The Word Without Walls Podcast: Recent Episodes
Professor Michael A. Eschelbach, Ph.D.
Dr. Eschelbach engages life's fundamental questions and concepts with analysis and reference to the witness found in nature, common human experience, and biblical texts. Forty years of caring for the lives of people as pastor and professor provides recognition of questions and challenges that matter, as well as answers and solutions that are real and effective.
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue looking at chapter 11, which discusses sanctification.
Some thought prompts based on this chapter:
- In God's creation, the way is the destination. What does that have to do with sanctification?
- True or False: The need for affirmation exists in direct proportion to contradicting God's design.
- How do we think about wealth differently through sanctification?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue looking at chapter 11, which discusses sanctification.
Some questions to get people talking:
- Contentment versus insatiability--where do we see this in the world around us?
- How can we find contentment?
- Consequence versus cause--how does sanctification work?
- Does being a Christian mean that we do different things than others, or that we do the same things differently?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we turn to chapter 11, which discusses sanctification.
Some questions to get people talking:
- What is the distinction between justification and sanctification?
- What is holy? What is the reference point for holy and good? How can you be holy?
- Which is harder: to become content, or to stay content?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue looking at chapter 10, which discusses conversion.
Some questions to get people talking:
- What does the redeeming work of God look like in the life of an individual?
- What about doctrinal precision? Think about children. Think about foreigners (e.g., the thief on the cross).
- If doctrinal precision is required to be saved, whose doctrine will be precise enough?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we begin chapter 10, which discusses conversion.
Some ideas to get people talking:
- What does it take to convert someone?
- Is conversion ethical?
- What does anthropology have to do with it? Can human nature be converted? What about the soul?
- Is salvation dispositional or computational?
- How does salvation work? How do you know?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to look at chapter 9 of the book, which deals with justification.
Some ideas to get people talking:
- Justice demands equity. What if equity can't be provided? What about countless injustices?
- What if we prosecute every injustice or inequity?
- When will all thse injustices be remedied? Consider the life of Jesus.
- Is justice inescapable? How can that change our attitudes?
- Respond to this statement: The short duration of human life justifies whatever it takes for happiness in this life.
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to look at chapter 9 of the book, which deals with justification.
Some ideas to get people talking:
- Why doesn’t God destroy the wicked? How can God demand us to be just if He Himself isn’t just?
- What if justice is inescapable?
- Which is worse: unrighteousness or self-righteousness?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to look at chapter 9 of the book, which deals with justification.
Some ideas to get people talking:
- What is necessary to restore creation to the image of God?
- Can you save yourself?
- Is justification based on some just reality?
- What does a person cry out when he needs others to do what he cannot do for himself?
In this episode, I mention the iceberg model. You can find a document and podcast episode to explain that model here.
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we begin a look at chapter 9 of the book, on justification.
Some ideas to get people talking:
- Our view of the universe needs to change from geocentric to heliocentric. What would this shift in thinking mean for our perspective and lives?
- Are we out of God's saving work until we are in, or are we in until we get ourselves out? Which is biblical?
- How does the Bible speak about salvation? How does nature bear witness?
- What happens when we assert ourselves in God's place?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue looking at chapter 8 of the book, which discusses the person of Jesus Christ.
This episode asks:
- Does Jesus really have no mind, words, will of his own, but only the Father's? If so, what are we to think about free will?
- Did Jesus ever claim to be interested in equality?
- What two crimes was Barabbas charged with? What does that illustrate?
- What does the Matthew 11 passage about Jesus' yoke being easy and light for us?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue looking at chapter 8 of the book, which discusses the person of Jesus Christ.
What if we started a discussion by making the following statement, "Jesus Christ is no different than any other religious leader." How could this be a productive way to get people talking? What would be revealed if we compared Jesus to other religious leaders? What is something about Jesus we don't talk about enough?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we begin looking at chapter 8 of the book, which discusses the person of Jesus Christ. Every bit of this topic has to do with our life, hope, and future. The big question for discussion in this episode is: What does it mean to be a Christian, and who decides that?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue working through chapter 7 of the book, which discusses sin.
Some discussion prompts related to this passage can include:
- The human ego since Adam is determined to claim autonomy and control, and attempt to control other things inorganically. Consider that corruption of Adam that corrupts us, and how we see it in the world around us. Contrast that with how God works, and the SELF-control that Jesus showed.
- From images of God, to images of man’s invention: consider God’s Green Arc versus the Red Pyramid world of human invention. Specifically, think about God’s wealth, as opposed to human wealth.
- Give thought to the prevalence and nature of sexual activity today. Why is the divorce rate so high?
- Are you a better God than God?
- What was the nature of the first sin?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue working through chapter 7 of the book, which discusses sin.
Some discussion prompts related to this passage can include:
- Consider the Bible passages in Matthew 7; Luke 6; and Romans 2 and 3.
- The corruption of Adam inverts and reverses the image of God. What is the image of God, especially in terms of relationship? How does Adam's fall invert God's image? How do we see Jesus, especially in the Gospel of John, setting things right?
- Consider wealth and riches in life that have to do with God's creation (nature, family, physiology). Compare that with human "riches".
- What is the consequence for abandoning essence in favor of extension?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue working through chapter 7 of the book, which discusses sin.
Some discussion prompts related to this passage can include:
- Why do bad things happen to good people? Why do bad things happen at all?
- How can you argue something is bad in an atheistic world?
- Why do good things happen to bad people?
- Adam's failure is ... ?
- What is the difference between people who advocate things versus those who report the consequences of those actions?
- Why aren't the consequences of contradicting human design enough?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue working through chapter 7 of the book, which discusses sin.
Some discussion prompts related to this passage can include:
- Why not live according to design?
- Try an exercise: Create a list of things we'd like God not to forbid, and talk about reasons why
- What happens when a trailing effect takes over as a purpose and primary cause?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas for conversation inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we begin working through chapter 7 of the book, which discusses sin.
Some discussion prompts related to this passage can include:
- Consider this thought: It was wreckless and unforgiveable of God to create humanity that could sin. What do we think about that? How do we respond as Christians?
- Is God failing, with the decline of Christianity?
We work through how we can have a helpful discussion about this "problem of evil" question that many people raise.
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the sixth chapter–Humanity.
Some discussion prompts related to this passage can include:
- How could Jesus be born and not have a fallen human nature?
- What inequalities has feminism created, and for whom?
- What became of women who wanted to stay home when others left?
- What became of men leaving home to play the industrialist game?
- Why should there be equality in the world?
- As members of God's kingdom, how do we think about equality differently?
- Are we masters or stewards?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the sixth chapter–Humanity.
Some discussion prompts related to this passage can include:
- What does it mean to be male? What if being male means to be twice as effected by injustices as anyone else? What else is intregal to being male?
- What if God knew and makes good of evil, always in equal proportions?
- What should we think of men who disadvantage themselves in the extreme for the sake of women?
- What is the male counterpart to the imcomparability of child-bearing?
Note, my podcasts on Genesis 1--3 also tie in with this subject matter. You can listen to the following episodes: Genesis 1:1-25; Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 1:28--2:7; Genesis 2:7-17; Genesis 2:18; Genesis 2:19-25; Genesis 3:1-5; Genesis 3:6-7; Genesis 3:8-15; and Genesis 3:16-24.
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the sixth chapter–Humanity. Specifically, we are still asking questions and thinking about discussion around the Genesis 2 passage when God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.”
Some discussion prompts related to this passage can include:
• Where was Eve when God told Adam how creation works? • Why didn’t God make Eve at the same time He made Adam? • What are the responsibilities of the male? • What are the responsibilities of the female? • How does this compare with people’s typical thinking about equality? • What is the essence of the person and the essence of the content of life?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the sixth chapter–Humanity. Specifically, we consider the idea of woman being made for man.
How is the woman a helper, and why does she remain before man? What does that mean? What has it been turned into, and what is the proper understanding?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the sixth chapter–Humanity. Here are some questions for discussion:
- What is the image of God?
- What does "dominion" mean, properly speaking?
- What did Adam get wrong?
- How should we think about power?
- Why was it not good for man to be alone?
I mention the Green Arc model. You can find a visual of this model here.
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the sixth chapter--Humanity. Here are some questions for discussion:
- How to be made in the image of God, but not be God, and not fail?
- What does it take for eternal contentment?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the fifth chapter--Creation. Here are some questions for discussion:
- Why creation and not evolution?
- Can we settle the question of origins?
- Where do we start the conversation to set a tone of collaboration, rather than combativeness?
- Is evolution the only, or even the best, explanation?
- Can we survive a world that assumes evolution?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the fourth chapter–God. Here are some questions for discussion:
- Does God have control, or is He being controlled?
- Can a god be the workmanship of a person?
- Can you kill God?
- What about the problem of evil--if there is a god, why is there suffering?
- How do we handle objections to God in our culture?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we continue to consider how to have a conversation based on the fourth chapter–God. Here are some questions for discussion:
- Why is the way to be saved narrow?
- What is problematic about the above question?
- What else in life is narrow?
- What about injustices?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we consider how to have a conversation based on the fourth chapter--God. Here are some questions for discussion:
- If there is no god, what is god?
- If there is a living, sigular god, then how shall we proceed?
- What is the relationship of God to us and everyday life?
- What is God's will and design for relationship with us?
In this episode, I mention another talk about atheism. If you'd like to listen to that, find the link here.
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through ideas inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. In this episode we consider how to have a conversation based on the third chapter on Law and Gospel. Here are some questions for discussion:
- Why can't we import the kingdom of God into the world of human invention?
- What happens when we put the Gospel into our lives such as we are, in a Red Pyramid world?
- How does Law and Gospel work? Why does it fail in a Red Pyramid world?
- What should our perspective be when we read the Law?
- Is the news good if it still depends on me?
- What is essential in understanding the Gospel?
- What day is the Sabbath?
In this episode I mention worldviews. You can learn more about these by listening here.
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through questions inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. Chapter two of this book discusses revelation. The discussion about this topic began in the previous episode. This episode considers how we know things, and the special revelation from the Bible. What are some challenges the Bible has endured? What about other religious texts?
As the student questions series continues, I’m talking through questions inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. Chapter two of this book discusses revelation. What is revelation? What are different ways of knowing things? What serves as a constant, perpetual witness to God? This episode discusses these questions, and how to lead productive conversations about them.
As the student questions series continues, I'm talking through questions inspired from a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine–Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. Chapter one of this book is entitled, “The Task of Theology.” Today's episode continues the same topic as our last episode--the task of theology. Discussions I have with my students based on this chapter include:
- Consider the validity of this statement: "Deism is cruelty." What's the difference between theism and deism? Does it matter?
- What happens when I die? How do I know?
- What about while I live? Does religion only pay off when I die?
- Hasn't Christianity done a lot of harm throughout history?
- Why is theology so controversial?
I talk through how we can get students thinking deeply about these topics, sympathizing with where they are coming from, and lead them to truth.
As the student questions series continues, the next episodes will be based around a text we use in Core Theology class at Concordia University-Irvine--Called to Believe by Steven Mueller. Chapter one of this book is entitled, "The Task of Theology." Discussions I have with my students based on this chapter include:
- What is truth?
- What is religion?
- What is faith?
In this episode, I discuss how to navigate conversations around these questions.
As we continue from the previous episode on origins and evolutionarianism, in this episode, I have suggestions for what to do in conversation when a person isn't open to hearing anything. What if someone is so adamant about their beliefs that they won't consider alternatives? How can we ask questions and find a way to open up the conversation to reach that person?
In this episode, we start thinking about leading conversations around origins, or as I call it, "evolutionarianism". Let's consider our attitude toward science. Is religion contrary to science? How can we come together and have positive conversations about objective reality? How can we lead a classroom conversation about this, especially in a way that is collaborative, not combative?
As we continue thinking about free will and how best to engage people in conversation to challenge assumptions, this episode focuses on how we tend to think of maturing. Is the modern-day notion of what it means to reach maturity an accurate one? What are some big concerns regarding this in our current culture? What are important, eternal truths to recognize as we work through this issue?
We continue thinking about free will by considering if we can test for free will. Some example questions include:
- Have you ever done anything you regret?
- What don't we have the ability to change, even if we wanted to?
- What does our DNA consist of?
- What is the most effective way to keep a person in bondage?
- Are decisions and choices cause or effect? How does free will effect our choices?
- Is the essence of life decisions ... or discovery?
No free will?? This is an important topic, because how you think about free will affects how you read the Bible. So, how do I approach this in my classes to get students to reconsider widely-held notions? What are tests for free will? What are some key words in the Bible to shed light on the idea of "will"?
We're aware the criticism from the world around us regarding the Bible. How can we look at the arguments people have, and address them in a helpful way? In this episode I share statements I typically make to my students to get them thinking and talking.
I mention Lee Strobel's book, The Case for Christ, which you can find here.
In this series about questions we can ask to spur conversation, we've talked about worldviews and collaboration versus competition. Now we consider some illustrations that can further explain worldviews, including:
- The coast guard
- A drowning person
- Physican/hospital
- Fasting at Panera
- Ambassadors and stewards
This episode references my new book, The Parabolic Universe, which you can find here.
As we continue thinking about questions to ask students, and prompts to get them engaged in the classroom, this episode considers the ideas of collaboration versus competition. Different avenues of converation can include:
- Consider various models where collaboration is used, versus those where competition is the driver.
