The Faith Explained with Cale Clarke - Learning the Catholic Faith: Recent Episodes
The Faith Explained with Cale Clarke - Learning the Catholic Faith
The Faith Explained with Cale Clarke is a 30-minute show delving into the teachings of the Catholic faith. Cale looks at the Scriptures, the Catechism, and Sacred Tradition to present you with an in-depth look at what the Catholic Church believes. In listening to this show, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of the faith, but will be inspired and equipped to share it with others – family, friends, and those you encounter in your everyday life.
If all Israel was a “kingdom of priests”, why do we have a ministerial priesthood in the Catholic Church? Plus: A fun Q&A mailbag question about angels.
God is about to reveal his 10 Commandments to Moses on the holy Mountain. There is thunder, an earthquake, a dark cloud, and fire. A powerful trumpet blast. And all of these things reveal something about exactly who God is.
In the business world, they call it “key man risk”. If a CEO burns out or dies, the whole organization falls apart. That’s what’s happening with Moses: he’s trying to do the work of 10 men, and he’s falling into the devil’s trap of trying to be like God in all the wrong ways.
After plagues and battles, what a relief to see the camp of Israel as a quiet place of family, fellowship, and ordinary life! We, too, must find God in the middle of everyday life...or we’ll never find him at all.
Grumblers want to pass judgment on Moses and stone him to death. Speaking of rocks, God tells Moses to strike a rock. Water pours out for God’s people to drink. St Paul later said, “the rock was Christ”. But what does that mean? Let’s rock and roll!
Have you ever had the experience of failing a test and having to take it over again? In Exodus 17, we see that God sometimes has to “re-test” his children again and again, before they can graduate to the next stage of the spiritual life.
Cale shows how the manna given to the Israelites in Exodus foreshadows the new and far greater “manna” given by Jesus: the Eucharist.
The wilderness was like going to Oxford, Cambridge, or Harvard: a graduate education in the inner life. Test after test from God. This time? It’s hunger. God responds with the Manna and Quail. Will the Israelites learn the lesson that you can’t stockpile grace? It’s doled out daily, on demand, just in time...it’s the “Manna Mentality”.
The parched Israelites attempt to drink the desert waters at Marah, but they prove bitter and brackish. God gives a miraculous tree to make the bitter water sweet. Likewise, the Cross of Jesus Christ makes the bitterness of life endurable—and even sweet—as we share in his sufferings.
Women helped save Moses throughout his life, including his sister Miriam. In the same way, another Miriam—Mary—is there at the key moments of salvation wrought by the new Moses, Jesus Christ.
Cale examines the alleged discovery of Egyptian chariot wheels at the bottom of the Red Sea. Just the (arte) facts, Ma’am!
Before God parts the Red Sea, the pillar of cloud and fire separates the Egyptians from the Israelites. On one side is darkness, and on the other is light. Jesus is the light of the world, and one’s response to him determines whether one lives in spiritual darkness or in the light.
The mighty Egyptian army roars towards the Israelites, who are trapped against the Red Sea. When your back is against the wall (or the water!), God will rise up and act on your behalf, just as he did for Israel.
Some Israelites would rather return to slavery under Pharaoh than serve God in freedom in the wilderness. We’re faced with a similar choice today.
A direct route to the promised land would have only taken 10 days, not 40 years. Why send the people through the wilderness, then? God wanted to both A) humble, and B) test his people. Would they be loyal to him or not? He does the same with us today.
As the people of God are on the road to the Promised Land, Yahweh demands the consecration of the Israelites’ firstborn and first fruits. Why? It’s a reminder that God must be first in every area of our lives, and it’s no less true today.
The terrifying, final plague descends on the Egyptians: the death of the firstborn. Was God unjust, unfair, and unnecessarily cruel in doing this? PLUS: In our Q&A mailbag segment, Cale answers a question about the darkness that descended on the land when Jesus died. Did this really happen?
As Catholics, we treasure the Catechism of the Catholic Church and beloved older versions like the famous Baltimore Catechism. Did you know that Moses basically created the very first Catechism in the book of Exodus? Plus: a listener question about whether or not Mary experienced labor pains when Jesus was born.
On today’s episode of The Exodus Series on The Faith Explained, Cale answers the question of why God institutes two separate feasts: Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The answer? One concerns initial salvation, and the other concerns sanctification: holiness, becoming like God. “Be holy, as I am holy”, says the Lord in the Old Covenant. Jesus says, “Be perfect, as your Heavenly Father is perfect” in the New.
The Israelites must slaughter and consume an unblemished lamb, foreshadowing the sacrifice of the sinless Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. We are likewise commanded to consume his flesh and blood sacramentally in the Eucharist.
The death of the Egyptian firstborn at the stroke of midnight means the tide has turned, and the “gods” of Egypt are decimated. Yahweh has won, and the dawn of his salvation is close at hand.
“Lights Out!” The 9th plague (darkness) is a direct attack on Ra, the Egyptian “sun god”. Only the homes of God’s people have light. We, too, must shine like stars amidst the moral and spiritual darkness of the age, reflecting Christ, the Light of the World.
God doesn’t send the plague of locusts just to “bug” the Egyptians. Moses is reminded to teach the next generations about Yahweh’s deeds of power. In the same way, we must pass on the Catholic faith to the next generation. But, how?
Just for the “hail” of it, Yahweh rains down hailstones on Egypt. He thus reveals himself as the mighty “Storm God” and announces his control over the land of Egypt. For the first time, people are killed by the plagues, but Pharaoh’s heart remains harder than the stones falling from the heavens.
Yahweh reaches directly into Pharaoh’s heart to harden it… Is God taking away his free will? Plus: our Q&A segment addresses the difference between marriage annulments and priests leaving the priesthood.
The 10 plagues continue to pummel the Egyptians, but Pharaoh continues his two-faced, duplicitous ways. We also see how each plague is a direct attack by Yahweh on one of the so-called “gods” of Egypt.
Moses, unbelievably, gives Pharaoh the choice of when the plague of frogs will end. It’s up to him! We also have a choice to be for or against God. St. Augustine says, “The God who created you without you will not save you without you”.
Cale dips into the 10 plagues that God unleashes on the Egyptians. The first two have to do with water. Aaron’s staff turns into a great sea monster, and Moses commands that the Nile be turned into blood. What’s Pharaoh’s reaction? Find out in this episode of the Faith Explained.
In this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, God says to Moses: “In the past, I revealed myself as ‘God Almighty’ to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. ”But now, in revealing himself as the God who 'is' and 'will be', God reveals much more about himself—that he’s with us in the present moment, and in the challenges and experiences of everyday life.
God picks Moses back up after he falls flat on his face with Pharaoh. Not only does Pharaoh not “let God’s people go”, things got even worse for the enslaved Israelites. Find out what God does in response, on this episode of The Faith Explained with Cale Clarke!
On this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, Moses begins his journey back to Egypt to confront Pharaoh. But on the way, God confronts Moses and tries to kill him! Why on earth would God do this? Ultimately, Moses is saved by the quick thinking and actions of his wife, Zipporah.
God calls Moses to go and speak to Pharaoh. Moses doesn't want to go, and asks God to send someone else. Sometimes we feel the same way, but there are people only we can reach and God will equip us like he equipped Moses.
What’s in a name? What’s in a divine name? There are numerous names for God in the Old Testament, including Yahweh, Jehovah, and the Lord. Where do these come from? It’s all connected to how God reveals Himself in chapter 3 of Genesis. Cale discusses this and more in this episode of the Exodus series on the Faith Explained.
When God spoke to Moses out of the burning bush, we might ask who or what is this angel spoken of? Plus: God says He will send Moses to a land filled with milk and honey, but what kind of milk and honey? Cale discusses this and more on today’s Faith Explained.
God steps onto the “stage” of Exodus and reveals himself to Moses in the wilderness. Moses is charged with leading Israel out of bondage, but suffers from “imposter syndrome”, doubting he’s up for the task. God’s response: “I will be with you.” What more could one ask for?
God steps onto the “stage” of Exodus and reveals himself to Moses in the wilderness. Moses is charged with leading Israel out of bondage, but suffers from “imposter syndrome”, doubting he’s up for the task. God’s response: “I will be with you.” What more could one ask for?
Moses appears on the scene in a tale of failed leadership, violence, and murder. He must go to the wilderness to find salvation. He becomes a savior for the very first time, but it won’t be the last.
In most heroes' journeys, they go from rags to riches, but Moses goes from being on top of the world and from being in Pharaoh's palace to abject poverty out in the wilderness. He must become like his fellow Hebrews. He must become like a slave to lead the slaves out of bondage.
God's power was certainly manifest in the life of Moses. In this episode of The Faith Explained, we see how Moses is saved through water, not in a basket, but in an ark, which prefigures how he leads God's people to salvation through the Red Sea.
On today's episode of the Faith Explained, Cale talks about heroines in the Bible who many people have never heard of: the Hebrew midwives who saved the male children from certain death. Pharaoh tries to strike fear and terror into the hearts of the people, but they strike the fear of God into Pharaoh.
Cale discusses the importance of knowing God. Pharaoh has forgotten the God of Joseph and begins to persecute and enslave the people of God. How does God set them free and reveal Himself to Pharaoh and his people? Find out on this episode of the Faith Explained.
On today’s Faith Explained, Cale begins to take a look at the text of Exodus. God has to establish who He is because to His people, He is the God who wasn’t there. Why are they in slavery, and why hasn’t God answered them? Why is God not acting in their lives as He did in the lives of the patriarchs? God has to reveal who He is and who Moses is.
Cale looks at the question of who wrote the Book of Exodus. Was it Moses or just traditions derived from Moses, or does it even matter, because isn’t it true that God Himself is the author of Scripture? Cale discusses this and what kind of history Exodus is.
In this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale continues his series on the Book of Exodus, focusing on the power and presence of God. God shows His power in getting the Israelites out of Egypt, but then He has to reveal Himself to His people.
In this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale begins a series on the Book of Exodus: The power and presence of God. Getting His people out of Egypt was only half of the story. What happens after that is God reveals who He really is.
Seen at sporting events everywhere, it’s the most famous verse in the Bible: John 3:16. Plus: a Q&A on why priests wear black.
Cale sits down with Kayla Richardson, a convert from Mormonism to Catholicism, who shares about her upbringing in a Mormon family and what led her to the Catholic Church.
Cale looks at the origins of polygamy among early Mormons, including in the life of their founder, Joseph Smith, Jr.
Celestial marriage? Do we remain married to our spouse in heaven? Cale looks at what Mormons believe about the afterlife, including Hell. What do the Scriptures actually say?
What is the Mormon practice of baptism for the dead? What does the Catholic Church teach about baptism? Is it necessary for salvation? Cale looks at three different types of baptism.
Are Mormons Christians? Where do they believe Jesus Christ came from? Cale looks at how to refute the claim that God has a body.
Who is Joseph Smith? How did the Book of Mormon originate? Cale looks at the sketchy history of the origins of the Mormon religion.
What did the early Church Fathers teach about authority? Can there be any new divine public revelation? Cale also looks at failed prophecies of Joseph Smith.
How did Mormonism originate? Who is Joseph Smith? Cale looks at two things NOT to mention when talking with a Mormon. What is the “great apostasy” and is there any truth to it?
Cale looks at the failed prophecies of the Watch Tower Society. Is Jehovah a proper name for God? How can Jesus be God if there are verses in the Bible that say that the Father is greater than Jesus? What is an effective way to evangelize Jehovah’s Witnesses?
Will only 144,000 people be saved? Is Hell eternal? Cale responds to false teachings that Jehovah’s Witnesses profess. Why don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses receive blood transfusions? Cale also looks at failed prophecies put forth by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society.
How do Jehovah’s Witnesses try to convert people? What should you do when they try to convert you? Cale looks at responses you can give when asked about your Catholic faith. Do Jehovah’s Witnesses think about Jesus? Do they believe that he is God? Do they believe in the resurrection?
Cale looks at the history of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. What do they believe? Do they use the same Bible as Catholics?
During the Octave before Christmas, the Church deepens her faith in the coming Messiah by praying the famous “O Antiphons”. But what are they? “O”, not to worry — Cale will explain!
During the Octave before Christmas, the Church deepens her faith in the coming Messiah by praying the famous “O Antiphons”. But what are they? “O”, not to worry — Cale will explain! Plus: in our Q&A segment, have you ever wondered how the State of Maryland got its name? Does it have something to do with the Blessed Virgin Mary? Well…kinda! It’s an incredible true story. Tune in to find out!
If we’re going to have a Happy (Church) New Year this Advent, we need to know the reason for THIS season. Plus: What happened to the dead before the “advent” of Christ?
Cale looks at the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and the rededication of the temple. When was Jesus born – was it really toward the end of December?
Cale looks at the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and the rededication of the temple. When was Jesus born – was it really toward the end of December?
Is praying to Mary biblical? Is the rosary just vain repetition, the kind of prayer Jesus criticises in Matthew 6:7-8? In this episode, Cale offers an in-depth look at Catholic devotion to Mary, rooted in the Bible and in history.
While the Sacrament of Matrimony is not every person’s vocation, each person is called to give themselves up for the love of others. Even priests are “married” to their bride, the Church. Cale explains in this episode of The Faith Explained.
Why do Catholics and Protestants have different versions of the 10 Commandments? What does it mean to not take the Lord’s name in vain? Should it instead be translated, you shall not 'carry' the Lord’s name in vain?
Are the gospels historically reliable, or do they contain contradictions that just can't be overcome? Cale examines the census question at the time of Jesus' birth. Was that historical?
Cale goes to the mailbag to tackle a question about the gospels and why there are only four in the bible. What does the Da Vinci Code say about the gospels? Could there really be 80 different gospels? Cale explains how the Da Vinci Code is fictional, and it feeds the idea of wanting a loophole from the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Cale gives a summary of the Book of Genesis to conclude the Genesis Series. Why is the book named “Genesis”? Why are there 50 chapters? Cale also looks at the different covenants God makes with His people. What is typology? The story of Genesis is our story, too.
Cale looks at the final verses of the Book of Genesis. How can we properly mourn? What was Joseph remembered for in the New Testament?
Cale looks at Genesis 50. Joseph’s brothers are afraid that he will take vengeance on them now that their father Jacob has died. Joseph’s response is perhaps surprising. Cale looks at what this text means for us today.
Cale looks at the final verses of Genesis 49, where the death and burial of Jacob are recorded. What can this text teach us about our own meeting with God and eternity?
Cale continues to look at Jacob’s final blessing over his sons in Genesis 49. The blessing given to Joseph is especially interesting. Cale examines four different aspects of this blessing, exploring what it meant in the past and what it means now.
Cale looks at Genesis 49. What does the name Issachar mean? What can donkeys teach us about our relationship with Christ?
“The Donkey” by G.K. Chesterton: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/47918/the-donkey
Cale continues Genesis 49 and discusses how the name “Jews” comes from Judah. He also talks about St. Justin Martyr’s views on Judah and compares Judah and Jesus. Cale also discusses the writings of St. Ambrose and how they compare to Judah and Jesus. Cale explains who Zebulun is.
Is Genesis 49:10 a messianic prophecy? Cale looks at the words Jacob speaks over his sons.
Cale examines Genesis 49 and the final words of Jacob before his death. Did you know that the Letter to the Hebrews mentions Jacob’s blessing of Joseph’s sons? Why this event of all the ones recorded? Jacob’s words to all the sons of Joseph are prophetic. Cale also shares a lighthearted poem on heaven.
Cale looks at Genesis 48 and considers the spiritual gifts God gives us. Does Jacob know what he’s doing when he places his right hand over Ephraim? Cale also shares a story of St. Josemaria Escriva and the fatherhood of God.
Cale looks at Genesis 48. How often do you think about heaven? Jacob adopts Manasseh and Ephraim as his sons. Why? Plus, two terms that appear for the first time in Scripture that are significant for the spiritual life of believers.
Cale looks at Genesis 47. Jacob is near death, but he’s got some tricks up his sleeve. God is faithful. He has a plan for you just as He did for the patriarchs.
Cale looks at Genesis 47. The story of Joseph sheds light on the mystery of our redemption in Jesus Christ.
Cale looks at Genesis 46 and 47. After decades apart, Israel sees his beloved son, Joseph. Israel is introduced to Pharaoh. What happens might surprise you. Where is the land of Goshen?
Cale looks at Genesis 46. Jacob brings the family to Egypt. What fears do you have in following God 100 percent?
Cale looks at Genesis 45, where Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers. It’s a powerful scene filled with tears and forgiveness. Cale also shares a story of forgiveness from the life of Pope St. John Paul II.
Cale looks at Genesis 44. Joseph has one final test for his brothers. Judah has a transformation. What is true repentance?
Cale looks at Genesis 43. Joseph meets his brothers a second time and tests them. Why did the Egyptians look down on Hebrews?
Cale looks at Genesis 42. Joseph’s brothers go to Egypt to buy grain, but little do they know that the brother they sold into slavery long ago is now second in command over all Egypt.
Have you ever experienced spiritual dryness? Cale looks at Genesis 41, 42. Joseph is now Pharaoh’s right-hand man. What does the name Zaphenath-paneah mean? Who is Joseph’s wife? Who are his sons?
The first glorious mystery. Cale looks at 5 facts that have to be accounted for regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
More episodes of the Biblical Roots of the Rosary
https://relevantradio.com/?cat=25469&s=Biblical+Roots+of+the+Rosary
https://relevantradio.com/page/2/?cat=25469&s=Biblical+Roots+of+the+Rosary
What did crucifixion look like in the ancient world? Did Jesus die on the cross? Cale examines multiple historical sources outside the Bible that mention the death of Jesus on the cross. What does Christ’s death on the cross mean for us? Why did God suffer and die in the person of Jesus Christ?
Video: 3 Archaeological Discoveries Relating to Jesus’ Death
More episodes of the Biblical Roots of the Rosary
https://relevantradio.com/?cat=25469&s=Biblical+Roots+of+the+Rosary
https://relevantradio.com/page/2/?cat=25469&s=Biblical+Roots+of+the+Rosary
What was the shape of the cross on which Jesus was crucified? Was it a “T” or “X” shaped cross? What is the “Alexamenos graffito”? Who is Simon of Cyrene, and why did he get selected to carry the cross of Jesus?
More episodes of the Biblical Roots of the Rosary
https://relevantradio.com/?cat=25469&s=Biblical+Roots+of+the+Rosary
https://relevantradio.com/page/2/?cat=25469&s=Biblical+Roots+of+the+Rosary
What did a Roman flogging look like? Why was Jesus handed over in the first place? Who was really at the praetorium when Jesus was before Pilate? Cale continues to look at the biblical roots of the rosary by looking at two of the ‘sorrowful mysteries’ – the scourging at the pillar and the crowning of thorns.
More episodes of the Biblical Roots of the Rosary
https://relevantradio.com/?cat=25469&s=Biblical+Roots+of+the+Rosary
https://relevantradio.com/page/2/?cat=25469&s=Biblical+Roots+of+the+Rosary
Sometimes great sinners can become great saints. Shepherd, warrior, king, and ultimately a “man after God’s own heart”: it’s the life of King David.
Cale looks at Genesis 41. Pharaoh has dreams that no magicians can interpret. Then he is introduced to Joseph. What ensues is beyond anything he could have imagined.
Cale looks at Genesis 40. God has given Joseph the ability to interpret dreams. He puts it to use when in prison, he meets two prisoners who have troubling dreams about their role in the court of Pharaoh.
Cale examines Genesis 39, in which we see Joseph put in charge of an Egyptian official’s house. But Potiphar’s wife makes an advance on Joseph. What is his response? Joseph faces slavery, is tempted with infidelity, and faces imprisonment. Yet he never lost hope that God had a plan for him.
Cale looks at Genesis 38 and the story of Judah and Tamar. What’s going on in this sordid tale?
What is “Onanism”? Cale examines Genesis 38, where we find the sordid tale of Judah and Tamar. Why is contraception wrong?
Joseph’s brothers conspired to kill him after tensions mounted in light of Joseph’s dreams and the favor given him by their father, Jacob.
Cale first talks about how those who are not part of Israel are still important to God. Cale introduces us to Joseph and discusses why his brothers didn’t like him and were jealous of him. Cale then explains Joseph’s first dream.
Cale begins with a sneak preview of Jacob, Joseph & Reuben’s later relationships. He then talks about the sons of Jacob, completing the 12 tribes of Israel. Cale analyzes the descendants of Esau, breaking down the meanings of their names and their significance. Cale ends by talking about marriage and the dangers of marrying someone with different religious views.
Cale discusses how Jacob becomes Israel and why it’s significant because God gives a blessing. He compares Jacob’s name change to Abram’s name change, and also takes a look at the death of Rachel, who died while giving birth to Benjamin. Cale also discusses Rachel’s tomb, the death of Deborah (Rebekah’s nurse) and the significance of Bilhah.
Cale Clarke finishes up his analysis of Genesis 34 as he talks about Dinah’s brothers rescuing her while pillaging the city and the moral implications of that. He shares how God is the ultimate chessmaster and works through people’s sin.
Cale also discusses Jacob’s call from God to go to Bethel and the changes he had to make in his life.
Cale Clarke analyzes Genesis 34, focusing on Jacob, Dinah, and Shechem, and the treatment of women and marriage. In this chapter, Shechem acts toward Jacob’s daughter Dinah evilly, and Cale discusses the customs, rules, and laws of the time. It’s recommended that this podcast is for more mature listeners.
Cale Clarke analyzes Genesis 34, focusing on Jacob, Dinah, and Shechem, and the treatment of women and marriage. In this chapter, Shechem acts in an evil way toward Jacob’s daughter Dinah, and Cale talks about the customs, rules and law at the time. It's recommended that this podcast is for more mature listeners.
After years apart, Jacob and Esau meet. What is the result? A bloodbath? Or reconciliation? Cale looks at Genesis 33. Why does Jacob stop at Succoth?
Who is the mysterious figure that Jacob wrestles with? God? an angel? And why? Is there any significance to this wrestling match happening near a river? Cale examines Genesis 32 as Jacob prepares to meet his brother, Esau.
Why did Rachel take her dad’s household gods? What does the title of God “Fear of Isaac” mean? The angels of Good meet Jacob on his way back home. Cale looks at Genesis 31, as well as the beginning of Genesis 32.
