The Humble Skeptic: Recent Episodes
Truth Isn't Afraid of Questions
Shane Rosenthal was raised in a Jewish home but became an atheist at a very early age. Some years later, however, he ended up losing faith in atheism and converted to Christianity. On this podcast, he talks with people from a wide variety of worldviews and perspectives in order to explore the beliefs and ideas that shape our lives.
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In an attempt to make churches more attractive and relevant, over the decades, many pastors effectively stopped preaching and teaching the contents of the Bible, and this has resulted in a significant decrease in basic Bible literacy among Christians across all denominations. Thirty years ago today, a diverse group of leaders and theologians met in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to address this and other challenges, and they produced an important document called The Cambridge Declaration. This program features audio from the 1996 meeting featuring R.C. Sproul, James M. Boice, David Wells, Michael Horton, Gene Veith, W. Robert Godfrey, and others.
SHOW NOTES
BooksHere We Stand,2026 edition, Jim Boice & Ben Sasse (editors)No Place for Truth, David WellsGod in the Wasteland, David WellsReaching Out Without Dumbing Down, Marva DawnPeculiar Speech, Peculiar Speech, William WillimonChristless Christianity, Michael HortonThe Christian Mind, Harry BlamiresChristianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham MachenCreed or Chaos? by Dorothy Sayers — FREE
ArticlesThe Cambridge Declaration (also via PDF download here)Background to The Cambridge Declaration, WikipediaThe Story of Us, Shane RosenthalThe Megachurch Century, Shane RosenthalThe Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture (PDF), Shane RosenthalLiberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham MachenThe Importance of Christian Scholarship, by J. Gresham MachenTheologically, This Country is in a State of Utter Chaos, Dorothy SayersWhy Johnny Can’t Preach, T. David Gordon
AudioThe Living Church, WHI #317 with Ervin DugganDoctrine, Worship & Life, WHI #323 with Jim BoiceCatechesis, Preaching & Vocation, WHI #317 with Gene VeithThe Courage to Be Protestant, WHI #913 with David WellsGrounded in the Gospel, WHI #986 with J.I. PackerYouth Ministry in Crisis, WHI 1204 with Christian Smith & othersA Debate with Robert Schuller, WHI # 103You Foolish Galatians! WHI #140 includes Shane’s street interviewsAn Interview with R.C. Sproul, WHI #909The Preached Word, WHI 972 with William WillimonJacob’s Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63Christian Narcissism, Humble Skeptic #67 with J.I. Packer & othersThe Effect of Media & Technology, Humble Skeptic #30
VideoBen Sasse on Uncommon Knowledge with Peter RobinsonBen Sasse on Interesting Times with Ross DouthatBen Sasse on Life Cancer & The Gospel, with Mike Horton
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On this episode, Shane highlights some of the intriguing parallels that exist between the parable of Lazarus recorded in Luke 16 and the account of the raising of Lazarus in John 11. Since both texts involve a man named Lazarus as well as the subject of resurrection, it’s worth considering that these two stories may in fact be related. During this exploration, Shane talks with Richard Bauckham, author of Jesus & The Eyewitnesses, and T.C. Schmidt, author of Josephus & Jesus.
SPECIAL OFFER
For a gift of any size, you’ll receive a pre-release PDF download of Shane’s forthcoming book, Luke’s Key Witness, along with a 30-page PDF resource titled The Identity of the Beloved Disciple. If you’re already a paid subscriber, you’ll be able to access both resources via the above links. To donate or subscribe, use the green button below.
