleb Weller - who will talk about how beards can be used for a good cause. Check out the episode and then check out the site:
https://www.thebeardoff.com/
This week the guys look to how the Spirit interacts with our prayers. Do we pray TO the Spirit? Do we pray IN the Spirit? At the end of the episode the guys give a summary of what they've covered on WHO receives our prayers and how the Trinity interacts together in regard to prayer.
Praying to Jesus....is there a clear precedent for it in the NT or is it putting Jesus in the Father's place? This week the ACP guys continue to look at the specifics of who our prayers should be directed to.
This week the guys continue their series on prayer and turn their focus to WHO we pray to. Do we pray to the Father exclusively? Is it ever appropriate to pray to Jesus or to the Holy Spirit?
As the guys continue their series on prayer, they turn their focus from the "how" of prayer to the where and then when. Should location and time of day be factors in our prayers? Tune in to find out what the Bible has to say about that.
The guys are still working through the mechanics of prayer. This week they wrap up the how - standing, sitting, kneeling, arms lifted, spoken out loud or silent? Keep listening as they look forward to the when, where, why, and to whom.
What are the physical mechanics of prayer? This week the guys continue to look into the posture, stance, and form of our prayers. A fun bonus - they find several translational issues!
Building off the last series on Divine attributes and God's ability to change, this week the guys turn their focus to prayer. What is the physical posture of prayer? Sitting? Standing? Kneeling? The guys scoured Scripture to find examples of prayer postures/positions and share their findings.
This week the guys go back to look at the context of the "immutable" passages from the first episode that seem to say God is incapable of change. Does the Bible present two different images of God's nature or is the voice of Scripture unified on this topic? How is God both unchanging and changeable at the same time?
This week the ACP guys continue to look at how Scripture portrays God and his ability/tendency to change or be affected by the actions of humanity. Does God change his mind? Is the unmoved God of philosophy represented in Scripture?
Who is the God we worship? What is He like? Does He change and is He influenced by humanity? This week the guys continue looking at Scripture passages that show God experiences emotions, responds to prayer, and is changeable.
How did we get to the idea of the Unmoved Mover? This week the guys continue the conversation - looking at philosophy in early history and tracing the idea of a God beyond change.
Does God change? This week the ACP guys take a walk through early philosophy and their understanding of God's nature and change. Does the God of philosophy and theology match the God of the Bible?
As the Supreme Court has officially made the decision to overturn Roe v Wade - the guys complete their series on what the Bible has to say about abortion and the sanctity of life. Scripture seems to be pretty clear on the value of life - it's less clear on when life begins - and it definitely doesn't offer an answer on how we should "vote" on this issue. Listen in for a respectful, non-political, biblical discussion on this hot topic.
How does God feel about the defenseless and how does he expect his people to view the vulnerable? This week the guys get close to wrapping up their mini-series on the topic of abortion and the sanctity of life. There is something inherent in God's character that seeks out and protects the weak, defenseless, voiceless - listen in and see how this applies to the abortion conversation.
This week the guys continue talking about abortion by looking at how life is valued in Torah. First up a translational issue plays a major role and then should children die for the sins of the parents?
This week the ACP hits a hot topic issue as they address a listener posed question - does the Bible give Christians a place to stand on abortion? Doing what they do best - the guys work their way through the story of Scripture to see what it has to say about killing, the sanctity of life, and babies in the womb.
This week the guys wrap up their mini-series on "Logos" in John's prologue. Ron gives his take on what John was up to when he put his gospel together. What themes did he intentionally draw on? Was he concerned about redeeming "logos" from Greek or Jewish philosophy?
This week the guys continue to examine "Logos" in the prologue to John's gospel. Did John borrow from Greek philosophy and redeem the idea to fit Jesus? Was he building on Jewish Wisdom tradition? Or was he using "logos" in a new and unrelated way? Listen in as the guys dip their toes into early Greek philosophy.
The guys jump into a new series this week as they look at the prologue to John's gospel. John emphasizes a high Christology as he talks about Jesus being involved in creation, at the very beginning of the story even. Is this view of Jesus unique to John? What is the connection between "logos", Wisdom, and Jesus?
This week's episode gave listeners the opportunity to participate live with the After Class guys as they celebrated their fourth birthday at the Brew.
We're between series so it's time for another ACP movie review! This week the guys (with guest) give their take on One Night with the King - Hollywood's version of Esther.
The guys complete their quick overview of Universalism this week. Beyond working through the list of popular supporting passages - they offer a handful of passages to counter and correct the theology of universal salvation. Wouldn't it be nice if Jesus answered this one for us? Listen in and see if he does!
This week the guys focus on the "hell-adjacent" topic of Universalism. If God is all-powerful and all-loving, surely He can come up with a plan to include everyone in His forever Kingdom - right? Listen in as the guys offer answers and corrections to the popular exegetical arguments for universal salvation.
This week the guys deliver "Hell" Q&A Part 2. Does your theory of atonement affect your view on the afterlife? What exactly is annihilationism? Plenty to talk about this week!
It's Q&A time! The guys address some listener-submitted questions on hell and the afterlife.
The guys put the finishing touches on their hell series this week with the last of the passages on death and the afterlife. Weeping and gnashing of teeth, eternal destruction, outer darkness, fire, eternal punishment...these are just some of the highlights from this week's ACP episode.
This week the ACP guys conclude their "hell" word studies (Sheol, hades, gehenna, Abaddon) with a look at an obscure NT reference to Tartarus. The Enoch tradition, the Greek OT, the Lake of Fire, eternal punishment, and the second death all share the spotlight this week.
The guys continue the series on hell with a new episode where they discuss NT usages of "hades" and "gehenna". Will they encounter fire and brimstone? They hit a lot of fun topics this week - the Valley of Hinnom, passing through fire, Abraham's bosom, and Lazarus - to name a few.