Cale looks at Genesis 30. Jacob tries to leave Laban and return to his homeland, but this proves a difficult task. Rachel steals Laban’s “household gods”.
Cale looks at Genesis 30. Rachel has fertility struggles and there is an ensuing strife between Rachel and Leah. What is the significance of the mandrakes? Cale also looks at the meaning of the names of the sons of Jacob – the 12 Tribes of Israel.
It’s one of the greatest love stories in the Bible: the story of Jacob and Rachel. But Jacob, the deceiver, is deceived by Laban and marries Leah. Cale breaks down Genesis 29.
Cale examines Genesis 28, in which we see Jacob’s dream at Bethel. Jesus himself sheds further light on this event in the Gospel of John.
Cale looks at Genesis 26, 27. Does Isaac really not know that it was Jacob who was asking for the blessing? What is the difference between the birthright and this blessing from Isaac? Why does Rebekah put Jacob up to this?
Cale examines the famous story of Jacob convincing Esau to give him his birthright. Did God really “hate” Esau? What does this story mean for your life?
Cale looks at the similarities between Isaac and Jesus, as well as Rebekah and the Church. Should we be asking God for signs to know His will for our lives? Abraham dies, but his descendants grow and spread. Cale looks at the birth of Esau and Jacob.
Is asking God for a sign a good way to discern His will for your life? Cale looks at Genesis 24, the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah. What is holding you back from committing your life to Christ?
Cale looks at Genesis 23 and 24. Abraham purchases land and buries his wife, Sarah in the cave of the field of Machpelah in the land of Canaan. (cf. Gen 23:19). Abraham’s servant asks God for a sign as he looks for a wife for Isaac.
Cale looks at one of the most famous passages in all of Scripture. God tells Abraham to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. Why would God ask this? What is the real test God is asking of him? Is Mount Moriah near Jerusalem?
Abraham sends Hagar and Ishmael away, but God still provides for them. Do Ishmael and his descendants have anything to do with Islam? What is the significance of the covenant between Abraham and Abimelech? Abraham plants a tamarisk tree and puts down roots, but he is about to face his biggest test yet. Cale looks at Genesis 21, 22.
Have you struggled with infertility? You’re not alone. God has a plan for you. Cale looks at Genesis 21 and the birth of the promised son, Isaac. There appears some conflict, however. Ishmael plays with Isaac, but not in a nice way. Even though Ishmael is not the child of the promise, God still has a plan to bless Ishmael.
What is the Church’s teaching on homosexuality? Using both the Scriptures and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Cale explains why the Church teaches that homosexuality is wrong. Cale also looks at Genesis 20 where Abraham once again lies about Sarah being his wife – this time to King Abimelech. What is a prophet?
Cale looks at Genesis 18 and 19 as Abraham pleads with God about the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. What happened to Lot’s wife when she turned into a pillar of salt? Cale also looks at the geography of the region in which this event took place.
Are the three mysterious visitors in Genesis 18 a type of revelation of the Trinity? Who are they? God promises that Sarah will have a son. Her response? She laughs. Why?
Why did God choose the sign of circumcision for the covenant with Abraham? Who is the “angel of the LORD”? God changes Abram’s name to Abraham and Sarai’s name to Sarah.
Have you ever thought, “Why doesn’t God speak to me like He did to Abraham”? Cale addresses this, plus:
- Being a childless woman in the ancient world.
- the birth of Ishmael.
- Who is the “angel of the LORD”?
Melchizedek is a mysterious figure that appears in Genesis and elsewhere in Sacred Scripture. His name is also said during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Who is he, really? Cale discusses this and also the religion of Abram before he knew the Lord. What is a covenant?
Why did Abram and Lot part ways? Who is the mysterious figure named Melchizedek? Cale looks at Genesis 13 and 14.
Why did he go to Egypt? Why did he lie to Pharaoh about Sarai being his wife? Despite Abram’s decisions, God had a plan for him.
In this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale discusses:
- the composition of Genesis
- the similarities between the first 11 chapters of Genesis and the Babylonian exile
- Sarai
- the call of Abram
- 3 promises God makes to Abram
What’s the purpose of the genealogies? Why was the Tower of Babel built? Cale shares a surprising connection between the genealogies in Genesis and when Jesus sends out disciples in the Gospel of Luke.
What does the rainbow in the clouds signify? What does it tell us about God? Cale looks at Genesis 9 and discusses these questions, and also: Is it ok to eat meat? What’s going on with the drunkenness of Noah?
How can we adore God? Does God need our sacrifices? Cale looks at Genesis 8 and 9 and discusses baptism, sacrifice, and also the acronym ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).
Why did the flood happen? Was the flood regional or did it cover the entire earth? Cale looks at archaeological and scientific evidence of the flood and considers its geographical scope. What would it have been like for the animals on the ark? Ultimately, what does this story tell us about God?
Who are the “righteous remnant”? Do the animals on the ark have a special significance? Cale shares a key phrase for the entire flood narrative, some incredible insights from the early Church Fathers, and much more!
Who is Noah? What was the ark really like? Did you know that there are other ancient flood stories outside of the Bible? Cale gives an in-depth look at this famous story.
Who are the Nephilim? Does God change His mind? What did God mean when He said, “My spirit shall not abide in man for ever, for he is flesh, but his days shall be a hundred and twenty years.” ?
If you have a question for Cale, you can email faith@relevantradio.com
Who are the “sons of God”? Angels? Or something else entirely? Cale looks at Genesis 6:1-10 and gives three different ways to view this complex text. Other topics:
- Noah
- The book of 1 Enoch
Did people really live to be hundreds of years old? Who was Enoch and why did God “take him away”?
The line of Seth and the line of Cain present a stark contrast between good and evil. Cale looks at Genesis 4 and shows how God responds with the perfection of holiness in Jesus.
Why did God favor Abel’s offering but not Cain’s? What is the mark that God put on Cain? What is polygenism and why can’t Catholics believe it? Cale looks at the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 and considers the justice and mercy of God.
Did you know that the “first gospel” is in Genesis 3? What do the consequences of the original sin mean for men and women? Adam and Eve robed in garments of light? Cale breaks this down and shows how from the beginning God has had a plan to redeem His people.
What is lust? How does Jesus help us overcome this temptation? Cale unpacks the difference between lust and love by looking at Genesis 3. Cale also looks at how God sending Jesus to redeem us was not His backup plan but was the plan from the very beginning.
Were things perfect in creation before the Fall? Why didn’t God allow Adam and Eve to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil? Drawing on the work of St. Irenaeus, Cale presents how the early Church viewed Genesis 3 and how what happens is really our story.
Also discussed:
- The Serpent
- The two trees in the Garden of Eden
- The poetic language of the text
Cale looks at Genesis 3:1-12 and discusses the concept of sin, the deception of the serpent, and the salvation God provides.
Book: “In the Beginning… A Catholic Understanding of the Story of Creation and the Fall” by Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI): https://www.amazon.com/Beginning-Catholic-Understanding-Ressourcement-Retrieval/dp/0802841066
Is work a punishment for sin? Cale explains why this is not the case, and the sanctity that can come from work – any type of work. What does a priest do? And what is the significance of the priestly garments in the Old Testament? There are some amazing connections between the structure of the Temple in Jerusalem and Jesus’s death on the cross.
What was it like to be human before sin entered the world? Drawing on St. John Paul II’s insights in the “Theology of the Body”, Cale discusses the relationship between Adam and Eve ‘in the beginning’. Topics include:
- original solitude
- original unity
- original nakedness
- the meaning of life
- love
What is the tree of life referred to in Genesis 2? What’s the connection to wisdom? Cale addresses these questions, as well as the importance of Adam having a wife.
Is evolution compatible with the Catholic faith? If it is, what does it mean theologically? Cale looks at the creation of human beings in Genesis 2 and addresses these questions. Other topics:
- The difference between macroevolution and microevolution
- The Hebrew word for ‘dust’
- Why did Jesus keep His wounds after the resurrection?
- The geographical location of Eden
How can you enter into God’s rest? What does resting in God really mean? Cale looks at Genesis 2:1-25 and answers these questions plus more!
God had a plan when he created the world – and He has a plan for you, too. Cale explains how creation is a cosmic temple and what this reveals about God. Other topics:
- Hebrew names for God
- The nature of God as a Trinity
- All of creation is good
What does it mean that the earth was formless and void? What does Genesis 1 tell us about God? Are you living a life of order? Cale looks at Genesis 1:1 – 2:3 and addresses these questions, plus:
- God being separate from creation
- Parallels between Genesis 1 and John 1
- Two important things to know about human beings made in the image and likeness of God
- The Sabbath
What type of literature is the Book of Genesis? How should we read this ancient text? What is its relationship with modern science? Cale addresses these questions and more in this inaugural episode of the new series on the Book of Genesis.
Cale looks at the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in Sacred Scripture. Who can receive this sacrament?
Cale looks at the sacrament of Holy Orders in both the Old Testament and the New Testament.
In this episode, Cale looks at 4 of the 7 sacraments - Baptism, Confession, the Eucharist, and Confirmation - and where they are in the Bible.
In this conclusion of his series on the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father, Cale talks about how evil and sin, should we be so unfortunate to fall into it, can never overcome us in the spiritual life.
In this continuation of Cale's discussion on the Our Father, he talks about the final temptation of Christ in the wilderness, and it's the most insidious of all of them. The devil takes Jesus to a very high mountain and shows him all of the kingdoms of the world. He says, all of these I will give you. But there's a catch. Cale talks about this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained.
In this continuation of Cale's discussion on the Our Father, he talks about the final temptation of Christ in the wilderness, and it's the most insidious of all of them. The devil takes Jesus to a very high mountain and shows him all of the kingdoms of the world. He says, all of these I will give you. But there's a catch. Cale talks about this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained.
In Cale's continued discussion on the Our Father, he talks about how "Deliver us from evil" is actually better translated to "deliver us from the evil one." When Satan tried to tempt Jesus in the wilderness, he tried to quote scripture, but he was misquoting it.
Cale continues to discuss the Our Father. "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." Is it evil in general or is it the evil one in particular, the devil? Cale uses the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness to show this, because the wilderness was the playground of demons and evil spirits
Cale continues to discuss the Our Father. Does the prayer really say "Lead us not into temptation"? Cale talks about this and more on today's edition of the Faith Explained on Relevant Radio and the Relevant Radio App.
Cale continues his discussion on the Our Father. He takes a look at the fifth petition - "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." Jesus says that if you don't forgive those who sin against you, God will not forgive your sins. Cale discusses this and much more on this episode of The Faith Explained.
Cale continues his discussion on the Lord's prayer, The Our Father. There are a lot of non-Catholic groups who look at a particular verse in the Acts of the Apostles: "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship to the breaking of the bread, and the prayers." But what does that really mean? How do we know that the Catholic Church did that right. Cale discusses this and more on today's episode of The Faith Explained.
In this continuing discussion on the Our Father, Cale explains that there are two bad responses we need to be aware of when we pray "Thy will be done." These two are fatalism and scrupulosity.
Cale continues his series on the Lord's Prayer, The Our Father. In this episode, Cale takes a look at the seven petitions of the prayer. "Thy will be done," is very interesting. Is God's will ever not done? Only when we sin. Why has God allowed us to turn away from him?
Cale continues his look into the Lord's prayer. Did you know that the Our Father is based off an ancient Jewish prayer, The Kaddish? Jesus expands the prayer and makes it much different. Cale also answers the question of why we pray to when God already knows our needs in the first place.
Cale continues his series on the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father. One of the things about our Father, is that He is in heaven. But where is heaven and what does it look like? Cale explains how heaven isn't just some faraway place. It's actually all around us.
Cale continues to take a look at Jesus' teaching on the fatherhood of God as expressed in the Lord's Prayer. He looks at the four elements of being a good father which are true of Divine Fatherhood, and human fatherhood as well.
Cale looks at the 'Our Father' prayer, breaking down word by word the meaning of this ancient prayer. What are the origins of this prayer?
Is it ever morally licit to use nuclear weapons? Was dropping the atomic bomb wrong? Cale finishes the series on what the Catholic Church teaches on war and peace by looking at nuclear warfare. Other topics: the difference between patriotism and nationalism; consequentialism; the four elements of a just war.
What makes for lawful self defense in war between nations? Where does conscience come into play? Cale continues to unpack what the Catholic Church teaches about war and peace.
What is peace? What does 'shalom' really mean? Cale looks at how Jesus is our true peace.
Cale continues to look at the fifth commandment 'do not kill'' by looking at capital punishment, unintentional killing of someone, desiring another's harm, and ways one can sin against God's love.
Cale looks at the Sermon on the Mount, the commandment not to kill and the sacredness of human life.
When we are at our most alone, hurting, and vulnerable, Christ is there. Plus: a Q and A on the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
How can the Spirit help those called to marriage achieve “a more perfect union” amidst all threats from without and within? Plus: a Q&A about the Mass wine controversy.
Confession has been called “a second baptism.” But there’s no Confession without a priest, and no priesthood without the Holy Spirit.
We believe in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. But don’t forget about the Holy Spirit’s true presence in the Mass, making it happen!
Ever wish you could be forever young? Or fast-forward to eternal life? With baptism, you can! Find out how the waters of baptism lead you back to the source of life in the Spirit, and the life of the future Kingdom, now.
If we receive the Holy Spirit in Baptism, why do we need Confirmation? The answer might surprise you!
What’s the difference between the “fruits” and the “gifts” of the Holy Spirit? How does God make use of (sometimes adverse) circumstances to make us more supernaturally fruitful?
Cale will answer this question and offer more ways we can tell an inspiration is from God the Holy Spirit.
This is THE question: how can you know if an inspiration comes from the Holy Spirit, from yourself, or from the Devil?
Cale Clarke shares 10 ways to get into “God’s orbit” and receive the Spirit’s inspirations for you!
If we don’t practice obedience in our relations to others, how likely is it that we will obey God when he asks for it?
Want to draw down more graces from the Spirit? St. Thérèse says God gives 10 graces in exchange for just one of these…but, what is it?
God’s “general” will for all people should be obvious: the Ten Commandments, Scripture, and Church teaching come to mind. But what about God’s “particular” will for particular questions in your life? That’s where the inspirations of the Holy Spirit are key!
Pentecost marks the gift of God, the Holy Spirit. But in so many ways, he is “The Great Unknown”. Cale Clarke shares what Saint Faustina called a shortcut to holiness: being docile to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit.
Cale goes to the mailbag to tackle a question about the gospels discussing why there are only four in the bible. What does the Da Vinci Code say about the gospels? Could there really be 80 different gospels? Cale explains how the Da Vinci Code is fictional, and It feeds the idea of wanting a loophole from the teachings of Jesus Christ.
What is the secret of Paul's contentment? What must you do to be saved? Cale looks at Philippians 4:10-14.
How do you give your worries to God? What about thinking good thoughts during the day? Cale looks at Philippians 4:6-9.
Did St. Paul have a wife? What is the "book of life"? How can you be commanded to rejoice?? Cale begins chapter 4 of Philippians.
What is the deal with the separation between Church and State? In the first-century world that St. Paul inhabited, there was no such thing. How do we live as Christians in the State?
Who are the enemies of the cross of Christ? Cale looks at the two ends of a person; and where our true citizenship lies, continuing to look at St. Paul's letter to the Philippians.
St. Paul uses strong language to speak of his achievements in life, which may surprise the reader. What is Paul getting at in Philippians 3? Cale breaks down this and more on the show.
Philippians 3:1-11. Paul had every credential one could hope for...but it was nothing compared to his new identity in Christ.
Who are the "evil workers" St. Paul is referring to in Philippians 3? What is it that they were teaching? Cale looks at this and more.
Do you have a mentor or spiritual guide for how to live out your faith? Cale looks at the companions of St. Paul and how learning from other believers is a must in the Christian life.
How can you be a light in the world? Cale continues to look at St. Paul's letter to the Philippians and what it meant then and what it means for you today.
Cale explores Philippians 2:12-18. How can we live the virtues of purity and obedience as children of God, in the midst of a corrupt and wicked culture?
Cale looks at the ultimate example of the “kenosis” (self-emptying) of Jesus in Philippians 2:5-11.
Paul goes through incredible lengths to preach the Gospel. He is concerned about God's judgment and implores us to make God more widely known and loved.
Cale continues his look at Philippians discussing the mutual love Paul had for the Philippians and that they had God's grace.
Paul writes about rejoicing in Jesus from a dank prison cell. We can’t always control our circumstances, but we CAN control our response, choosing the attitude of Christ.
In this opening session on St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians, Cale offers an overview of the historical context, geography, and social scene of his readers, and how it relates to our own.
Seen at sporting events everywhere, it’s the most famous verse in the Bible: John 3:16. Plus: a Q&A on why priests wear black.
What did crucifixion look like in the ancient world? Did Jesus die on the cross? Cale looks at multiple historical sources outside of the Bible that mention the death of Jesus on the cross. What does Christ’s death on the cross mean for us? Why did God suffer and die in the person of Jesus Christ?
“Behold His Face”: What if God offered you a deal: you could have everything you’ve ever wanted, but you would NEVER see His face. Would you take it?
“The Marriage Supper of the Lamb”: why the Eucharist is “the sacrament of the Bridegroom and the Bride” (St John Paul II).
“The Mark of the Lamb”: just as the followers of the Beast in Revelation are marked with “666”, the followers of the Lamb are marked…but with what?
The living dead: how can the Lamb in Revelation be “standing as if slain”? The answer is Resurrection. And: will only 144,000 people go to heaven?
ECCLESIA DE EUCHARISTIA
https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_20030417_eccl-de-euch.html
Discover the secret of the blood and water flowing from Jesus’ side, and why his bones were never broken.
Why Jesus’ command to eat his flesh and drink his blood at the New Passover sacrifice is NOT cannibalism.
As the first Passover meal was eaten before the Exodus, Jesus institutes a “New Passover” meal (the Eucharist) before the “New Exodus”.
The “crucifixion” of the lambs at Passover vividly evokes what would happen to Jesus. Plus, in our Q&A segment: did Jesus use hypnosis to fake miracles?
It wasn’t enough to kill the Passover lamb. It had to be eaten. And so it is with the Eucharistic sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God.
During Easter and Passover, the “Lamb of God” — fulfilled in Jesus Christ — is a dominant theme. In this miniseries, discover how it’s biblical from beginning to end; from Genesis to Revelation.
Cale dives into the mailbag for more questions about Jesus’ Resurrection. Were early Christians “biased”?
Cale answers objections to Jesus’ Resurrection: the “Stolen Body Theory”, the “Swoon Theory”, the “Hallucination Theory”, and more!
Cale offers more evidence from the “Minimal Facts” argument for Jesus’ Resurrection, including the conversion of James and eyewitness testimony from women.
The earliest Bible testimony about Easter (and his own miraculous meeting with Jesus) is found in the letters of St Paul.
What proves that the tomb of Jesus was empty on Easter Sunday? Plus: discover the “Corinthian Creed” in the Bible!
Christ is Risen! But how do we explain this to a skeptic? Listen in for some Easter evidence!
Cale Clarke takes a scriptural and historical look at Holy Thursday and Good Friday, including evidence for Jesus’ existence, death, and burial.
Those who claim Jesus was never buried are discounting crucial evidence from Roman and Jewish burial practices, even for criminals.
A controversial writer says Jesus “did not exist before” the Annunciation, and that Jesus “became God”. But, in reality, God became Jesus.
Why did God not institute the covenant of circumcision for females also? What made Israel different from other nations that also practiced circumcision? Has baptism replaced circumcision?
Cale looks at four elements of God's plan for the world: Deliverance, Community, Knowledge, Abundant Life.
Cale looks at the major themes of the Old Testament. What does God’s name mean, as revealed to Moses at the burning bush?
Is praying to Mary biblical? Is the rosary just vain repetition, the kind of prayer that Jesus criticizes in Matthew chapter 6:7-8? In this episode, Cale offers an in-depth look at Catholic devotion to Mary, rooted in the Bible and in history.
You’ve heard of the 7 “I AM” statements in the Gospel of John. How do they show Jesus is God?
In the series finale, Cale and Dr. Craig Evans break down the infamous “Gospel of Judas”.
Cale sits down with Dr Craig Evans to discuss the bizarre backstory of the so-called “Secret Gospel of Mark”.
What is the “Gospel of Mary Magdalene”? Why is it used to falsely suggest Jesus was married?
A talking cross? A Jesus is so tall that his head is, literally, in the clouds? And that’s not all! It’s the bizarre “Gospel of Peter”.
Cale shares more about the so-called “Gospel of Thomas”. Plus: a Q&A on what spiritual reading is all about.
It’s the most famous false “Gospel” of them all: The Gospel of Thomas. What’s it all about? Plus: a Q&A on the biblical reality of Purgatory.
You’ve probably heard about other, mysterious “Gospels” that didn’t make it into the Bible. Is the Church trying to hide something from you?
What did Jesus say about Jonah? Cale also discusses the deeper meaning behind Jesus’ miracles and exorcisms.
Jonah’s anger after God forgave Nineveh highlights Jonah’s selfishness and failure to understand God’s ways. How would you and I have reacted if we were in his sandals?
Jonah miraculously arrives alive in the wicked city of Nineveh, preaching God’s judgment. Will they repent, or will they perish?
Cale looks at how Jonah’s psalm-prayer from the belly of the whale is really a death liturgy. Plus: Jesus and the “sign of Jonah”.
Jonah & the whale? Iconic. But what is the rest of the Book of Jonah all about? Continue your Lenten journey with Jonah today!
James warns the wealthy who aren’t rich towards God, and reminds us that certain lessons can only be learned through patience, and in “the dark night of the soul”.
James warns of the dangers of slander, boasting, unjust judging, and making plans without reference to God's will.
Are you "all in"? Submit fully to Jesus and resist the devil. But how? James gives us the playbook in this episode.
Jealousy's a sin, so why does God experience it? Let's dive into James Chapter 4, for this and much more.
What is this "Shalom", this total peace God promises? Plus: the 7 fruits of heavenly wisdom.
James describes how the tongue can lead others - and ourselves - to either heaven or hell.