SHOW NOTES
Related EpisodesQuestioning The Fourth Gospel, #49 with Richard BauckhamDid Josephus Ever Mention Jesus? #77 with T.C. SchmidtWho is Theophilus? #79 with Peter. BoltRethinking Jesus’ Parables, #43 with Scott ChurnockSimply Genius (a discussion of the Parables), #62 with Peter J. Williams Stories of Jesus: Can They Be Trusted? #61 with Peter J. WilliamsAre The Gospels History or Fiction? #52 with John DicksonFaith Founded on Facts, Episode #15What Did the Earliest Christians Believe?, #25 with Dennis JohnsonThe Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, #48 with Richard BauckhamWhich John Wrote John? Episode #50 Locating Golgotha, #17 with David RohlThe Messiah’s Redemptive Mission Episode #72Reconciling the Resurrection Accounts, #73 with Lydia McGrew
Related ArticlesThe Parable of Lazarus, Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalBart Ehrman on Jesus & The Claim of Resurrection, Shane RosenthalThe Implications of 70 AD on the Date of the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalA Pre-70 Date for the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John’s Gospel, Revisited,Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalPassover, The Last Supper & The Day of Crucifixion, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalThings Completely Fulfilled Among Us, Shane Rosenthal
Related BooksJosephus & Jesus, T.C. Schmidt — FREEJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamThe Fate of the Dead, Richard BauckhamCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History? John DicksonTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewLuke: A Commentary, Peter G. Bolt The Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of Caesarea
Related VideoHistory, Archaeology & Luke’s Most Excellent TheophilusAn Archaeological Discovery Sheds Light on the Gospel of LukeHave Archaeologists Discovered Biblical Bethsaida?Can We Trust the Gospels? Peter J. Williams New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams Evidence for the Resurrection, Peter J. Williams Are the Gospels Reliable?, Peter J. Williams & Bart EhrmanThe Tools & Rules of History, Gary Habermas & Shane Rosenthal & others
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After watching a new HBO documentary on the life of Billy Joel, Shane decided to reopen his investigation of the bar that inspired Piano Man. The question he posed on the pilot episode was whether his dad had visited the famous bar back in 1973, and whether he might even be one of the characters mentioned in the song. This program features Shane’s original exploration, along with selections from interviews he’s recorded since that time. In the final segment, he engages with individuals involved in this new documentary, which takes his investigation to a whole new level.
SHOW NOTES
ArticlesIs My Dad One of the Characters in Piano Man? Shane RosenthalThe Executive Room According to Bob Egan, Pop Spots
Related EpisodesThe Executive Room: New Evidence, #55 with John GibsonEvidential Reasoning, #56 with Craig PartonDealing with Discrepancies, #57 with J. Warner WallaceYear-End Special, #65 with Liam CooperThe Pilot Episode, #01 (Shane’s original investigation)
VideoAnd So It Goes, HBO documentary series on the life of Billy JoelAnd So It Goes (Trailer)
A Recent Note from a Paid Subscriber:“I’m a listener from the UK, and have listened to just about all of your podcasts. I have to say that yours is my favourite podcast, and love the depth and detail you go into. You have great guests and conversations that I find immensely valuable to refer to. Thank you for all the great content you provide. Well done, Shane!” — Alex
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On this episode, Shane walks through selections from the first two chapters of Luke’s Gospel as he highlights the significance of Jesus’ birth and redemptive mission. He also takes time to reflect on the meaning of the numerous Old Testament prophecies and promises that are alluded to throughout Luke’s account of the things that have been “fulfilled among us.” Click here for detailed notes related to this episode.