The guys are covering lots of ground on hell this week as they visit the Apocrypha, Pseudepigrapha, and the New Testament. Is Hades the same as Sheol or a totally different place? Do we begin to see a distinction between good and bad people and their final resting place?
This week the guys are able to finish with the OT's voice on what happens to both the good and the wicked after they die. With the exception of a couple outliers, the picture is fairly uniform - wasting away in Sheol awaits all people at death. Isaiah and Daniel both offer apocalyptic nuances that show a shift in Israelite thinking/theology on the afterlife.
The guys are back this week with a new episode on hell. What was the Israelite understanding of death and the afterlife? In this first part the guys will look at Sheol and Abaddon and offer some discussion for their meaning and significance.
This week the ACP guys welcome back GLCC grad Natasha Smith for a chat about her book Unplanned Grace. What can the church do to better minister to pregnant women? How can they be a positive voice in the conversation of Life and Choice?
What does it look like to choose Jesus over your kids? How do you discipline as a parent but keep from frustrating or exasperating your children? This week the guys discuss these questions (and more) as they continue to focus on what the Bible teaches about parenting.
This week the guys look at some basic expectations for parents in the NT. Did anything change for parents when Jesus inaugurated a new covenant? From giving snakes to inheritances - make sure to catch their discussion.
This week the guys wrap up the OT as they look at the final list of "should" and "should not" for parents. Some of these expectations seem really obvious - some might surprise you.
It's all about love this week on the ACP. From the Bible's perspective love is all about priorities and choices. But it's likely to go sideways if parents show more "love" for one child over another. This week the guys consider how favoritism can do damage and make a mess in a family's dynamic.
Happy New Year! This week the guys continue their discussion on parenting as they look at the dominant parenting theme in Proverbs - Discipline. Is discipline just an old-fashioned, "ancient" understanding of how to raise children? Are discipline and love opposite ends of a spectrum?
A series on parenting will wrap up 2021 for the ACP. The guys get started by looking at what the Old Testament has to say about how to raise children. One major theme is how important it is for parents to teach their children God's ways and laws.
This week the guys answer a few final questions about marriage, remarriage, and divorce as they conclude this series.
This week the guys dive into the marriage, divorce, remarriage questions submitted by listeners. This topic can get messy fast - listen in as the guys walk through some tough issues while being faithful to the witness of Scripture.
This week the guys dive into what Jesus meant by "unchastity" when he spoke of reasons for divorce in Matthew's gospel. Listen in as the guys move from translation issues to the Jerusalem Council and back to Leviticus.
The guys are still in the NT this week and are focused on some of the murkier marriage/divorce passages. What was the bottom line for Jesus? What did Paul expect from the churches he pastored?
What does the NT say about marriage, remarriage, & divorce? This week the guys crack open the NT and begin looking at relevant passages to explore God's parameters for marriage.
The ACP guys continue their focus on marriage. This week they wrap up the relevant OT passages and see how God's laws held Israel to his standards for marriage. Listen in to see if God allows Israel any exceptions for those who are dissatisfied with their marriages.
The ACP guys continue to work their way through Torah as they explore marriage, remarriage, and divorce. Though some passages in Torah are sometimes taken out of context and used as a way to defend divorce - the guys discuss and explain how those laws are actually meant to protect women and aren't really offering divorce as an "out".
This week the guys are back in their normal swing and discussing marriage. Modern culture has a lot of opinions and differing views on marriage, remarriage, and divorce. Per their custom - the ACP guys give the Bible front stage as the basis for wisdom and truth. What were God's original intentions for marriage? Does the OT support polygamy? Lots of marriage questions answered in this episode!
Join the ACP guys as they celebrate Ron's return to health and get the scoop on his journey and experience.
This week we are re-airing the episode that we trace the “wrath of God” in the Old Testament. This and the next episode are a springboard to talking about what Jesus’s death accomplished. So if you haven’t heard this series or need a refresher on the often discussed topic of God as a cruel, wrathful God in the Old Testament, this is for you.
As Ron continues to recover, we have pulled another episode out of the archives. This is the second episode discussing elders, but really focuses on how power authority work or don’t work in the church. It important information for those churches wondering what Elders should do or who they should be. Hope you enjoy and maybe go back and listen to the other episodes on the topic.
If you’ve ever wondered why the “conquest” had to happen this is the episode for you. Many, like Rhett and Link, have struggled to reconcile their understanding of the God of the (seemingly violent) conquest of Canaan with the God who embodied love in the person of Jesus. The guys explain - the love embodied in Jesus only makes sense with the land of Canaan in the background.
Due to Covid complications, this is a re-airing of a previous episode tacking some Christian myths. It also ended up being a catylyst for an entire series on Satan.
It's time for another ACP movie review! This week the guys give us their take on Ridley Scott's adaptation of the Moses story - Exodus: Gods and Kings.
This week the guys focus on the social media trend of divisiveness, hate speech, outrage, and "outgroup" alienation. Should Christians make use of these negative algorithms to increase their social media presence (likes, shares, comments, interactions, etc)? If the gospel is being shared - even with a touch of hostility or divisiveness - isn't it still worth it?
Maybe you listened to all of the ACP episodes on demons and still had some questions. This week your questions will be answered (hopefully!) as the guys work through some last minute issues.
As an appendix to the four episodes on demons, the guys zero in on bad angels this week. What's the deal with fallen angels and what's their correlation to demons?
This week the guys focus on the story of "Legion" to see if it sheds light on where demons come from and why they do what they do. Built from the evidence, the guys offer a theory on the origin of demons and explain the relationship between Satan and demons.
This week the guys have reached the relevant New Testament passages on demons. Are demons malevolent forces in an epic spiritual battle against Jesus? Are they spiritual forces with little real power - misunderstood health issues or sicknesses? Somewhere in the middle? Listen in for some discussion and answers with the ACP guys.
The guys continue the discussion on demons/evil spirits. They wrap up all mention of anything remotely "spirit" in the OT and move to investigate two references in the Intertestamental Literature (Tobit & 1 Enoch). If you like languages - you're in luck! - a lot of this episode hinges on the meaning of various Hebrew and Greek words.