Mere intellectual assent to Catholic Truth won't get us to heaven; we need faith and works.
It’s tempting to show favoritism towards “The Bold and the Beautiful”. But in the Church, we have to be supernatural. God doesn’t play favorites, and neither should we.
We need 3 things to be a Total Catholic: Orthodoxy (right doctrine); Orthokardia (a right heart); and Orthopraxis (right practice). Head, heart, and hands, working in concert.
Cale discusses how the circumstances of our lives can make us - or break us - spiritually.
The divinity of Christ wasn't "invented" much later by the Catholic Church. James and the first believers, strict monotheists, worshipped Jesus as God from the Start.
Cale discusses how James' preaching about "the door of Jesus" led to his own doorway to eternal glory.
Can this ancient nonbiblical document shed any light on Jesus, Mary, and Joseph...and who James really is?
Cale explores the writings about James discovered in the sands of Egypt, including the controversial "Gospel of Thomas".
After James' martyrdom, another relative of Jesus becomes bishop of Jerusalem; the early Church flees to Pella to escape the destruction of the Temple.
Cale discusses the burial of James and the discovery of his ossuary, or "bone box" in Jerusalem.
Ever since the time of Martin Luther in the 16th century, Catholics and Protestants have hotly debated the issue of salvation. And, at the heart of it all, is the Letter of James.
In this episode of Bonding with James on the Faith Explained, Cale discusses how James highlights how believers should treat one another and witness to those outside the Church.
What were the 4 things that James and the Council of Jerusalem asked Gentile converts to abstain from and why?
Paul calls out Peter for his hypocrisy, James brokers a compromise at the Council of Jerusalem.
Cale continues his discussion on James, the "Brother of the Lord". In this episode he looks at some of the most important men and their work in the early Church.
What made the doubting James come to believe in Jesus as Messiah, and eventually become the bishop of Jerusalem?
Cale continues to discuss James, the so-called "brother of the Lord", in his series, Bonding with James. In this Episode, Cale takes a detailed look at many of the men named James in the New Testament.
Cale begins this series about James the so-called, "brother of the Lord." James was one of the people who was convinced to become a believer in Jesus because of the Resurrection.
Does Matthew 24 have anything to do with a 'rapture'? Cale looks at myths about the theological idea called the rapture, which is popularly portrayed in the Left Behind books.
Will heaven have "pearly gates and streets of gold"? Sorry to disappoint you, but, no. It's a major biblical misinterpretation!
Cale looks at the most famous objections to Jesus’ Resurrection, including the “stolen body theory”, the “swoon theory”, and the “hallucinations” theory.
How did the Apostles turn from scaredy-cats to roaring lions? Why did the anti-Jesus Saul become the Apostle Paul? Only the Resurrection makes it all make sense. Plus: Was Adam really buried under Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified?
Discover the powerful evidence for the resurrection appearances of Jesus. Plus: a Q and A on “soul sleep”.
Why is it important that Jesus’ death and resurrection occurred in Jerusalem? Why is it crucial that women were the first to encounter the risen Jesus? Plus: a Q and A on unicorns in the Bible!
Cale authenticates the death of Jesus and the reality of the empty tomb on Easter Sunday. Learn about the “5 Minimal Facts” scholars agree on regarding Easter — whether they are believers or not!
Did Jesus really rise from the dead? If it didn’t happen, St Paul says “our preaching is useless, and so is your faith.” So, what’s the evidence? Let’s investigate the greatest comeback of all time!
You may have been taught, “Don’t believe what people say they believe. Watch what they actually do.” Behavior reveals what people truly believe. And what the early Church actually did was worship Jesus as God — an earth-shattering development in a monotheistic environment.
The divinity of Christ wasn’t “invented” by the Church at Nicaea, nor was it a product of the Resurrection at Easter. Jesus revealed it during his earthly ministry! Plus: a Q and A about the mysterious Liturgy of the Hours!
What do the miracles of Jesus prove about him? Plus: a listener question on why Jesus and Lucifer are both called the “Morning Star” in the Bible. What gives?
Did Jesus really do miracles, or were ancient peoples just gullible? Is there any evidence for miracles today?
Skeptics zero in on why Jesus' family history is different in Matthew's Gospel than in Luke's. But this isn't sloppy research; it's all by design.
Did Herod really kill the “Holy Innocents”? No history book mentions it. Same with Luke’s Census that forces the Holy Family to Bethlehem. Are these real events? Plus: was Jesus really born in a cave?
Born of a Virgin. Attended by angels. A fantastic, movable star. How can we believe this stuff? Plus: Why taking God’s name is such a common, but deadly serious sin.
What do the mysterious Dead Sea Scrolls have to do with Jesus? Did the town of Nazareth really exist? And, a curious listener question…could Jesus and his disciples read and write? You’ll be surprised why this matters!
Cale relates what he saw with his own eyes: the 2,000-year-old bones of a man crucified under Pontius Pilate…and, no, they don’t belong to Jesus! Plus: the bone-box of James, the relative of Jesus.
What are the “Great 8” archaeological discoveries that shed light on Jesus and his world? Grab your shovel, and let’s dig in!
A famous, decorated scholar claims there are up to 400,000 differences between the New Testament manuscripts that have been discovered. Has the Bible been forged? Has Jesus been misquoted?
A recent novel claimed there were as many as 80 “Gospels” written about Jesus! Is this true? Why, then, are there only four Gospels in your Bible? Is there something about Jesus the Church doesn’t want you to know?
Just how many eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life and ministry were still around when the Gospels were written? And, could they still be trusted to remember what really happened? And, who really wrote the Gospels, anyway?
Did the Gospel writers accurately record what Jesus really said? Without smartphones or cameras in Jesus’ time, how can we be sure that we’ve captured Jesus’ true teaching? It’s a “red-letter edition” of The Faith Explained!
Did Jesus break clean with the Old Covenant religion of his day, railing against its “legalism” and focusing instead entirely on God’s mercy and love? Learn how the Bible shows that Jesus was in no way opposed to the law given to Moses.
The Roman Emperor was the most powerful figure on earth. Called the “divine” Son of God, his victories were “Good News”. So, why should you entrust your life to the most powerLESS man on earth (or so it seemed), crucified as a common criminal?
Cale takes you to Magdala, the most beautiful town in Galilee. You’ll meet Mary Magdalene, out of whom Jesus cast seven demons, and you’ll discover the two grave mistakes we can make when it comes to fighting evil supernatural forces that threaten our lives.
Why was Jesus baptized into the waters of death? Why are we baptized? Because the letters before our name (not after) are what count: “St”. Plus: a tour of Jesus’ “home base” in Capernaum, and a peek into Peter's house.
Cale’s tour of “Jesus’ Places” continues, with a dramatic visit to the theater in Sepphoris. Jesus witnessed “play-actors” (hypocrites) there, and warns us about the tragedy of an insincere faith.
As we explore “Jesus’ Places”, Cale pays a visit to Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth and the big city next door, where we meet “God’s Grandparents”.
The best evidence is from a hostile witness. Cale shows how ancient, anti-Christian writers confirm the existence of Jesus, and much of what we know about him. Plus: evidence for the Mass of the early Church.
In this new series, Cale explains why it matters so much to know not only what we believe about Jesus, but why we believe it. Plus: how do we know Jesus really existed?
Cale looks at the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and the rededication of the temple. When was Jesus born – was it really toward the end of December?
During the Octave before Christmas, the Church deepens her faith in the coming Messiah by praying the famous “O Antiphons”. But what are they? “O”, not to worry — Cale will explain! Plus: in our Q&A segment: have you ever wondered how the State of Maryland got its name? Does it have something to do with the Blessed Virgin Mary? Well…kinda! It’s an incredible true story. Tune in to find out!
Constantine’s Faith: What, exactly, did Constantine personally believe? Was he ever truly a Catholic?
“Game of Thrones”: how Constantine eliminated his rivals and became some ruler of the Roman Empire.
“By this sign you will conquer”: After a supernatural vision, Constantine achieves his greatest victory.
Cale introduces you to the controversial — and world-changing — life of Constantine the Great.
Planet earth is fined-tuned for life, and for finding that out! Chance? Or purpose? What is “Intelligent Design?” Plus: a Q and A on Catholics attending Protestant services.
Are there any good reasons why a good God would allow evil and suffering in the world? The answers may surprise you!
There’s only one good argument in the atheist’s arsenal: the problem of evil and suffering. What is the “argument from evil”? Plus: a Q&A on whether or not believers should watch horror/exorcism films.
Have you ever wondered why Jesus did not begin His public ministry until He was 30 years old? In this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale unpacks this question from a listener.
Is praying to Mary biblical? Is the rosary just vain repetition, the kind of prayer that Jesus criticizes in Matthew chapter 6:7-8? In this episode, Cale offers an in-depth look at Catholic devotion to Mary, rooted in the Bible and in history.
If we’re going to have a Happy (Church) New Year this Advent, we need to know the reason for THIS season. Plus: What happened to the dead before the “advent” of Christ?
Matchmaker: Pascal in the end reveals himself as a lover of God, who wants others to meet--and fall in love with--Love, personified.
How to respond when someone says, "this isn't REAL trust or love of God. It's just a way to avoid Hell."
In his classic argument for betting your life (and afterlife!) on God or against God, Blaise Pascal shows that you can't "cop out" by trying to stay agnostic as a third option.
Pope Francis wrote a letter to the Church about Blaise Pascal. How can we understand his most famous argument for staking your life on God? “You bet your life”, indeed!
In the final episode of the series on the Book of Revelation, Cale summarizes the message of Revelation, and discusses:
- Thirsting for God and God thirsting for us
- Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus!
- Not falling in with the crowd
How did we arrive at our current understanding of Heaven? Cale references Peter Kreeft’s book Heaven, the Heart’s Deepest Longing and unpacks what we know about Heaven from Sacred Scripture and philosophy.
Cale looks at Revelation 22:17, exploring the nature of the Church as the Bride of Christ, the best man St. John the Baptist, the waters of baptism, and four commands that you need to know!
Where are you going? In Acts 16:31 it says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” What does this really mean? Cale unpacks these questions and more in this episode of The Faith Explained.
The popular New Testament scholar Bart Ehrman has written that Hell does not really exist, that when we die, we will simply cease to exist. Cale looks at Revelation 22:14-15 and shows why this is NOT the case and, though uncomfortable, Hell really does exist.
Are you ready for the Final Judgment? Cale breaks down Revelation 22:12-15 and shares how we can be ready to meet Jesus the Judge.
Was idolatry more of a problem for the ancients than us today? Cale breaks down Revelation 22:8-11 and discusses the importance of right worship.
If Jesus were to write a letter to you, what would He say? Is it well with your soul? How do we make Jesus Lord of all? Cale continues to unpack the Book of Revelation and connect it to your daily life.
What does it mean that God’s name will be on our foreheads? How do we know that everything in Revelation will come to pass? How can we trust the message given to St. John? Cale breaks down Revelation 22:4-7.
What is the best thing about the new heaven and the new earth? What is the mysterious tree of life that is on both sides of the river? Cale breaks down Revelation 22:1-5 in light of Ezekiel 47 and the Gospel of John to help us better understand the glory that awaits us in heaven: seeing God face to face.
What will heaven be like? Who will be there? Cale breaks down Revelation 21:9-27 and explains how heaven is not just something in the future but starts now in this life.
In Revelation 12 we see a great eagle, the very earth devouring God’s enemies, and ‘the dragon’ waging war against ‘the woman’s offspring’. Cale helps us understand what it all means.
In Revelation 12 we see St. Michael the Archangel battle ‘the great dragon’, Satan. Why did Lucifer (Satan) rebel against God in the first place? The Cross of Christ is ultimately what defeated the Devil. Cale breaks it all down on this episode of The Faith Explained.
In Revelation 12, we see “a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars”. Who is she? Who is the red dragon that is seeking to destroy her and her child? Cale shows how the Blessed Virgin Mary is the Ark of the New Covenant. There are fascinating parallels between Revelation 12, the Gospel of Luke, and 2 Samuel.
Cale Clarke takes a deep dive to Revelation 11:3-14 talking about the two witnesses and what Jerusalem goes through.
Cale Clarke continues his look at Revelation 10:5-11 and the relationship between the Angel and the Scroll.
Continuing through the Book of Revelation, Cale looks at Revelation 9:17 – 10:7. We see an unrepentant mankind, ‘sorceries’ that are perhaps synonymous with what we would call today abortion and contraception, and a mysterious angel that has striking characteristics like Jesus and is holding a scroll.
On this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale Clarke shows how important the Old Testament is in interpreting and understanding the Book of Revelation. Books like Joel and Job shed key insights on many of the images that confront the reader in Revelation 9. Learn about the fallen star, the bottomless pit, the locusts, and more.
In Revelation 8 we see angels blowing trumpets, a burning mountain cast into a sea of blood, a great star falling from heaven, waters becoming like wormwood, and an eagle in midheaven crying woe. Cale breaks it all down and shares how Jeremiah 51 and the writings of the Jewish historian Josephus illuminate the text.
In Revelation 8 we see angels blowing trumpets, a burning mountain cast into a sea of blood, a great star falling from heaven, waters becoming like wormwood, and an eagle in midheaven crying woe. Cale breaks it all down and shares how Jeremiah 51 and the writings of the Jewish historian Josephus illuminate the text.
The seventh seal is finally opened, but what follows is perhaps surprising: silence. Why? Who are the seven angels that stand before God? Hail and fire, mixed with blood, falling down upon the earth? Cale unpacks Revelation 8 as the series on the Book of Revelation continues.
Continuing through the Book of Revelation, Cale examines Revelation 7:9-17 in which there is a multitude before the throne of God clothed in robes that have been turned white by the blood of the Lamb. Cale explains the significance of this vivid imagery. Plus, did you know that there are three kinds of baptism? Cale also shares a stunning story of a family whose son was murdered and how they showed mercy.
In Revelation 7, we see that there are 144,000 people from the tribes of Israel who are sealed. What is the seal? Are the 144,000 people a literal number? Perhaps you’ve had a Jehovah’s Witness tell you this. Cale explains why the 144,000 is not literal and how you can be triumphant with Christ.
Martyrs, a blood-red moon, a great day of wrath, and what YOU can do to hasten the Lord’s coming. Cale continues to unpack the Book of Revelation.
Who are the four horsemen and what do the symbols mean that surround them? Cale breaks down Revelation 6:1-8 and explains what it can mean for you today.
A lamb “standing as if it had been slain, with seven horns and seven eyes”, strong enough to open the seven seals of God’s judgment scroll. What does this tell us about Christ? What are the golden bowls full of incense and what do they reveal about the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass? It’s all here in this episode of The Faith Explained with Cale Clarke.
St. John’s vision in Revelation 4 is filled with many images: a throne, 24 elders, 4 living creatures, a glassy sea, and more. What does it all mean? Plus, is there any validity to the concept of a “rapture”? Cale breaks it all down on this episode of TFE.
The famous “Lukewarm Laodiceans” of the Book of Revelation. It’s the last of the 7 letters of Jesus to the 7 churches — and the most powerful message for Catholics in the West.
What is the “key of David” and what does it reveal about Jesus, as well as the papacy? And what does it mean to be a pillar in the temple of God? Plus, Jesus commended the Philadelphians and did not rebuke them for anything. Tune in to hear Cale explain on TFE.
The message that Jesus had for Sardis applies to us today – to you. Temptations abound in this life, but we must remain vigilant. Cale unpacks this letter on this episode of The Faith Explained.
Who is “Jezebel”? What, or rather, who, is the “Morning Star”? What Jesus had to say to the Christian communities in the first century He has to say to you, too. Cale explains on this episode of The Faith Explained.
What is the “hidden manna” referred to in Revelation 2:17? And what is the “white stone”? Plus, the importance of remaining faithful to God even when faced with temptations and trials.
Continuing the series “Unlocking the book of Revelation”, Cale addresses the ten days of persecution mentioned to Smyrna, as well as what is meant by “the crown of life”. He also discusses the letter to the Church in Pergamum and the importance of staying faithful to the teaching of Christ.
In this letter, Jesus encourages the persecuted Church. Did you know that some of the early Christians were called Atheists by the Romans? Why? Plus, Cale shares the remarkable story of the martyrdom of Polycarp. And what is the “synagogue of Satan” referred to in the text? Continuing “Unlocking the Book of Revelation” series.
Who are the Nicolaitans? And why does the Lord commend the church in Ephesus for hating their practices? Plus, Cale gives an in-depth look at the city of Ephesus during the time this letter was written.
Continuing through the Book of Revelation, we see today Jesus Himself address seven churches. In this episode we look at what Jesus says to the church in Ephesus — and what the Lord has to say to you, too.
We see in Revelation an image of Jesus with eyes like fire, a sword issuing from His mouth, hair white as wool, and He is holding seven stars in His right hand. What does it all mean? Cale explains on this episode of The Faith Explained.
What is “the Lord’s Day”? What are the ”seven golden lampstands”? How does the Book of Daniel shed light on the Book of Revelation?
Given the violence in the Old Testament, many wrongly believe the God of the Old Testament is different than the God of Jesus Christ. The truth is that God always fights against evil, just in different ways throughout salvation history.
What’s the evidence OUTSIDE the Bible for the Exodus and Conquest of the Holy Land? You’ll just have to “stele” yourself for the results! Biblical minimalists, beware!
In this episode, Cale explains the rise of the “Minimalists” who question the historicity of Old Covenant events like the Exodus and the conquest of the promised land. Do their ideas hold any water? What’s at stake if they’re right?
Cale looks at which elements of modern evolutionary theory are compatible with Scripture and Catholic doctrine, and which are not — which is a separate question from whether or not evolution is the best scientific explanation for human origins.
Cale begins our new mini-series with a look at evolution. Is the Bible out of step with modern science? How should we understand the Creation narrative in Scripture? Learn how science and faith aren’t in conflict but complement one another.
Our series concludes with a look at the First Letter of Peter. Did Peter himself even write this? If so, does Peter really say that he’s “no big deal”, and that he has no more authority than any other apostle or bishop?
St. Paul rebukes St. Peter. In public! Was Peter wrong? Yes. Does this mean the papacy, or papal infallibility, for that matter, isn’t true? Not a chance. Listen in to find out why!
St. Paul visits St. Peter for 15 days soon after his conversion. Why? Not only for Paul to get caught up on what Jesus’ earthly life was like, but to show deference and to submit to Pope Peter’s leadership of the Church.
The Acts of the Apostles, the Bible’s early Church history book, shows how St Peter was the undisputed leader of the early Church, and presided over the “Council of Jerusalem”.
Jesus, Peter, and a net full of 153 fish. What does it mean? Plus: the poignant threefold restoration of Peter as chief shepherd over a charcoal fire. It’s John 21.
Jesus the Good Shepherd wants his Church as one flock, with one shepherd. The visible unity of the Catholic Church is a sign to the world of the truth of the Gospel. Truly, sometimes people “have to see it to believe it”.
Explore Matthew 16 with Cale Clarke as he shows why Jesus picked Caesarea Philippi as the place to rename Simon as Peter (“The Rock”) and give him the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Did you know that Jesus’ teaching on the Papacy is prefigured in the Old Testament? Cale looks at the origins of the symbol of the keys, and how they unlock our understanding of the papal office.
In Part I of this miniseries, Cale looks at the role of Peter himself in the New Testament as leader among the Twelve.
Cale looks at the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in Sacred Scripture. Who can receive this sacrament?
Cale looks at the sacrament of Holy Orders in both the Old Testament and the New Testament.
In this episode, Cale looks at 4 of the 7 sacraments - Baptism, Confession, the Eucharist, and Confirmation - and where they are in the Bible.
Cale looks at the Old Testament’s description of the queen mother in Israel and how Mary fulfills this role as the mother of Jesus. Who is the woman clothed with the sun in the Book of Revelation?
Did the Catholic Church invent the doctrine of Mary being assumed body and soul into heaven, especially since it didn’t become doctrinal until 1950? What does the Assumption have to do with the immaculate conception? Cale looks at the biblical roots of this fourth glorious mystery of the rosary.
Cale looks at the Old Testament roots of Pentecost and the parallels between God giving the law to the Israelites on Mt. Sinai and the descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost as described in the Acts of the Apostles. Cale also looks at how the giving of the Spirit reverses the curse from the Tower of Babel in the book of Genesis.
Cale explains how the notion of Jesus floating away into the heavens is completely backward from the reality. He also looks at objections that Jesus ascended bodily into heaven. What does the ascension mean for your life?
The first glorious mystery. Cale looks at 5 facts that have to be accounted for regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
What did crucifixion look like in the ancient world? Did Jesus die on the cross? Cale looks at multiple historical sources outside of the Bible that mention the death of Jesus on the cross. What does Christ’s death on the cross mean for us? Why did God suffer and die in the person of Jesus Christ?
What was the shape of the cross on which Jesus was crucified? Was it a “T” or “X” shaped cross? What is the “Alexamenos graffito”? Who is Simon of Cyrene and why did he get selected to carry the cross of Jesus?
What did a Roman flogging look like? Why was Jesus handed over in the first place? Who was really at the praetorium when Jesus was in front of Pilate? Cale continues to look at the biblical roots of the rosary by looking at two of the ‘sorrowful mysteries’ – the scourging at the pillar and the crowning of thorns.
Cale looks at Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane: did he actually sweat blood? How could he be afraid if he is God? Cale also looks at Jesus’s nature, his acceptance of the Father’s will, and compares this to Adam in Eden.
Cale looks at the Last Supper narrative in the Gospel of Luke alongside the ancient liturgy of the first Passover in the Book of Exodus. How was the Last Supper celebrated? ‘Do this in remembrance of me’ means more than recalling the event: it means making it present and participating in it. Cale breaks down what this means.
St. John Paul II called the transfiguration the “mystery of light par excellence”. Cale looks at parallels between Moses in the Book of Exodus and Jesus on the mountain with Elijah and Moses in the Gospel of Matthew. Cale also looks at how to navigate the mountain top experiences we have and the times when we are walking in the valley.
What is the definition for the ‘kingdom of God’? What do exorcisms have to do with the kingdom of God? Where is the sacrament of confession in the Bible? What is the ‘kingdom prayer’? Cale also looks at the meaning of the parable of the Sower.