SHOW NOTES
ArticlesDetailed notes for this episode, Shane RosenthalIsaiah’s Prophecy of the Messiah’s Birth, Shane RosenthalThe Bethlehem Prophecy: An Exploration of Micah 5:2, Shane RosenthalJustin Martyr on the Importance of Fulfilled Prophecy, Shane RosenthalProof of the Gospel (PDF), selections from Justin Martyr, Eusebius & AugustineFinding Christ in All of Scripture (PDF), Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalIsrael: The Story Behind Jacob’s New Name, Shane RosenthalArchaeological Discoveries Related to Nebuchadnezzar II, Shane RosenthalA Pre-70 Date for the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Implications of 70 AD on the Date of the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John’s Gospel, Revisited,Shane RosenthalIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William Ramsay
BooksJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonEchoes of Exodus: Tracing the Theme of Redemption, Roberts & WilsonThe Angel of the Lord, Matt Foreman & Doug Van DornThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
AudioChristmas: Legend or History? episode #64The Messiah’s Redemptive Mission, episode #72In the Beginning was the Word, episode #75 with John RonningThe Angel of Yahweh, episode #70 with Foreman & Van DornDid The Exodus Ever Happen? episode #69 with David RohlJacob’s Ladder, episode #63 with Richard Bauckham and othersBabylon, episode #66 Decoding the Prophecies of Daniel, episode #68 Signs of the Messiah, episode #74 with Andreas KöstenbergerJewish Views of the Messiah, episode #38 with Daniel Boyarin
VideoDiscovering Bethsaida, Shane RosenthalRethinking Luke’s Prologue, Shane RosenthalProphecies of The Messiah’s Birth, You Can Handle The Truth
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Throughout his various writing projects, J. Warner Wallace encourages his readers to study the Gospels forensically—that is, to always be on the lookout for evidence, either of deception on the one hand, or of authentic eyewitness testimony on the other. On this episode, Shane talks with him about some of the evidence he discovered when he read the Gospels for the first time and which ultimately led to his conversion to the Christian faith. They also discuss issues related to the dating of the four Gospels and some of the interpretive possibilities related to identifying Luke’s Theophilus. For more information about J. Warner Wallace, visit his website coldcasechristianity.com
During this episode, Shane referenced his recent webinar on the prologue of Luke’s Gospel. A video recording of this presentation is available here for paid subscribers. To upgrade to a paid subscription, click here.
SHOW NOTES
ArticlesWhy I Know The Gospels Were Written Early, J. Warner WallaceThe Date of John’s Gospel, Revisited, Shane RosenthalThe Implications of 70 AD, Shane RosenthalA Pre-70 Date for the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalWho is Theophilus? Notes to Ep. #79, Peter Bolt and othersHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Authenticity & Genuineness of The Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane Rosenthal
EpisodesDealing with Discrepancies, Episode #57 with J. Warner WallaceThe Case for Early Gospels, Cold Case Christianity podcastLuke, Theophilus & Joanna, Episode #80 with Jim SibleyWho is Theophilus? Episode #79 with Peter BoltDid Josephus Ever Mention Jesus? Episode #77 with T.C. SchmidtJesus in Josephus & Other Ancient Texts, Episode #78 with T.C. SchmidtThe Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, Episode #48 with Richard BauckhamFaith Founded on Facts, Episode #15 with Lennox, Bauckham, and othersStories of Jesus: Can They Be Trusted? Episode. #61 with Peter J. WilliamsAre the Gospels History or Fiction? Episode #52 with John DicksonQuestioning Your Faith, Episode #21 with Fikrit Bocek, pastor of Izmir, TurkeyDeath, Ghosts & Views of the Afterlife, Episode #31 with Michael McClymondThe Gospel Creed, Episode #9
BooksCold Case Christianity, J. Warner WallaceThe Truth in True Crime, J. Warner WallaceForensic Faith, J. Warner WallacePerson of Interest, J. Warner WallaceJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamReligion on Trial, Craig PartonTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonRedating Matthew, Mark & Luke, John WenhamRethinking the Dates of the New Testament, Jonathan BernierLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
VideosCan You Trust Bible Manuscripts? J. Warner WallaceHas the Bible Changed Over Time? J. Warner WallaceDoes Christianity Have Evidence? J. Warner WallaceIs Jesus in the Old Testament? J. Warner Wallace
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In a chapter he wrote for the Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Jim Sibley argued that Luke’s Theophilus was likely a Jewish high priest. In fact, he says this Theophilus may have been deposed from office in 41 AD because of his favorability toward the growing Christian movement. He also believes that Luke’s Joanna was likely the granddaughter of this same Theophilus. Dr. Sibley joins Shane to discuss these issues and more.
During this episode, Shane referenced an upcoming livestream presentation related to the prologue of Luke’s Gospel. A video recording of this webinar is now available here.