- What are strategies we can use to resolve contentiousness?
- Think about worldviews--are we just a body, or a body and soul? Consider Jesus' illustrations of old and new wineskins in Matthew 9.
In this episode, I mention the green arc model. You can find a visual and more information about that here.
This episode focuses on different prompts I introduce in my classes regarding worldview, including talking about where to start conversations and how to find common ground, as well as when to step back.
I refer to the Red Pyramid and Green Arc worldviews in this episode. Here are the links a visual of each model. You can also learn more about these models by listening here.
There are certain topics/questions I introduce in all of my classes to set the tone and create an atmosphere where we are free to pursue the truth. Something we discuss at the very beginning of the semester are the words of Jesus in Matthew 7 when He commands us to judge not. What does that really mean? What kind of judgment is in the world all around us? Is it all bad? What was Jesus' intention here?
We also talk about consequences, and consider how truly interdependent we are. How can we be advocates for others, and faithful ambassadors for Christ to those around us?
In this conversation, I mention the thirteen aspects of the Gospel. You can find a PDF of that document, as well as the related podcast episode here.
In this episode, I share conversation starters I use in my university classes, especially at the beginning of a semester to set the tone for the class and what we'll be thinking about. The intent of the questions has to do with the nature of students, what young people are like, and what captivates them. My discussion prompts are:
- What if ________________?
- Are we allowed to talk about ____________?
- I am ________________.
By asking students to fill in the blanks, then starting the discussion around these questions, I'm inviting them to explore ideas, encouraging them that this is a safe place to engage in the life of the mind and discover what the Lord has to say in His Word.
In this episode, I share an exchange of ideas with a student who asked me about if Christians should be vegetarians. We consider such things as:
- What are the different aspects of this question?
- What did Jesus say about diet?
- What should be our priorities, as Christians?
- What if, as Christians, we were less wasteful?
- What virtues should we pursue?
In the final episode of this mini-series on my new book, The Parabolic Universe, we consider some parables of Jesus that are often considered repetitive. Are they, really? Or are they sequential, providing more wisdom with each successive story? We take a close look at the text of Matthew 13 (treasure in the field, pearl of great price, net catching fish) and Luke 15 (lost sheep, lost coins, lost sons) to examine this more.
In part 3 of the mini-series about the parabolic universe, we're taking a look at some parables of Jesus, going from the simple to those that are seemingly impossible to understand. These include the parable of the sower, the wise and foolish virgins, and the unfaithful steward. What are we to make of these?
This discussion is based off of my new book, The Parabolic Universe, a consideration of how God reveals Himself in nature.
As we continue this mini-series on the parabolic universe, this episode looks specifically at hermeneutics--the study of what the source intends the reader to understand (including translation and explanation). How do we rightly understand parables and how to apply them? We look into two ancient schools of thought, and consider Jesus' talk of bread in John 6, the parable of the ten virgins, and the parable of the sower.
This discussion is based off of my new book, The Parabolic Universe, a consideration of how God reveals Himself in nature.
This episode is an introduction to my new book, The Parabolic Universe, a consideration of how God reveals Himself in nature.
In the past few hundred years, the church has abandoned nature as bearing witness to God. Why is that? Think about Bible passages such as Psalm 19 and Romans 1. Where in nature can we see a parabolic element, of physical things showing a spiritual truth? We'll dive deeper into this in upcoming episodes.
What if all atheists are functionally believers in a god? What if every human being according to our human nature is functionally atheist? This episode explores what actually functions as god in people's lives, compared to the true and living God who regenerates our soul in the image of His own Son so that we know the blessedness, peace, and joy of believing.
In the final episode of this mini-series on the nature of salvation, we consider salvation as nutritional. What does that mean? It's something Jesus talked about all the time, but we never do. Why? How does it contrast with other ways to think about the nature of salvation?
Bible references made in this episode include John 6, John 8:31-32, and Deuteronomy 6.
As we work through this series about the nature of salvation, in this episode we consider a person's disposition. How does the Bible describe people who are saved? Consider the disposition of those in the Bible who were helped by God. We think specifically about Hagar, Esther, Job, and New Testament accounts of Gentiles and Jews.
In the latest episode of the "How Salvation Works" series, let's consider salvation as a result of connectedness/inseparability. Is salvation a result of what we are connected to? Think about marriage as an example, or the relationship of a mother and child. There are excellent passages in the book of John that demonstrate this truth (chapters 4, 6, 8, 10, 15).
Typically we think of salvation as intellectual, or what you can do. But our ideas tend to be backward. Looking at salvation geographically brings that into focus.
This episode discusses the idea of salvation as geographical, and we consider many biblical narratives and verses about being in proximity to Christ.
In the episode, I mention The Parabolic Universe book on Amazon. You can find it here.
As we continue the consideration of the nature of salvation, in this episode we examine if salvation is volitional--an act of the will. What should we think about the human will? What about the will of God versus human will?
In this episode, I make reference to a few other episodes. You'll find links to those below:
- Genesis 1:1-25
- Genesis 1:26-27
- Genesis 1:28--2:7
- Genesis 2:7-17
- Genesis 2:18
- Genesis 2:19-25
- Genesis 3:1-5
- Genesis 3:6-7
- Genesis 3:8-15
- Genesis 3:16-24
- The Nature of God and Free Will
How should we think about emotions? What about God's emotions? Are our emotions a choice? Where do they fall in the dynamics of cause/effect in our lives?
What would God's wisdom tell us to think about the emotions we feel? What would stewardship have one do with these emotions?
The second installment of our salvations series, in this episode we consider if salvation is an intellectual processs--are we getting information about God, using our reason, and making an informed decision from there? What are the problems with this idea? What does the Bible say about this?
One of the many benefits of engaging students and bearing concerns and care for other people is that the gravity of our needs keeps pressing us more deeply into the green arc of God's truth and grace. Most recently I have been pressed into thinking about how Christianity and salvation can be thought about in several different ways. The Bible uses many different terms for those who are saved. In my experience, people restrict theology and salvation to matters of the head. The common idea is that a person is saved when the correct information is placed before them and the person decides how to respond as a matter of the intellect.
But what if salvation is more nutritional than intellectual? Is it possible for a person who knows all about nutrition to die from not eating? Compare that to an infant who doesn’t know anything about how nutrition works, but eats well, grows, and thrives.
Actually, there are several categories to think about and the whole idea is a great conversation starter. Here is what I have so far.
Is salvation mainly:
- Intellectual – Is the Bible information to decide on OR an antidote for what we think we know and for what we insist we are capable of?
- Emotional – Does our emontional state determine our salvation OR does salvation determine (even override) our emotional state?
- Volitional – Is salvation a product of our will OR is salvation a remedy for our will, such as it is (Jn 15)?
- Geographical – Is salvation a result of what you do (or don’t do) OR is salvation a result of where you live (Jn 17; Rm 8.1; Phil 3)?
- Relational – Is salvation a result of what we are connected to (Jn 15 vine and branches)
- Dispositional – What does a person’s disposition have to do with salvation: inquisitive vs critical; humble vs proud; penitent vs arrogant (look for various ways the Bible describes those who are saved – not just by saying those who have “faith”)?
- Nutritional – Does nutrition accomplish what God created it to do in the people He has created? Why are Jn 8:31-32 and Dt 6:4ff so widely ignored and unpracticed? (See also Jn 4, 6!!!!, 8)
There are some passages in the Bible--Exodus 32 and Numbers 14:20 are two such instances--that seem to indicate that God repents, or changes His mind. A student inquires about this. We consider the original Hebrew word, and discuss what to do when we encounter words in the Bible with uncertain meaning.
A follow-up question we also tackle in this episode is if our prayers change God's mind.
As a follow-up to the last episode about prayer, this is an explanation of the Lord's Prayer, and how we can think of it as a floor or platform, rather than a ceiling. We can use the structure of the prayer Jesus gave us to help make our prayers more effective.
You can read more about John 17--an expanded version of the Lord's Prayer--in this blog post, and hear more in podcast episodes 280 and 281.
In this episode, a student asks questions related to prayer. He struggles with prayer, and feels like he's just going through the motions. He grapples with others talking about a "personal relationship" with Jesus, and wonders what that means. We work through various aspects of his question. Included in this episode are references to:
- The Exegete's Prayer (Psalm 119:33-40)
- The Lord's Prayer as a template (see John 17)
- Red Pyramid and Green Arc perspectives. You can listen more here, and read here.
In this episode, I continue from our previous episode responding to a question about language in the Book of Concord. What new challenges do we face in our society that weren't there when the Book of Concord was written? When we think about salvation, is one "out until one's in"? Is that what the Book of Concord is saying? How should any ideas about salvation begin?
As the study of baptism continues, this student's question is related to language found in the Book of Concord. What is the Book of Concord? Does a regenerate soul=faith/belief/trust? Can you lose your regenerate soul?
In this episode, we consider Romans 6 and Titus 3 as they both relate to baptism. What does our anthropological view need to be as we read these passages? Why is a three-dimensional worldview essential? We take an in-depth look at these texts, clearly defining the terms we encounter.
As we continue to work through questions on baptism, today's are:
- Can you lose the regenerate soul as you "mature", or if your heart becomes hard?
- What is instruction given before adult baptism?
As we discuss these, I talk about the Red Pyramid worldview and a Green Arc worldview. Below are visuals that I reference in the episode.
As we continue to work through questions related to baptism, one student asks how baptism relates to faith/belief/trust? As we work through this, we define the terms faith/belief/trust. We'll talk about different worldviews, including a Red Pyramid World, which you can view a visual of below. What is the problem with thinking in this worldview?
Alternatively, we consider what happens when we look at a green arc worldview, with the Son of God at the center. A visual of that is below. What is faith/belief/trust in this universe?
This is the first of several questions regarding baptism. A student wonders when a soul is regenerated, thinking about John the Baptist leaping in the womb. As we work through this question, let's consider what each person consists of (body, soul, and spirit), and how life begins. How integral is the Word of God in our lives? How do we know an infant is a child of God? When Peter says, "Baptism now saves you," what did he mean?
This episode's question concerns evil--How does God take evil and use it for good? Does that make it good? In working through this, we define what good, evil, and wickedness all mean. How is it that evil is a necessity in the world? How is wickedness different from evil?
In this episode, a student asks about how the flood narrative and Israel in Exodus connect with baptism, and demonstrate sin and salvation. In answering, we look at examples throughout the Bible of both the Old Adam, and those who are honest about their dependance on God. Can we also see examples throughout history?
A student asks about the genealogy of Jesus as written in Matthew. How and why is it different from Luke? What are the point of genealogies in the Bible? What are important things to note, and what can we learn from them?
I've often told my students (and you've probably heard in this podcast) that we're living in the best of all possible worlds. A student asks how this could be. I talk through this, including why there is suffering, and how we view the life that God has given us.
This student question is related to 2 Corinthians 3:16-18--what is the freedom that is being spoken of in this passage?
In working through this question, we must consider, what worldview are we using as we are looking at the world? What is the essence of the image of God, regenerated in us? What would be a more helpful word to use when thinking about our own lives, rather than "freedom"?
How is it that Jesus is the firstborn of all creation, as mentioned in Romans 8 and Colossians 1? Why do Jehovah's Witnesses use Colossians 1 as evidence that Jesus is not God? What does firstborn mean in the New Testament?
Several students have questions about the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Discussed in this episode are:
- Why are God's words regarding the tree considered law?
- Did Adam and Eve eat from the Tree of Life before the Fall?
- What about the language the devil uses to tempt Eve?
As we look at this account from Genesis, you can also listen to a related episode on Genesis 3:6-7, found here.
A student asks about something I talk about in class a lot: different worldviews. Why is it problematic when we have only a one-dimensional worldview? Why does each person have conflicting thoughts? How can our worldview help seemingly contradictory Bible verses make sense?
I refer to the Red Pyramid and Green Arc worldviews in this episode. Here are the links to have a visual of each model.
A student asks what the vicarious atonement of Jesus means. In answering, we consider the demands of the law, biblical examples such as the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant, Abraham and Isaac, and (most importantly) Jesus and Barabbas. Recommended Bible passages are John 16 and 2 Corinthians 5:21.
A student asks, "What difference does the coming and going of Jesus make, if there is still fasting before and after his life, death, and resurrection?" In discussing the answer, we consider our interest in the law as Christians.
A student asks: Does being poor and lowly mean that you are automatically saved? In the response, we consider what being poor and lowly has to do with faith. How does this differ from popular thought? How does salvation work?
In this episode, a student asks how there can be any personal responsibility without free will. How can you test to determine if we do, in fact, have a free will? What about all of the "choice" language in the Bible? What about considering life as one of discovery, not of decisions?
Any questions/challenge to this episode? Contact me here.
The student question discussed in this episode is who is saved, and how? What is the downfall when we consider this question by starting with thinking about ourselves? Where should we start? How do we answer this question from God's perspective? How is Lazarus and the rich man a good example?
When and what was the nature of the first wrongdoing? Consider the creation account and God's design. How did Adam's failure and corruption come about? And what if Satan wasn't corrupted until after Adam?
To consider in this episode:
- How was the world made?
- How does Satan try to be God? Does this apply to us, as well?
- Why did God put the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden?
Some of the questions we consider in this episode are:
- If you are all-powerful, can you do whatever you want?
- Does God have a free will?
- When people think they have free will, what are they not taking into account?
- Is religion a choice people are free to make?
Did God set us up to fail in the way He created us?