Cale looks at the parallels between the Gospel of John and the Book of Genesis. What does it mean to say that Mary is the ‘New Eve’? Why does Jesus call Mary, ‘woman’? When does the ‘hour’ of Jesus actually come?
Cale looks at John Paul II’s rationale for introducing the mysteries of light. What are the biblical roots of the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River? Why did Jesus need to be baptized if he is sinless?
Cale looks at Simeon’s prophecy in the Gospel of Luke. What is meant by Jesus being destined to cause the rising and fall of many? What does it mean that a sword will pierce Mary’s soul? Cale also looks at the prophetess Anna and the significance of her presence in the story.
Cale looks at the unique infancy narrative in the Gospel of Luke and the titles of Jesus. What do ‘Lord’ and ‘Christ’ mean? Cale also looks at Mary and Joseph presenting Jesus in the Temple. Who are Simeon and Anna?
Cale looks at the parallels between the account of Mary visiting Elizabeth in the Gospel of Luke and David dancing before the Ark in 2 Samuel 6. He also looks at what we call the ‘Magnificat’ alongside ‘Hannah’s song’ in 1 Samuel 2.
Cale looks at St. John Paul II’s Apostolic Letter Rosarium Virginis Mariae and three different crises in the world today that praying the rosary can combat. Cale also looks at the doctrine of the perpetual virginity of Mary.
ROSARIUM VIRGINIS MARIAE
https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/2002/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_20021016_rosarium-virginis-mariae.html
Why do Catholics and Protestants have different versions of the 10 Commandments? What does it mean to not take the Lord’s name in vain? Should it instead be translated you shall not “carry” the Lord’s name in vain?
Are the gospels historically reliable or do they contain contradictions that just can't be overcome? Cale looks at the question of the census at Jesus' birth. Was that historical?
Cale looks at the question: "Why are there Differences in the Gospels? Does this mean they are not historical?"
Cale goes to the mailbag to tackle a question about the gospels and why there are only four in the bible. What does the Da Vinci Code say about the gospels? Could there really be 80 different gospels? Cale explains how the Da Vinci Code is fictional, and It feeds the idea of wanting a loophole from the teachings of Jesus Christ.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:11-12. Cale talks about this Scripture passage, and how the command to “rejoice” is actually the tenth beatitude.
Cale continues to unpack the meaning of the beatitudes found in Matthew’s Gospel. What does it mean to be pure in spirit? Plus, the Old Testament background that illuminates the meaning of the beatitudes.
Did you know that there are 10 beatitudes? Cale unpacks the ten beatitudes found in Matthew 5, explaining what they mean and how to live them out.
Cale sits down with Kayla Richardson, a convert from Mormonism to Catholicism, who shares about her upbringing in a Mormon family and what led her to the Catholic Church.
Cale looks at the origins of polygamy among early Mormons, including in the life of their founder, Joseph Smith, Jr.
Celestial marriage? Do we remain married to our spouse in heaven? Cale looks at what Mormons believe about the afterlife, including Hell. What do the Scriptures actually say?
What is the Mormon practice of baptism for the dead? What does the Catholic Church teach about baptism? Is it necessary for salvation? Cale looks at three different types of baptism.
Are Mormons Christians? Where do they believe Jesus Christ came from? Cale looks at how to refute the claim that God has a body.
Who is Joseph Smith? How did the Book of Mormon originate? Cale looks at the sketchy history of the origins of the Mormon religion.
What did the early Church Fathers teach about authority? Can there be any new divine public revelation? Cale also looks at failed prophecies of Joseph Smith.
How did Mormonism originate? Who is Joseph Smith? Cale looks at two things NOT to mention when talking with a Mormon. What is the “great apostasy” and is there any truth to it?
Cale looks at the failed prophecies of the Watch Tower Society. Is Jehovah a proper name for God? How can Jesus be God if there are verses in the Bible that say that the Father is greater than Jesus? What is an effective way to evangelize Jehovah’s Witnesses?
Will only 144,000 people be saved? Is Hell eternal? Cale responds to false teachings that Jehovah’s Witnesses profess. Why don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses receive blood transfusions? Cale also looks at failed prophecies put forth by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society.
How do Jehovah’s Witnesses try and convert people? What should you do when they try and convert you? Cale looks at responses you can give when asked about your Catholic faith. Do Jehovah’s Witnesses think about Jesus? Do they believe that he is God? Do they believe in the resurrection?
Cale looks at the history of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. What do they believe? Do they use the same Bible as Catholics?
It is not enough to have orthodoxy (right belief) in the Catholic Faith. It is about both believing rightly and living rightly, with hearts fully devoted to God and to the service of others.
Was Saint Paul soft on slavery? Plus: a Q&A on the ultimate meaning of the “clean” and “unclean” regulations in the Bible.
Is the Catholic Church misogynistic and anti-woman? Those who say so point to Paul’s letter to Titus. But, what’s Paul actually saying?
Titus needs Church leaders who are both strong shepherds (to chase away ravenous “wolves”) and good fathers (to teach God’s children the truth in the face of cultural lies).
Titus is told that a priest must be “the husband of one wife”. Does this mean priests ought to be married?
St. Paul trusts his “fixer”, Bishop Titus, to shore up the Church in pagan Crete, showing God’s truth in a world of lies.
How the virtue of order is foundational to all other virtues. Plus: are there 9 fruits of the Holy Spirit – or 12?
“Behold His Face”: What if God offered you a deal: you could have everything you’ve ever wanted, but you would NEVER see His face. Would you take it?
“The Marriage Supper of the Lamb”: why the Eucharist is “the sacrament of the Bridegroom and the Bride” (St John Paul II). Plus: a Q&A on why St Paul’s letters are the earliest testimony to Jesus.
“The Mark of the Lamb”: just as the followers of the Beast in Revelation are marked with “666”, the followers of the Lamb are marked…but with what?
The living dead: how can the Lamb in Revelation be “standing as if slain”? The answer is Resurrection. And: will only 144,00 people go to heaven?
Cale explains why we could trust the Bible and debunks myths against the Old Testament. King David is also discussed as Cale talks about how he’s much more than just a local chief, using archaeology as evidence
We believe in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. But don’t forget about the Holy Spirit’s true presence in the Mass, making it happen!
A controversial writer says Jesus “did not exist before” the Annunciation, and that Jesus “became God”. But, in reality, God became Jesus.
You’ve heard of the 7 “I AM” statements in the Gospel of John. How do they show Jesus is God?
Discover the secret of the blood and water flowing from Jesus’ side, and why his bones were never broken.
Why Jesus’ command to eat his flesh and drink his blood at the New Passover sacrifice is NOT cannibalism.
As the first Passover meal was eaten before the Exodus, Jesus institutes a “New Passover” meal (the Eucharist) before the “New Exodus”.
On this, his Feast Day, discover how St Joseph found God (quite literally!) in his work, and helped re-establish God’s original plan for creation.
How did the early Church worship God? Cale looks at ancient writings from St. Justin Martyr and St. Ignatius of Antioch on liturgy and the Eucharist.
The “crucifixion” of the lambs at Passover vividly evokes what would happen to Jesus. Plus, in our Q&A segment: did Jesus use hypnosis to fake miracles?
It wasn’t enough to kill the Passover lamb. It had to be eaten. And so it is with the Eucharistic sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God
During Easter and Passover, the “Lamb of God” — fulfilled in Jesus Christ — is a dominant theme. In this new miniseries, discover how it’s biblical from beginning to end; from Genesis to Revelation.
As our Jewish friends celebrate Passover, we ask: Why did God institute two separate feasts: Passover and the feast of Unleavened Bread? One has to do with initial salvation, and the other has to do with sanctification: holiness, becoming like God. “Be holy, as I am holy”, says the Lord in the Old Covenant. Jesus says, “Be perfect, as your Heavenly Father is perfect” in the New.
What made Israel different from other nations that practiced circumcision? Has baptism replaced circumcision in the New Covenant?
Constantine’s Faith: What, exactly, did Constantine personally believe? Was he ever truly a Catholic?
Did women in the early Church wear veils? How, exactly, was the Eucharist originally celebrated?
“Game of Thrones”: how Constantine eliminated his rivals and became some ruler of the Roman Empire.
“By this sign you will conquer”: After a supernatural vision, Constantine achieves his greatest victory.
Cale introduces you to the controversial — and world-changing — life of Constantine the Great.
The sacrament of marriage is powerful. The Enemy is bent on destroying it. Cale shares more from the Theology of the Body, and why marriage is the “prototype” of all the sacraments.
Read the creation narratives in Genesis with St. John Paul II, and discover God’s purpose for our embodied humanity in Jesus Christ.
Seen at sporting events everywhere, It’s the most famous verse in the Bible: John 3:16. Plus: a Q&A on why priests wear black.
Cale answers a listener question: "Why are there differences in the Gospels? Are they not historical?"
Cale dives into the mailbag for more questions about Jesus’ Resurrection. Were early Christians “biased”?
Cale answers objections to Jesus’ Resurrection: the “Stolen Body Theory”, the “Swoon Theory”, the “Hallucination Theory”, and more!
Cale offers more evidence from the “Minimal Facts” argument for Jesus’ Resurrection, including the conversion of James and eyewitness testimony from women.
The earliest Bible testimony about Easter (and his own miraculous meeting with Jesus) is found in the letters of St Paul.
What proves that the tomb of Jesus was empty on Easter Sunday? Plus: discover the “Corinthian Creed” in the Bible!
Christ is Risen! But, how do we explain this to a skeptic? Listen in for some Easter evidence!
Cale Clarke takes a scriptural and historical look at Holy Thursday and Good Friday, including evidence for Jesus’ existence, death, and burial.
Those who claim Jesus was never buried are discounting crucial evidence from Roman and Jewish burial practices, even for criminals.
A controversial writer says Jesus “did not exist before” the Annunciation, and that Jesus “became God”. But, in reality, God became Jesus.
You’ve heard of the 7 “I AM” statements in the Gospel of John. How do they show Jesus is God?
Why did God rename Abraham and Sarah? Who is the “Angel of the Lord”? And why was circumcision the sign of the covenant?
King Nebuchadnezzar sets up a golden statue; Daniel’s three companions are thrown into a fiery furnace for not worshiping it. A “son of the gods” appears with them in the fire. Is this a pre-incarnate Christ? What is really behind idolatry?
On this, his Feast Day, discover how St Joseph found God (quite literally!) in his work, and helped re-establish God’s original plan for creation.
Susanna is falsely accused by wicked leaders, but God gives Daniel wisdom to save her life.
How did St. Patrick escape slavery, face down his enemies, and conquer the Emerald Isle for God? By using 3 simple spiritual weapons available to you in your own battles!
Why do Catholics have so many icons and images? Do Catholics worship statues? What does the Bible say about creating images? Cale looks at the difference between images and idols.
In the series finale, Cale and Dr. Craig Evans break down the infamous “Gospel of Judas”.
Cale sits down with Dr Craig Evans to discuss the bizarre backstory of the so-called “Secret Gospel of Mark”.
What is the “Gospel of Mary Magdalene”? Why is it used to falsely suggest Jesus was married?
A talking cross? A Jesus is so tall that his head is, literally, in the clouds? And that’s not all! It’s the bizarre “Gospel of Peter”.
Cale shares more about the so-called “Gospel of Thomas”. Plus: a Q&A on what spiritual reading is all about.
It’s the most famous false “Gospel” of them all: The Gospel of Thomas. What’s it all about? Plus: a Q&A on the biblical reality of Purgatory.
You’ve probably heard about other, mysterious “Gospels” that didn’t make it into the Bible. Is the Church trying to hide something from you?
What did Jesus say about Jonah? Cale also discusses the deeper meaning behind Jesus’ miracles and exorcisms.
Jonah’s anger after God forgave Nineveh highlights Jonah’s selfishness and failure to understand God’s ways. How would you and I have reacted if we were in his sandals?
Jonah miraculously arrives alive in the wicked city of Nineveh, preaching God’s judgment. Will they repent, or will they perish?
Cale looks at how Jonah’s psalm-prayer from the belly of the whale is really a death liturgy. Plus: Jesus and the “sign of Jonah”.
Jonah & the whale? Iconic. But, what is the rest of the Book of Jonah really all about? Start your Lenten journey with Jonah today!
With no public buildings, 1st-century Catholics met in “house churches”. What were they like?
We’re all in “the relationship business.” So was St Paul. His friendship and confidence helped others find the ultimate friend in Jesus.
Were there women deacons in the early Church? Some say Paul mentions this in Romans. Listen in to find out!
Did St Paul consider himself a priest? And: why the last impression is the lasting impression.
Discover how Jesus is the “Root of Jesse”. Plus: why you can’t have God as your Father without the Church as your Mother.
In humility, Jesus freely gave up his “rights” to serve others. So should we. Plus: the mystery Psalm that prophesied about the Christ.
Don’t be a “blockhead” — a stumbling block for others, that is, by what you say and do.
How God sculpts us into the image of Jesus interiorly (in our character) and, one day, exteriorly (when we receive our resurrected bodies).
Orthodoxy (right belief) is not enough. We also need orthopraxis (right conduct) and orthokardia (a right heart).
Can Catholics take vengeance on their enemies? Should they obey government authorities?
In the ‘70s, Boston sang “More Than a Feeling.” They’re right! St Paul talks about exactly how to love God and people.
Most communication takes place through body language. That’s no less true for the Mystical Body of Christ, the Church, as we communicate Christ via our spiritual gifts.
Theology of the Body in Romans: All religion involves sacrifice, and true spirituality is offering our bodies as a “living sacrifice.”
God’s plan is beyond us, best for us, and beautiful. Plus: was St Paul a Stoic, like Marcus Aurelius?
Today’s Q&A is on the Bible’s “Night of the Living Dead”: the Old Testament saints who came back to life when Jesus died!
Cale looks at how the Gospel of Luke has a unique focus on the marginalized in society.
St Paul sets up a “love triangle” of sorts, and a Q&A on whether or not it’s biblical to pray to the saints.
God always preserves a “faithful remnant” of his people. Discover Pope Benedict’s prophecy: the Church might have to get smaller to grow stronger.
St Paul hopes a “holy jealousy” brings his compatriots to Christ. And: Who was Jezebel, the baddest “bad girl of the Bible”?
Are you “saved”? Is just “believing” in Jesus enough? Plus: What did Jesus eat in a day? Lots of food for thought!
Religious zeal is good — as long as you’re zealous about the right thing. Plus: The mysterious “Todah” sacrifice and the Mass.
What, exactly, is the Bible? How should we understand it? Answering these fundamental questions will allow us to better read and understand the Scriptures.
God is the potter, we are the clay. No matter what mistakes we’ve made, the Lord can refashion our lives.
Does God harden people’s hearts, or do they harden their own hearts against him? And: what does Eminem have in common with St Paul? Let’s rap!
Just as walking into McDonald’s doesn’t make you a hamburger, simply belonging to Israel — or the Catholic Church — is not enough. And: a Q&A about Jesus and the Talmud.
Is praying to Mary biblical? Is the rosary just vain repetition, the kind of prayer that Jesus criticizes in Matthew chapter 6:7-8? In this episode, Cale offers an in-depth look at Catholic devotion to Mary, rooted in the Bible and in history.
What happened to the “lost tribes of Israel”? And why the New Testament is NOT ant-Semitic.
What’s God’s plan for Israel in the Church age? For St Paul, it’s personal. Plus: a Q&A about Good Friday do’s, don’ts, and maybes.
In this conclusion of his series on the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father, Cale talks about how evil and sin, should we be so unfortunate to fall into it, can never overcome us in the spiritual life.
In this continuation of his discussion on the Our Father, Cale looks at the question of why God allows trials and temptations into our lives. If He knows how weak we are, what's the point? Cale discusses this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained.
In this continuation of Cale's discussion on the Our Father, he talks about the final temptation of Christ in the wilderness, and it's the most insidious of all of them. The devil takes Jesus to a very high mountain, and shows him all of the kingdoms of the world. He says, all of these I will give you. But there's a catch. Cale talks about this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained.
In Cale's continued discussion on the Our Father, he talks about how "Deliver us from evil" is actually better translated to "deliver us from the evil one." When Satan tried to tempt Jesus in the wilderness, he tried to quote scripture, but he was misquoting it.
Cale continues to discuss the Our Father. "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." Is it evil in general or is it the evil one in particular, the devil? Cale uses the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness to show this, because the wilderness was the playground of demons and evil spirits
Cale continues to discuss the Our Father. Does the prayer really say "Lead us not into temptation"? Cale talks about this and more on today's edition of the Faith Explained on Relevant Radio and the Relevant Radio App.
Cale continues his discussion on the Our Father. He takes a look at the fifth petition - "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." Jesus says that if you don't forgive those who sin against you, God will not forgive your sins. Cale discusses this and much more on this episode of The Faith Explained.
Cale continues his discussion on the Lord's prayer, The Our Father. There are a lot of non-Catholic groups who look at a particular verse in the Acts of the Apostles: "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship to the breaking of the bread, and the prayers." But what does that really mean? How do we know that the Catholic Church did that right. Cale discusses this and more on today's episode of The Faith Explained.
In this continuing discussion on the Our Father, Cale explains that there are two bad responses we need to be aware of when we pray "Thy will be done." These two are fatalism and scrupulosity.
Cale continues his series on the Lord's Prayer, The Our Father. In this episode, Cale takes a look at the seven petitions of the prayer. "Thy will be done," is very interesting. Is God's will ever not done? Only when we sin. Why has God allowed us to turn away from him?
Cale continues his look into the Lord's prayer. Did you know that the Our Father is based off an ancient Jewish prayer, The Kaddish? Jesus expands the prayer and makes it much different. Cale also answers the question of why we pray to when God already knows our needs in the first place.
Cale continues his series on the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father. One of the things about our Father, is that He is in heaven. But where is heaven and what does it look like? Cale explains how heaven isn't just some faraway place. It's actually all around us.
Cale continues to take a look at Jesus' teaching on the fatherhood of God as expressed in the Lord's Prayer. He looks at the four elements of being a good father which are true of Divine Fatherhood, and human fatherhood as well.
Cale looks at the 'Our Father' prayer, breaking down word by word the meaning of this ancient prayer. What are the origins of this prayer?
During the Octave before Christmas, the Church deepens her faith in the coming Messiah by praying the famous “O Antiphons”. But, what are they? “O”, not to worry — Cale will explain!
During the Octave before Christmas, the Church deepens her faith in the coming Messiah by praying the famous “O Antiphons”. But, what are they? “O”, not to worry — Cale will explain! Plus: in our Q&A segment: have you ever wondered how the State of Maryland got its name? Does it have something to do with the Blessed Virgin Mary? Well…kinda! It’s an incredible true story. Tune in to find out!
If we’re going to have a Happy (Church) New Year this Advent, we need to know the reason for THIS season. Plus: What happened to the dead before the “advent” of Christ?
Have you ever wondered why Jesus did not begin His public ministry until He was 30 years old? In this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale unpacks this question from a listener, Joe. If you have a question you would like to send Cale, you can do so at this email address: faith@relevantradio.com
Did Jesus claim to be the Messiah during his public ministry? Did he ever intimate that he was more than a prophet?
Cale looks at the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and the rededication of the temple. When was Jesus born – was it really toward the end of December?
How God sculpts us into the image of Jesus interiorly (in our character) and, one day, exteriorly (when we receive our resurrected bodies).
How St Paul’s letter to the Romans helped a believer escape a Communist dungeon. Plus: the most misunderstood verse in Romans — and in the entire Bible itself.
Saved in hope (“Spe Salvi”): if we know our “why”, we can endure any “how”…no matter how much suffering we face.
You’ve heard of the “Four Last Things”: Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell. But, did you know there’s a 5th? And, no, it’s not Purgatory. Tune in to find out!
A recent novel claimed there were as many as 80 “Gospels” written about Jesus! Is this true? Why, then, are there only four Gospels in your Bible? Is there something about Jesus the Church doesn’t want you to know?
Just how many eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life and ministry were still around when the Gospels were written? And, could they still be trusted to remember what really happened? And, who really wrote the Gospels, anyway?
Did the Gospel writers accurately record what Jesus really said? Without smartphones or cameras in Jesus’ time, how can we be sure that we’ve captured Jesus’ true teaching? It’s a “red-letter edition” of The Faith Explained!
Did Jesus break clean with the Old Covenant religion of his day, railing against its “legalism” and focusing instead entirely on God’s mercy and love? Learn how the Bible shows that Jesus was in no way opposed to the law given to Moses.
The Roman Emperor was the most powerful figure on earth. Called the “divine” Son of God, his victories were “Good News”. So, why should you entrust your life to the most powerLESS man on earth (or so it seemed), crucified as a common criminal?
Cale takes you to Magdala, the most beautiful town in the Galilee. You’ll meet Mary Magdalene, out of whom Jesus cast seven demons, and you’ll discover the two grave mistakes we can make when it comes to fighting evil supernatural forces that threaten our lives.
Why was Jesus baptized into the waters of death? Why are we baptized? Because the letters before our name (not after) are what count: “St”. Plus: a tour of Jesus’ “home base” in Capernaum, and a peek into Peter's house.
Cale’s tour of “Jesus’ Places” continues, with a dramatic visit to the theater in Sepphoris. Jesus witnessed “play-actors” (hypocrites) there, and warns us about the tragedy of an insincere faith.
As we explore “Jesus’ Places”, Cale pays a visit to Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth and the big city next door, where we meet “God’s Grandparents”.
The best evidence is from a hostile witness. Cale shows how ancient, anti-Christian writers confirm the existence of Jesus, and much of what we know about him. Plus: evidence for the Mass of the early Church.
In this new series, Cale explains why it matters so much to know not only what we believe about Jesus, but why we believe it. Plus: how do we know Jesus really existed?
Jesus’ claim that “no one comes to the Father except through me” grates on some modern ears. Is it true? Plus: a Q and A about Catholic teaching on IVF.
1 Corinthians 16:21-24. Did St. Paul have eye issues? Cale looks at three things necessary to receive the Eucharist. Why does St. Paul use Aramaic at one point?
1 Corinthians 16:13-20. What is authority in the Church all about? Who are the people St. Paul mentions at the end of the letter? What is the significance of ‘greeting one another with a holy kiss’?