SHOW NOTES
BooksA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Jim Sibley & othersA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Jim Sibley & othersThe Undercover Messiah & His Coming Kingdom, Jim SibleyThe Moody Handbook on Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumLuke: A Commentary, Peter G. BoltThe Gospel According to Luke, James R. EdwardsLukan Authorship of Hebrews (ebook), David Allen Gospel Women, Richard BauckhamCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
ArticlesWho is Theophilus? Notes to Ep. #79, Peter Bolt, Johann Michaelis, etc.Is Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalWho is Sergius Paulus? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalThe Implications of 70 AD, Shane RosenthalA Pre-70 Date for the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John’s Gospel, Revisited, Shane RosenthalOutside the Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane Rosenthal
EpisodesWho is Theophilus? Episode #79 with Peter BoltDid Josephus Ever Mention Jesus? Episode #77 with T.C. SchmidtJesus in Josephus & Other Ancient Texts, Episode #78 with T.C. SchmidtDid the Exodus Ever Happen? Episode #69 with David RohlLocating Golgotha, Episode #17 with David RohlStories of Jesus: Can They Be Trusted? Episode. #61 with Peter J. WilliamsAre the Gospels History or Fiction? Ep. #52 with John DicksonThe Gospel Creed, Episode #9 Faith Founded on Facts, Episode #15
VideoRethinking Luke’s Prologue, a webinar by Shane RosenthalThe Alisa Childers Podcast featuring Shane RosenthalCross Examined with Frank Turek featuring Shane RosenthalF4F with Chris Rosebrough featuring Shane Rosenthal
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In his famous prologue, Luke indicates that his Gospel is addressed to a “most excellent Theophilus.” As others had done, Luke decided to write an orderly account about the things Jesus had accomplished “among us.” So, was Luke suggesting that both he and Theophilus had witnessed some of these events? And since Theophilus was described with such an honorific title, is it possible to see him as the Jerusalem high priest mentioned by Josephus? Joining Shane to discuss these questions and more is Dr. Peter G. Bolt, author of Luke: A Commentary, published by The Gospel Coalition.
For detailed notes related to this episode, click here.
SPECIAL OFFER — For a gift of any size, we’ll send you a pre-release PDF download of Shane’s book, Luke’s Key Witness, along with a 35-page PDF resource titled Josephus & His World. If you’re already a paid subscriber, you can access both resources here. To donate or subscribe, click here.
SHOW NOTES
BooksLuke: A Commentary, Peter G. Bolt — FREEGospel Women, Richard BauckhamLiving Footnotes in the Gospel of Luke, Luuk van de WegheThe Historical Tell, Luuk van de WegheRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonRedating Matthew, Mark & Luke, John WenhamCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewLuke’s Key Witness, Shane RosenthalGod’s Grace Inscribed on the Human Heart,Peter Bolt (editor)The above book features Dr. Bolt’s essay on Joanna & Theophilus
ArticlesDetailed Notes for Episode #79Is Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalWho is Sergius Paulus? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalThe Implications of 70 AD, Shane RosenthalA Pre-70 Date for the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John’s Gospel, Revisited, Shane RosenthalOutside the Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane Rosenthal
EpisodesDid Josephus Ever Mention Jesus? Episode #77 with T.C. SchmidtJesus in Josephus & Other Ancient Texts, Episode #78 with T.C. SchmidtDid the Exodus Ever Happen? Episode #69 with David RohlLocating Golgotha, Episode #17 with David RohlStories of Jesus: Can They Be Trusted? Episode. #61 with Peter J. WilliamsAre the Gospels History or Fiction? Ep. #52 with John DicksonThe Gospel Creed, Episode #9 Faith Founded on Facts, Episode #15
Video — featuring Shane Rosenthal, discussing Luke’s Key WitnessThe Alisa Childers PodcastCross Examined with Frank TurekYou Can Handle The TruthF4F with Chris Rosebrough
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On the last episode, Dr. T.C. Schmidt argued that there are good reasons to believe the two passages about Jesus found in the writings of Josephus are authentic. On this program, Shane continues his conversation and inquires about the Slavonic edition of Josephus’ works, as well as other references to Jesus found in the Talmud and other ancient texts. Dr. Schmidt is the author of Josephus & Jesus: New Evidence for the One Called Christ, newly released by Oxford University Press.
Click here for detailed notes related to this episode.