This week the guys offer the first part of a mini-series on demonology. They begin with a look at relevant Old Testament passages about evil spirits and malevolent forces. If you've found yourself with questions about demons, evil spirits, and the like - this is the series for you.
The guys finish their mini-series on Israel by focusing on the New Testament. How will God fulfill his promises to the Jewish people? Are the people living in Israel today included in those promises and should Christians involve themselves in the turmoil of the middle east?
This week the guys continue their focus on Israel - specifically what does "Israel" even mean? Is it a people group - is it a single person - is it a land with specific boundaries? The guys walk through the Old Testament and describe the development of "Israel".
This week the guys lay the groundwork for a new After Class series centered on Modern Israel. The land of Israel/Palestine tends to be in a nearly constant state of turmoil. Do Christians have skin in the game?
This week the guys change speed and offer a movie review. Tune in to catch the highs and lows of the Hollywood spin on the life of Samson.
The book of Revelation is on stage this week as the After Class guys wrap up their discussion of apocalyptic literature. As we discovered last week with Daniel, history is key to our understanding and interpretation. Apocalyptic texts have a message of radical faithfulness for the church and if we cut the strings to the historical context we risk distorting that message, or losing it all together.
This week the After Class guys walk through relevant sections of Daniel to demonstrate the process for deciphering, interpreting, and understanding apocalyptic literature. You might be surprised to know the process leans more heavily on understanding historical events rather than future ones.
This week the guys (aka..... ACP) focus on the last remaining biblical genre - apocalypse. This discussion will be covered in multiple doses as apocalyptic literature is complicated and tends to be abused more than any other genre. Thankfully it has its own rules and conventions, just like every other genre, to aid us in our understanding.
Hey ACP listeners, this week we're diving into biblical letters. How did their unique voice function in the early church and how should we read and understand their situation-specific teachings? We would love to have you join and interact with the discussion.
Wisdom literature has unique characteristics when compared to other biblical genres: no mention of Torah, no specific commands from God, no mention of God's work in salvation history, etc. This week the guys define biblical Wisdom and explain how to understand it in light of its intended function.
Next to narrative, poetry is the second most used genre in the Bible. This week the guys discuss biblical poetry - how to read and understand it on its own terms and how to use it well when constructing theology.
The After Class Podcast gets back to the basics of biblical interpretation this week and zeroes in on biblical narrative. Biblical history is often shared in narrative form and it's important to understand how the narrative genre functions. The guys offer some tips for understanding biblical narrative on the basis of its own rules and expectations.
This week the guys wrap up their series on the strengths and weaknesses of digital discipleship with the last five commandments of the "Techalogue". Join the discussion as the guys cover the temptations and pitfalls of social media and all things digital.
The guys are ready to wrap up their discussion on digital discipleship by offering a unique mash-up of the Ten Commandments and the Fruit of the Spirit - "The Techalogue". Here's some practical tips for how to interact with social media in a faithful and Christ-centered way.
This week the guys get into the strengths and liabilities of "synchronous" digital discipleship - Zoom, Facebook Live, online worship, etc. They also dive into the possibilities of "cyber" church - is it a viable option for the future church? Is it something the church should prepare for and be ready to embrace?
The guys are on the second week of their digital discipleship topic. This week's episode focuses on "asynchronous" digital media - media that we interact with not in real time. The ACP podcast is an example of this type of media. There are some great digital resources out there for the church today and the guys offer some pros and cons.
The guys take a break from the Intro to Biblical Interpretation series to engage the topic of digital discipleship. How would Jesus have interacted with technology and the internet? What does a healthy approach to technology look like for the Church?
After taking John's most recent After Class pop quiz the guys dive into the topic of tradition and its relationship to Scripture. Church tradition can be one of those issues that polarizes and separates us - even from one church building to another. Fortunately there are some relevant New Testament passages that can help us navigate between the options.
This week the guys get into more detail about how the biblical canon was formed as they share the timeline for when the New Testament books were recognized as canon by the early church. Not all of the NT books were immediately recognized as "Scripture" by the early church and getting the Bible as we have it today was more of a process than you may think.
The guys dive into the topic of canonization this week. How did we get the Bible and all 66 books as we have them? Who decided which writings made it in and which writings were relegated as merely interesting, but not inspired Scripture? Can we trust that process? The guys share what we know for sure and discuss some of the areas that are slightly more murky.
Ever wonder how we got the Bible as we have it? This week the guys discuss how the Story of the Bible started as oral traditions in a primarily oral culture and over centuries made it to the written form we have today. With so many steps along the way - can we be certain of its credibility and trust that it's not been tampered with? Absolutely! Listen in as the guys explain the process.
What is the Bible anyway? The Bible is something God intended us to understand - that doesn't mean there isn't some mystery to it now and then. This week the guys continue the Bible Basics series by offering answers for what the Bible is and what it isn't.
So why do we view all 66 books of the Bible as God's Word? What does it mean for Scripture to be "God-breathed"? This week the guys continue to search the Bible for what it means for Scripture to be the inspired and authoritative words of God.
This week as the guys continue the series on all things Bible they zero in on what it means to call the Bible, "God's Word". They do the leg work and offer a cliff note's version of all the passages where "Word of God" or "Word of the Lord" is mentioned in Scripture. Give it a listen and join the discussion.
This week the guys start a new series - built off the Intro to Biblical Interpretation class offered at GLCC. Over the next several weeks they will be exploring all things Bible. Why is it necessary and good for Christians to study the Bible? In this beginning discussion the guys offer eight reasons for why studying the Bible is a necessity for Christians today.
This week, in response to a listener-posed request (thanks Regan Clem!) the guys offer their top books that all pastors/Christians should make time to read - maybe a more challenging request than anticipated. But the guys power through and offer some of their top reads.