1 Corinthians 16:5-12. St. Paul makes travel plans based on evangelization. What was Pentecost before the Holy Spirit was given? Why did some people look down on Timothy?
1 Corinthians 16:1-4. How are we to live generously? Why is St. Paul taking a collection to Jerusalem? What does it look like to let Jesus be in control of our finances?
1 Corinthians 15:55-58. Why did God ask the prophet Hosea to marry a prostitute? How did death enter the world? What hope do we have when we die?
Have you ever been asked by a non-Catholic as to where Purgatory is mentioned in the Bible? Maybe you felt flustered and didn't know how to respond.
In this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale Clarke discusses the relationship between a passage from 1 Corinthians Chapter 3 and the concept of Purgatory. Cale explores how the verse, which talks about testing one's work through fire and being saved as through fire, suggests purification after death. Cale addresses counterarguments from Protestants and explains that while the term "Purgatory" may not be explicitly mentioned, the concept of purification is still present in the text. Purgatory is a state where individuals are cleansed and made holier before entering heaven, and it's not a second chance after death but a process of final purification.
This episode is a great reminder that we are all called to be saints and that we should strive for holiness while on earth so that we don't need Purgatory after death.
1 Corinthians 15:50-57. What will happen to people who are still alive when Jesus returns? How are they resurrected?
1 Corinthians 15:42-57. In 1 Corinthians 15:50 St. Paul writes that, “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God”. Doesn’t this verse contradict a physical resurrection of the body? How can you be more conformed to Christ?
1 Corinthians 15:35-49. What will our resurrected bodies be like? What does it mean to have a “spiritual body”? Cale shares an important word that is often mistranslated and has caused confusion over the meaning of this text.
1 Corinthians 15:30-34. The Corinthians have been partying hard and St. Paul has to exhort them on not giving in to the temptations around them. What does this mean for you today?
Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 3:10-15. Is this text a reference to Purgatory? What is the Church built upon? Where does God want to be worshiped? Cale looks at these questions and more in this new episode in the series “Saints in Sin City”, a deep dive into 1 Corinthians.
Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 3:1 – 3:17. What does it really mean to have the mind of Christ? Did you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? What is your foundation?
Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 2:10 – 3:3. What does it mean to have the mind of Christ? What is true spirituality?
Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 2:6 – 3:4. What is Gnosticism? What is true wisdom? Is St. Paul referencing heaven when he cites an Old Testament text; “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him,” ( 1 Cor. 2:9)? Or is he referring to something else?
Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 1:26-2:5. All is grace. St. Paul references the prophet Jeremiah in this section of the letter. Why? How important is reading the Old Testament for understanding the New Testament? Cale gives three applications of this text for your life today.
Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 1:18-31. St. Paul cites Old Testament texts and shows how the wisdom of God is unlike human wisdom. What kind of signs were the Jews looking for in Jesus’ day to see who was the Messiah?
Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 1:10-17. St. Paul hears that there are factions and personality cults growing in the Christian community in Corinth. What was his response? Is the Church a barrier to a personal relationship with Jesus? Cale looks at this and more on this episode in the series “Saints in Sin City” a Bible study on 1 Corinthians.
Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 1:1-9. The opening lines contain some deep insights that set the tone for the rest of the letter. Cale looks at the themes of grace, apocalypse, fellowship that emerge in the “thanksgiving” section of the letter.
Who made up the Christian community in Corinth? Cale looks at the major themes that appear in the letter, including marriage, the human body, social behavior, love, and leadership. Cale also looks at 1 Corinthians 1:1-3.
Cale looks at the history of the city of Corinth. What are the Isthmian games? What was the social scene? Why did St. Paul write this letter? What was the Christian community like in Corinth?
The famous “Lukewarm Laodiceans” of the Book of Revelation. It’s the last of the 7 letters of Jesus to the 7 churches — and the most powerful message for Catholics in the West.
What is the “key of David” and what does it reveal about Jesus, as well as the papacy? And what does it mean to be a pillar in the temple of God? Plus, Jesus commended the Philadelphians and did not rebuke them for anything. Tune in to hear Cale explain on TFE.
The message that Jesus had for Sardis applies to us today – to you. Temptations abound in this life, but we must remain vigilant. Cale unpacks this letter on this episode of TFE.
Who is “Jezebel”? What, or rather, who, is the “Morning Star”? What Jesus had to say to the Christian communities in the first century He has to say to you, too. Cale explains on this episode of TFE.
What is the “hidden manna” referred to in Revelation 2:17? And what is the “white stone”? Plus, the importance of remaining faithful to God even when faced with temptations and trials.
Continuing the series, “Letters From Heaven”, Cale addresses the ten days of persecution mentioned to Smyrna, as well as what is meant by “the crown of life”. He also discusses the letter to the Church in Pergamum and the importance of staying faithful to the teaching of Christ.
In this letter, Jesus encourages the persecuted Church. Did you know that some of the early Christians were called “Atheists” by the Romans? Why? Plus, Cale shares the remarkable story of the martyrdom of St. Polycarp of Smyrna. And, what is the “synagogue of Satan” referred to in the text?
Who are the Nicolaitans? And why does the Lord commend the church in Ephesus for hating their practices? Plus, Cale gives an in-depth look at the city of Ephesus during the time this letter was written.
In the Book of Revelation, we see today Jesus Himself address seven churches. In this episode we look at what Jesus says to the Church in Ephesus — and what the Lord has to say to you, too.
Did you know that the “first gospel” is in Genesis 3? What do the consequences of the original sin mean for men and women? Adam and Eve robed in garments of light? Cale breaks this down and shows how from the beginning God has had a plan to redeem His people.
What is lust? How does Jesus help us overcome this temptation? Cale unpacks the difference between lust and love by looking at Genesis 3. Cale also looks at how God sending Jesus to redeem us was not His backup plan but was the plan from the very beginning.
What is lust? How does Jesus help us overcome this temptation? Cale unpacks the difference between lust and love by looking at Genesis 3. Cale also looks at how God sending Jesus to redeem us was not His backup plan but was the plan from the very beginning.
Were things perfect in creation before the Fall? Why didn’t God allow Adam and Eve to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil? Drawing on the work of St. Irenaeus, Cale presents how the early Church viewed Genesis 3 and how what happens is really our story.
Cale looks at Genesis 3:1-12 and discusses the concept of sin, the deception of the serpent, and the salvation God provides.
Book: “In the Beginning… A Catholic Understanding of the Story of Creation and the Fall” by Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI): https://www.amazon.com/Beginning-Catholic-Understanding-Ressourcement-Retrieval/dp/0802841066
Is work a punishment for sin? Cale explains why this is not the case, and the sanctity that can come from work – any type of work. What does a priest do? And what is the significance of the priestly garments in the Old Testament? There are some amazing connections between the structure of the Temple in Jerusalem and Jesus’s death on the cross.
What was it like to be human before sin entered the world? Drawing on St. John Paul II’s insights in the “Theology of the Body”, Cale discusses the relationship between Adam and Eve ‘in the beginning’. Topics include:
- original solitude
- original unity
- original nakedness
- the meaning of life
- love
What is the tree of life referred to in Genesis 2? What’s the connection to wisdom? Cale addresses these questions, as well as the importance of Adam having a wife.
The 5th part in a series titled, "The Genesis of Creation"
Is evolution compatible with the Catholic faith? If it is, what does it mean theologically? Cale looks at the creation of human beings in Genesis 2 and addresses these questions. Other topics:
- The difference between macroevolution and microevolution
- The Hebrew word for ‘dust’
- Why did Jesus keep His wounds after the resurrection?
- The geographical location of Eden
The 4th part in a series titled, "The Genesis of Creation"
How can you enter into God’s rest? What does resting in God really mean? Cale looks at Genesis 2:1-25 and answers these questions plus more!
- Cale explains why we could trust the Bible and debunks myths against the Old Testament. King David is also discussed as Cale talks about how he’s much more than just a local chief, using archaeology as evidence
The 3rd part in a series titled, "The Genesis of Creation"
God had a plan when he created the world – and He has a plan for you, too. Cale explains how creation is a cosmic temple and what this reveals about God. Other topics:
- Hebrew names for God
- The nature of God as a Trinity
- All of creation is good
If you have a question for Cale, you can email faith@relevantradio.com.
The 2nd part in a series titled, "The Genesis of Creation"
What does it mean that the earth was formless and void? What does Genesis 1 tell us about God? Are you living a life of order? Cale looks at Genesis 1:1 – 2:3 and addresses these questions, plus:
- God being separate from creation
- Parallels between Genesis 1 and John 1
- Two important things to know about human beings made in the image and likeness of God
- The Sabbath
If you have a question for Cale, you can send him an email at faith@relevantradio.com
This is the first episode of a miniseries about Creation in the Book of Genesis
What type of literature is the Book of Genesis? How should we read this ancient text? What is its relationship with modern science? Cale addresses these questions and more in this inaugural episode of the new series on the Book of Genesis.
Matchmaker: Pascal in the end reveals himself as a lover of God, who wants others to meet--and fall in love with--Love, personified.
How to respond when someone says, "this isn't REAL trust or love of God. It's just a way to avoid Hell."
In his classic argument for betting your life (and afterlife!) on God or against God, Blaise Pascal shows that you can't "cop out" by trying to stay agnostic as a third option.
Pope Francis wrote a letter to the Church about Blaise Pascal. How can we understand his most famous argument for staking your life on God? “You bet your life”, indeed!
Night of Fire
https://omny.fm/shows/the-cale-clarke-show-todays-issues-from-a-catholic/night-of-fire
Burning Bridges
https://omny.fm/shows/the-cale-clarke-show-todays-issues-from-a-catholic/burning-bridges
Is praying to Mary biblical? Is the rosary just vain repetition, the kind of prayer that Jesus criticizes in Matthew 6:7-8? In this episode, Cale offers an in-depth look at Catholic devotion to Mary, rooted in the Bible and in history.
Part 2/2 in which Cale continues to unpack the top 10 places in Sacred Scripture that point to the divinity of Christ.
Have you ever heard someone say that Jesus never claimed to be God? Cale looks at passages in Sacred Scripture that make clear that Jesus is, in fact, God.
Why are we responsible for Adam and Eve’s sin? What is original sin? Why can’t angels repent? Is evolution compatible with Catholicism? Why do Catholics baptize infants?
When we are at our most alone, hurting, and vulnerable, Christ is there. Plus: a Q and A on the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
How can the Spirit help those called to marriage achieve “a more perfect union” amidst all threats from without and within? Plus: a Q&A about the Mass wine controversy.
Confession has been called “a second baptism.” But there’s no Confession without a priest, and no priesthood without the Holy Spirit.
We believe in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. But don’t forget about the Holy Spirit’s true presence in the Mass, making it happen!
Ever wish you could be forever young? Or fast-forward to eternal life? With baptism, you can! Find out how the waters of baptism lead you back to the source of life in the Spirit, and the life of the future Kingdom, now.
Cale Clarke receives a question from a listener named Alan about whether the devil knew that Jesus was God during the temptation in the Gospel. Cale explains that it is not as clear-cut as people assume. He references an article by John Cavallini from Notre Dame, who discusses the idea that the devil may not have known about Jesus' divinity. Cale quotes Origen, an early church writer, who said that Mary's virginity went unnoticed by the ruler of this age (referring to the devil) because of her marriage to Joseph. This implies that the devil may have thought Jesus was simply their natural child. Cale connects this idea with a passage from St. Paul's writings, suggesting that the wisdom of God's plan, including the marriage of Mary and Joseph, was hidden from the rulers and evil spirits of the age. Origen suggests that the devil did not know Jesus' true identity during the temptation, and Jesus did not explicitly reveal it. Cale concludes that Jesus chose to wrestle with and conquer temptation rather than relying on his divine rank and identity. The flight to Egypt, which was part of Jesus' life, further supports the mystery of the incarnation and shows that God does not always exert His power directly.
If we receive the Holy Spirit in Baptism, why do we need Confirmation? The answer might surprise you!
What’s the difference between the “fruits” and the “gifts” of the Holy Spirit? How does God make use of (sometimes adverse) circumstances to make us more supernaturally fruitful?
Cale will answer this question and offer more ways we can tell an inspiration is from God the Holy Spirit.
This is THE question: how can you know if an inspiration comes from the Holy Spirit, from yourself, or from the Devil?
Cale Clarke shares 10 ways to get into “God’s orbit” and receive the Spirit’s inspirations for you!
If we don’t practice obedience in our relations to others, how likely is it that we will obey God when he asks for it?
Want to draw down more graces from the Spirit? St. Thérèse says God gives 10 graces in exchange for just one of these…but, what is it?
God’s “general” will for all people should be obvious: the Ten Commandments, Scripture, and Church teaching come to mind. But what about God’s “particular” will for particular questions in your life? That’s where the inspirations of the Holy Spirit are key!
Pentecost marks the gift of God, the Holy Spirit. But in so many ways, he is “The Great Unknown”. Cale Clarke shares what Saint Faustina called a shortcut to holiness: being docile to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit.
The sacrament of marriage is powerful. The Enemy is bent on destroying it. Cale shares more Theology of the Body and why marriage is the “prototype’ of all the sacraments.
Reading the creation narratives in Genesis with St. John Paul II: What is the Theology of the Body? Cale explains the importance of the physical human body and what this means as a follower of Jesus Christ.
Our series concludes with a look at the First Letter of Peter. Did Peter himself even write this? If so, does Peter really say that he’s “no big deal”, and that he has no more authority than any other apostle or bishop?
St Paul rebukes St Peter. In public! Was Peter wrong? Yes. Does this mean the papacy, or papal infallibility, for that matter, isn’t true? Not a chance. Listen in to find out why!
St Paul visits St Peter for 15 days soon after his conversion. Why? Not only for Paul to get caught up on what Jesus’ earthly life was like, but to show deference and to submit to Pope Peter’s leadership of the Church.
The Acts of the Apostles, the Bible’s early Church history book, shows how St Peter was the undisputed leader of the early Church, and presided over the “Council of Jerusalem”.
Jesus, Peter, and a net full of 153 fish. What does it mean? Plus: the poignant threefold restoration of Peter as chief shepherd over a charcoal fire. It’s John 21.
Jesus the Good Shepherd wants his Church as one flock, with one shepherd. The visible unity of the Catholic Church is a sign to the world of the truth of the Gospel. Truly, sometimes people “have to see it to believe it”.
Explore Matthew 16 with @CaleClarke as he shows why Jesus picked Caesarea Philippi as the place to rename Simon as Peter (“The Rock”) and give him the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Did you know that Jesus’ teaching on the Papacy is prefigured in the Old Testament? Cale looks at the origins of the symbol of the keys, and how they unlock our understanding of the papal office.
In Part I of this miniseries, Cale looks at the role of Peter himself in the New Testament as leader among the Twelve.
Cale looks at His Eminence Cardinal Thomas Collins's pastoral letter on stewardship and how you can be a good steward of the faith.
What is the secret of Paul's contentment? What must you do to be saved? Cale looks at Philippians 4:10-14.
How do you give your worries to God? How can you stay focused on thinking good thoughts during the day? Cale looks at Philippians 4:6-9.
Cale explores Philippians 2:12-18. How can we live the virtues of purity and obedience as children of God, in the midst of a corrupt and wicked culture?
Cale looks at the ultimate example of the “kenosis” (self-emptying) of Jesus in Philippians 2:5-11.
Paul writes about rejoicing in Jesus from a dank prison cell. We can’t always control our circumstances, but we CAN control our response, choosing the attitude of Christ.
In this opening session on St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians, Cale offers an overview of the historical context, geography, and social scene of his readers, and how it relates to our own.
Is it ever morally licit to use nuclear weapons? Was dropping the atomic bomb wrong? Cale finishes the series on what the Catholic Church teaches on war and peace by looking at nuclear warfare. Other topics: the difference between patriotism and nationalism; consequentialism; the four elements of a just war.
What makes for lawful self defense in war between nations? Where does conscience come into play? Cale continues to unpack what the Catholic Church teaches about war and peace.
What is peace? What does 'shalom' really mean? Cale looks at how Jesus is our true peace.
Cale continues to look at the fifth commandment 'do not kill'' by looking at capital punishment, unintentional killing of someone, desiring another's harm, and ways one can sin against God's love.
Cale looks at the Sermon on the Mount, the commandment not to kill and the sacredness of human life.
- In Part I of this miniseries, Cale looks at the role of Peter himself in the New Testament as leader among the Twelve.
Did Matthew, Mark, Luke and John write the gospel accounts attributed to them? How do we know who wrote the four gospels? Did the Church simply put names to the writings to add authority to them? Who wrote the letter to the Hebrews?
Cale looks at how the Gospel of Luke has a unique focus on the marginalized in society.
In this episode of the Faith Explained, Cale dives back into the mailbag to answer listener questions about why people doubted the Resurrection and whether the early Christians can be disbelieved because they were biased.
Cale discusses and answers some objections to the Resurrection They include the Stolen Body Theory, Swoon Theory, Displaced Body Theory, The Theory that the Resurrection Parallels with Dying and Rising Pagan Gods, Hallucination Theory.
Cale offers more evidence from the “Minimal Facts” argument for Jesus’ Resurrection, including the conversion of James and eyewitness testimony from women.
Cale Clarke continues his Easter Evidence series with a look at Paul’s conversion and what he wrote about Easter in his letters, which are the earliest New Testament documents.
Cale provides evidence that the tomb of Jesus was empty on Easter Sunday. He also discusses the Corinthian Creed from 1 Corinthians 15.
Cale answers a question from a listener about the Resurrection on how to answer a skeptic and provides evidence for the Resurrection.
Cale Clarke takes a scriptural look at Holy Thursday and Good Friday, including evidence for Jesus’ existence and death.
The discovery and publication of the so-called “Gospel of Judas”, which paints him as a hero, shook the faith of many. But, who wrote it, and how can we know it’s bogus?
During Holy Week, the figure of Judas Iscariot looms large. Who was he? Where was he from? Where did he go? What do we know? What does the Bible say? And, what is the “Gospel of Judas?”
Skeptics contend the Church “invented” these sayings long afterwards, and put them on the lips of Jesus when the Gospels were composed. But we have good reason to believe that Jesus really did anticipate both his violent death and subsequent vindication by God on Easter Sunday. Plus: a Q &A on biblical evidence for the papacy.
Jesus’ claim that “no one comes to the Father except through me” grates on some modern ears. Is it true? Plus: a Q and A about Catholic teaching on IVF.
Planet earth is fined-tuned for life, and for finding that out! Chance? Or purpose? What is “Intelligent Design?” Plus: a Q and A on Catholics attending Protestant services.
Are there any good reasons why a good God would allow evil and suffering in the world? The answers may surprise you!
There’s only one really good argument in the atheist’s arsenal: the problem of evil and suffering. What is the “argument from evil”? Plus: a Q&A on whether or not believers should watch horror/exorcism films.
When Exodus began, it seemed God wasn’t there. Now, at the end, he “moves in” among his people in the tabernacle. All of this is a setup for John 1:14: “the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us”. We also become living tabernacles of Jesus Christ via our baptism.
Moses’ face shines with the glory of God, but it fades when he leaves God’s presence. For us, as long as we’re in a state of grace, the unfading light of Christ shines within. Plus: a Q and A on how the Catechism of the Catholic Church came to be!
A listener asks: “Who can actually serve as a Godparent? What are their actual responsibilities?” Plus: in our Exodus series, God “upgrades” Moses’ tablets.
Moses had the singular privilege of speaking with God face-to-face, as one would with a friend. But now, in the New Covenant, Jesus calls us all his friends, and we all have the opportunity for personal conversation with our Eucharistic Lord.
God “moves away” from his people in Exodus, like a married couple might become estranged. We, too, have to guard against having God at the fringes of our lives, keeping him at arm’s length.
Moses asks, “Who’s with God? Who’s with me?” The Levites then slaughter many of their fellow Israelites—but only those who refused to repent of their sin with the golden calf. And so it is today: only those who refuse repentance will be lost forever.
The vestments of the high priest in Israel were like a fireman’s protective gear, keeping them safe from the fire of God’s holiness.
The Israelites take gold meant for God’s worship to build an idol. Sometimes we do the same: using God-given resources of time, money, and strength on that which damages our relationship with the Lord.
The Israelites give up on Moses (who’s been gone for 40 days) and turn to idolatry, cavorting with the golden calf. Plus: a Q and A on sacraments in Scripture!
God reiterates to Moses that Sabbath observance isn’t optional. Failure to comply results in physical death! And, even in the New Covenant, the outcome of disobedience can be no less daunting: spiritual death. Plus: a Q&A on where to find sacraments in Scripture!
Dies Domini
https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1998/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_05071998_dies-domini.html
In Exodus 31, we meet craftsmen who construct God’s “mobile home”, the Tabernacle. They are given the same gifts of wisdom & skill God gives the king! So, what’s the best job in the world? It’s the one that is done with the most love of God.
One could be “cut off” from the people of God in Ancient Israel, and the Church reserves the strong medicine of excommunication too…but only as a last resort.
Our culture worships beauty, making it an idol. Rightly ordered, though, as a transcendental, beauty should draw us to the one, true, living source of beauty, God.
Why did the Israelites have to pay a “temple tax”? You’ll also see how the occasion of paying it paid dividends in the Gospel for Jesus and Peter.
Cale discusses the ordination of the first three priests of the Old Covenant from Exodus 29
The Old Covenant High Priest wore a breastplate of gemstones representing the 12 tribes of Israel. He "carried God's people into his presence. Likewise, Jesus carries us and our concerns in his Sacred Heart.
Cale looks at which elements of modern evolutionary theory are compatible with Scripture and Catholic doctrine, and which are not — which is a separate question from whether or not evolution is the best scientific explanation for human origins.
Cale takes a look at evolution. Is the Bible out of step with modern science? How should we understand the Creation narrative in Scripture? Learn how science and faith aren’t in conflict, but complement one another.
The vestments of the high priest in Israel were like a fireman’s protective gear, keeping them safe from the fire of God’s holiness.
Yes, other religions had features similar to ancient Israel. But that doesn’t mean the biblical authors “made it all up”. God is speaking to his people in a way they can understand. The ultimate example? The Incarnation.