In this episode, different worldviews are mentioned. You can find out more info about the Red Pyramid worldview here, and the Green Arc worldview here.
People often ask, "If there is a God, and He is all-knowing, all-powerful, all-good, why is there evil and suffering in the world?" The answer often given is unsatisfying and unhelpful. What are other ways that we can consider an answer to this question that defends the idea of an all-good, all-powerful God?
This episode addresses two student questions:
- Should we capitalize pronouns that refer to God? Why is this done inconsistently?
- What is the exegete's prayer? What is an exegete?
Starting a new topic for podcast episodes: questions I've received from students in my theology classes. This first episode deals with feeling inadequate.
This episode records a homily I preached for chapel at CUI at the end of November, in the transition from the end of the church year to Advent. The text is Malachi 2:13-16 and the subject is the abuse of women.
In this episode, hear the readings for Advent 1: Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, and Matthew 13:24-37. Also, hear a meditation based on the reading. What if these readings indicate the first true gift of Christmas? What if Christmas isn't about getting, but about taking away?
The armor of God passage. What are some things to note about these verses?
- Verse 10 mentions strength three times. What kind of strength?
- Read verse 12 and consider the magnitude of the fight we're in.
- From verse 13, who set the example of standing until the end?
- Consider the elements of each article of clothing in verses 14 through 17.
- What is the caveat in verse 1?
- Consider verse 3. What about when wonderful children die young?
- A book recommendation based on verse 6 is Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe.
- We see the divine economy in verse 8. What kind of life is the very best?
- How does verse 21 connect back to Genesis? How does submitting to God give us freedom?
- How does the original Greek in verse 22 differ from most translations?
- Note in verse 25--this is what it means to be male.
- What is the constant example that Paul keeps circling back to?
- verse 15--How do we walk carefully?
- verse 16--What is the evidence we see around us of the days being evil?
- verse 17--Which meaning of "will" is used here?
- verse 19--You can pause at this verse and spend a moment in 2 Corinthians 5.
- verse 20--The importance of giving thanks.
This is a continuation of the "walk in light" passage. It is about a life with activity, consistent with the Gospel, where we are drawing others into the light. How does Paul address our two natures in this passage?
Verse two tells us to "walk about". What is meant by that? What is encompassed in that phrase? And consider verse four. The mouth speaks what the heart is full of. So how should we live?
- What is THE lie referred to in verse 25?
- What is the danger of foul language (verse 29)? How can our perspective about language be different?
- What is "the seal" mentioned in verse 30?
- Verse 17 mentions "the futility of their thinking." How do we see this throughout all of history?
- The word "walk" appears five times in Ephesians 4 and 5. Why did Paul choose that word?
- In verses 9-10, to what does this parenthetical comment refer?
- As we read verses 11-13, we consider the concept of vocation.
- How does verse 14 apply in our day and age? Why is it important?
- In verse 1, what does it mean to be called? How about to "walk worthy"?
- Consider verse 2--what is foundational for getting along with others?
- What is notable about the Greek in verse 5? What does the original language show us?
- In verse 8, what self-view does Paul have, and how can we apply that perspective to our lives?
- What is wonderful about verse 12?
- Consider verse 17--when does Christ begin to dwell in us?
- How can we put verse 20 into practice?
- Chapter 2, verse 20 speaks of Christ as the cornerstone. What is the significance of the cornerstone?
- How can the original Greek clarify verse 21?
- In the first verse of chapter 3, we learn more about Paul's situation.
- To what does the mystery in verse 3 refer?
- What is important about the words "grace" and "gift" in this verse?
This passage has to do with the Gentiles in the flesh and the Jews. Some items to consider:
- What does circumcision symbolize?
- Note verse 14. It is a verse worth memorizing!
- Why was the Law given?
- What makes us into one family?
- Verses 1-6 show our condition in objective terms. What is wrong with us? What happens when we contradict God's design?
- Considering verse 3, how do we reconcile what we read here with the fact that there are nice people who aren't Christian?
- Notice the phrase from verse 1 that is repeated in verse 5.
- Verse 7 is wonderful! Consider the Gospels and Jesus' disposition.
- Look at verse 8. Faith is the opposite of what we do.
- More evidence of predestination is found in verse 10.
- In verse 13, note the sealing of the Holy Spirit, which we experience in the sacraments.
- What is strange about the Greek in verse 15?
- Verse 18 speaks of "the eyes of your hearts". What does that mean?
- Notice Paul's heaping up of descriptive words in verse 19.
- Verse 20 refers to the right hand of God--where is that?
- What does it mean that Christ is the head of the church?
There is a lot of content packed in these verses. How do we make sense of them? Why all the prepositional phrases? What importance do they have? What is the greatest praise and honor to God? Why do praise and glory go together?
I make mention of forgiveness of sins as "the tip of the iceberg". You can find out more about the 13 aspects of the gospel in this PDF and podcast episode #17.
Why study the book of Ephesians? Here are some things to consider from just the first few verses:
- What is included in the first verse? Compare it with 1 Peter.
- In verse 3, what are the heavenly places?
- How does verse 4 run counter to our culture? What wonderful message is bound up in God choosing us?
What do you remember from our study of the Book of John? What are the most important things that John addresses? How is John different than the other Gospels?
- What is up with Jesus asking Peter these, "Do you love me?" questions in verses 15-19?
- What is required in discipleship?
- What is the work of an undershepherd of Jesus?
- Consider verse 21. How often do we make trouble for ourselves when we wonder about others and compare ourselves with others?
- Compare verse 24 with 1 John
After Jesus' resurrection. What is unique about how John's Gospel records the time after the resurrection? Why didn't the disciples catch any fish at first? There are so many details in this passage. What is interesting about them?
Easter evening. Some things to consider from this passage:
- Look at verse 19. Like the apostles, where and from what do you hide? Notice Jesus' disposition. What brings peace?
- What do English translations often miss in verse 23?
- Is it right that Thomas gets a bad reputation from this account? What is a more accurate nickname than "Doubting Thomas"?
The Resurrection. What is interesting about verb tenses in John? Note all the details about Peter and John's arrival in verses 6-8. Also, what is the significance of the burial clothes lying there in verse 7? And what important thing does Jesus tell Mary Magdalene that we also need to know?
Jesus is crucified. In verse 24, note the specificity of the prophesies, so there can be no doubt that this is the Messiah. Verses 26-27 provide evidence of how Jesus takes care of all things: when He has the weight of all sin bearing down on Him, He is caring for His mother. And what does "It is finished," in verse 30 mean?
Jesus is beaten and delivered to be crucified. Here are some things to consider:
- What is the context we know from the other Gospels that shed light on Pilate's actions?
- Look at verse 15. Doesn't this summarize well what the religious leaders were all about?
- In verse 18, what is the significance of Jesus being crucified in the midst of sinners?
Jesus is on trial. Here are some highlights of the text:
- vs. 20--Note how Jesus was always careful to teach openly. Why?
- vs. 28--Consider the magnitude of this hypocricy of the religious leaders.
- vs. 34--Jesus asks the best questions.
- vs. 36--Jesus' kingdom is not of this world. What is important about the word order Jesus uses? How should we ponder this?
- vs. 38--The devil's primary target. How do we see this in our present day?
- vs. 40--What does the choosing of Barabbas over Jesus indicate?
Jesus is arrested. Have you considered why, in verse 3, they bring weapons to arrest Jesus? Also note the fantastic moment in verses 5-6. And how can we apply Peter's situation in verse 18 to our own lives?
Jesus' high priestly prayer continues here. Notice the contrast of our natures in verse 14. And in verses 20 and following, we see that Jesus is praying for us, too! For a full outline of how this prayer mirrors the shorter version of the Lord's Prayer as we know it, visit wordwithoutwalls.com.
This is the last of five chapters in John that take place in the Upper Room on Maundy Thursday evening. Here, Jesus prays a more extended version of the Lord's Prayer. What words are repeated throughout this prayer? Consider verse 9--should we always pray for everyone? And note that verse 11 is the very center of this prayer.
Maundy Thursday evening in the upper room continues. Look at verse 24 and consider--how is our joy made full? How should we ask for things in Jesus' name?
Maundy Thursday evening in the Upper Room continues.
- From verse 4, how will the disciples remain with Jesus in the future?
- Look at verse 7. Why did Jesus say it was better for Him to go away?
- What is so marvelous about verse 14?
- In verse 20, what helpful things does Jesus have to say about grief?
Maundy Thursday in the upper room continues; Jesus warns his disciples to expect the world to hate them. In this episode, I mention the different aspects of the Gospel. You can learn more about that on podcast episode 17, found here.
As Jesus continues to speak to His disciples on Maundy Thursday evening, we can consider:
- From verse 2, how does God "prune" each of us?
- In verses 5-6, what could be more clear than Jesus' words for our human ego?
- How can Jesus be so bold in His words in verse 7?
- See verse 9. How do we abide in Jesus' love?
- What is repeated in verses 12 and 17?
The account of Maundy Thursday evening continues. Here are some items of note:
- In verse 26, see the clear reference to to the Trinity
- What is the peace of which Jesus speaks?
- Who is the "ruler of this world" mentioned in verse 30?
As the account of Maundy Thursday evening continues, Jesus knows what is coming and comforts His disciples. When He says, "If you love me ..." what does "love" mean? What does "if" mean? How about "keep"? There is such richness in each of Jesus' words! Consider the idea of free will in relation to verse 24.
Maundy Thursday continues. Jesus is sharing with His disciples in the eleventh hour, before His passion.
- In verse 1, what is so rich about the Greek word for "troubled" that Jesus uses?
- Verse 12 is difficult. How should we consider it?
- From verse 14, when we ask for things in Jesus' name, what does this really mean?
The account of Maundy Thursday evening in the upper room continues. Some things to consider:
- In verse 17, what is the connection between knowing things and doing them?
- What is going on with Judas in verse 27?
- Why was it noted in verse 30 that it was night? Why is that important?
- What does it mean in verse 31 when Jesus says He is glorified?
This passage begins the account of the upper room on Maundy Thursday.
- Note verse 3; it is very important. There are three parts to it, and they explain everything.
- Jesus washes the disciples' feet. What truths does this act reveal?
- In verse 46, Jesus says He has come into the world as light. How does the sun bear witness to Jesus as the light of the world?
- Look at verse 47--Jesus has not come to judge the world. What does that mean? Compare that with John 3.
- Note in verse 49 the relationship and unity of the natures of the Godhead
- Verse 35--Jesus' responses to the people's questions don't sound like what you'd expect. Why is that?
- In verse 36, why did Jesus hide from the people?
- Isaiah's words in verse 40 are hard. how can we make sense of them?
- How can we apply verses 42-43 to our present day?
Palm Sunday continues. Note the non-Jews mentioned in verse 20, who also believed in God. In verses 23-26, what is Jesus speaking about? How do we make sense of it? Also note verse 31--it is an important verse to remember. What can Satan no longer do after Jesus' crucifixion?
- Mary Magdalene annoints Jesus' feet. Note that this is the only time in the Bible when Mary is identified as the sinful woman.
- In verse 6, what do we learn about Judas Iscariot?
- Verses 12-19 are an account of Palm Sunday. What are special things to note? What does His entrance into Jerusalem reveal about Jesus?
This passage concludes the account of Lazarus being raised from the dead.
- Look at verse 48. What is the real fear of the chief priests and Pharisees?
- In verses 50-51 there are two things going on. What are they?
- Note how verse 57 relates to the book of Revelation
The account of the raising of Lazarus continues.
- Verse 35 is the shortest book in the Bible. Why did Jesus weep?
- In verse 39, why did Jesus have others roll away the stone? How can we apply this to our own lives?
Some things to consider in the account of Lazarus being raised from the dead:
- What does John reveal in verses 1-2 that none of the other apostles do?
- In verses 5-6, if Jesus loved Lazarus and the sisters, why did He stay away?
- Look at verses 14-15. How does Jesus reorient our human thinking about death of the body?
- In verse 17, why was it important that Lazarus was in the tomb four days?
The Good Shepherd chapter continues:
- Consider verse 14--How are we known by Jesus?
- Verse 16--Who are the other sheep of a different fold?
- Verses 17-18--What fantastic things do these verses reveal?
- Note the climax in verse 30, as Jesus states who He is
Jesus' conversation with the Pharisees continues, and Jesus gives both beautiful and shocking language. What do His statements cause us to consider? How can we use this passage to think about the pastoral ministry. In verse 7, what does it mean that Jesus is the gate?
The narrative of Jesus healing the blind man continues. Note how the (formerly) blind man interacts with the Pharisees. What is beautiful about it? What is God teaching us about our own natures through this passage?
This is an important chapter in the book of John. Contrast it with the account of the lame man in chapter 5.
- What does the disciples' question in verse two reveal about the mindset of the day?
- Why do all of Jesus' healings seem to take place on a Sabbath?
- In verse 22, notice the power of formality
- What is it that makes us human? Is it a free will, or discovery?
- What is a constant theme throughout John?
- In verse 49, note Jesus' interesting response to the Pharisees
Jesus is the light of the world.
- Jesus is the pinnacle of faith/belief/trust. How does this contrast with those who attempt to assert their own ego?
- Jesus defines Christianity in verse 31. What if we were faithful to this?
- Look at verse 34. How does this align with the assertion that people have a free will?
Why are these verses not included in some Bible translations, or included within brackets and special notes? When the Pharisees brought the woman, who is missing in the scene? What was Jesus writing on the ground?