To open the new year the guys offer their first movie review: Noah. They give a summary of the movie (spoiler alert) before offering their rating of thumbs up or thumbs down. They're also joined this week by a surprise, special guest.
The last episode of 2020! Happy New Year! What role does fasting play in Christian life? This week's episode concludes the six-part series on fasting where the guys wrap up the New Testament passages and then offer some conclusions from all of the material.
Merry Christmas from the After Class Podcast! This week the guys reach the New Testament and the gospel of Matthew as they get closer to wrapping up the study on biblical fasting. Do Jesus's practices or his teachings add anything new to the discussion?
This week the guys wrap up the Old Testament passages on fasting. What's the deal with fasting anyway? Is it just a method of manipulating God - to convince him to change his mind? Or is fasting all about humility and spiritual discipline? Maybe fasting is meant to be a road to greater personal health? Be sure to catch this episode (and the three previous) to get the summary of the relevant Old Testament passages and their implications.
The discussion on fasting continues this week as the guys get close to wrapping up the Old Testament's contribution to the topic. The prophets add a new dimension - is fasting for the people or for God and is fasting something God wants or expects from his people?
This week the guys continue their focus on fasting. Fasting in the Bible had multiple motivations and functions. We find it was a way to "turn up the volume" on prayers and petitions directed to God. And we see it was a way of humiliating the flesh to grieve or show solidarity in suffering.
As we enter this season of feasting - with Thanksgiving and Christmas on the horizon - the guys turn their attention to the subject of fasting. What does Scripture say about fasting - what was its purpose, what situations called for fasting?
In this week's episode the guys look to the Bible to see if it has anything to say about the use of marijuana or other recreational drugs. It's a hot topic for many in the church as several states in America have voted to legalize marijuana and other drugs for medical or recreational use. Do Christians have a dog in this fight - does the Bible give us a moral stance in the discussion on the use of marijuana?
In this week's episode the guys stick to their five-minute-format (mostly) to answer listener-posed questions and engage with the issues around this election season, nationalism, and the christian role in politics.
This week the guys respond to listener-posed questions centered on Christian involvement in politics. With the election looming on the horizon it's a relevant and fruitful discussion.
It's the conclusion we've all been waiting for! This week the guys revisit and review the major atonement theories in light of the exhaustive (and exhausting) New Testament study they've done. Which atonement themes/theories will end up on top?
Through a mix-up with the study notes, Paul's letters to the Corinthians slipped through the cracks. But never fear - this week the guys address the missing passages and finally and truly reach the end of all the New Testament passages that speak about Jesus's death - it's purpose and what it accomplished. Some of the language Paul uses will sound very familiar to those who have been in this study from the beginning. But Paul does add some new and interesting tidbits to the discussion.
They've made it through all of the verses in all of the books! This week the guys finish their look through the New Testament books with Paul's pastoral letters (1 & 2 Timothy & Titus). If you've been on this journey from the beginning - what big picture themes have you noticed? How do the New Testament authors speak about Jesus's death?
What does Paul say about Jesus's death in Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and 1 & 2 Thessalonians? He does discuss wrath in connection with Jesus's death but does he see Jesus as being punished on our behalf or is there something else going on?
The guys dig into Romans and Galatians this week looking for what Paul says about Jesus's death - what it accomplished and why it was necessary. Paul speaks of Jesus as victor over sin and an obedient pattern for us to follow. He also holds Jesus's death up as something we participate in and the key to our entrance into the new covenant. Does Paul give any indication that he saw Jesus as taking God's wrath that was intended for us?
The guys turn to Revelation this week to see how John spoke about Jesus's death. They find some references to Jesus as victor, a ransom, and the lamb who was slain. But is there any mention of Jesus as our substitute or a payment to cover God's wrath? The guys also give a start into Paul's letters (Romans and Galatians) which will be concluded in next week's episode.
This week the guys zero-in on the letters of Peter and John as they work towards answering the question - What did Jesus die for? Peter does use "ransom" language. Is he using it to talk about Jesus ransoming us from the power and grip of satan or is he referring to something else? When John speaks of Jesus's blood cleansing us and making atonement - is that pointing to Jesus taking our place or paying off God's wrath with his life?
What did Jesus's death accomplish and why was it necessary? Did Jesus die to satisfy the wrathful and violent nature of God? This week the guys dive into Hebrews - the book that is most often quoted to explain Jesus' death. If Jesus is our high priest and the atoning sacrifice - how does all of that tie together? Is there anything in Hebrews about God's wrath or Jesus taking our place?
Why did Jesus have to die? This week the guys offer a quick summary of where they've been in this discussion before moving on to see what the gospel of John has to say about Jesus's death. John's gospel does use language of Jesus removing the "sins of the world" but maybe that doesn't mean all that we have traditionally thought.
This week the guys wrap up Jesus's death as portrayed in the Synoptics and move to the book of Acts. Does Luke pair forgiveness of sins or atonement with the death of Jesus? Is Jesus's death portrayed as a necessary response to God's wrath?
The conversation continues this week as the guys explore more of the reasons the Synoptics give for why Jesus had to die. Why was his death necessary? How did his death fulfill prophecy? Does anything in the Synoptics indicate that Jesus's death was an answer or corrective to God's anger?
This week the guys move to the New Testament as they continue to consider why Jesus had to die and what his death accomplished. But Jesus' death was only about removing our sins right? You might be surprised when you are reminded of all that the synoptics claim about Jesus's death.
The guys finish their discussion on the pros and cons of the five classic atonement theories and introduce some more contemporary views presented by theologians in the last twenty years.
This week the guys take a break from surveying Scripture to look carefully at some of the classic theories of atonement, popular throughout the history of the church. It should not surprise the listener that there are pros and cons to each.
This week the guys wrap up the discussion on God's Wrath by focusing on the New Testament. Throughout the witness of Scripture we find that God is slow to anger and his wrath breaks out against his people when their actions jeopardize the path of salvation history. But is wrath language used in connection with Jesus and the cross? Was Jesus' death necessary to calm God's wrath?