In building the tabernacle, every mundane detail is charged with supernatural meaning. God lives in a human structure…and in this way, it prefigures the Incarnation of Christ.
As we explore the interior of the tabernacle, Cale explains the lampstand, or menorah. Jesus tells us that he is the true light of the world, and heals a man born blind to prove it.
What was the table of “Showbread” in the tabernacle? Why was it called “The Bread of the Face”, and what does it have do do with Jesus and the Eucharist?
As we begin Lent on this Ash Wednesday, Cale looks at how the wicked city of Nineveh repented at the preaching of Jonah, complete with fasting and ashes of their own.
Cale looks at the theological meaning of the colors chosen for the construction of the tabernacle, and takes a look at the heart of it all, the Ark of the Covenant.
God gives Moses the "blueprints" for building the tabernacle, God's sanctuary on earth, so that might be with his people on their pilgrimage to the promised land.
In the Q & A section, Cale answers the question if angels could merge into one another and also become one another?
Cale explains how Jesus draws on the “blood of the covenant” in Exodus 24 when he institutes the new covenant in his blood, the Eucharist. Plus: in our Q&A: “How can Jesus command us to drink his blood when the Old Testament prohibits the drinking of blood?”
Moses and his companions have a “mountaintop experience” with God…literally. They are face-to-face with the Almighty and live to tell the tale! Experience the lifting of the veil between heaven and earth as we explore Exodus 24.
How can we adore God? Does God need our sacrifices? Cale looks at Genesis 8 and 9 and discusses baptism, sacrifice, and also the acronym ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).
God promises the Israelites that, if they do all he commands, he will bless them with a beautiful life in the “beautiful land”. Likewise, Jesus reminds us that, if we love him, we will obey his commandments. Our reward? Life in the Spirit on earth, and the “promised land” of the new heaven and the new earth.
Cale concludes his look at the 7 Feasts of the Old Covenant prefigure the Festivals of the New Covenant in Jesus Christ.
Cale explains how the 7 Feasts of the Old Covenant prefigure the Festivals of the New Covenant in Jesus Christ.
Just as the Old Covenant had appointed times (special days, years, and feasts) for dealing with God, New Covenant Christians need regular “norms” of piety to help make holiness attainable in everyday life.
Cale shows how, once again, Jesus didn’t make a radical break with Judaism, but reveals the heart of the law. Loving enemies is commanded even in Exodus!
God gave Israel laws meant to protect the vulnerable, especially widows and orphans. If someone needed money, you couldn’t lend it at interest. There was to be no profiting from another’s misfortune. And, what about “not cursing God or your leaders”? Best not to look at social media!
Why did the flood happen? Was the flood regional or did it cover the entire earth? Cale looks at archaeological and scientific evidence of the flood and considers its geographical scope. What would it have been like for the animals on the ark? Ultimately, what does this story tell us about God?
Who are the “righteous remnant”? Do the animals on the ark have a special significance? Cale shares a key phrase for the entire flood narrative, some incredible insights from the early Church Fathers, and much more!
The laws of ancient Israel were about putting love in action. Sin, including sorcery, seduction, selfish lending practices…are you scandalized yet! (Another s-word)and all kinds of other faults, demonstrated a lack of love that would not go unnoticed—or unpunished—by God. Also, here, for the first time, God reveals that he is “compassionate”. But how?
We’re used to seeing people in coutroom dramas (and in real courtrooms!) putting their hand on a Bible and swearing “to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God.” But in ancient Israel, having to “swear to God” before the blazing pillar of fire was, literally, an “awe-some” way of getting to the truth of the matter!
In Exodus, God tells Moses he only wants a “bare-bones” altar to be built. No carved stones, no outer beauty. Does this mean Catholics are wrong to build beautiful Cathedrals? Plus, in our Q&A segment? Are there really 8 Beatitudes…or are there actually 10?
Crime and punishment in ancient Israel wasn’t like 21st-century America. It was about restitution, not incarceration. There weren’t supermax prisons for perpetrators, but criminals did pay for their misdeeds—often with their lives.
Amidst all the laws of ancient Israel, one thing holds true: it takes a village. It takes a village not only to raise a person, but it also takes a village to corrupt a person...and to judge a person. Perhaps unlike modern, individualistic societies in the West, everyone had to take responsibility to put love in action towards neighbor.
Did you know the concept of taking sanctuary in a house of worship actually comes from the Book of Exodus? Plus, Cale shows how Israel used the “lex talionis” (the law of retribution) to deal with violence. Jesus takes this concept and turns it upside down...or, right side up!
Why would an ancient Israelite father actually want to sell his daughter into slavery? And a Q&A about the famous Flavius —Josephus, that is!
It might shock you to know that after the Israelites escaped brutal slavery in Egypt, they themselves had slaves. What is this all about? And how did the Judeo-Christian tradition eventually abolish slavery?
In Exodus, God tells Moses he only wants a “bare-bones” altar to be built. No carved stones, no outer beauty. Does this mean Catholics are wrong to build beautiful Cathedrals? Plus, in our Q&A segment? Are there really 8 Beatitudes…or are there actually 10?
Before Yahweh gives the 10 Commandments on Mt Sinai, he needs to remind his people who he is, who they are, and of the healthy boundaries that determine their relationship.
Jesus was not impressed by those in his day who claimed to keep—and teach—the law of Moses. How Jesus’ interpretation of Moses is the right one. our Q&A segment: Did St Francis of Assisi write the “Serenity Prayer”?
Did Jesus reject the Old Testament laws of Moses? Plus, in our Q&A segment: Why would God create the devil—and other evildoers, knowing in advance the bad they would do?
The Commandments prohibiting murder, adultery, theft, and lying are clear, but as @CaleClarke explains, it’s the last two commandments against coveting that give us the key to keeping the rest. Plus, in our Q&A session: Did St Paul REALLY say that we don’t need to obey the 10 Commandments?
The Fourth Commandment to honor one’s father and mother is the bridge between worship and ethics…how we love God, and how we love neighbor.
Cale explains that the 10 Commandments are a great opportunity to examine one’s conscience and ask, “Am I living as I ought to be?”
Dies Domini
https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1998/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_05071998_dies-domini.html
Cale explains that The 10 Commandments are similar to other sets of laws in the ancient world—and that shouldn’t bother you one bit. Plus: in our Q and A session. How can Jesus use the contrasting images of “fire” and “darkness” for hell? The answer lies in the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Cale explains that The 10 Commandments are not “rules” that God arbitrarily imposes from above. Rather, they are Love. This is how you want to love, and be loved!
Before Yahweh gives the 10 Commandments on Mt Sinai, he needs to remind his people who he is, who they are, and of the healthy boundaries that determine their relationship.
In the business world, they call it “key man risk”. If a CEO burns out or dies, the whole organization falls apart. That’s what’s happening with Moses: he’s trying to do the work of 10 men, and he’s falling into the devil’s trap of trying to be like God in all the wrong ways.
After plagues and battles, what a relief to see the camp of Israel as a quiet place of family, fellowship, and ordinary life! We, too, must find God in the middle of everyday life...or we’ll never find him at all.
Cale begins our new mini-series with a look at evolution. Is the Bible out of step with modern science? How should we understand the Creation narrative in Scripture? Learn how science and faith aren’t in conflict, but complement one another.
Is God a “moral monster”, as one writer alleges when looking at the violence in the Old Testament? If God commands, “Thou shalt not kill”, then why all the killing in God’s name?
The mighty Egyptian army roars towards the Israelites, who are trapped against the Red Sea. When your back is against the wall (or the water!), God will rise up and act on your behalf, just as he did for Israel.
What was the original experience of man and woman that St John Paul II said was the “key” to understanding God’s plan? Why does the enemy want to “counterfeit” the sacraments, and marriage in particular? Cale deals with these questions and more in this final episode of the miniseries.
In this episode, Cale explains the rise of the “Minimalists” who question the historicity of Old Covenant events like the Exodus and the conquest of the promised land. Do their ideas hold any water? What’s at stake if they’re right?
Given the violence in the Old Testament, many wrongly believe the God of the Old Testament is different than the God of Jesus Christ. The truth is that God always fights against evil, just in different ways throughout salvation history.
Where are you going? In Acts 16:31 it says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” What does this really mean? Cale unpacks these questions and more in this episode of The Faith Explained.
Today’s culture rails at the Bible’s view of sex and marriage. Is the Old Covenant hopelessly out of date? Is morality malleable? Let’s look back to the beginning — through Jesus’ eyes — to see God’s blueprint for relationships.
Grumblers want to pass judgement on Moses and stone him to death. Speaking of rocks, God tells Moses to strike a rock. Water pours out for God’s people to drink. St Paul later said, “the rock was Christ”. But what does that mean? Let’s rock and roll!
Cale looks at Genesis 3:1-12 and discusses the concept of sin, the deception of the serpent, and the salvation God provides.
Book: “In the Beginning… A Catholic Understanding of the Story of Creation and the Fall” by Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI): https://www.amazon.com/Beginning-Catholic-Understanding-Ressourcement-Retrieval/dp/0802841066
Cale looks at the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and the rededication of the temple. When was Jesus born – was it really toward the end of December?
If all Israel was a “kingdom of priests”, why do we have a ministerial priesthood in the Catholic Church? Plus: A fun Q&A mailbag question about angels.
God is about to reveal his 10 Commandments to Moses, on the holy Mountain. There is thunder, an earthquake, a dark cloud, and fire. A powerful trumpet blast. And all of these things reveal something about exactly who God is.
In the business world, they call it “key man risk”. If a CEO burns out or dies, the whole organization falls apart. That’s what’s happening with Moses: he’s trying to do the work of 10 men, and he’s falling into the devil’s trap of trying to be like God in all the wrong ways.
After plagues and battles, what a relief to see the camp of Israel as a quiet place of family, fellowship, and ordinary life! We, too, must find God in the middle of everyday life...or we’ll never find him at all.
Grumblers want to pass judgement on Moses and stone him to death. Speaking of rocks, God tells Moses to strike a rock. Water pours out for God’s people to drink. St Paul later said, “the rock was Christ”. But what does that mean? Let’s rock and roll!
Have you ever had the experience of failing a test, and having to take it over again? In Exodus 17, we see that God sometimes has to “re-test” his children again and again, before they can graduate to the next stage of the spiritual life.
Cale shows how the manna given to the Israelites in Exodus foreshadows the new and far greater “manna” given by Jesus: the Eucharist.
The wilderness was like going to Oxford, Cambridge or Harvard: a graduate education in the inner life. Test after test from God. This time? It’s hunger. God responds with the Manna and Quail. Will the Israelites learn the lesson that you can’t stockpile grace? It’s doled out daily, on demand, just in time...it’s the “Manna Mentality”.
The parched Israelites attempt to drink the desert waters at Marah, but they prove bitter and brackish. God gives a miraculous tree to make the bitter water sweet. Likewise, the Cross of Jesus Christ makes the bitterness of life endurable—and even sweet—as we share in his sufferings.
Women helped save Moses throughout his life, including his sister Miriam. In the same way, another Miriam—Mary—is there at the key moments of salvation wrought by the new Moses, Jesus Christ.
Cale examines the alleged discovery of Egyptian chariot wheels at the bottom of the Red Sea. Just the (arte) facts, Ma’am!
Before God parts the Red Sea, the pillar of cloud and fire separate the Egyptians from the Israelites. On one side is darkness, and on the other is light. Jesus is the light of the world, and one’s response to him determines whether one lives in spiritual darkness, or in the light.
What was the original experience of man and woman that St John Paul II said was the “key” to understanding God’s plan? Why does the enemy want to “counterfeit” the sacraments, and marriage in particular? Cale deals with these questions and more in this final episode of the miniseries.
Today’s culture rails at the Bible’s view of sex and marriage. Is the Old Covenant hopelessly out of date? Is morality malleable? Let’s look back to the beginning — through Jesus’ eyes — to see God’s blueprint for relationships.
Given the violence in the Old Testament, many wrongly believe the God of the Old Testament is different than the God of Jesus Christ. The truth is that God always fights against evil, just in different ways throughout salvation history.
Is God a “moral monster”, as one writer alleges when looking at the violence in the Old Testament? If God commands, “Thou shalt not kill”, then why all the killing in God’s name?
What’s the evidence OUTSIDE the Bible for the Exodus and Conquest of the Holy Land? You’ll just have to “stele” yourself for the results! Biblical minimalists, beware!
In this episode, Cale explains the rise of the “Minimalists” who question the historicity of Old Covenant events like the Exodus and the conquest of the promised land. Do their ideas hold any water? What’s at stake if they’re right?
Cale looks at which elements of modern evolutionary theory are compatible with Scripture and Catholic doctrine, and which are not — which is a separate question from whether or not evolution is the best scientific explanation for human origins.
Cale begins our new mini-series with a look at evolution. Is the Bible out of step with modern science? How should we understand the Creation narrative in Scripture? Learn how science and faith aren’t in conflict, but complement one another.
The mighty Egyptian army roars towards the Israelites, who are trapped against the Red Sea. When your back is against the wall (or the water!), God will rise up and act on your behalf, just as he did for Israel.
Some Israelites would rather return to slavery under Pharaoh than serve God in freedom in the wilderness. We’re faced with a similar choice today. Like Bob Dylan sang about: “You gotta serve somebody!”
A direct route to the promised land would have only taken 10 days, not 40 years. Why send the people through the wilderness, then? God wanted to both A) humble, and B) test his people. Would they be loyal to him or not? He does the same with us today.
As the people of God are on the road to the Promised Land, Yahweh demands the consecration of the Israelites’ firstborn and first fruits. Why? It’s a reminder that God must be first in every area of our lives, and it’s no less true today.
The terrifying, final plague descends on the Egyptians: the death of the firstborn. Was God unjust, unfair, and unnecessarily cruel in doing this? PLUS: in our Q&A mailbag segment, Cale answers a question about the darkness that descended on the land when Jesus died. Did this really happen?
As Catholics, we treasure the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and beloved older versions like the famous Baltimore Catechism. Did you know that Moses basically created the very first Catechism in the book of Exodus? Plus: a listener question about whether or not Mary experienced labor pains when Jesus was born.
Saint Paul was the ultimate evangelist. Although he wasn’t a pope, it’s fitting that many popes took his name as part of their title. Paul was the ultimate “pontifex”, or “bridge-builder” between people and God, just as God built a “bridge” to reach Paul: the Cross of Christ. St Paul teaches us how to bring others to Jesus, just as he did.
Saint Paul was the ultimate evangelist. Although he wasn’t a pope, it’s fitting that many popes took his name as part of their title. Paul was the ultimate “pontifex”, or “bridge-builder” between people and God, just as God built a “bridge” to reach Paul: the Cross of Christ. St Paul teaches us how to bring others to Jesus, just as he did.
On today’s episode of The Exodus Series on The Faith Explained, Cale answers the question of why God institutes two separate feasts: Passover and the feast of Unleavened Bread. The answer? One has to do with initial salvation, and the other has to do with sanctification: holiness, becoming like God. “Be holy, as I am holy”, says the Lord in the Old Covenant. Jesus says, “Be perfect, as your Heavenly Father is perfect” in the New.
On today’s episode of The Exodus Series on The Faith Explained, Cale answers the question of why God institutes two separate feasts: Passover and the feast of Unleavened Bread. The answer? One has to do with initial salvation, and the other has to do with sanctification: holiness, becoming like God. “Be holy, as I am holy”, says the Lord in the Old Covenant. Jesus says, “Be perfect, as your Heavenly Father is perfect” in the New.
The Israelites must slaughter and consume an unblemished lamb, foreshadowing the sacrifice of the sinless Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. We are likewise commanded to consume his flesh and blood sacramentally in the Eucharist.
The Israelites must slaughter and consume an unblemished lamb, foreshadowing the sacrifice of the sinless Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. We are likewise commanded to consume his flesh and blood sacramentally in the Eucharist.
The death of the Egyptian firstborn at the stroke of midnight means the tide has turned, and the “gods” of Egypt are decimated. Yahweh has won, and the dawn of his salvation is close at hand.
The death of the Egyptian firstborn at the stroke of midnight means the tide has turned, and the “gods” of Egypt are decimated. Yahweh has won, and the dawn of his salvation is close at hand.
“Lights Out!” The 9th plague (darkness) is a direct attack on Ra, the Egyptian “sun god”. Only the homes of God’s people have light. We, too, must shine like stars amidst the moral and spiritual darkness of the age, reflecting Christ, the Light of the World.
“Lights Out!” The 9th plague (darkness) is a direct attack on Ra, the Egyptian “sun god”. Only the homes of God’s people have light. We, too, must shine like stars amidst the moral and spiritual darkness of the age, reflecting Christ, the Light of the World.
God doesn’t send the plague of locusts just to “bug” the Egyptians. Moses is reminded to teach the next generations about Yahweh’s deeds of power. In the same way, we must pass on the Catholic faith to the next generation. But, how?
God doesn’t send the plague of locusts just to “bug” the Egyptians. Moses is reminded to teach the next generations about Yahweh’s deeds of power. In the same way, we must pass on the Catholic faith to the next generation. But, how?
Just for the “hail” of it, Yahweh rains down hailstones on Egypt. He thus reveals himself as the mighty “Storm God”, and announces his control over the land of Egypt. For the first time, people are killed by the plagues, but Pharaoh’s heart remains harder than the stones falling from the heavens.
Just for the “hail” of it, Yahweh rains down hailstones on Egypt. He thus reveals himself as the mighty “Storm God”, and announces his control over the land of Egypt. For the first time, people are killed by the plagues, but Pharaoh’s heart remains harder than the stones falling from the heavens.
In this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, God says to Moses: “In the past, I revealed myself as ‘God Almighty’ to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. ”But now, in revealing himself as the God who “is” and “will be”, God reveals much more about himself—that he’s with us in the present moment, and in the challenges and experiences of everyday life.
In this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, God says to Moses: “In the past, I revealed myself as ‘God Almighty’ to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. ”But now, in revealing himself as the God who “is” and “will be”, God reveals much more about himself—that he’s with us in the present moment, and in the challenges and experiences of everyday life.
On this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, Moses begins his journey back to Egypt to confront Pharaoh. But on the way, God confronts Moses and tries to kill him! Why on earth would God do this? Ultimately, Moses is saved by the quick thinking and actions of his wife, Zipporah.
On this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, Moses begins his journey back to Egypt to confront Pharaoh. But on the way, God confronts Moses and tries to kill him! Why on earth would God do this? Ultimately, Moses is saved by the quick thinking and actions of his wife, Zipporah.
Yahweh reaches directly into Pharaoh’s heart to harden it…is God taking away his free will? Plus: our Q&A segment deals with the difference between marriage annulments and priests leaving the priesthood.
Yahweh reaches directly into Pharaoh’s heart to harden it…is God taking away his free will? Plus: our Q&A segment deals with the difference between marriage annulments and priests leaving the priesthood.
The 10 plagues continue to pummel the Egyptians, but Pharaoh continues his two-faced, duplicitous ways. We also see how each plague is a direct attack by Yahweh on one of the so-called “gods” of Egypt.
The 10 plagues continue to pummel the Egyptians, but Pharaoh continues his two-faced, duplicitous ways. We also see how each plague is a direct attack by Yahweh on one of the so-called “gods” of Egypt.
Moses, unbelievably, gives Pharaoh the choice of when the plague of frogs will end. It’s up to him! We also have a choice to be for—or against— God. St Augustine says, “The God who created you without you will not save you without you”.
Moses, unbelievably, gives Pharaoh the choice of when the plague of frogs will end. It’s up to him! We also have a choice to be for—or against— God. St Augustine says, “The God who created you without you will not save you without you”.
Cale dips into the 10 plagues that God unleashes on the Egyptians. The first two have to do with water. Aaron’s staff turns into a great sea monster and Moses commands that the Nile be turned into blood. What’s Pharaoh’s reaction? Find out in this episode of the Faith Explained.
Cale dips into the 10 plagues that God unleashes on the Egyptians. The first two have to do with water. Aaron’s staff turns into a great sea monster and Moses commands that the Nile be turned into blood. What’s Pharaoh’s reaction? Find out in this episode of the Faith Explained.
In this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, God says to Moses: “In the past, I revealed myself as ‘God Almighty’ to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. ”But now, in revealing himself as the God who “is” and “will be”, God reveals much more about himself—that he’s with us in the present moment, and in the challenges and experiences of everyday life.
In this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, God says to Moses: “In the past, I revealed myself as ‘God Almighty’ to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. ”But now, in revealing himself as the God who “is” and “will be”, God reveals much more about himself—that he’s with us in the present moment, and in the challenges and experiences of everyday life.
God picks Moses back up after he falls flat on his face with Pharaoh. Not only does Pharaoh not “let God’s people go”, things got even worse for the enslaved Israelites. Find out what God does in response, on this episode of The Faith Explained with Cale Clarke!
God picks Moses back up after he falls flat on his face with Pharaoh. Not only does Pharaoh not “let God’s people go”, things got even worse for the enslaved Israelites. Find out what God does in response, on this episode of The Faith Explained with Cale Clarke!
On this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, Moses begins his journey back to Egypt to confront Pharaoh. But on the way, God confronts Moses and tries to kill him! Why on earth would God do this? Ultimately, Moses is saved by the quick thinking and actions of his wife, Zipporah.
On this episode of the Exodus series on The Faith Explained, Moses begins his journey back to Egypt to confront Pharaoh. But on the way, God confronts Moses and tries to kill him! Why on earth would God do this? Ultimately, Moses is saved by the quick thinking and actions of his wife, Zipporah.
On this episode of the Faith Explained, God calls Moses to go and speak to Pharaoh. Moses doesn't want to go and asks God to send someone else. Sometimes we feel the same way, but there are people only we can reach and God will equip us like he equipped Moses.
On this episode of the Faith Explained, God calls Moses to go and speak to Pharaoh. Moses doesn't want to go and asks God to send someone else. Sometimes we feel the same way, but there are people only we can reach and God will equip us like he equipped Moses.
What’s in a name? What’s in a divine name? There are so many names for God in the Old Testament; Yahweh, Jehovah, the Lord. Where do these all come from? It’s all connected to how God reveals Himself in chapter 3 of Genesis. Cale discusses this and more in this episode of the Exodus series on the Faith Explained.