- Notice in verse 30--nothing can subvert God's plan.
- In verse 35, see how hard the Pharisees' hearts are, that they can't understand Jesus' words.
- How can we make sense of verse 39, "the Spirit had not yet been given"?
- In verse 50, Nicodemus turns up again, and we see him showing great courage.
- The Pharisees were wrong in their answer in verse 52. What is significant about the answer?
- What is important about verse 8 and Jesus' consiousness about fulfulling all things?
- Is Jesus changing His mind in verse 10?
- How does Jesus use reason and logic to point out inconsistencies in verse 23?
- See verse 27. Where does Jesus come from?
- vs. 60--Why is Jesus' teaching "hard"?
- vs. 63--This verse is worthy of memorizing
- Consider verses 70-71. How does this parallel our own lives?
In verse 53, Jesus' language shocks everyone, and inspires criticism of Christianity for years to come. How can we understand this verse properly? Also note that Jesus continues to turn right-side-up how we consider the material world and the soul.
- What is a common misconception that Jesus addresses in this passage?
- How should we think differently about the kingdom of heaven?
- What language is supposed to make us stop in our tracks?
- What are the key things to remember about predestination/election?
- What is this about Jesus being the bread of life? What does that mean?
The crowds wonder how Jesus got across the sea. How do these people compare with Israel of the Old Testament? How are they similar to Nicodemus and the woman at the well?
What important contrasts does Jesus identify in this passage, to reorient their thinking?
This chapter of John tells of the feeding of the 5,000, which the other three Gospels also include in their accounts. What special details are in the Gospel of John?
What about Jesus walking on water? How could we respond to critics who say this didn't really happen, or is exaggerated?
In this passage, Jesus discusses the witnesses to him. Who is Jesus calling out here? What about Jesus' words would shock his audience?
Could these verses be John's counterpart to Matthew 23's "woe" section?
- How was Jesus "loosening" the Sabbath?
- Consider verse 19. Does Jesus have a free will? How does this instruct us for how we might live?
- Look at verse 24. Can we be confident in eternal life?
- How do verses 24-29 give us clarity about the Last Day?
In the account of the healing at the pool of Bethesda, here are some questions we consider:
- Why do we read so often of Jesus healing on the Sabbath?
- What do Jesus' words to the man in verse 14 reveal about the man and his situation?
- What about verse 4? Why is it missing in several translations?
After the account of the woman at the well, we read of the Capuranum official with the sick son. Why does Jesus often push back on people who come to Him for help?
As mentioned in this episode, I've done a study of when the words "it is necessary" and "unless" are included in the Gospel of John. If you're interested to learn more, contact me here.
Witness the change in the woman's attitude in verses 28 and 29.
When Jesus' disciples urge him to eat, what is the food that Jesus speaks of? What gives Jesus energy? How does this help explain the forty days of fasting in the wilderness?
What is the meaning of the short parable in this passage? What does it reveal about God's nature?
The account of the woman at the well continues. Where is her mind stuck? How is she similar to Nicodemus from the previous chapter? How can we learn from her situation?
In this podcast episode, I reference the red pyramid world. You can see a visual of this concept here. As we move into chapter four--Jesus meeting the woman at the well--we encounter these questions:
- Why was it necessary for Jesus to go through Samaria?
- What do the details of the story reveal to us about the woman?
This passage provides a great example: why is a three-dimensional anthropolgy necessary when reading the Bible?
Verse 23 inspires us to consider the sacrament of baptism more closely.
Look at verse 27 and compare that with the idea of free will.
Nicodemus's visit with Jesus continues. What is the connection between Jesus and Moses lifting up the serpant in the wilderness? What is significant about it being a serpant?
This passage also includes the famous and beloved John3:16. We will break it down and really consider what it means.
Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night. How are the two natures that exist in all people exhibited in Nicodemus? What does "generated from above" mean? How does looking at this passage in the original Greek help inform us about the text? Where can we see the Trinity referenced? Jesus speaks of the witness of nature--what can it show us?
When Jesus states in verse 19 about destroying this temple, what is the significance of this exchange? Jesus didn't entrust Himself to the people, as stated in verse 24. How can this verse inform us about human relationships? How does Biblical Christianity differ from all other world religions?
In this passage, the two temples meet. How does Jesus--the living temple--compare to the temple made of stones? How can we examine ourselves and our own lives based on this narrative? How does John's account of the cleansing of the temple differ from the other Gospel accounts, and why might that be?
The Wedding at Cana. Why does Jesus respond to His mother as he does? How can His question to her also instruct us? What does Jesus' miracle show about God? What is the glory of Jesus?
Jesus begins calling his first apostles. What is included in the Gospel of John that isn't in the other Gospels? What can we find helpful as we translate directly from the original language as we study John?
Why did John the Baptist dress, eat, and live like he did? Why did he need to prepare the way for the Lord?
Consider how, in just fourteen verses, John has summarized the creation of the world up to the New Testament, and the promises for a savior fulfilled.
Verse 16 states that Jesus "tabernacled" among us. What does that mean? Why is this literal translation important, as opposed to what some English Bibles say?
How can the language and grammar of the original Greek text inform our reading of this text? What is the importance of John the Baptist? How is one born of God?
"In the beginning ..."--what significance is contained in just the first few words of the Gospel of John? Here we begin our study of the last New Testament book written.
This episode is the conclusion and a summary of the Next Generation Theology series. What does the Bible actually say? How can we open the door to conversations with others? What are good questions to ask?
The gospel or “good message” of the Bible is NEVER anything that sounds like a condition you have to meet, like “you can be saved if….”
One of the essential elements of the good message—evident all through Jesus’ teaching in the New Testament—is that “YOU CAN’T HAVE TO.”
Consider an example of someone who offers to plant your favorite fruit tree in your yard and it is ever-bearing. The soil, sun, rain, and the tree produce fruit all because God makes it so. In short, the good message of God to us by every means of revelation is that He has already and continues to save us. Please keep in mind this “can’t have to” principle of the good message as we move forward.
How should we be sharing the good news with others? What does it really mean? The way most people experience the good news message in their encounters with Christianity doesn't sound like good news at all. How can we begin conversations in a compelling and grace-filled way that reflects the actual good news of the Bible?
God has already saved everyone from before creation. Like a mother’s womb and the atmosphere of our world that provides our life – this is the context we are conceived in. Thus life and salvation isn’t something you get yourself into, but something you grow in awareness of, realizing the reality surrounding you. This is the "God saves you" religion vs. "you save you"; this is Christianity X, and that single religion that is the reality that everyone depends on.
The “you save you” religion, which includes all others, means that you not only have to save yourself, but you have to get into that salvation from where you are; you don’t have it until you get it. At the same time, you are trying to get happiness in competition with everyone else and with the specter of some god or religious force expecting you to be selfless and good when that’s not how happiness is obtained in our world.
What is the connection between the pursuit of happiness and the pursuit of religion as a means of obtaining that happiness? How about the brief and vulnerable nature of materialistic happiness, the burden of saving oneself as counterproductive in the pursuit of happiness?
Contrast all that with a religion where all depends on God. God saves and provides for all, exceedingly abundantly beyond all we could imagine; who gives us our heart's desire more often and more accurately than we ever could.
Religion, to most people, means a system of thinking and practices; most think of one of the world religions.
For our conversation, “religion” means “what governs.” Everyone does something religiously, and what governs a person can be known with accuracy, in contrast to what a person may say they believe.
How many religions are there? There are four possible answers; we'll consider them all.
As the next point of consideration for Next Generation Theology, let's consider happiness. It's something that everyone desires.
What is the difference between joy and happiness? How about biblical happiness versus that which comes from human invention?
Young people from mid-40s to teens have abandoned traditional religion in general and what they assume is Christianity in particular. Their world and language has changed so dramatically that traditional ways of communicating no longer work. Is the truth and grace of God of such a nature that it can be communicated to the younger generations? Let’s see.
Begin with what makes us the same: we are dependent beings, and interdependent. Prudence urges us to be careful about what our life depends on.
Everything in the Bible and human history is a result of what is recorded in Genesis 1--3. Biblical history points to and then flows from the fulfillment of God’s promises of a Savior, evident in the Gospels that record the life of Jesus, the incarnate Son of God, conceived by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary. Paul’s letter to the Hebrews in the New Testament is intensely focused on Genesis (and Exodus) for understanding the human condition and God’s redemptive work for our lives.
Jacob’s burial is recorded, followed by his sons' fear of Joseph and plea for mercy. Genesis concludes with a simple statement of what all of history reveals, especially the life of Jesus, the life of Job, and Paul’s observation in Romans 8:28 and 2 Corinthians 4:16-18: God makes all things work together for good.
Jacob’s last words to his other sons are a reflection on each son’s history and character. We might also find it interesting to remember Jacob’s words about each son as we read their history in the rest of the Old Testament. Notice how much more time Jacob spends on Judah, from whom the promised Savior will descend according to his human nature.
Jacob blesses Joseph’s sons, reversing birth order against Joseph’s complaint, impressing us again with the contrast between the less significant formalities of physical life and the truly significant substantiveness of the life that God works in us by means of His promises.
The famine continues and Joseph’s wise service to Pharaoh is impressive. Over the years, the people spend their money, livestock, lands, and then their own lives for bread; thus they are impoverished and Pharaoh is enriched. Still, Joseph lets the people live in their homes and on their lands and keep four-fifths of what they grow while continuing to deliver one-fifth to Pharaoh. Is this also illustrative of our life in this body in this world? We are bound in so many ways because of our physical life, appetites, and limitations, yet God grants us liberty while we live here. Contrast this with the life of the regenerate soul – completely free and devoted to stewardship and ambassadorship of the kingdom of heaven.
Joseph sends for Jacob, and Jacob journeys to Egypt. Jacob’s life is especially illustrative of the children of God (also known as children of promise, which is illustrative of our regenerate soul). Jacob’s sojourn in this world (in his physical body) includes time in Egypt. Jacob’s family is reunited and he receives Joseph back from the dead with the addition of Joseph’s two sons. Jacob will pass away in body in Egypt, but will be buried with his father Isaac and grandfather Abraham back in the Promised Land. The next book of Old Testament history is Exodus, which will record how human nature becomes enslaved to the prince of this world, the corruption of this world, and the passions and lusts of the corruption of our flesh. The holy family--Joseph, Mary, and Jesus--will travel into and out of Egypt as part of Jesus’ work of redeeming us from bondage to sin, death, and the devil.
Joseph reveals himself to his brothers. Best of all, he explains how all this was God’s doing to make Joseph a servant/leader who could manage the grain to preserve life. Notice how Joseph sends provisions and carts for Jacob and the family, which is the physical evidence of the brothers’ report that Joseph was alive – physical means of confirming God’s Word as God has been doing all along and does for us still in the sacraments.
Joseph finishes working out his test for the brothers. This test will bring Judah to confess the guilt of the brothers, how justice as a function of God’s creation found them out, and most of all, Judah’s intercession and offer of himself as substitute--all indicative and foreshadowing of the Son of God who will become a son of Judah and accomplish what Judah could not.
Joseph’s brothers return with Benjamin. Note well how Judah is the speaker; his history is in exact contrast with that of the Savior that will come from his descendants. Note also how Judah does indicate the nature of the Savior when he offers to sacrifice himself if necessary to return Benjamin to Jacob.
Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt and Joseph begins to test them. The brothers cannot possibly figure out what’s going on, but God by way of Joseph knows exactly what the purpose and result of this trial is--reconciliation!
Pharaoh’s dreams remind the butler of Joseph, after two years. God consistently makes us wait until our human nature gives up; thus we come to authentic and lasting honesty about dependence (consider Jesus’ disciples’ fears and concerns about forgetting to bring bread – and Jesus’ exasperation with them). God has established Joseph’s character as one of honesty, humility, and service. Thus Pharaoh appoints Joseph over Egypt to store and sell grain.
Pharaoh’s butler and baker are in prison and they both have dreams. Joseph interprets their dreams; the butler is restored but the baker is hanged. Joseph makes clear that interpretation belongs to God, as 2 Peter 1 says, “No prophecy is of any private interpretation” and Luther taught, “The Bible interprets itself.” My experience has been that there are always at least two ways to know if an interpretation of text or nature is accurate.
Note also that God leaves Joseph in prison two more years before the butler remembers him; how long does it take for God to strengthen a regenerate soul to remain dominant in service to God and others and prevail over a selfish, corrupt human nature?
The Lord is with Joseph in Potiphar’s house and blesses him there, but Potiphar’s wife lusts after Joseph and then falsely accuses him when he refuses to commit adultery with her. Potiphar, in his anger, puts Joseph in prison. But even (or especially) there, the Lord is with Joseph and blesses him there also.
Judah’s wickedness is exposed through his sons and then his own mistreatment of Tamar. Human sexuality is an exceedingly sensitive subject, so we must consider the import of this chapter with great care. First of all we need to remember the context of our conversation:
- We remember that God, has in Christ, reconciled the world to Himself; thus it is not what we do or don’t do that justifies us, but the disposition of repentance and honesty about dependence on God;
- As Paul says three times in 1 Corinthians, “all things are lawful…” but not all things are helpful, so our consideration of human sexuality is not about judgment or guilt but about recovering God’s design and goodness for us;
- We remember the biblical worldview that reminds us that our essence is a soul regenerated in the image of Christ that lives within a corrupt and contrary physical body. Thus we can distinguish between who we ARE and what we DO.