The series on the sacrificial system continues this week with a discussion of God's Wrath. As the guys look closely at God's character, his interactions with his people, and his presumed need for violence/bloodshed - you might be surprised by what they find - and what they don't find.
As the guys continue to look at sacrifice and the larger issue of God's nature requiring violence and the shedding of blood they focus on the Day of Atonement this week. They explore the various uses of "kaphar" in the Old Testament, of which "atoning for sin" is only one of seven. They also look carefully at the Day of Atonement in Leviticus and discuss what was and was not accomplished in that ceremony.
The guys continue the discussion on the sacrificial system as they drive towards answering the question - why did God have Jesus die on the cross - is Jesus’s death just an extension of God’s violent nature that needed to be poured out? In this episode they explore the seven purposes for animal sacrifice as commanded in Torah; you might be surprised by what is NOT mentioned.
This week the guys start a series on the topic of sacrifice. Is the entire sacrificial system evidence that God's wrath requires blood, death, and violence? They begin to form an answer to this issue by exploring the sacrificial customs of the Ancient Near East.
You've probably heard or seen something about the recent "defund the police" movement. This week the guys offer a biblical perspective on the Church's response to the cultural/political upheaval we are all experiencing. How should Christians respond to the powers and principalities at play in the world around us? What does a kingdom-centered posture look like?
In this episode they guys reflect on the charged racial climate stemming from the deaths of multiple people of color, most notably George Floyd. Not wanting to be a bunch of white guys lecturing anyone about what should be done, they reflect on the ideals of the Kingdom that should be lived out in the church.
The guys give an update on what they've been up to over the past several weeks of quarantine. They land on a discussion of how the Church is handling the Covid-19 situation and how important it is to choose the path of unity no matter what. The Church has the opportunity to show the world something really rare: true unity. Romans 14; 1 Corinthians 8-10
This week the guys move on to engage another listener-posed issue: the hurdle of the conquest is still too high, surely God could have done more to mitigate the loss of life and the displacement of the Canaanites. These are important questions for all Christians to ask - it is right to wrestle with the constancy of God’s character as revealed in Scripture. But it’s crucial to understand - the radical social ethic of Torah was not possible without the Israelites having untainted, soul possession of the land.
The guys engage tough listener questions about Old Testament violence, like "Aren't you just sugarcoating genocide?" They also explore how modern political and geo-political biases tend to influence our interpretation of tough biblical passages. Is there a right or left leaning way of reading Joshua? Do we sometimes project our understanding of the modern day Israeli-Palestinian conflict back onto the book of Joshua? Are we so far away from the Holocaust that we are beginning to forget some important lessons about how to speak about the Jewish people's role in Scripture?
If you’ve ever wondered why the “conquest” had to happen this is the episode for you. Many, like Rhett and Link, have struggled to reconcile their understanding of the God of the (seemingly violent) conquest of Canaan with the God who embodied love in the person of Jesus. The guys explain - the love embodied in Jesus only makes sense with the land of Canaan in the background.
In a follow-up episode to last week’s conquest discussion, the guys focus in on the issue of war and violence. What should we do with passages that seem to portray God as violent, vengeful, or wrathful? Are there aspects of God’s character (Justice/Holiness vs. Love/Mercy) that are unable to be reconciled?
In their continued response to Rhett and Link's faith challenges the guys begin a discussion on the biblical conquest of Canaan by Joshua. Archaeological records don't seem to line up with the traditional understanding of a conquest. But is "conquest" an appropriate term for what happened when Israel entered Canaan? Maybe not, according to the biblical witness.
The series continues! The guys offer some more answers to the issues raised in Rhett and Link's "anti"-testimonies. This week's episode deals with the numbers in the Exodus census account. Did Moses bring 2 or 3 million people out of Egypt and into the land of Canaan? Does it matter if the numbers aren't 100% accurate by today's standards?
This week the After Class guys continue their interaction with material from Rhett and Link’s “anti”-testimonies. Here they address the question of whether modern archaeology supports and upholds material in the Old Testament. Are our assumptions about the Bible and archaeology potentially leading us to a shaky place? And how do they affect our interpretation and understanding of the Exodus event.
The guys wrap up the walk-through of the history of biblical interpretation in this episode. It is beneficial to understand where the church has been throughout the centuries in relation to doctrine and what was considered "orthodox". This is an important step in understanding why some Christians face a crisis of faith when their "foundations" are shaken.
This week the guys continue to engage the "anti"-testimonies of Rhett and Link and the issues that led them away from faith. This episode is unique as they spend little time walking through Scripture and instead embark on a walk through the history of biblical interpretation. How did we get to the traditional, literal interpretations of Scripture that are considered orthodox today?
This week's episode continues the interaction with Rhett and Link's publicly shared "anti"-testimonies. Here the guys discuss the importance of Adam and how his story functions in God's big picture redemption story. Is he central to the redemption story or not?
At the moment, it seems that the only thing people can talk about is the Coronavirus. While many educational institutions and businesses have shut down for the moment, what should churches do? More importantly, what does it look like for Christians to be witnesses in the midst of a pandemic?
This week finds the guys interacting with the shared testimonies of YouTube comedians and fellow podcast hosts Rhett & Link. In their podcast, Ear Biscuits, Rhett & Link discuss the challenging questions that ultimately pushed them away from the Bible and away from their faith. Listen in as the After Class guys respectfully offer some answers to the challenge of how to understand creation accounts and biblical genealogies.
What is mortal sin, or sin unto death? Is there a sin you can't come back from? Listen in as the guys finish this 2-part discussion.
1 John 5:14-17
Hebrews 6:4-8
Is there a sin that God will not forgive? If not, what is the "blasphemy of the Holy Spirit"? The guys discuss these questions in part 1 of 2.