When God spoke to Moses out of the burning bush, we might ask who or what is this angel spoken of? Plus, God says He will send Moses to a land filled with milk and honey, but what kind of milk and honey? Cale discusses this and more on today’s Faith Explained.
God steps onto the “stage” of Exodus and reveals himself to Moses in the wilderness. Moses is charged with leading Israel out of bondage, but suffers from “imposter syndrome”, doubting he’s up for the task. God’s response: “I will be with you.” What more could one ask for?
God steps onto the “stage” of Exodus and reveals himself to Moses in the wilderness. Moses is charged with leading Israel out of bondage, but suffers from “imposter syndrome”, doubting he’s up for the task. God’s response: “I will be with you.” What more could one ask for?
God steps onto the “stage” of Exodus and reveals himself to Moses in the wilderness. Moses is charged with leading Israel out of bondage, but suffers from “imposter syndrome”, doubting he’s up for the task. God’s response: “I will be with you.” What more could one ask for?
God steps onto the “stage” of Exodus and reveals himself to Moses in the wilderness. Moses is charged with leading Israel out of bondage, but suffers from “imposter syndrome”, doubting he’s up for the task. God’s response: “I will be with you.” What more could one ask for?
In this episode of the Faith Explained, Moses appears on the scene in a tale of failed leadership, violence and murder. He has to go to the wilderness to find salvation. He becomes a savior for the very first time, but it won’t be the last.
In this episode of the Faith Explained, Moses appears on the scene in a tale of failed leadership, violence and murder. He has to go to the wilderness to find salvation. He becomes a savior for the very first time, but it won’t be the last.
In most heroes' journeys, they go from rags to riches, but Moses goes from being on top of the world and from being in Pharaoh's palace to abject poverty out in the wilderness. He must become like his fellow Hebrews. He must become like a slave to lead the slaves out of bondage. Cale discusses this and more on today's episode of the Faith Explained.
In most heroes' journeys, they go from rags to riches, but Moses goes from being on top of the world and from being in Pharaoh's palace to abject poverty out in the wilderness. He must become like his fellow Hebrews. He must become like a slave to lead the slaves out of bondage. Cale discusses this and more on today's episode of the Faith Explained.
God's power was certainly manifest in the life of Moses. In this episode of the Faith Explained, we see how Moses is saved through water not in a basket, but and arc, and it's going to prefigure how he leads God's people to salvation through the Red Sea.
God's power was certainly manifest in the life of Moses. In this episode of the Faith Explained, we see how Moses is saved through water not in a basket, but and arc, and it's going to prefigure how he leads God's people to salvation through the Red Sea.
On today's episode of the Faith Explained, Cale talks about heroines in the Bible who many people have never heard of; the Hebrew midwives who saved the male children from certain death. Pharaoh tries to strike fear and terror into the hearts of the people but they strike the fear of God into Pharaoh.
On today's episode of the Faith Explained, Cale talks about heroines in the Bible who many people have never heard of; the Hebrew midwives who saved the male children from certain death. Pharaoh tries to strike fear and terror into the hearts of the people but they strike the fear of God into Pharaoh.
Cale discusses the importance of knowing God. Pharaoh has forgotten the God of Joseph, and begins to persecute and enslave the people of God. How does God set them free and reveal Himself to Pharaoh and his people? Find out on this episode of the Faith Explained.
Cale discusses the importance of knowing God. Pharaoh has forgotten the God of Joseph, and begins to persecute and enslave the people of God. How does God set them free and reveal Himself to Pharaoh and his people? Find out on this episode of the Faith Explained.
On today’s Faith Explained, Cale begins to take a look at the text of Exodus. God has to establish who He is because to His people, He is the God who wasn’t there. Why are they in slavery and why hasn’t God answered them. Why is God not acting in their lives as He did in the lives of the patriarchs. God has to reveal who He is and who Moses is.
On today’s Faith Explained, Cale begins to take a look at the text of Exodus. God has to establish who He is because to His people, He is the God who wasn’t there. Why are they in slavery and why hasn’t God answered them. Why is God not acting in their lives as He did in the lives of the patriarchs. God has to reveal who He is and who Moses is.
On today’s Faith Explained, Cale looks at the question of who wrote the Book of Exodus. Was it Moses or just traditions derived from Moses, or does it even matter, because isn’t it true that God Himself is the author of Scripture. Cale discusses this and what kind of history Exodus is.
On today’s Faith Explained, Cale looks at the question of who wrote the Book of Exodus. Was it Moses or just traditions derived from Moses, or does it even matter, because isn’t it true that God Himself is the author of Scripture. Cale discusses this and what kind of history Exodus is.
In this episode of the Faith Explained, Cale continues his series on the Book of Exodus: The power and presence of God. God shows His power in getting the Israelites out of Egypt but then He has to reveal Himself to His people.
In this episode of the Faith Explained, Cale continues his series on the Book of Exodus: The power and presence of God. God shows His power in getting the Israelites out of Egypt but then He has to reveal Himself to His people.
In this episode of the Faith Explained, Cale begins a brand new series on the Book of Exodus: The power and presence of God. Getting His people out of Egypt was only half of the story. What happens after that is God reveals who He really is.
In this episode of the Faith Explained, Cale begins a brand new series on the Book of Exodus: The power and presence of God. Getting His people out of Egypt was only half of the story. What happens after that is God reveals who He really is.
Where are you going? In Acts 16:31 it says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” What does this really mean? Cale unpacks these questions and more in this episode of The Faith Explained.
Where are you going? In Acts 16:31 it says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” What does this really mean? Cale unpacks these questions and more in this episode of The Faith Explained.
The popular New Testament scholar Bart Ehrman has written that Hell does not really exist, that when we die, we will simply cease to exist. Cale looks at Revelation 22:14-15 and shows why this is NOT the case and, though uncomfortable, Hell really does exist.
The popular New Testament scholar Bart Ehrman has written that Hell does not really exist, that when we die, we will simply cease to exist. Cale looks at Revelation 22:14-15 and shows why this is NOT the case and, though uncomfortable, Hell really does exist.
How did the early Church worship God? Cale looks at ancient writings from St. Justin Martyr and St. Ignatius of Antioch on liturgy and the Eucharist.
Cale unpacks how modern science enhances our appreciation of God’s creation. Plus, what about other creation myths from other religions? How do these affect the biblical story of creation?
Cale unpacks how modern science enhances our appreciation of God’s creation. Plus, what about other creation myths from other religions? How do these affect the biblical story of creation?
Have you ever wondered why Jesus did not begin His public ministry until He was 30 years old? In this episode of TFE, Cale unpacks this question from a listener, Joe. If you have a question you would like to send Cale, you can do so at this email address: faith@relevantradio.com
Have you ever wondered why Jesus did not begin His public ministry until He was 30 years old? In this episode of TFE, Cale unpacks this question from a listener, Joe. If you have a question you would like to send Cale, you can do so at this email address: faith@relevantradio.com
Cale gives a summary of the Book of Genesis to conclude the Genesis Series. Why is the book named “Genesis”? Why is there 50 chapters? Cale also looks at the different covenants God makes with His people. What is typology? The story of Genesis is our story, too.
Cale gives a summary of the Book of Genesis to conclude the Genesis Series. Why is the book named “Genesis”? Why is there 50 chapters? Cale also looks at the different covenants God makes with His people. What is typology? The story of Genesis is our story, too.
Cale looks at the final verses of the Book of Genesis. How can we properly mourn? What was Joseph remembered for in the New Testament?
Cale looks at the final verses of the Book of Genesis. How can we properly mourn? What was Joseph remembered for in the New Testament?
Cale looks at Genesis 50. Joseph’s brothers are afraid that he will take vengeance on them now that their father Jacob has died. Joseph’s response is perhaps surprising. Cale looks at what this text means for us today.
Cale looks at Genesis 50. Joseph’s brothers are afraid that he will take vengeance on them now that their father Jacob has died. Joseph’s response is perhaps surprising. Cale looks at what this text means for us today.
Cale looks at the final verses of Genesis 49 in which is recorded the death and burial of Jacob. What can this text teach us about our own meeting with God and eternity?
Cale looks at the final verses of Genesis 49 in which is recorded the death and burial of Jacob. What can this text teach us about our own meeting with God and eternity?
Cale unpacks the Church’s teaching on contraception, drawing on history, the Bible, as well as experience talking with young couples, explaining the moral gravity of contraception and the negative impact it has on a marriage.
The biblical basis for why contraception is wrong.
A surprising fact about other Christian denominations’ stance on contraception.
Cale looks at four elements of God's plan for the world: Deliverance, Community, Knowledge, Abundant Life.
Cale looks at the major themes of the Old Testament. What does God’s name mean, as revealed to Moses at the burning bush?
Did Jesus claim to be the Messiah during his public ministry? Did he ever intimate that he was more than a prophet?
Cale unpacks the Church’s teaching on contraception, drawing on history, the Bible, as well as experience talking with young couples, explaining the moral gravity of contraception and the negative impact it has on a marriage.
The biblical basis for why contraception is wrong.
A surprising fact about other Christian denominations’ stance on contraception.
Cale explains why we could trust the Bible and debunks myths against the Old Testament. King David is also discussed as Cale talks about how he’s much more than just a local chief, using archaeology as evidence
Are the gospels historically reliable or do they contain contradictions that just can't be overcome? Cale looks at the question of the census at Jesus' birth. Was that historical? Cale explains this and more on this episode of The Faith Explained.
Cale dips back into the listener mailbag. He looks at the question - "Why are there Differences in the Gospels? Does this mean they are not historical?" Cale explains this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained on Relevant Radio and the Relevant Radio App.
Cale goes to the mailbag to tackle a question about the gospels and why there are only four in the bible. What does the Da Vinci Code say about the gospels? Could there really be 80 different gospels? Cale explains how the Da Vinci Code is fictional, and It feeds the idea of wanting a loophole from the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Does Matthew 24 have anything to do with a 'rapture'? Cale looks at myths about the theological idea called the rapture, which is popularly portrayed in the Left Behind books.
Will heaven have "pearly gates and streets of gold"? Sorry to disappoint you, but, no. It's a major biblical misinterpretation!
Cale looks at Genesis 3:1-12 and discusses the concept of sin, the deception of the serpent, and the salvation God provides.
Book: “In the Beginning… A Catholic Understanding of the Story of Creation and the Fall” by Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI): https://www.amazon.com/Beginning-Catholic-Understanding-Ressourcement-Retrieval/dp/0802841066
Is work a punishment for sin? Cale explains why this is not the case, and the sanctity that can come from work – any type of work. What does a priest do? And what is the significance of the priestly garments in the Old Testament? There are some amazing connections between the structure of the Temple in Jerusalem and Jesus’s death on the cross.
What was it like to be human before sin entered the world? Drawing on St. John Paul II’s insights in the “Theology of the Body”, Cale discusses the relationship between Adam and Eve ‘in the beginning’. Topics include:
- original solitude
- original unity
- original nakedness
- the meaning of life
- love
What is the tree of life referred to in Genesis 2? What’s the connection to wisdom? Cale addresses these questions, as well as the importance of Adam having a wife.
Cale looks at 2 Maccabees and the inspiring story of a martyred mother and her seven sons. In her speeches to encourage her sons to be faithful, she mentions the resurrection and God the Creator. Cale unpacks the significance of her testimony and how we can apply it to our lives today.
What was the abomination of desolation? Cale looks at the terrible deeds of Antiochus IV Epiphanes and the courageous men and women who stood up for their faith in the midst of trial.
Cale gives an overview of the books of the Maccabees, looking at their significance in the timeline of salvation history. The books of the Maccabees help set the stage for the public ministry of Jesus recorded in the four Gospels.
Is praying to Mary biblical? Is the rosary just vain repetition, the kind of prayer that Jesus criticizes in Matthew 6:7-8? In this episode of TFE, Cale gives an in-depth analysis on Catholic devotion to Mary, rooted in the Bible and in history.
What does the name ‘Gabriel’ mean? Cale looks at two annunciations in the Gospel of Luke in which the angel Gabriel appears to Zechariah and Mary. Why was Zechariah rebuked for his response but Mary’s response was okay? Weren’t they both doubting?
What does the Bible say about St. Michael the Archangel? Cale looks at the books of Daniel, Jude, and Revelation, in which we find St. Michael the Archangel mentioned.
Where does St. Raphael the Archangel appear in the Bible? Where does the word “archangel” come from? What are the nine choirs of angels? Cale looks at the Book of Tobit and what the marriage between Tobias and Sarah means for you today.
Why are we responsible for Adam and Eve’s sin? What is original sin? Why can’t angels repent? Is evolution compatible with Catholicism? Why do Catholics baptize infants?
Cale looks at Colossians 2:6-15. How did ancient pagans view the world vs. the Christian view of the world? What is St. Paul’s letter to the Colossians all about? What is the Christus Victor theory? Listener Question: If a marriage is not blessed by God, are you committing a sin by remaining married?
Why did God not institute the covenant of circumcision for females also? What made Israel different from other nations that also practiced circumcision? Has baptism replaced circumcision?
Why do Catholics have so many icons and images? Do Catholics worship statues? What does the Bible say about creating images? Cale looks at the difference between images and idols.
Why do Catholics and Protestants have different versions of the 10 Commandments? What does it mean to not take the Lord’s name in vain? Should it instead be translated you shall not “carry” the Lord’s name in vain?
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:11-12
Cale talks about this Scripture passage, and how the command to “rejoice” is actually the tenth beatitude.
Cale continues to unpack the meaning of the beatitudes found in Matthew’s Gospel. What does it mean to be pure in spirit? Plus, the Old Testament background that illuminates the meaning of the beatitudes.
Did you know that there are 10 beatitudes? Cale unpacks the ten beatitudes found in Matthew 5, explaining what they mean and how to live them out.
Cale looks at what Jesus had to say about Jonah from Luke 11:29-32. Cale also talks about Jesus and Exorcisms and discusses the deeper meaning behind the miracles of Jesus.
Cale finishes up his discourse on the Book of Jonah as he talks about Chapter 4. Key Points are Jonah’s selfishness, his anger against God and that we don’t know how Jonah is afterwards.
Cale looks at how Jonah’s psalm-prayer from the belly of the whale is really a death liturgy. Plus, Jesus and the “sign of Jonah”.
You’ve probably heard about Jonah and the whale. But what is the Book of Jonah all about? Cale looks at this “minor prophet” and the story of God’s mercy found in this small book in the Old Testament.
Cale looks at the failed prophecies of the Watch Tower Society. Is Jehovah a proper name for God? How can Jesus be God if there are verses in the Bible that say that the Father is greater than Jesus? What is an effective way to evangelize Jehovah’s Witnesses?
Will only 144,000 people be saved? Is Hell eternal? Cale responds to false teachings that Jehovah’s Witnesses profess. Why don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses receive blood transfusions? Cale also looks at failed prophecies put forth by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society.
How do Jehovah’s Witnesses try and convert people? What should you do when they try and convert you? Cale looks at responses you can give when asked about your Catholic faith. Do Jehovah’s Witnesses think about Jesus? Do they believe that he is God? Do they believe in the resurrection?
Cale looks at the history of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. What do they believe? Do they use the same Bible as Catholics?
Cale sits down with Kayla Richardson, a convert from Mormonism to Catholicism, who shares about her upbringing in a Mormon family and what led her to the Catholic Church. Topics discussed:
the word of wisdom; the problem of evil; the nature of God; the social cost of conversion; how to talk to Mormon friends about the Catholic faith.
Cale looks at the origins of polygamy among early Mormons, including in the life of their founder, Joseph Smith, Jr.
Celestial marriage? Do we remain married to our spouse in heaven? Cale looks at what Mormons believe about the afterlife, including Hell. What do the Scriptures actually say?
What is the Mormon practice of baptism for the dead? What does the Catholic Church teach about baptism? Is it necessary for salvation? Cale looks at three different types of baptism.
Podcast: “Baptism for the Dead?” https://relevantradio.com/2021/08/baptism-for-the-dead/
Are Mormons Christians? Where do they believe Jesus Christ came from? Cale looks at how to refute the claim that God has a body.
Who is Joseph Smith? How did the Book of Mormon originate? Cale looks at the sketchy history of the origins of the Mormon religion.
What did the early Church Fathers teach about authority? Can there be any new divine public revelation? Cale also looks at failed prophecies of Joseph Smith.
How did Mormonism originate? Who is Joseph Smith? Cale looks at two things NOT to mention when talking with a Mormon. What is the “great apostasy” and is there any truth to it?
Are the gospels historically reliable or do they contain contradictions that just can't be overcome? Cale looks at the question of the census at Jesus' birth. Was that historical? Cale explains this and more on this episode of The Faith Explained.
Cale looks at the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in Sacred Scripture. Who can receive this sacrament?
Cale looks at the sacrament of Holy Orders in both the Old Testament and the New Testament.
In this episode, Cale looks at 4 of the 7 sacraments - Baptism, Confession, the Eucharist, Confirmation - and where they are in the Bible.
James warns the wealthy who aren’t rich towards God, and reminds us that certain lessons can only be learned through patience, and in “the dark night of the soul”.
James warns of the dangers of slander, boasting, unjust judging, and making plans without reference to God's will.
Are you "all in"? Submit fully to Jesus and resist the devil. But how? James gives us the playbook in this episode.
Jealousy's a sin, so why does God experience it? Let's dive into James Chapter 4, for this and much more.
What is this "Shalom", this total peace God promises? Plus: the 7 fruits of heavenly wisdom.
James describes how the tongue can lead others - and ourselves - to either heaven or hell.
Mere intellectual assent to Catholic Truth won't get us to heaven; we need faith and works.
Its tempting to show favoritism towards “The Bold and the Beautiful”. But in the Church, we have to be supernatural. God doesn’t play favorites, and neither should we.
We need 3 things to be a Total Catholic: Orthodoxy (right doctrine); Orthokardia (a right heart); and Orthopraxis (right practice). Head, heart, and hands, working in concert.
What were the 4 things that James and the Council of Jerusalem asked Gentile converts to abstain from and why?
Cale discusses how the circumstances of our lives can make us - or break us - spiritually.
In chapter 1 of his letter, James contrasts doubt and faith. Can doubt actually be helpful?
The divinity of Christ wasn't "invented" much later by the Catholic Church. James and the first believers, strict monotheists, worshipped Jesus as God from the Start.
Cale discusses how James' preaching about "the door of Jesus" led to his own doorway to eternal glory.
Can this ancient nonbiblical document shed any light on Jesus, Mary, and Joseph...and who James really is?
Cale explores the writings about James discovered in the sands of Egypt, including the controversial "Gospel of Thomas".
After James' martyrdom, another relative of Jesus becomes bishop of Jerusalem; the early Church flees to Pella to escape the destruction of the Temple.
Cale discusses the burial of James and the discovery of his ossuary, or "bone box" in Jerusalem.
In this episode of Bonding with James on the Faith Explained, Cale discusses how James highlights how believers should treat one another and witness to those outside the Church.
Ever since the time of Martin Luther in the 16th century, Catholics and Protestants have hotly debated the issue of salvation. And, at the heart of it all, is the Letter of James.
What were the 4 things that James and the Council of Jerusalem asked Gentile converts to abstain from and why?
Paul calls out Peter for his hypocrisy; James brokers a compromise at the Council of Jerusalem.
Cale continues his discussion on James, the "Brother of the Lord". In this episode he takes a look at some of the most important men and their work in the early Church.
What made the doubting James come to believe in Jesus as Messiah, and eventually become the bishop of Jerusalem?
Cale continues to discuss James, the so-called "brother of the Lord", in his mini series, Bonding with James. In this Episode, Cale takes a detailed look at many of the men named James in the New Testament.
Cale begins this brand new mini series about James the so-called, "brother of the Lord." James was one of the people who was convinced to become a believer in Jesus because of the Resurrection.
In this episode of the Faith Explained, Cale dives back into the mailbag to answer listener questions about why people doubted the Resurrection and whether the early Christians can be disbelieved because they were biased.
Cale discusses and answers some objections to the Resurrection
They include the Stolen Body Theory, Swoon Theory, Displaced Body Theory, The Theory that the Resurrection Paralells with Dying and Rising Pagan Gods, Hallucination Theory
Does God’s plan for his people in the Old Testament continue into the New Testament? Cale looks at the Gospel of Matthew and St. Paul’s letter to the Romans to compare God’s saving acts in the Old Testament with his actions in the New Testament.
Cale looks at the major themes of the Old Testament. What does God’s name mean, as revealed to Moses at the burning bush?
Cale looks at how the Gospel of Luke has a unique focus on the marginalized in society.
Cale provides evidence that the tomb of Jesus was empty on Easter Sunday. He also discusses the Corinthian Creed from 1 Corinthians 15
Cale answers a question from a listener about the Resurrection on how to answer a skeptic and provides evidence for the Resurrection
Cale takes a look at the Beginning of the Book of Revelation. If you want to take a listen to the full series, here's the link: https://relevantradio.com/listen/our-shows/the-faith-explained/the-book-of-revelation/
After looking at the historical and literary context in which the Book of Revelation was written, Cale begins to dig into the text itself, looking at Revelation 1:1-7. Right away, we see titles and images of Jesus that hearken back to the Old Testament, and we catch a glimpse of what is to come. We also see the importance of the priesthood that all baptized Catholics are called to take part in in the kingdom of God.
Cale Clarke takes a scriptural look at Holy Thursday and Good Friday, including evidence for Jesus’ existence and death.
Cale continues his discussion on the miracles that Jesus performed and how they show he is the Messiah.
How can we know that the miraculous deeds performed by Jesus recorded in the New Testament really happened? What are the criteria used to determine the authenticity of the events recorded? Cale looks at 5 things to understand about the miracles of Jesus.
Cale looks at four elements of God’s plan for the world: Deliverance, Community, Knowledge, Abundant Life.
Cale looks at Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane: did he actually sweat blood? How could he be afraid if he is God? Cale also looks at Jesus’ nature, his acceptance of the Father’s will, and compares this to Adam in Eden.