The nature of the wickedness of Er and Onan, which we see also in Judah and Judah suspected was in Shelah, is the corruption of Adam: to take rather than give. Taking rather than giving is especially grievous and problematic in sexual relationships. God created us in His image so that our relationships would be productive and creative – like His own. Any time we turn from the green arc mindset of providing for and bearing responsibility for others, especially children, we lose the blessings of the essence of life.
Joseph shares his dreams with his brothers, and Joseph is sold to Potiphar in Egypt. Notice that a dream repeated means the thing is certain, as Joseph will explain to Pharaoh in time. Consider also how God trained Joseph in humility so that he would be the very best of rulers, second only to Pharaoh and so Joseph would be the agent of reconciliation with his brothers.
Jacob returns to Bethel. Notice the idolatry always going on just beneath the surface. Rachel dies as Benjamin is born; Isaac dies. Then the descendants of Esau are reviewed before we go on with our focus on the descendants of Jacob from whom will come the promised Savior.
Dinah goes to visit the women of the land and is violated when Hamor’s son, Schechem takes what is not his, though his love for her sounds genuine. Treachery, deceit, and revenge follow, climaxing when the sons of Jacob kill all the men of Schechem and take captive all the women, children, and property.
On his way home, Jacob wrestles with God. Note well, the Word of God comes to Jacob and they wrestle; Jacob will not let go of the Word until He blesses him. This is the seed on good ground in contrast to the seed on the path, on the rocks, or among the thorns.
Jacob flees from Laban, and Laban pursues him. Listen carefully for the language about honesty about dependence on God, for the language of fear about depending on God, for the language of greed and insistence on selfish control. What do we learn from Rachel and the idol she stole?
Leah and Rachel compete for children; Jacob makes another deal with Laban. You don’t need to make a deal with God; you can’t count on a deal made with corrupt human nature.
Jacob meets Rachel, makes a bargain for her, gets four times more than he bargained for, and begins to have a family.
Isaac blesses Jacob, not Esau. Here is a typical scenario of human relationships--all the result of Esau’s appetite and ego concerning his birthright and Rebekah and Jacob doing what they can to make sure Esau doesn’t get away with it. Indeed, we weave tangled webs.
In this chapter's account of Isaac and Abimelech, the pattern of Abraham is repeated; the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. How many of us repeat the failures of those who precede us and even repeat our own failures?
Such is the nature of Adam’s corruption in us and, by contrast, the perfection of Christ. Jesus is always doing what is best/right on our behalf and then in us by way of our soul being regenerated in His image.
This episode discusses:
- Abraham and Keturah
- Abraham’s death and burial
- the children of Ishmael and Isaac
- Esau selling his birthright
Abraham sends his servant back to Sarah’s family to find a wife for Isaac. Notice the fidelity of the servant, as well as the providence of God and people’s recognition of it, especially that romance follows fundamentals.
God provides a model of the saving work of His Son who will take on a fully human nature through a descendant of Abraham. Notice the details: Isaac is Abraham’s son, only son, and beloved (see John 3:16). They go to Mt. Moriah, which is where Solomon’s temple will be built and near the place of Jesus’ crucifixion. Isaac carried the wood for the fire as Jesus carried His cross. Abraham tells the servants that he will return with Isaac (see Hebrews 11:17-19). God Himself provided the ram for the sacrifice—the substitute for Isaac.
Abraham took a third wife and had five more children. So, who are the children of Abraham? Not any of the seven born according to the flesh, but only Isaac according to the promise, indicative of the regenerate soul, the “Israel of God” (see John 3, Romans 2:28-29, and Galatians 3:29).
Isaac is born—here is indisputable, historical reality as evidence that God gives life to the dead. Also, that we live on through our descendants is a witness to God giving everlasting life. Hagar and Ishmael are sent away as a practical necessity, but also as another historical parallel to the human condition and God’s saving work (see Paul’s reference to this in Galatians 4:21-31).
Abimelech appears again, this time wanting to make a covenant with Abraham. Notice how Abraham never wavers from his consciousness and practice of sojourning here: his physical life is like his tent; Abraham looks toward a better dwelling place, a regenerated body and recreated universe (Hebrews 11:8-12).
This passage addresses Abraham and Abimelech, with a second occurrence of Abraham’s fear that a king will kill him in order to take Sarah. A second time, God protected Abraham. Abraham is a model of honesty about dependence, a stranger and sojourner on the earth. But he still lives in a corrupt human nature subject to fear. This passage is a reminder of how God sets limits on evil and harm done; God controls conception; and God does not deal with us according to our iniquities, though there are consequences for what we do in a material world.
Lot moves out of the small city of Zoar to the mountains. Lot’s two daughters are so afraid of being childless that incest with their father seems to them the only way. Moab is born to the older daughter and Ben-Ammi to the younger. The Moabites and Ammonites will be trouble for Israel in the future, as will be the Ishmaelites.
Remember to distinguish the history of corrupt human nature from God’s work of regenerating souls and inspiring people to faithfulness and good. It is not the physical descent that determines our relationship with God, but honesty about dependence in the soul.
Two angels arrive in Sodom. Lot presses them to stay in his house; all the wicked Sodomites press against Lot’s door in order to abuse them. Lot’s two natures are evident and expose our own. God shows patience and the difficulty of Him saving us from ourselves as the angels must take Lot and his family by the hand and bring them out (the same will be said of Israel in Egypt).
Again, the Son of God visits Abraham, in human form and with two angels. Abraham shows appropriate hospitality. Again, the Lord confirms the promise by telling Abraham that He will return in a year and Abraham will have a son by Sarah.
Like so many people in the Old Testament, Abraham will give us insight into the nature of the promised redeemer when he intercedes for Sodom. The Lord’s patience is indicative of His will that none should perish (see 1 Timothy 2:4 and 2 Peter regarding His patience). How horrific was the situation in Sodom and Gomorrah? Like all people before the flood, so bad that not even 10 faithful people can be found—even Lot, his wife, and two daughters have been drawn into their wickedness.
God repeats His promise of a son to Abram; Abram pleads with God on the basis of human limitations and desire for control: Can’t Ishmael be the one? God adds another form of confirmation for His promise—He changes Abram’s name (“exalted father”) to Abraham (“father of a multitude”). He blesses Sarai and changes her name to Sarah (same meaning but still a pronunciation change that reminds her of God’s promise). God adds certainty by setting a time; there will be no more waiting. Abraham’s plea for Ishmael is not in vain; the Lord will make a great nation of Ishmael and we do well to remember that when thinking about Middle Eastern people—of course all people are God’s special and particular creation, so we love and respect them all.
Sarai is impatient and takes control of gaining a child by giving Hagar, her Egyptian servant, to Abram as a wife. Abram suffers from the corruption of Adam by collapsing to her will instead of bearing responsibility for supporting her with the promises and assurances (and ways) of God.
What trouble follows and who blames whom when Abram, Sari, and Hagar all contradict God’s design for us? Hagar runs away and the Son of God, “the Angel of the Lord,” restores her with His Word; Ishmael will be a people in the midst of Abram’s other descendants.
God reminds Abram that He is Abram’s shield and exceedingly great reward; if we are with God, all that is God’s is ours. Abram complains that God has not provided him with an heir, leaving Abram to assume that when he dies, his life is over. Not so. God consistently waits until our ego exhausts itself; we are not the source of our own life. When exhausted we come to rest in the green arc of God’s providence for us—this is honesty about dependence.
Consider Israel’s situation between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army or Lazarus dead and buried four days before Jesus came: too late, absolutely impossible. This is when we abandon our ego and realize who God is for us. God adds a reminder based on the stars: so many will Abram’s descendants be, not physical descendants, but like Isaac, people generated by God’s promise (see John 3).
Lot is taken captive and Abram rescues him. Melchizedek (see Hebrews 7) blessed Abram and received a tithe from Abram as early indicator of the contrast between the unilateral covenant that God made (a Seed of the woman would crush the serpent’s head) and the bilateral covenant that God made through Moses with Israel at Sinai, which demonstrated the human inability to ever do even the simplest things that the law requires.
Abram goes to Egypt because of a famine in Canaan; this prefigures the Israelites in Egypt. But even more, it illustrates the sojourn of a regenerate soul in this world of famine and desert because of its rejection of God’s revelation in natural and special revelation.
Abram is the father of those honest about dependence, but that is still a function of God’s Word and Spirit, not something of Abram’s own nature or doing – thus Abram is still human and still fails to trust God. Thus, Abram tells a half-truth about Sarai in order to protect himself. Here we see more foreshadowing as Pharaoh takes what is not his and is plagued accordingly.
Abram returns to the place he was between Bethel and Ai. God’s great material blessing of Abram and Lot is a source of strife between their herdsmen. Abram, as a type of Christ, intercedes to make peace, inviting Lot to choose where he would sojourn. Lot, like materialistic, selfish human nature, chooses what he assumes is best for himself (remember Cain’s choice of vocation?) but that will become big trouble. God re-confirms His promises to Abram and adds a physical element of confirmation—Abram’s descendants will be as the dust of the earth.
Abram’s life is parabolic. God calls Abram out of his country, family, and house to live in a tent in a foreign land, yet God is thus blessing Abram (“bless” = to become what God intends) by enveloping him in promises of life infinite. Abram and Sarai are childless, yet God will make a nation from him. In Abram all the nations of the earth will be blessed, that is, the promised Redeemer will come incarnate through a descendent of Abram and the Redeemer is for all people. The genuine children of Abram, the Israel of God, are all souls regenerated by God’s Word and Spirit—everyone honest about dependence. Note how Abram’s situation leaves him ready and willing to be honest about dependence on God and so compliant with God’s instructions.
The Tower of Babel: One language, that is to say, one manner of speaking, plus a human response to some notion of the threat of being scattered. God’s creation invites us to be creative in His image, to seek to recover His name (“name” has to do with God’s nature) as our own rather than make a name for ourselves. Here we see the red pyramid thinking of Adam reassert itself even after the example of Cain and the flood, in contrast to the green arc of God’s nature and creation. Human power structures and building programs tend to destroy natural resources and natural relationships between people; dishonesty about dependence does this. Creativity and imagination that is honest about dependence tends and cares for God’s creation even while working with it to restore our lives from the consequences of Adam’s corruption. Similarly, so much wonderful art work preserves for us and inspires us with beauty in God’s created universe.
The Bible pauses at certain places to give overviews or reviews. Before moving on with Shem’s history, the book of Genesis gives a summary of Noah’s other two sons and their descendants. Egypt is “Mizraim” in Hebrew and also referred to as the land of Ham. The other names of the descendants of Ham are the nations of North Africa and, of course, Canaan is to the north and east of Egypt. The descendants of Japheth migrated toward present-day Europe. Shem’s genealogy is last because his history is where we follow the fulfillment of God’s promise of a savior.
After the flood, God blesses Noah and his sons. The blessing to be fruitful and multiply, as God did with Adam and Eve, confirms God’s power and will that His creation should support life. God instructs that animals as well as plants are for food; perhaps because in our fallen state we need that option for nutrition and perhaps as a solemn reminder that the corruption of Adam has far reaching effects that bring death rather than life. God’s promise has a physical confirmation in the rainbow.
While Noah found favor with the Lord, Noah was still fully human. Noah planted a vineyard, made wine, and drank too much—but who can blame him? Ham and Canaan were disrespectful of Noah to such a degree that they brought a curse upon themselves. The curse of Ham and Canaan will be evident in Israel’s history to come.
Verse one of this passage says that God remembered Noah. He had never forgotten him. Rather, when God remembers it means that His Word, will, and promises are going to take effect (consider Jesus’ institution of the Lord’s Supper: “… do this in remembrance of Me.”) Noah tests the receding of the water but does not leave the ark until God commands him to do so. Noah built an altar and made a sacrifice—an animal substitute, a reminder of God’s promise of a Redeemer. God will not again destroy the world with a flood.
The flood narrative: God saw that Noah was righteous in that generation, meaning that Noah was honest about dependence on God, in contrast to the rest of the human population generated according to the flesh, dominated by the corruption of Adam. Seven pairs of clean animals were on the ark since they would be used for sacrifice later on. Noah was 500 years old at the end of chapter 5, and in this passage, he is 600 years old. One hundred years is long enough for Noah and his sons to build the ark by hand and a very long time for people to consider its significance.
The fountains of the great deep were broken up and the windows of heaven were opened; the waters below and above (Gn 1:6ff) were brought upon the earth and covered even the highest point(s) by twenty two and a half feet. There were forty days and night of rain because “40” has to do with creation (4) and the law the governs (10). Forty will be a recurring number throughout the Bible, e.g., Israel’s wandering in the wilderness and Jesus’ time of temptation (see podcast on Matthew 4).
Sons of God, daughters of men? The Bible is full of abbreviations, just like we use when texting. “Sons of God” refers to men who were more or less honest about dependence and conscious of the image of God. “Daughters of men” refers to women who were not honest about dependence. The power of evil is often portrayed by the seductive woman (Proverbs 9).
Where did dinosaurs come from and where did they go? Consider any of the animals we know of, especially reptiles (and bats), if they continued to grow in size and violent nature for hundreds of years? As with people, so with animals: a shorter life span puts a limit on how large and violent a person or animal can be, and still there are Goliaths from time to time, maybe as a reminder?