Matthew 12:31
Mark 3:28-30
Luke 12:10
Like discipleship, fellowship, and family, the inauguration of God's Kingdom changes how we view friendship. The guys explore the Greco-Roman view of friendship to better understand the biblical understanding of how these relationships are transformed in the Kingdom.
This second episode on the family continues to explore priorities in light of the Kingdom of God.
Most American Christians will order their priorities as God, Family, Church. But does the Kingdom of God affect our family relationships by causing a change of priorities? We discuss all that and more in our latest episode.
Not satisfied with how they left it, the guys return to the topic of biblical fellowship (koinonia) and set forth some practical ways that churches can engage in such a lifestyle of "doing life together."
This episode discusses fellowship and not just the church meals.
Listen now to dig into the history of the early church and hear
about what fellowship really means. Through anecdotes and
Lord of the Rings references, this episode will teach you how to
incorporate fellowship into your life on a deeper level.
Acts 2:42-47, 4:32-35
The guys discuss discipleship in God's Kingdom by pointing out misconceptions and laying out a way forward.
The guys begin a new season talking about the nature and value of resolutions. Then they transition to discuss the idea and reality of the new creation.
Every now and again we will be asked if we think that Christians should celebrate holidays that have pagan roots. So, we use Christmas as a test case and discuss whether celebrating is an acceptable practice for a Christian.
In this follow up episode, the guys continue to discuss the practical implications of power dynamics in the church. What are elders? What did they do? What should they do in our modern churches?
In response to questions we have received about leadership in the church, especially as it relates to women and authority, this episode tries to answer those questions by first describing the social situation of the early church.
As the series on women in the Bible concludes, we review where we have come from and suggest some ways to move forward.
Having laid the ground work of many previous episodes, we finally come to perhaps the most debated and contested passage in the Bible about women - 1 Timothy 2. The guys locate this passage in its wider biblical, cultural context as well as how this passage functions in the book of 1 Timothy before discussing what we make of this outlier passage.
As the guys continue their series on women in the Bible, they take a look at Galatians 3 and try to answer the question, "What does it mean and what does it NOT mean for there to be no male or female?"
After laying extensive ground work, the guys finally(!) turn their attention to the first of 3 hotly contested passages cited when it comes to "women's roles in the church" - 1 Corinthians 14:34-35.
The guys take a look at Paul's words in Ephesians 5 to determine if he suggests that there are different roles, expectations, and status between believing husbands and wives.
Our discussion of women in the Bible turns to specific instructions about women, specifically instructions to husbands and wives about how they should treat one another. We begin by discussing Paul's directions found in 1 Corinthians 7 and then deal with 1 Peter 3:1-7.
We take a break from our "Women in the Bible" series to highlight a presentation given by Ron (long haired guy in the middle of the logo). For our Restoration Appreciation Week here at GLCC Ron discussed the future of higher education in Christian Colleges. We unpack some of his ideas and press him on a few of his points.
As the study on women in the Bible continues, this episode is dedicated to Acts and Romans to determine how the text viewed women as well as what role women played in the early church.
Acts 2:14-21, 16:11-15, 21:9, 18:26
Romans 16
As the guys continue their series on women, they discuss the nature of power dynamics and how Jesus, through the Kingdom, has leveled the playing field.
Finally! The guys have made it to the New Testament to read what it has to say about women. They start by examining texts were Jesus interacts with women and what role women played in his ministry.
Luke 2:36-38
Matt 12:48-50
Matt 27:55
Luke 10:38-42
John 4:28-42
John 20
To this point in the series, we have highlighted the positive ways in which women are described in the Old Testament. But it would be disingenuous of we ignored those texts that are not as positive. So this episode delves into those difficult and, at times disturbing passages about women in the Old Testament.
This episode continues the discussion of women in the Bible, looking specifically at what women did and did not do in the Old Testament. Is there any clear denunciation of women in leadership positions?
Many skeptics have impugned the Old Testament laws and its treatment of women. But what does the Torah actually say about the treatment of women? The guys take a look at the texts in their latest episode.
As they continue their series on what the Bible has to say about women, the guys tackle one of the most common criticisms leveled at the Bible - that it just reinforces a Patriarchal approach to women. But the guys push back on that logic and suggest the OT is actually patrilineal.
As the guys continue their series discussing what the Bible says about women, they turn their attention to the Fall to determine what we learn about women and how relationships between men and women have changed and how they have not changed.
In this first episode of our new series, we tackle the often divisive topic of women's roles in the church. In this series we plan on working our way through the Bible to explore what it has to say on the topic. As such we begin...in the beginning.
Similar to previous episodes, the guys catch up with some graduates of GLCC to see where God has been using them and what they wisdom they have accrued over the years. This interview features Regan Clem, Mike Fabian, and Melvin Balogh.
***Audio quality is lacking, so we recommend using headphones.
Was St. Francis right? Are loving actions enough to proclaim the Kingdom with words being secondary and often unneeded? Or, as Kingdom citizens do we have a responsibility to explain this Kingdom we have dedicated our lives to? We tackle those questions in this episode.
Having set the foundation in the previous 2 episodes of what it means to embrace God's Kingdom, the guys turn their attention to displaying it. How do Christians live in such a way they the rest of the world sees us living out the reality we have embraced?
This episodes continues the discussion of what it means to embrace God's Kingdom. It is a radical and extreme thing to do, yet many Christians fail to do it. The guys discuss why and point to some possible solutions.
After a bit of a hiatus, the guys return to John's book, Endangered Gospel. After spending some episodes describing the 6 Ws of the Kingdom, now they start putting some flesh on the concept and its implications for the Christian life.
In this episode the guys interview Dr. David Schreiner about his book, Pondering the Spade, and discuss what archaeology adds to biblical studies.
Have you ever wondered what is going on with Paul's discussion about head coverings in 1 Corinthians 11? Should women be wearing head coverings today or not? In this episode the guys try to pull back the veil to illuminate this interesting passage.