Cale looks at the Last Supper narrative in the Gospel of Luke alongside the ancient liturgy of the first Passover in the Book of Exodus. How was the Last Supper actually done? ‘Do this in remembrance of me’ means more than recalling the event: it means making it present and participating in it. Cale breaks down what this means.
St. John Paul II called the transfiguration the “mystery of light par excellence”. Cale looks at parallels between Moses in the Book of Exodus and Jesus on the mountain with Elijah and Moses in the Gospel of Matthew. Cale also looks at how to navigate the mountain top experiences we have and the times when we are walking in the valley.
What is the definition for the ‘kingdom of God’? What do exorcisms have to do with the kingdom of God? Where is the sacrament of confession in the Bible? What is the ‘kingdom prayer’? Cale also looks at the meaning of the parable of the sower.
Cale discusses the question of why the genealogies of Jesus in the gospels of Matthew and Luke are different. Cale also shares news about an incredible, new archaeological discovery that sheds light on exactly how old some of the biblical books might be.
Are the gospels historically reliable or do they contain contradictions that just can't be overcome? Cale looks at the question of the census at Jesus' birth. Was that historical? Cale explains this and more on the next episode of the Faith Explained on Relevant Radio and the Relevant Radio App.
Cale dips back into the listener mailbag. He looks at the question - "Why are there Differences in the Gospels? Does this mean they are not historical?" Cale explains this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained on Relevant Radio and the Relevant Radio App.
Cale goes to the mailbag to tackle a question about the gospels and why there are only four in the bible. What does the Da Vinci Code say about the gospels? Could there really be 80 different gospels? Cale explains how the Da Vinci Code is fictional, and It feeds the idea of wanting a loophole from the teachings of Jesus Christ.
In this conclusion of his series on the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father, Cale talks about how evil and sin, should we be so unfortunate to fall into it, can never overcome us in the spiritual life.
In this continuation of his discussion on the Our Father, Cale looks at the question of why God allows trials and temptations into our lives. If He knows how weak we are, what's the point? Cale discusses this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained.
In this continuation of Cale's discussion on the Our Father, he talks about the final temptation of Christ in the wilderness, and it's the most insidious of all of them. The devil takes Jesus to a very high mountain, and shows him all of the kingdoms of the world. He says, all of these I will give you. But there's a catch. Cale talks about this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained.
In Cale's continued discussion on the Our Father, he talks about how "Deliver us from evil" is actually better translated to "deliver us from the evil one." When Satan tried to tempt Jesus in the wilderness, he tried to quote scripture, but he was misquoting it.
Cale continues to discuss the Our Father. "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." Is it evil in general or is it the evil one in particular, the devil? Cale uses the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness to show this, because the wilderness was the playground of demons and evil spirits.
Cale continues to discuss the Our Father. Does the prayer really say "Lead us not into temptation"? Cale talks about this and more on today's edition of the Faith Explained on Relevant Radio and the Relevant Radio App.
Will heaven have "pearly gates and streets of gold"? Sorry to disappoint you, but, no. It's a major biblical misinterpretation!
Cale continues his discussion on the Our Father. He takes a look at the fifth petition - "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." Jesus says that if you don't forgive those who sin against you, God will not forgive your sins. Cale discusses this and much more on this episode of The Faith Explained.
Cale continues his discussion on the Lord's prayer, The Our Father. There are a lot of non-Catholic groups who look at a particular verse in the Acts of the Apostles: "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship to the breaking of the bread, and the prayers." But what does that really mean? How do we know that the Catholic Church did that right. Cale discusses this and more on today's episode of The Faith Explained.
In this continuing discussion on the Our Father, Cale explains that there are two bad responses we need to be aware of when we pray "Thy will be done." These two are fatalism and scrupulosity.
Cale continues his series on the Lord's Prayer, The Our Father. In this episode, Cale takes a look at the seven petitions of the prayer. "Thy will be done," is very interesting. Is God's will ever not done? Only when we sin. Why has God allowed us to turn away from him?
Cale continues his look into the Lord's prayer. Did you know that the Our Father is based off an ancient Jewish prayer, The Kaddish? Jesus expands the prayer and makes it much different. Cale also answers the question of why we pray to when God already knows our needs in the first place.
Cale continues his series on the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father. One of the things about our Father, is that He is in heaven. But where is heaven and what does it look like? Cale explains how heaven isn't just some far away place. It's actually all around us.
Cale continues to take a look at Jesus' teaching on the fatherhood of God as expressed in the Lord's Prayer. He looks at the four elements of being a good father which are true of Divine Fatherhood, and human fatherhood as well.
Cale looks at the 'Our Father' prayer, breaking down word by word the meaning of this ancient prayer. What are the origins of this prayer?
Is it ever morally licit to use nuclear weapons? Was dropping the atomic bomb wrong? Cale finishes the series on what the Catholic Church teaches on war and peace by looking at nuclear warfare. Other topics: the difference between patriotism and nationalism; consequentialism; the four elements of a just war.
What makes for lawful self defense in war between nations? Where does conscience come into play? Cale continues to unpack what the Catholic Church teaches about war and peace.
What is peace? What does 'shalom' really mean? Cale looks at how Jesus is our true peace.
Cale continues to look at the fifth commandment 'do not kill'' by looking at capital punishment, unintentional killing of someone, desiring another's harm, and ways one can sin against God's love.
Cale looks at the Sermon on the Mount, the commandment not to kill and the sacredness of human life.
Does Matthew 24 have anything to do with a 'rapture'? Cale looks at myths about the theological idea called the rapture, which is popularly portrayed in the Left Behind books.
Cale looks at an often misunderstood passage from the Book of Revelation. He also looks at the martyrdom of St. Polycarp, who was a disciple of John the Apostle.
Cale looks at the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in Sacred Scripture. Who can receive this sacrament?
Cale looks at the sacrament of Holy Orders in both the Old Testament and the New Testament.
In this episode Cale looks at 4 of the 7 sacraments - baptism, confession, the Eucharist, confirmation - and where they are in the Bible.
Cale continues to unpack the importance of stewardship by looking at how the laity can live the three evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
You can email your questions and topic suggestions to faith@relevantradio.com
--Continuing his discourse on Cardinal Collin's document on stewardship as Cale talks about life being a gift from God and relates it to Euthanasia. Do we bury our treasure and talents or multiply it and share it? Also, what is the spirituality of deep stewardship? And the importance of giving ourselves to the Lord, body and soul.
Cale looks at what Jesus says in the Gospels about how we use the time, talent, and treasures given to us by God.
Cale looks at His Eminence Cardinal Thomas Collins's pastoral letter on stewardship and how you can be a good steward of the faith.
You can read the letter here: Pastoral Letter on Stewardship
Cale looks at St. Paul's final words to the Philippians: 4:15-23.
You can send your questions and topic suggestions to faith@relevantradio.com
What is the secret of Paul's contentment? What must you do to be saved? Cale looks at Philippians 4:10-14.
How do you give your worries to God? What about thinking good thoughts during the day? Cale looks at Philippians 4:6-9.
Did St. Paul have a wife? What is the "book of life"? How can you be commanded to rejoice?? Cale begins chapter 4 of Philippians.
Email your questions for Cale to faith@relevantradio.com
What is the deal with the separation between Church and State? In the first-century world that St. Paul inhabited, there was no such thing. How do we live as Christians in the State?
Who are the enemies of the cross of Christ? Cale looks at the two ends of a person; and where our true citizenship lies, continuing to look at St. Paul's letter to the Philippians.
St. Paul uses strong language to speak of his achievements in life, which may surprise the reader. What is Paul getting at in Philippians 3? Cale breaks down this and more on the show.
Philippians 3:1-11. Paul had every credential one could hope for...but it was nothing compared to his new identity in Christ.
Who are the "evil workers" St. Paul is referring to in Philippians 3? What is it that they were teaching? Cale looks at this and more.
Do you have a mentor or spiritual guide for how to live out your faith? Cale looks at the companions of St. Paul and how learning from other believers is a must in the Christian life.
How can you be a light in the world? Cale continues to look at St. Paul's letter to the Philippians and what it meant then and what it means for you today.
Cale looks at the ultimate example of the “kenosis” (self-emptying) of Jesus in Philippians 2:5-11.
Cale continues his discourse on Philippians 1: 15-30 2:4 Paul goes through incredible lengths to preach the Gospel Paul is concerned about God's judgment and implores us to make God more widely known and loved Paul talks about boasting in the presence of God Cale explains Paul talking about his wants of staying on earth or to be with the Lord
Cale continues his look at Philippians 1: 3- The mutual love Paul had for the Philippians and that they had God's grace Paul making an oath How important is knowledge and relating to our faith Thanking God no matter what as Paul is in prison
How can we reconcile the violence in the Old Testament with the concept of a loving God? Is the God of the New Testament different from the God of the Old Testament? Cale looks at three ways to view violence in the Old Testament.
Cale begins a new series on St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians. He gives an overview of the historical context, geography, and social scene.
Cale looks at how the Letter to the Romans is, strangely, a good intro to the OLD Testament!
Does God’s plan for his people in the Old Testament continue into the New Testament? Cale looks at the Gospel of Matthew and St. Paul’s letter to the Romans to compare God’s saving acts in the Old Testament with his actions in the New Testament.
Cale looks at how the Gospel of Luke has a unique focus on the marginalized in society.
Cale looks at four elements of God’s plan for the world: Deliverance, Community, Knowledge, Abundant Life.
Cale looks at the major themes of the Old Testament. What does God’s name mean, as revealed to Moses at the burning bush?
How can we reconcile the violence in the Old Testament with the concept of a loving God? Is the God of the New Testament different from the God of the Old Testament? Cale looks at three ways to view violence in the Old Testament.
Cale looks at Daniel 13. A young woman, Susanna, is falsely accused by elders of sexual misconduct. But as she is brought before the court, God inspires Daniel to testify to the righteousness of Susanna.
Cale looks at Daniel chapter 12 and gives a summary of the Book of Daniel, while looking at what Jesus says in the Gospels and what St. Paul says in Romans.
Cale looks at “Operation Andrew” which Billy Graham put into effect, and what sharing the faith with others means and how you can do it in your life.
How can we know that the miraculous deeds performed by Jesus recorded in the New Testament really happened? What are the criteria used to determine the authenticity of the events recorded? Cale looks at 5 things to understand about the miracles of Jesus. Other topics:
Exorcisms
The kingdom of God
The Testament of Moses
Did Jesus claim to be the Messiah during his public ministry? Did he ever intimate that he was more than a prophet?
Cale looks at the unique infancy narrative in the Gospel of Luke and the titles of Jesus. What do ‘Lord’ and ‘Christ’ mean? Cale also looks at Mary and Joseph presenting Jesus in the Temple. Who are Simeon and Anna?
Cale looks at the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and the rededication of the temple. When was Jesus born – was it really toward the end of December?
Cale looks at Daniel chapter 12 and gives a summary of the Book of Daniel, while looking at what Jesus says in the Gospels and what St. Paul says in Romans.
Daniel chapter 12 provides a window into the time of the Antichrist, the time of God's final victory, and the resurrection of the righteous and the wicked.
The geopolitical struggles and drama surrounding the kings in Daniel's day is important for understanding the text. Cale breaks down Daniel chapter 11.
Cale looks at Daniel 10. Is it Jesus who appears to Daniel? Are there angelic struggles behind human events? What does this chapter mean for you today?
The Archangel Gabriel answers Daniel’s prayer with some heavenly promises. Where is the New Covenant talked about in the Old?
Cale looks at Daniel chapter 9, in which Daniel lays his heart before the Lord. Cale looks at the theme of covenant, and also two sins that you must avoid in the spiritual life.
Cale looks at Daniel chapter 8, in which Daniel has another vision that troubles him. What do the ram and the goat symbolize? What about the horns? How shall we live in light of frightening world events?
Cale continues to unpack Daniel chapter 7, in which Daniel has a vision and sees four beasts emerge out of the sea, as well as a ‘son of man’.
Daniel has a troubling vision in which he sees four beasts emerge from the great sea. What is going on here? What do the beasts symbolize? What does the sea symbolize? What did this mean for the people in Daniel’s day? What does it mean for you?
What is apocalyptic literature? How can it help us understand the book of Daniel? Interestingly, Jesus Himself makes a lot of apocalyptic references in the Gospels. Cale looks at these references and what constitutes an apocalyptic worldview.
It’s a staple in children’s Bible stories. What’s the significance of the story of Daniel in the lions den? Cale also shares an incredible story of a modern-day believer who experienced a miraculous deliverance from God not unlike Daniel.
Cale looks at Daniel chapter 5 and the famous instance in which King Belshazzar sees a message from God written on the wall. What does the message mean? What does Daniel do when the king summons him?
In Daniel 4 we see a note from King Nebuchadnezzar himself. He tells of a dream in which he sees a large tree. Did King Nebuchadnezzar go mad? Cale looks at this passage in the light of Christ and considers what it means for your life today.
King Nebuchadnezzar sets up a golden statue; Daniel’s three companions are thrown into a fiery furnace for not worshiping it. A “son of the gods” appears with them in the fire. Is this a pre-incarnate Christ? What is really behind idolatry?
Cale looks at “Operation Andrew” which Billy Graham put into effect, and what sharing the faith with others means and how you can do it in your life.
Did Jesus claim to be the Messiah during his public ministry? Did he ever intimate that he was more than a prophet?
- Cale analyzes if God speaks to us through dreams and the concept of Biblical Wisdom and he finishes Daniel Chapter 2
- Cale talks about the first Chapter of the Book of Daniel and the King Nebuchadnezzar. He also talks about the meaning of the name Daniel, and not eating the food of the King.
Cale looks at the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and the rededication of the temple. When was Jesus born – was it really toward the end of December?
Cale looks at 2 Maccabees and the inspiring story of a martyred mother and her seven sons. In her speeches to encourage her sons to be faithful, she mentions the resurrection and God the Creator. Cale unpacks the significance of her testimony and how we can apply it to our lives today.
What was the abomination of desolation? Cale looks at the terrible deeds of Antiochus IV Epiphanes and the courageous men and women who stood up for their faith in the midst of trial.
Cale gives an overview of the books of the Maccabees, looking at their significance in the timeline of salvation hisotry. The books of the Maccabees help set the stage for the public ministry of Jesus recorded in the four Gospels.
How can we know that the miraculous deeds performed by Jesus recorded in the New Testament really happened? What are the criteria used to determine the authenticity of the events recorded? Cale looks at 5 things to understand about the miracles of Jesus. Other topics:
Exorcisms
The kingdom of God
The Testament of Moses
Cale looks at the Old Testament’s description of the queen mother in Israel and how Mary fulfills this role as the mother of Jesus. Who is the woman clothed with the sun in the Book of Revelation?
Did the Catholic Church invent the doctrine of Mary being assumed body and soul into heaven, especially since it didn’t become doctrinal until 1950? What does the Assumption have to do with the immaculate conception? Cale looks at the biblical roots of this fourth glorious mystery of the rosary.
Cale looks at the Old Testament roots of Pentecost and the parallels between God giving the law to the Israelites on Mt. Sinai and the descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost as descirbed in the Acts of the Apostles. Cale also looks at how the giving of the Spirit reverses the curse from the Tower of Babel in the book of Genesis.
Cale explains how the notion of Jesus floating away into the heavens is completely backward from the reality. He also looks at objections that Jesus ascended bodily into heaven. What does the ascension mean for your life? Other topics:
what heaven is like
the significance of the mention of a cloud in the Acts of the Apostles
The deposit of faith
The first glorious mystery. Cale looks at 5 facts that have to be accounted for regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
What did crucifixion look like in the ancient world? Did Jesus die on the cross? Cale looks at multiple historical sources outside of the Bible that mention the death of Jesus on the cross. What does Christ’s death on the cross mean for us? Why did God suffer and die in the person of Jesus Christ?
Video: 3 Archaeological Discoveries Relating to Jesus’ Death
What was the shape of the cross on which Jesus was crucified? Was it a “T” or “X” shaped cross? What is the “Alexamenos graffito”? Who is Simon of Cyrene and why did he get selected to carry the cross of Jesus?
What did a Roman flogging look like? Why was Jesus handed over in the first place? Who was really at the praetorium when Jesus was in front of Pilate? Cale continues to look a the biblical roots of the rosary by looking at two of the ‘sorrowful mysteries’ – the scourging at the pillar and the crowning of thorns.
Cale looks at Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane: did he actually sweat blood? How could he be afraid if he is God? Cale also looks at Jesus’s nature, his acceptance of the Father’s will, and compares this to Adam in Eden.
Cale looks at the Last Supper narrative in the Gospel of Luke alongside the ancient liturgy of the firsr Passover in the Book of Exodus. How was the Last Supper actually done? ‘Do this in remembrance of me’ means more than recalling the event: it means making it present and participating in it. Cale breaks down what this means.
St. John Paul II called the transfiguration the “mystery of light par excellence”. Cale looks at parallels between Moses in the Book of Exodus and Jesus on the mountain with Elijah and Moses in the Gospel of Matthew. Cale also looks at how to navigate the mountain top experiences we have and the times when we are walking in the valley.
What is the definition for the ‘kingdom of God’? What do exorcisms have to do with the kingdom of God? Where is the sacrament of confession in the Bible? What is the ‘kingdom prayer’? Cale also looks at the meaning of the parable of the sower.
Cale looks at the parallels between the Gospel of John and the Book of Genesis. What does it mean to say that Mary is the ‘New Eve’? Why does Jesus call Mary, ‘woman’? When does the ‘hour’ of Jesus actually come?
Cale looks at John Paul II’s rationale for introducing the mysteries of light. What are the biblical roots of the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River? Why did Jesus even need to be baptized if he is sinless?
Cale looks at Simeon’s prophechy in the Gospel of Luke. What is meant by Jesus being destined to cause the rising and fall of many? What does it mean that a sword will pierce Mary’s soul? Cale also looks at the prophetess Anna and the significance of her presence in the story.
Cale looks at the unique infancy narrative in the Gospel of Luke and the titles of Jesus. What do ‘Lord’ and ‘Christ’ mean? Cale also looks at Mary and Joseph presenting Jesus in the Temple. Who are Simeon and Anna?
Cale looks at the parallels between the account of Mary visiting Elizabeth in the Gospel of Luke and David dancing before the Ark in 2 Samuel 6. He also looks at what we call the ‘Magnificat’ alongside ‘Hannah’s song’ in 1 Samuel 2.
Cale looks at St. John Paul II’s Apostolic Letter Rosarium Virginis Mariaeand three different crises in the world today that praying the rosary can combat. Cale also looks at the doctrine of the perpetual virginity of Mary.
How did the early Church worship God? Cale looks at ancient writings from St. Justin Martyr and St. Ignatius of Antioch on liturgy and the Eucharist.
- Cale explains why we could trust the Bible and debunks myths against the Old Testament. King David is also discussed as Cale talks about how he’s much more than just a local chief, using archaeology as evidence
Part 2/2 in which Cale continues to unpack the top 10 places in Sacred Scripture that point to the divinity of Christ.
Part one in a two-part series. Have you ever heard someone say that Jesus never claimed to be God? Cale looks at passages in Sacred Scripture that make clear that Jesus is, in fact, God.
- Cale takes a look at what Jesus had to say about Jonah from Luke 11:29-32. Cale also talks about Jesus and Exorcism and that the miracles Jesus did was to prove that the message was true.
- Cale finishes up his discourse on the Book of Jonah as he talks about Chapter 4.
- Key Points are Jonah’s selfishness, his anger against God and also that we don’t know how Jonah is afterwards. Also that we have to imagine ourselves as Jonah and what would think of us.
- Cale takes a look at the third Chapter of Jonah as Jonah goes to the great city of Nineveh and what did Jonah really think about the Ninevites.
Cale looks at how Jonah’s psalm-prayer from the belly of the whale is really a death liturgy. Plus, Jesus and the “sign of Jonah”.
You’ve probably heard about Jonah and the whale. But what is the Book of Jonah all about? Cale looks at this “minor prophet” and the story of God’s mercy found in this small book in the Old Testament.
Cale looks at the life of one of the most popular saints in the Church, Saint Francis of Assisi. While he’s often known for his love of creation, this medieval saint’s life was one of diverse passions. He then went on to experience the Passion of Our Lord by receiving the stigmata.
What does the name ‘Gabriel’ mean? Cale looks at two annunciations in the Gospel of Luke in which the angel Gabriel appears to Zechariah and Mary. Why was Zechariah rebuked for his response but Mary’s response was okay? Weren’t they both doubting?
What does the Bible say about St. Michael the Archangel? Cale looks at the books of Daniel, Jude, and Revelation, in which we find St. Michael the Archangel mentioned.
Where does St. Raphael the Archangel appear in the Bible? Where does the word “archangel” come from? What are the nine choirs of angels? Cale looks at the Book of Tobit and what the marriage between Tobias and Sarah means for you today.
Part 2/2 in which Cale continues to unpack the top 10 places in Sacred Scripture that point to the divinity of Christ.
Part one in a two-part series. Have you ever heard someone say that Jesus never claimed to be God? Cale looks at passages in Sacred Scripture that make clear that Jesus is, in fact, God.
Cale sits down with Kayla Richardson, a convert from Mormonism to Catholicism, who shares about her upbringing in a Mormon family and what led her to the Catholic Church. Topics discussed:
the word of wisdom; the problem of evil; the nature of God; the social cost of conversion; how to talk to Mormon friends about the Catholic faith.
Cale looks at the origins of polygamy among early Mormons, including in the life of their founder, Joseph Smith, Jr.
Celestial marriage? Do we remain married to our spouse in heaven? Cale looks at what Mormons believe about the after life, including Hell. What do the Scriptures actually say?
What is the Mormon practice of baptism for the dead? What does the Catholic Church teach about baptism? Is it necessary for salvation? Cale looks at three different types of baptism.
Podcast: “Baptism for the Dead?” https://relevantradio.com/2021/08/baptism-for-the-dead/
Are Mormons Christians? Where do they believe Jesus Christ came from? Cale looks at how to refute the claim that God has a body.
Who is Joseph Smith? How did the Book of Mormon originate? Cale looks at the sketchy history of the origins of the Mormon religion.
What did the early Church Fathers teach about authority? Can there be any new divine public revelation? Cale also looks at failed prophecies of Joseph Smith.