God’s grief does not mean He regrets His own failure in creation nor that He wishes He hadn’t created in the first place; both are impossible because God knows everything. God is grieving as we do sometimes when the way things have to be are grievous. Women have grief in childbearing; parents have plenty of grief as good, faithful parents. But grief it is.
The flood is parabolic (see 1 Peter 3:21). An essential though partial remedy for the human condition is to keep it immersed in the Word of God, the living water that impresses truth upon us.
This passage reviews the history of humanity and reminds us that the image of God is bound up in the relationship between male and female (see 1 Corinthians 11:3 and Ephesians 5:25). Notice the pattern of the genealogy and then the breaks in the pattern (also in Matthew 1!). Enoch walked with God; consider what that means by the occurrence of “walk” in the New Testament (beware that many English translations have “live” where it should be “walk,” such as in Ephesians 4—5). People lived a long time after Adam’s corruption; the effects of dying take time to ruin the life that God created.
As with Adam, God exposes Cain’s corruption with a question, “Where is your brother?” The corruption of Adam is evident in Cain’s deceitful, hypocritical, insulting reply, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” The answer is yes, that IS the image of God which Jesus will live out and also teach: “Love your enemy.”
As with Adam and Eve, God explains the necessary, natural consequences of Cain murdering his brother. Cain complains that his guilt (and its consequences) is more than he can bear, so God puts a limit on the evil that will come back to Cain—just as God puts limits on all evil so that it still must work for good (Romans 8:28; 2 Corinthians 4:17-18; Jesus’ healing the demoniac in the Gadarenes in Matthew 8).
Eve bears a first child, a son, and assumes/hopes she has begotten a man, “the Lord,” according to God’s promise. And why wouldn’t she hope so and how could she know that it would be hundreds of generations of the women’s seed before the Holy Spirit would work the conception of the Son of God in Mary?
Eve calls her second son “breath,” the same word from Ecclesiastes, “Breath of breath, everything is breath” as in “here in this moment and gone in the next.” If Cain is the promised savior, then the next born son is insignificant by comparison.
“The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” and so Cain assumes the honorable vocation of tending the ground. But consistent with Adam’s corruption, Cain pretends an offering to God, offering what he would not care about giving away. Abel, by contrast, cares for living animals and offers the very best of them as witness to and thanks for how God provided for him. God articulates the truth which provokes Cain to jealousy, hatred, and murder, which will be evident in all human history but most of all in the experience of Jesus at the hands of the religious authorities in Israel.
The consequences of Adam’s corruption are distinct from the punishment that Jesus will endure. For Eve and then for Adam, what once was easy and joyful by God’s creative work is now difficult and painful. The natural consequences of contradicting God’s design are a necessary witness against the human notion that we would make a better god than God. What happens when we try? Misery and death.
God expels Adam and Eve to keep them from “living” eternally in such a corrupted and miserable condition. God makes coverings for them from animal skins—the first sacrifice of another living thing in order to remedy their condition. This is the first parable pointing forward to Jesus, the lamb of God who bore away the sin of the world.
Hearing the sound of God walking caused fear rather than joy. Then God asks the first of a multitude of best questions in the Bible: “Adam, where are you?” Adam’s reply to God is illustrative of Adam’s failure and corruption; when misery and death result from Adam pretending to be God, Adam blames God and Eve. Contrast this with the Creator—the Son of God incarnate, Jesus Christ—who accepts all guilt, blame, and punishment. Jesus owns it all and dies under its burden to relieve and restore us.
What if Adam had admitted his wrong and begged God’s pardon?
God tracks responsibility from Adam to Eve to the serpent.
Notice that 3:15 is the first articulation of the gospel: the seed of the woman will crush the head (power) of the serpent.
The tree of the knowledge of good and evil was beautiful and its fruit was good because everything God creates is beautiful and good. Thus, the temptation to eat from it was real. The tree, according to Martin Luther, was the first altar, the place where Adam practiced honesty about dependence on God and thus on God’s Word to him.
The tree was desirable to make one “wise,” not in the godly sense of the word but “worldly wise.” How were Adam and Eve’s eyes opened? Their eyes and vision were perfect as to what they could see in God’s creation, but now their eyes were opened in a critical way—further corruption against the actual image of God meant that human beings would be judgmental, critical, opinionated, and self-centered in thought and perspective.
Notice the reverse of God’s design: Eve takes then gives to Adam; Adam takes instead of gives. They hid from God and each other behind fig leaves as all humans still do behind images/clothing of human invention. But that cannot save us or our relationships from the deadly corruption of Adam.
The silence between Genesis 2:25 and 3:1 is where Adam went bad; this becomes evident as chapter 3 unfolds. Adam has reversed and inverted what the image of God is; from God’s green arc to Adam pretending to be god by inventing a law to impose on Eve, all the while abandoning Eve to the devil’s deceit. Pharisees, older siblings, and tyrants all invent useless laws to impose on others. In contrast, Jesus only reminds of law that is an accurate description of how reality works—necessary and beneficial.
- God creates animals, and Adam names them with divine substantivity. There is no helper found to remain before Adam, which is proven absolutely by creating all other animals first.
- God causes Adam to sleep (thus human beings can be anesthetized) and makes a woman from his rib. There is no question of the common essence of all human beings, one single human race, male and female. God’s image is realized by complementary relationships. “Male” has to do with bearing responsibility for another so the other, “female” can be fully devoted to creativity. God the Father bears responsibility for His Son and all else. The Son is thus free to be and is by nature creative. The Son creates man and bears responsibility for man and all else so that man can love a woman, and she can, in turn give her life as a means of God’s creative work.
- Maturing as a male means accepting more and more responsibility for others outside of his home, among whom he would be looking for one particular woman for whom he can bear particular responsibility. Maturing as a woman takes place within the green arcs of her home, supported and protected from vulnerability and abuse by her father and mother, brothers and other male relatives and neighbors.
- Marriage is when a man discovers this particular woman and she wants him to love her as a husband; thus, the husband nestles himself in between the woman’s parents and the woman, and a new family (set of green arcs) begins.
- Naked and not ashamed from the simple visual human physiology truth to the deeper reality of the whole person—there is nothing to hide, no shame, full recognition that the other person is fully as God intended and so fully appreciated.
God explains that is it not good for man to be alone. There are two reasons for this. First, there is one God, yet three persons and a relationship between them. Jesus says a lot about the relationship between the persons of the Trinity in John’s Gospel. God’s nature is love and love gives itself for the sake of others. Adam, made in the image of God, needs someone for whom he will give his life and that someone will be God’s creative agent to make each successive generation of people for whom the preceding give their lives and so find substantive, comprehensive, and enduring meaning in their experiences. God will make a helper to remain before the man. A “helper” means someone to love and someone integral for being fruitful and multiplying. To “remain before” because it is not good for man to be alone.
- God forms man from dust and breathes into him the breath of life. With a body, soul, and spirit, man is a living being.
- God plants a garden for Adam to tend and keep.
- Historicity evident in description of lands, rivers, and geological riches.
- Trees for food, tree of life, tree of knowledge of good and evil.
- Adam was informed pre-Eve so that their relationship is substantive.
Creation at the end of day six: plants produce food for all; nothing dies, there is no waste. Day 7 is for rest.
Gen. 2:4 “History of creation” is a hinge from the big picture preceding to focus on creation of humanity in Gen. 2.
What is the image of God? How are we to know? God revealed in the Bible and by His names/work; God incarnate in gospels; in the details of verses 26 and 27.
We delve into the corruption/perversion of concepts and so language in a fallen world:
- Dominion from a red pyramid rather than green arc perspective
- Free will and control vs. best of all possible worlds/being bound to provide for the lives of others
The days of creation follow a pattern that progresses and repeats, from raw materials to refined, detailed elements of nature, similar to the way our work often progresses from general to specific. The material world is God’s means of teaching us about the underlying reality of relationships.
- Day 1—Light and darkness. Jesus is the light of the world (John 1).
- Day 2—Waters above and below. Jesus is the living water (John 4).
- Day 3—From water comes dry land and plants that cover it and support life: herbs, trees.
- Day 4—Sun, moon, stars. The sun at the center of the universe is a witness to Jesus as the source and preserver of all things living.
- Day 5—Living creatures in the water below and in the sky above.
- Day 6—Land animals of all kinds; last of all, human beings made in God’s image.
Chronology of Genesis
- 8,000 BC (or so): Gen. 1—2 records the first seven days.
- 8,000 – 2,100 BC: Gen. 3—11 records from some point soon after day seven until just before Abraham, including the flood and tower of Babel.
- 2,100 – 1,800 BC: Gen. 12—50 records just four generations—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Jacob’s sons, especially Judah and Joseph.
“In the beginning, God created…” This phrase occurs often in the Bible and especially in the Gospel of John. Notice that God’s creative work is the source of time: “In the beginning God created,” past tense. Similarly, in Proverbs 8, before creation, Wisdom (the Son of God) was there.
Creation reveals God to us, as Psalm 19 and Romans 1 remind us. Human beings made in the image of God are able to have thoughts about their thoughts and to communicate those thoughts via language, which requires a physiology capable of articulation and breath that carries the sound. So God the Father is the source of all things: thoughts, will, nature. The Son of God communicates the thoughts, will, and Word of God, as Jesus often explained how He had no thoughts or will or words except what He received from His Father. The Hebrew word for breath also means spirit and wind, something you can’t see, yet moving powerfully. You cannot speak without breath and your breath carries no message without the means of articulation.
The Genesis account of creation reveals unequivocally that there is just one human family. Additionally, each human in this family is a particular creative work of God. Thus, we respect and care for every human as God’s own child. Next, we learn that we are stewards or care-takers of humanity. We have a responsibility on behalf of God to see that each human being reaches its full potential and that we recognize and appreciate what each human being contributes to our learning what the best of all possible worlds looks like. Every single human being is priceless because of the redeeming work of Jesus. God did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all (Romans 8:32). Therefore, a biblical view of creation includes and anticipated redemption, giving us the caring disposition of God for everyone.
As we consider each of these psalms, I'll also discuss the following:
- What are some great verses to use at kids' bedtimes?
- What psalm is a good reminder to keep our labor from being in vain?
- What happens when the works of our hands become idols? Which psalm speaks to this, and how does it apply in our time?
- Our lives are not the survival of the fittest, but a marvelous discovery of what God has prepared for us. Where can we find a description of this in the Psalms?
As the study of the Book of Psalms continues, we look into the following:
- Psalms 105--107--These are about Israel's history, but how are they also OUR history? What do these also show about the nature of God?
- Psalm 109--What does this prophecy about Judas Iscariot also teach us?
- Psalm 110--Jesus quotes this to the Pharisees. What was the point He was making through this psalm?
- Psalm 116--A fantastic psalm to memorize
- Psalm 117--Why is this shortest of all the psalms so important?
- Psalm 119--What is special about this psalm? Where is there a wonderful prayer to be found among its verses?
In this group of psalms:
- Where do we find the definition of "praises"?
- Which psalm is especially helpful to share with those in hospitals or nursing homes?
- Which one is almost all a lament, with no resolution at the end?
- We consider--how do we number our days?
- Which is a helpful psalm to read when you are afraid?
As we look into these psalms, we consider the following:
- How do we observe the human ego asserting itself in Psalms?
- What is it that provides truth and comfort?
- Where is it that life is truly found?
- How should we think about the study of other religions?
In this episode, we consider the following:
- What is the task of the Christian?
- How can we be patient?
- What is a helpful refrain from the psalms that we would do well to remember?
- Where do we find parts of psalm 51 in the liturgy?
- Where is our starting point for connecting with others and sharing the good news of God’s remedy for our situation?
- Other key verses from psalms 33, 34, 37, 38, 40, 42, 46, 51
This episode focuses especially on the following:
- Psalm 22--The most Messianic of all the psalms
- Psalm 23--What are helpful partner Bible passages to read along with this psalm?
- Psalm 25--There are some rich verses in this psalm that are especially worth memorizing
- Psalm 27--Ponder how we are to wait on the Lord
- Psalm 32--The second of the penitential psalms. What effect did this psalm have on Martin Luther?
The psalms discussed in this episode:
- What are the contexts of Psalms 3 and 9?
- 10:14—Find a description of God’s redeeming work among us
- 12:6-8—How does God’s Word contrast with our media?
- 14:1—Who is a fool?
- How do we know that Psalm 16 is a Messianic psalm?
- 18:27—Find a description of those who are saved
- 19:1-4—Why is the witness of nature so important?
What does "praise" mean? Why and how do we praise God? Why are infants highlighted in verse 2? We'll go through Psalm 8 verse by verse.
An introduction to penitential psalms—what are those? What does repentance mean? The seven penitential psalms are 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, and 143. In this episode, we go through Psalm 6 verse by verse.
Why read the Psalms; why are they such a treasure to us? What does "blessed" mean in verse 1? What is the benefit of meditating on God's law both day and night? How well does God know us?
How do we know God hears us when we pray? What does it mean to pray according to Jesus' will or in His name? What is a good definition of sin? What is the sin leading to death, as opposed to the sin not leading to death, as mentioned in verses 16-17? How is it that the evil one cannot touch us (verse 18)?
How can we be confident that our faith overcomes the world, as stated in verse four? Why is it important that Jesus came by both the water and the blood? What is the life that it is in God's Son, referenced in verse 11?