The Pope has come out proposing a revision to the translation of the Lord's Prayer. The guys examine the validity of this translation as well as the rest of the prayer and suggest a few improved ways to view the purpose behind some of the phrases in the prayer.
Should Christians desire certain spiritual gifts more than others? Can spiritual gifts be cultivated as we train ourselves to be used by the Spirit? Are spiritual gifts given at birth or after one's baptism? These and many other questions are addressed in our latest podcast.
This episode is part 2 addressing the question of miraculous, spiritual gifts. Are they still around? Does God still work in this way?
Are spiritual gifts still around or have they stopped? The guys begin to tackle the great “cessation” question in the first of 2 parts about the miraculous.
In this episode the guys tackle some of the questions that were posed to Shane Claiborne after his first session at the Michigan Christian Convention. The content incorporates government, laws, justice, and grace.
This episode is Shane Claiborne's first presentation at the Michigan Christian Convention. Shane is an engaging presenter and storyteller who has intentionally placed himself among the least of these to live out the gospel in the context of inner city Philadelphia. We will use this presentation to do some follow up Q&A next week.
Since we didn't get through all the questions we had on our list in the last episode, we tackle a few more. Specifically, we discuss "Is the Church the world's conscience?" and "What role does politics have in social justice?"
Hopefully you were able to listen to John's Michigan Christian Convention presentation laying the groundwork for a biblical view of social justice. In this episode we follow up and try to answer some of the questions that were thrown at him. John gets a second crack and them and Ron and Sam add their thoughts as well.
This "episode" is John's presentation at the Michigan Christian Convention. The theme for the whole conference was "Social Justice" and this presentation lays the groundwork for what is to come.
As the guys bring their "sex talk" to a close, they discuss what it means for the church to embrace biblical sexuality and to live that ideal out day and and day out in the community of believers.
In this second episode about homosexuality, the guys tackle some of the New Testament passages regarding the topic and attempt to explain them in a gracious yet biblically faithful way.
The guys continue their "sex talk" and move to the specific topic of homosexuality. In this episode they lay out the biblical understanding of sex as a foundation for interpreting this very prominent issue.
We interrupt our regularly scheduled podcasts to give a shout out to the Michigan Christian Convention!! It's next weekend, April 12-13 at GLCC. Here are our top 10 reasons why you should attend!
Check out more details and register today at https://www.michiganchristianconvention.org/
As the guys continue their discussion of sex and sexuality, they use the decisions of the Jerusalem council (Acts 15) to guide their understanding. But in order to truly grasp their logic, it requires an understanding and acceptance of Levitical laws. Tune in to see how the guys navigate the testaments to inform their views on sex.
In this episode the guys continue their discussion of all things sex related and talk about the Greek word "porneia" and its usage in the Bible. Their conclusions and applications might surprise you!
This episode follows up on the discussion of whether legalizing sex work should be condoned by Christians. The guys lay out a biblical view of sex and marriage, which is often counter to cultural norms and trace the concept of "one flesh" through the Old and New Testaments.
A presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, has brought prostitution into the national spotlight by suggesting that sex work should be legalized. The guys discuss what, if any, response Christians should have to such legislation. But in reality, this episode will function as a gateway to further discussion about sexual ethics in God's Kingdom.
Our whole discussion of God's Kingdom has been leading to this episode. The guys discuss why God even needed to institute this Kingdom and how it comes about. Check out how the guys wrap up this series.
As their investigation continues, the guys turn their attention to the "when" of the Kingdom of God. What does it mean for a kingdom to exist in the "now and the not yet"?
With John still laid up from back surgery, the guys bring in a pinch hitter to fill the gap. GLCC's own Kate Blakely joins Ron and Sam to discuss the Kingdom from a more mission-minded, cross cultural perspective. Kate provides important insights to help translate the Kingdom into all cultures.
Due to some recording complications, we take a break from our discussion of the Kingdom and share a podcast we recorded in December where we interview some graduates of GLCC to hear about their ministries and their memories. This episode features Jordan Kellicut, Adrienne Stratton, and Kelsey Bushong.
In this episode the guys continue to unpack the Kingdom of God, and try to describe it in such a way as to put flesh to a somewhat elusive concept.
In this episode the guys attempt to explain and unpack the Kingdom of God using Journalism 101 techniques - the 5 Ws. Specifically they focus on the who of the Kingdom (King and subjects) and the what of the Kingdom.
Having set the stage in past episodes of what God's Mission in the world is, the guys turn their attention to the New Testament to see how that mission continues. Specifically they look at the message of Jesus and what the gospel is and is not.
In this episode the guys pick up the story of Israel after being established in the land to see how well the people lived out their call to be a blessing to the world. The prophets picture Israel's purpose as being a light to the nations, yet the people regularly contributed to the darkness, eventually leading to exile and unfulfilled expectations.
In this episode the guys continue telling the story of the Bible as we are introduced to Abraham and Moses--two of the foundational figures in God's efforts to reconcile the world. As the story moves quickly toward the New Testament, they also ponder what it means to be a city on a hill.
In our final episode of this season and 2018, the guys look back at their highs and lows. They also look forward to the new season and where they plan on going.
In this episode the guys look at some of the prophecies about Jesus in their original context to show how they shed light on the coming of the Messiah.
We all know the Christmas story, right? Little baby Jesus asleep in the hay, in a barn, surrounded by animals, shepherds, and 3 wise men. Or does the Bible describe a slightly different scene? And how do we take the "Jesus prophecies" in the Old Testament? We tackle all this and more in our latest episode.
In this episode the guys continue to work through the Primeval History of the Bible to demonstrate how far humanity has fallen and to set up the lengths to which God will go to restore them.
This episode might better be entitled, "Of demigods and the deluge or warlords and water?" The guys discuss the flood account, beginning with the much debated interpretation of "sons of God" and "daughters of men" in Genesis 6:1-4, in an effort to see how this story fits into God's story.
While at a conference in Denver, CO, the guys caught up with some GLCC alumni and found out what has been going on in their lives since they left the school. More importantly, we found out the great things God has been doing in their lives and how they have been use for God’s Kingdom.
As the guys continue telling the story of God's interaction with humanity, they turn to Genesis 4 and the story of Cain and Abel followed by the appropriation by Lamech.
In this episode the guys continue their discussion of God's story by examining Genesis 3, often referred to as "The Fall." The good creation of chapters 1 and 2 collapses, moving the story in a very dark direction, and bringing with it various curses and consequences
If getting to some afterlife existence is not our goal (heaven centered view), and making this world a better place is not our goal (human centered or world centered view), then what is? In order to answer that question we first need to understand the story of the Bible. And so we begin...in the beginning.
In this episode the guys evaluate 2 other approaches to Christian living. If earning heaven is not the goal, then how should Christians live and approach this world?
In this episode the guys bring their discussion of heaven to a close, locating "heaven" as a restoration of the created world, rather than an eternal existence somewhere else.
In this episode, the guys interview Jerry Harris--Lead Minister of The Crossing and Publisher of the Christian Standard and the Lookout. He regales us with tales from the Restoration Movement’s past and challenges us to seek unity, especially with our African-American Church of Christ brothers and sisters.
In this episode, the guys invite Professor Kate Blakely on to talk about the Restoration Movement--its core values and impact on us as Christians.
***Due to technical difficulties, the sound quality is less than optimal (thus the "unplugged"). Be assured that our sound engineer has been reprimanded and promises to do better.
In this episode the guys discuss different views that Christians have of heaven and the afterlife, and then compare those views to those found in the New Testament. Are our views biblical or are then informed by something else?
In this episode, the guys tackle the "heaven centered" view of the gospel by discussing the Old Testament's view of the afterlife. What did heaven mean to the ancient writers? How is it the same or different than our modern understanding?
In this episode, the guys interact with John's book, Endangered Gospel and set the foundation for future discussions about what it means for the church and Christians to live out their kingdom mission, especially in a "Christian nation."
In this final episode on the topic of Satan, the guys survey the rest of the New Testament and try to come to some conclusions and application from the rest of the study.
After surveying the data from the OT and Intertestamental literature in previous episodes, the guys finally make it to the New Testament. In this episode they examine how the gospels portray Satan and determine if his function has changed significantly or remains similar to the OT.
In this episode the guys continue their study of Satanology, focusing on the intertestamental literature (the stuff written between the testaments). Finally we begin to get a glimpse of this figure that many associate with Satan.
If the Devil is in the details, then what does the Old Testament actually say about Satan? This podcast explores references to the often enigmatic hasatan especially in Job and Zechariah.
Picking up their discussion that began debunking Satan's presence in the Garden of Eden, the guys turn their sights to two Old Testament passages that are often used to describe Satan's origins.
*This is part one of a multi-episode topic
Tennessee Legislators passed a bill in March that will require government buildings, especially pubic schools, to display the phrase "In God We Trust." In this episode, the guys discuss whether this is a victory for the church and how far we should push for legislation that reflects Christian values.
Our last episode debunking misunderstandings regarding the Bible was so popular that we decided to do another! This podcast includes the following segments:
What is love? (Does John's use of different love words in John 21 matter?)
That's hilarious dynamite (Original word fallacies)
Nice snake you got there. Is it a satan? (Is the serpent in Genesis 3 the Devil?)
"Contemporary Christian Music" began in the 70s, grew in the 80s, and exploded in the 90s as Christians began to answer Larry Norman's question, "Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music?" with, "He doesn't!" But where is the state of Christian Music today and does it matter? All this and more will be discussed in our latest podcast.
Who doesn't like and need a good vacation every once in a while? Vacations were made for catching up on podcasts. But does the Bible have anything to say about vacations? You might be surprised what the guys discuss in this podcast.
In this episode the guys discuss the nature of biblical allegiance as Christians attempt to navigate the difficult path between Kingdom citizenship and nationalism.
In this episode the guys discuss the King James Version, it's legacy, and the need for new translations.
In this episode, the guys examine biblical texts about foreigners, aliens, and immigrants to get a clearer picture of the overall message AND responsibilities that faith communities might have. They end by trying to suggest some ways for the Church to move forward on this issue.
***You are encouraged to review the alien passages for yourself by downloading a document here: http://traffic.libsyn.com/afterclass/The_Place_of_Aliens_According_to_Torah.docx
In part 2 of their discussion of the current immigration situation, the guys look at the role of the government, especially in light of Jeff Sessions referencing Romans 13.
SPOILER ALERT - we don't like how we end and so have recorded a third episode that comes out at our regularly scheduled time on Monday.
As the debate over immigration and illegal immigration ramps up, the Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, released an explanation regarding the current administration's actions. In this episode the guys discuss what is going on and try to navigate non-partisan politics.
Sometimes pastors and teachers unknowingly perpetuate incorrect information. From word fallacies to poor readings of texts, these urban myths are passed down. In this episode, the guys try to set a few of them right.
After spending considerable time and energy discussing how the OT laws should impact modern Christians, the guys tackle a very specific law - the Sabbath. Are Christians bound to keep the Sabbath or was it just a border law whose purpose has passed away? Find out where each of the guys stand in this episode.
After discussing Andy Stanley's approach to the Old Testament in the last 2 episodes, the guys try to present a way forward in which Christians can view the Old Testament as more than an outdated section with little application.
In this follow up episode to last week, the guys discuss Andy Stanley's treatment of the Acts 15 passage, attempting to correct some misunderstandings and poor interpretations that contributed to his conclusions regarding the Old Testament.
After listening to a sermon by Andy Stanley based on Acts 15, the guys from After Class discuss whether Andy has a point or whether he should be excommunicated.
You can listen to Andy's Sermon here: https://youtu.be/pShxFTNRCWI
In this episode, the guys discuss a topic from the Stone-Campbell Journal conference - is Allah the same as Yahweh?