There is so much content in these three verses! What is lacking in most English translations of this passage? What is it to believe? What is essential in order to obey God's commands? Are God's commandments really not burdensome, as the text says? How does that align with the common view of religion?
How does the Greek grammar in this passage help our understanding? How do we see God? What verse would be especially good to keep with us all day?
Who does "they" refer to in verse five? What is the source of love? What are the proper definitions of key words from this passage?
What is God's will for us? How do we test the spirits to see what is from God? Why is that so important in our culture today? How is Biblical Christianity different from every other religion?
John continues to go back and forth between the two natures of people. He's not talking about "us versus them," but the two natures--the sinful Adam and regenerated soul--that is in each person. How does that change the way we treat other people? Why does the world hate us, as it says in verse 13? What happens when our hearts condemn us, as mentioned in verse 20?
Consider the wonder of being "children of God". What does it mean that whomever has been generated of God cannot sin (verse 9)? This passage continues to consider the relationship between the corrupt human nature and the regenerated soul.
What is the difference between what God gives and the things of human invention? What is lust and what is the problem with it? What about the mention of the antichrist, and what is the solution? How do we know all things? What is the anointing that is referenced in verse 27? Do we have it?
The word "know" features in the third verse--how is this word correctly defined in the Bible? How do we know love? How are we able to identify wickedness and evil? How does this passage apply to the culture in which we live today?
When does God forgive our sins? What should be the starting point for our witness to the world around us? How does verse two tie back to the Old Testament and the Ark of the Covenant?
From the very first verse, there is a lot of content packed in--let's go through it together. What proof is offered for believing in Jesus? What do words like "connectedness" and "joy" mean in this passage? What are the themes in 1 John?
I mention the 13 aspects of the Gospel. You can hear more about that and read related material by checking out episode 17 and its show notes.
Jesus rises from the dead! What are we to make of the reaction of the women, the soldiers, the religious authorities? What parts of the resurrection account does Matthew skip, and why? How is the Great Commission often mistranslated?
Jesus dies and is buried. What are we to make of the physical reactions to Jesus' death--the temple curtain tearing, the earth quaking, people rising from the dead?
Jesus is beaten, mocked, and crucified. What are the key moments in this account that are important to ponder? What is the significance in the details, such as the garments put on Jesus, why He wouldn't take a drink, the inscription over the cross?
How should we consider both Judas and Peter? What made Pontius Pilate marvel? What does the account of Barabbas illustrate?
Jesus is arrested. Why does Jesus remain silent before the religious authorities? What should we think about Peter's actions as he follows at a distance, then denies Jesus?
Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane. Consider His distress on the night before His crucifixion--what is included in this? What can we learn from Jesus' prayer? How can we become more watchful?
This passage describes Thursday of Holy Week, including Jesus' institution of the Lord's Supper. How does this compare with the accounts from the other Gospel narratives?
The Holy Week account continues, with Jesus being anointed by the sinful woman. How do we honor God? What was the turning point during Holy Week?
What does Jesus have to say about the last day that differs from today's popular understanding of "Judgment Day"? What is the difference in attitude of the sheep versus the goats?
Jesus tells the parable of the talents. What difference does it make when we live a life of discovery for how God has designed us versus trying to make our own way? What does burying one's talents look like? How do we see God's economy in this parable?
Jesus tells the parable of the wise and foolish virgins. What points of this parable are often overlooked? What is the nature of the foolishness of five of the virgins? What do the lamp and oil represent?
Jesus continues describing the end of the world. How does this passage speak to the idea of the rapture? What are the chains that bind the dragon?
Jesus speaks of "the abomination of desolation" standing in the holy place. What is this? What does this talk of the time of tribulation mean?
Jesus addresses end times. "Take heed that no one deceives you." What things about our culture leave us vulnerable to deception?
Note that Jesus says that there is nothing to fear, but there is much work to do.
As the "woe" section continues, Jesus reveals the Pharisees' hypocracy of outward appearance versus inner substance. How does what Jesus say to the Pharisees also apply to us? Do we strain out a gnat only to swallow a camel? Are we also like white-washed tombs? What is the remedy?
This is known as the "woe" section of Matthew. Similar to the plagues in Egypt, it is the last, best means of turning back the human ego, before the account moves to the authorities coming together in their plot to arrest and put Jesus to death.
How can Jesus' words speak to us? What makes our lives worthwhile? What can we take from Jesus' warnings?
Jesus is again tested, this time by a lawyer. Note how Jesus responds to common people who come to Him in their need, versus how He answers the religious authorities, who are so full of themselves that they have no room for God.
What is the greatest commandment? And what does Jesus' question in return reveal about the minds of the authorities?
The Sadducees test Jesus with the Law of Moses. How does Jesus set an example in responding to hypotheticals? He states that God is the God of the living, not the dead. What does that mean, and how is it proven?
The Pharisees' disciples ask Jesus about paying taxes to Caesar. Keep the clarity of Jesus' response in mind--how can this wisdom help us as we consider our lives? How are our material possessions rightly used?
Jesus tells the parable of the wedding feast. How do we consider God's invitation? Do we welcome it, ignore it, repel it? Do we consider it to be work, or rest?
Jesus ends this passage by saying, "Many are called, but few are chosen." Why did He use such narrow and severe language?
Jesus tells the parable of the landowner with the vineyard. This passage asks us to consider: What fruit is God looking for? What does the flawed logic of the tenants reveal about our own fallen nature?
The pharisees ask Jesus by what authority He acts. As Jesus questions them in return, notice that they do not fear God, but rather the people. How can the wisdom of Jesus' response apply in our lives?
Jesus clears the temple during Holy Week. Consider the contrast between the real Temple of God and that of human invention. How is the promise to Abraham fulfilled here?
Jesus curses the fig tree and it withers. What other Bible passage does this parallel, and what is the message we can take away?
What can we learn from the two blind men who were unashamed to cry out to Jesus for help in Matthew 20?
Chapter 21 records Jesus preparing to go to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. What is the significance of Him riding on a donkey? How do the clothes and branches strewn on the road connect with Adam and Eve?
What is the work of Christ, and what is greatness? Jesus foretells of His death, which we read about right after the parable of the laborers in the vineyard, and right before the request of the mother of the sons of Zebedee. Why is that important?
Jesus tells the parable of the vineyard workers. Why do we view work as evil? And what do we actually deserve? This passage does much to illustrate God's generosity and instruct us in a proper Christian attitude toward life.
Jesus welcomes the children to come to Him. It causes us to consider who has access to God, and on what basis?
How can we learn from the man who asks Jesus what good deed he must do to inherit eternal life. How can we learn from this man? To what are we turning a blind eye, which keeps us from following Jesus?
Hear what Jesus has to say about marriage and divorce. How does the model of marriage in the beginning compare with today's practice of marriage? Why did God allow a certificate of divorce in Moses's time?
When Peter asks about forgiveness, Jesus tells the parable of the unforgiving servant. What does that parable reveal about the human ego and the nature of God?
In this passage Jesus again holds up children as the very model of faith. What other Bible verses speak to that, and how does this run counter to what we see in our culture today?
Why is this important context for what comes next: the parable of the 100 sheep, and what to do about a brother or sister who is erring?
In this passage Jesus again holds up children as the very model of faith. What other Bible verses speak to that, and how does this run counter to what we see in our culture today?
Why is this important context for what comes next: the parable of the 100 sheep, and what to do about a brother or sister who is erring?
"Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" When the disciples ask Jesus this question, He provides them with an answer contrary to worldly ideas. Listen in to hear more about how Jesus responds, and shows children to be the very model of faith.
Right after the Transfiguration, Jesus is approached by the father of an epileptic boy. What are we to make of Jesus' exasperated response?
How can the account of the Temple Tax be instructive for us today?
This passage tells the account of the Transfiguration. What was the issue with Peter's response to this marvelous sight? Why did Jesus tell His apostles not to tell anyone about it?
Many of us know this passage well, when Jesus commands us to take up our cross and follow Him. But what does that mean, and what does it look like? When Jesus says He will repay everyone for what they have done (v. 27), what does He mean? Shouldn't we be terrified by that?
This passage is familiar to many--Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ. What new things can we learn from a close consideration of these verses? Does the text support the validity of the papacy?
Why don't the Pharisees and disciples understand the signs of Jesus? How does that apply to us today? What is the sign of Jonah? What is the leaven of the Pharisees?
I've just updated the image I use to describe a Biblical worldview. Listen in to hear the reasons behind the changes. You can view the new image and read more details by visiting wordwithoutwalls.com.
Who are you? Where are you going? How did you get here? What happens when you die? Tune in to hear these questions considered. The chart and questions referenced can be viewed on wordwithoutwalls.com.
Why doesn't God do anything about the wicked? What does it mean to be made in the image of God, but not be God? What is the temptation that results from that? These are a few of the questions that are tackled in this episode.
Do we have time to listen to God's Word? This account of Jesus feeding the 4,000 answers that question, along with providing other insights into the nature of our Lord.
What did Jesus mean when he told a Canaanite woman begging for help that the children's bread shouldn't be fed to the dogs. Who are the dogs, and who are the children?
What really matters, and why? What doesn't really matter? These are questions to be considered in this exchange between Jesus and the Pharisees.
Jesus walks on the water, and heals many with even a simple touch from the hem of His garment. What can this passage teach us about Jesus' work in our lives today?
What does the account of Herod and John the Baptist indicate about what was going on at the time? In Jesus' grief over John's death, how does Jesus lead us by His example? How does He demonstrate the great antidote for grief?
As this chapter concludes, what is it about Jesus' teachings that is shocking to the people in the synagogue?
Jesus shares a triplet of parables--the treasure in the field, the pearl of great price, and the fish in nets. What point is Jesus making? Are these parables repetitious, or is there a progression in the message?
This passage contains the parable of the mustard seed and leaven. In the Bible, leaven is referenced both positively and negatively. What does it mean here? Also, Jesus Himself explains the parable of the wheat and the tares.
Why doesn't God do something about the evil in this world? The parable of the wheat and the tares in Matthew 13 addresses this question that people so often ask.
The disciples ask Jesus why He speaks in parables. What response does Jesus give? Hear what Jesus has to say.
Jesus tells the Parable of the Sower. Why does Jesus speak in parables? From the parable, which soil do you identify with?
Jesus speaks of unclean spirits in this passage. Where do we see this in the world around us today? How are people closing themselves off to God's witness to the world? How do we remain in Jesus' family?
When the Pharisees ask for a sign, Jesus responds that they will only receive the sign of Jonah. What is the sign of Jonah, and why is it significant? Jonah is indicative of whom?
There are some healthy tensions in this passage that cause us to consider many questions. What is the sin against the Holy Spirit? How is a tree made good? How can we know what is in a person's heart?
What answers does Jesus provide in Matthew 12? Listen to hear about them!
Jesus heals a demon-possessed man. How do the demon-possessed man and the hopeful crowds compare to the Pharisees who dismiss Jesus? How does Jesus, the master of all logic, respond?
It’s noted here that Jesus healed ALL people. Why is that important? And He doesn’t want to make Himself known. How is that different than the fame that people seek today?
This passage considers how the Old Testament prophecies are fulfilled in Jesus—wonderful things on which to meditate about our Savior who comes low to gather us to Himself and to one another.
Jesus heals the man with the withered hand on the Sabbath. How does Jesus reveal what we are to understand about the Law and the Old Testament here? How does our fallen nature compare with that of the Pharisees?
What is the true restfulness God provides to us in His gift of the Sabbath, and what freedom does it give us? How does that differ from the Pharisees' perspective, which we see in this passage?
Why does Jesus use little children as the example of faith in this passage? And what is that easy and light yoke that Jesus is speaking of?
Matthew 11 addresses what the life of an apostle is like. Specifically in these verses, Jesus sheds light on the two natures found in all people.
John has served the Lord all of his life, and now he is in prison. Doesn't God care?
What kind of captivity do you find yourself in, and why isn't God bringing you out of it?
What do we make of the imprisoned John the Baptist questioning if Jesus is the Messiah?
What does Jesus mean when He says, "I have not come to bring peace, but a sword"? What does verse 39 mean--losing your life in order to find it? Listen in for insights into these verses where Jesus names and commissions His apostles.
Learn more! In the episode, a Green V world model is mentioned. Find more information here.
Jesus speaks to both of our natures in this passage. He speaks to our human nature in the only way it understands, which is terrifying. But that always turns us back to Christ. God’s commands are always surrounded by His promises, and we see that here.
What should those sent by Jesus expect as they carry out His will for them? Jesus warns of persecutions to come but also promises to sustain and inspire His apostles (and ultimately us, as His ambassadors).
What if we are worried or fearful about what to say to others about His kingdom? The vast and wonderful promises of Jesus include giving us the right words to say.
What is the difference between a disciple and an apostle? What kind of power did Jesus give His apostles and for what purpose? How would the apostles demonstrate their own honesty about dependence on the dependability and all-providing nature of God and His kingdom?
All of Matthew 10 is concerned with the life of the apostles and ultimately indicative of our lives as ambassadors for Christ and His kingdom.
What happens to human ailments when Jesus is present? How is the healing work of Jesus related to His teaching and preaching?
How does Matthew's text graciously witness against the religious authorities who falsely accused and ridiculed Jesus?
Why does Jesus command us to pray for God to send laborers into His harvest?
Why are the gospels so full of healing accounts?
Why did the synagogue ruler continue to "bother" Jesus even though news had come that it was too late?
What is God's remedy for ever thinking it is too late?
What is the significance of a woman interrupting Jesus on His way, how she was healed, and how that must have intensified the ruler's sense of desperation?
The life of Jesus and its record in the Gospels are a constant remedy for desperation and powerful answer to doubts that oppress with fear that "it is too late."
Every religion fails in a one-dimensional worldview, as desperately as we would like them to succeed. Why do they all fail to save us?
Only God's creation is capable of giving us life and redeeming our life. How does it work?
What hope was there for a Jewish tax collector; despised by Jews and Romans?
What hope is there for medical care when you are waiting in the ER and finally your name is called?
What if the question isn't about hope for the unrighteous or sick but for those who insist they need no healing nor redeeming?
If God desires mercy and not sacrifice, why did He establish the sacrificial system through Moses on Mt. Sinai?
Why did God create a material universe if the soul and our relationship with each other and God is essentially spiritual?
How did Jesus confirm His will and identity?
Why did Jesus confirm forgiveness for the paralytic and only afterwards heal him?
Notice that neither the friends who brought the paralytic nor the paralytic himself indicate disappointment that Jesus forgave rather than healed the man?
What is the will of the devil and demons except to destory?
Why was the legion of demons that possessed this poor man unable to destroy him?
Why wouldn't Jesus let him follow after he was healed?
What should we spend our time on? What should we devote our time and interest to and what should we leave to others? Jesus redirects our thinking from a world of death to a kingdom of life.
Why should we listen to Jesus; how do we know He has the authority He speaks with? Besides His virgin birth, sensibility of His teaching, and miracles of healing - He controls nature, which makes since He created it to serve His care for our lives.
Jesus healed everyone - not just some.
Jesus healed with a Word; He is the cause of all healing and His Word conveys absolute, comprehensive, and permanent healing.
Jesus healed by taking the infirmities, distresses, and trauma of others upon Himself, as prophecied in Isaiah.
Though Jesus is Creator and Redeemer of the world, the world is so opposed to Him that He found no place to lay His head?
Jesus heals to authenticate His identity and to demonstrate His will.
Why does Matthew follow Jesus' proclaiming and teaching with a chapter on healing?
Why does Matthew choose these three examples of healing since the text goes on to say that Jesus healed everyone, everywhere, all the time?
Why would anyone build their house on sand? Because it is fast, easy, and most of all, because sand conforms to our plan. But does it last?
Why not build on rock? Because it is hard work but most of all, your plan is determined by the Rock.
Storms and floods are the consequences of Adam's failure which corrupts us all. Storms and floods come but they need not destroy our lives
How is it that Jesus teaches with authority and why couldn't the scribes of the people?
How do we know if a person or minister or ministry is of God?
Jesus said you know a tree from its fruit.
Jesus warns against pretentiousness and self-deception.
Jesus said the path is narrow that leads to life and few find it. How can the path be narrow if God desires all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth?
What is it that makes the path to life infinite narrow?
Is there something that makes the path singularly narrow and yet open to all at the same time?
Our world thinks in terms of give and TAKE. God's kingdom is one of give and be given to.
Jesus speaks about what we have been given, how to protect that from being despised or wasted, and how to open ourselves to all that God has to give us.
What does it mean that the kingdom of God is "holy" and a "pearl" (in fact, THE pearl of great price)?
What does it mean to ask, seek, and knock in our relationship with God?
How do we know if we are seeing things as they really are? Does Jesus really forbid judging one another? Why do we tend to see the worst in others but not in ourselves and what is the remedy?
Jesus forbids worry based on God's economy. If God feeds the birds and clothes the flowers, how will not much more wonderfully and abundantly provide for you?
Why not seek God's kingdom first and let everything else follow?
Jesus explains how the eye is the lamp of the body. Jesus speaks the the significance of our bodies being full of light or darkness.
Jesus also warns that we cannot serve two masters.
Jesus continues in this section of the Sermon on the Mount with warnings about fasting and charity.
There is never anything hypocritical, formalistic, or pretentious about those who are honest about dependence. Fasting is an antidote for a noisy selfish corrupt human nature and charity is an antidote for greed. Both antidotes are pursued by inspiration from God and for love of neighbor.
The Lord's Prayer recorded in Matthew is an abbreviated version of the Lord actually praying in John 17.
Is the Lord's prayer as we know it a floor or ceiling; does it provide a platform for all our prayers or does it limit us?
How does the Lord's prayer progress, how is it structured, and what does it matter?
What does Jesus say about prayer in the sermon on the mount?
How is the prayer of someone honest about dependence fundamentally different from the prayers of others - especially the prayers of the hypocrites?
How is Jesus' instruction on prayer consistent with all He taught?
Charity and prayer are the subject of these verses. Jesus addresses the sinful pride of human nature corrupting these actions. How does the regenerate soul act differently, doing the right things for the right reasons?
What does the word “love” actually mean? Where do we see corruption with the concept of love in our culture? In these verses, how is Jesus changing the nature of the way we see things?
Jesus is working His way through most of the ten commandments. In these verses, He addresses swearing and taking an oath. How is Jesus getting down to the heart of the matter with what God has intended in this area?
Also, we encounter the well-known command to turn the other cheek—to continue to love and care for those, even if they are hard to love. So, are we passivists? How do we reconcile different texts in the Bible, such as this text with Romans 13?
Jesus continues to reestablish the law in all its clarity. In these verses, He addresses sexual immorality. What is the real problem? What are places in our lives that are ruling us, and affecting our relationships with God and others?
In these verses, Jesus guides us to reset our thinking about our relationship with God and others, on the basis of how we see ourselves under the law. Are we self-righteous, or honest about our condition under the law?
Jesus starts on a refrain that He continues for the rest of the chapter: “You have heard that it was said to those of old … but I say to you…”. What is His point with these statements, and how can it transform our thinking, both about ourselves and others? How can we be ambassadors for God’s kingdom, not acting as judges, but helping others who are suffering?
What do we do with the Law? How are we to understand it? Jesus articulates this in these verses from the Sermon on the Mount. That's what we'll discuss in this episode.
At the end of the beatitudes, the tone shifts to being persecuted. How are to be encouraged by Jesus' promises in these verses? Where else is “salt” mentioned in the Bible? What uses does salt have, and how can we can apply that idea to our lives?
This passage is the beginning of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, the beatitudes. How can we understand these? What do "blessed" and "happy" mean in the Greek text? And "poor in spirit"?? How can we understand the first beatitude?
It's important to consider these with a biblical worldview. Listen to more about this worldview from one of my earlier podcast episodes, "A New Way to See".
Jesus begins to call His disciples. What is notable about this passage and these men? How will God will use their experiences and background for extending His kingdom?
After Jesus is tempted in the wilderness, He begins His ministry in the north. Why is that important?
This passage is also an example of themes we see that connect all four Gospels. What is that connectedness?
In this text, we see Jesus experiencing the second and third temptations from the devil in the wilderness. The devil tries to use God's Word, but out of context and for the opposite of its purpose. That worked with Adam and Eve; why didn't it work with Jesus?
We also see the devil take Jesus to a mountaintop. When God met people on mountaintops, what significance did that have? The devil pretends to be God, but does it for his own purpose and fails.
In this passage, Jesus experiences the first of three temptations in the wilderness. The first—turning stones to bread—is the temptation to become selfish and succumb to intense longings for food. Yet, that is not the most important thing in life. What is the one thing that man can’t live without?
Why was Jesus tempted in the wilderness? Why did the Holy Spirit lead him there? Learn about this, and how Jesus retraced the steps of Israel (but perfectly) in His early life.
John the Baptist is confused about why he should baptize the Lord. But what does Jesus’ baptism reveal? We also see the Holy Trinity in this passage—the public witness about the identity of Jesus as He begins His public ministry.
Why was Jesus baptized? We'll discuss that, and also look into John the Baptist's confrontation with the Pharisees and Sadducees. How does Matthew use these groups to contrast the human ego with Jesus' life-giving ministry?
How is John the Baptist similar to Elijah, and what is important about the baptizing described in this passage?
Learn about the importance of John the Baptist and his message as we consider the first three verses of the third chapter of Matthew.
We learn in this passage of the importance of Jesus growing up as a Nazarite. What does that mean? How can the life of Jesus be compared to a well-known Nazarite from Old Testament history, Samson?
There are two important things to glean from these few verses in Matthew. One is about Jesus retracing the steps of the children of Israel, doing correctly what everyone before Him did incorrectly. The second is in regard to the death of the innocents by Herod. How can we make sense of this tragedy, that God would allow it?
We all know the story of Jesus' birth and the Wise Men. But there are some interesting contrasts and important questions that Matthew 2 brings up that might not have come to your mind before. Listen in to hear a fresh perspective on this familiar text.
As we consider this text from Matthew, we also consider marriage--what it is, and how it should be approached.
In this episode, I also recommend a book: Wing to Wing, Oar to Oar: Readings on Courting and Marrying by Amy and Leon Kass.
Matthew's Gospel begins in the least likely place--with a genealogy. It's tempting to want to skim over these verses, but if you look carefully, there are important messages and insights into God's work that can be gained.
We have been thinking through the nature of the life of an ambassador of Christ, and it is the best of all possible lives. The problem is that we live that life within a corrupt human nature that always wants to revert to the way of the world from which we were redeemed. We’re ever tempted to live as natives of this world, under the law, with no love of God or neighbor. Jesus, of course, knows this, and consistently warns us about it. Three helpful texts to consider are Revelation 2 (the letter from Jesus to the church at Ephesus), Luke 16 (the unjust servant), and Matthew 18 (the unforgiving servant). Listen in as we consider these texts.
One of the challenges of our ambassadorship is constantly resetting our consciousness to be the consciousness of Christ. Part of that is slowing down in reading the Bible, really swimming around the verses we encounter. We’re going to slow down and think about two different texts: the first beatitude—blessed are the poor in spirit—from Matthew 5, and Matthew 11’s account of the yoke of Jesus being easy and light.
As ambassadors of Jesus' kingdom, is it possible for us to still be swept up in the currents of thought and busy-ness of the foreign land in which we serve? Absolutely. Finding renewal and refreshment through Scripture is essential.
In this episode, I look at the first of three passages that are easy to remember, profound, and powerful forces to renew and reorient our consciousness--old and new wineskins from Matthew 9:17.
As ambassadors of the kingdom of heaven, we are called and we desire to share the good news. But it can be a real challenge to communicate it.
The gospel that we share is often reduced to forgiveness and faith. What are the limits of that, and what else does the Bible have to say about salvation? Listen in as we explore the depth and breadth of the good news God has for us.
As ambassadors of the kingdom of God, it's important to remember the two kingdoms to which we belong. In this episode, I provide a few examples for how to consider the condition of the people of this world to whom we are ambassadors, and strategies to provide the most help to them.
We also consider some seemingly contradictory Bible passages . . . but are they really contradictory?
What are the advantages we possess by belonging to the kingdom of heaven? Also, what challenges do we face in reaching those in the world around us? What are strategies we can use? Those are all discussed in this episode.
The assumption that each of us has a free will is powerful … but is it true? The idea of a free will is attractive and popular because it promises people happiness in the choices they make. I would like to assert that this notion is deceitful and a trap.
If there is a God, and God is good, why is there evil in the world? That is the premise of the problem of evil. But I'll challenge that idea by considering life through the lens of different worldviews. Listen in, and let me know what you think.
In this day and age, sex is constantly in our faces. And people use the word "love" all the time, but what is meant by it? In this episode, we consider what a one-dimensional worldview has done to our view of sex and love, and consider the alternative perspective that a three-dimensional worldview can provide.
When you ask people to define what male and female is, they will start with talking about anatomy. This is a one-dimensional view of life.
I invite you to consider male and female through the perspective of a three-dimensional worldview. Get ready to reset everything you have traditionally thought.
In today's world, the moral basis of what is good and evil seems to be a moving target, and it has been moving faster and faster in recent years. There is no absolute for either good or evil. It's really a function of who is in control.
But that is not how the Bible views things. God has shown us what is good. Listen in to a consideration of these terms.
In a one-dimensional worldview, we're used to considering life as only physical, material. And death is defined as someone's physiology shutting down.
A three-dimensional perspective completely changes how we view life and death. In fact, death is hardly in the equation! Listen in to learn about the difference.
Questions about anything you've heard? Contact me here, and I'll respond.
We're continuing to consider the difference in definitions of fundamental words from two different worldviews: a one-dimensional, material-only world versus a three-dimensional universe from which flows Christianity X.
In this episode, how do we define science, knowledge, and justice?
This episode starts a series where I'll be defining what fourteen key words mean. We'll take a look at these words from how they're viewed most commonly--a one-dimensional, red pyramid worldview definition. And then we'll consider how they can be defined from a Christianity X perspective, which is three-dimensional in nature.
As ambassadors of a Green V worldview, there are three things we know to be true about our lives:
- We cannot die
- All things work together for good
- All things are ours
Given those truths, how then shall we live?
What does it look like to live with awareness of God’s redemptive work in our lives? It changes everything! Listen in to this discussion of living each day as a Sabbath rest from every fear and worry.
Do you have questions about anything you’ve heard? You can submit them here on wordwithoutwalls.com.
When people speak of the Gospel, they often reduce it to just the forgiveness of sins. But it's so much more than that! This episode discusses the thirteen attributes of the Gospel.
To access a PDF version of the list of the thirteen attributes of the Gospel, visit wordwithoutwalls.com.