SPECIAL OFFERS
To get a FREE copy of T.C. Schmidt’s book, Josephus & Jesus, click here. Also, when you upgrade to a paid subscription or make a gift of any size, we’ll send you a 35-page PDF resource titled Josephus & His World, which includes selections from the Slavonic edition of Josephus’ work mentioned in this episode. You’ll also receive a pre-release copy of Luke’s Key Witness. If you’re already a paid subscriber, you can download both of these resources here. To donate or subscribe, use the link below.
SHOW NOTES
BooksJosephus & Jesus, T.C. Schmidt (click here to purchase hardcopy)The Jewish War, Vol III, Josephus (appendix includes Slavonic material)Can We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History? John DicksonJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamA Doubter’s Guide To Jesus, John DicksonTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
ArticlesNotes for Episode #78 & Josephus & His World, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalThe Egerton Papyrus, Early Christian WritingsPassover & the Last Supper, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalA Pre-70 Date for the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Implications of 70 AD on the Date of the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John’s Gospel, Revisited,Shane RosenthalIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane Rosenthal
AudioDid Josephus Ever Mention Jesus?ep. #77 with T.C. SchmidtFaith Founded on Facts ep. #15 with John Lennox and othersStories of Jesus: Can They Be Trusted? ep. #61 with Peter J. WilliamsAre the Gospels History or Fiction? ep. #52 with John DicksonThe Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, ep. #48 with Richard BauckhamFake or Authentic? ep. #10 with Lydia McGrewAuthenticating The Book of Acts, ep. #24 with Lydia McGrewLocating Golgotha, ep. #17 with David RohlThe Jesus of History, ep. #12The Gospel Creed, ep. # 9
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Many scholars argue that the famous passage about Jesus in the writings of Josephus should be dismissed and set aside as a later interpolation by a Christian Scribe. But after his own detailed investigation of this subject, Dr. T.C. Schmidt concluded that this passage has been largely misunderstood. In his new book published by Oxford University Press, he presents compelling new evidence that this passage is not a later addition, but was original to Josephus. On this edition, Shane talks to him about his new book, which is titled. Josphus and Jesus: New Evidence for the one called Christ.
Listen to Part 2 of Shane’s Conversation with Dr. T.C. Schmidt
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To get a FREE copy of T.C. Schmidt’s brand new book, Josephus & Jesus: New Evidence for the One Called Christ, click here. Also, when you upgrade to a paid subscription, we’ll send you a 30+ page PDF resource that highlights many of the important events documented by Josephus from the time of Daniel to the destruction of Jerusalem. If you are already a subscriber, you can download this resource here. If you’d like to become a paid subscriber, use the link below.
SHOW NOTES
BooksJosephus & Jesus, T.C. Schmidt (click here for a hardcopy)Josephus: The Essential Works, edited by Paul MaierSon of Man Volume 1, Richard BauckhamCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History? John DicksonJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamA Doubter’s Guide To Jesus, John DicksonTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
ArticlesOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalA Pre-70 Date for the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Implications of 70 AD on the Date of the Gospels & Acts, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John’s Gospel, Revisited,Shane RosenthalNew Evidence for a Historical Moses? Shane RosenthalIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalThe Gospels as Authentic Testimony, Richard Bauckham
AudioJesus in Josephus & Other Ancient Texts, ep. #78 with T.C. SchmidtJesus Proof? Undeceptions with John Dickson featuring T.C. SchmidtStories of Jesus: Can They Be Trusted? ep. #61 with Peter J. WilliamsAre the Gospels History or Fiction? ep. #52 with John DicksonThe Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, ep. #48 with Richard BauckhamFake or Authentic? ep. #10 with Lydia McGrewAuthenticating The Book of Acts, ep. #24with Lydia McGrewThe Gospel Creed, ep. #9Faith Founded on Facts, ep. #15The Jesus of History, ep. #12 — featuring an earlier discussion of Josephus
VideoRichard Bauckham on Josephus, Give Me an AnswerHistory Channel program on Josephus, The Naked ArchaeologistCan We Trust the Gospels? Peter J. Williams New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams Evidence for the Resurrection, Peter J. Williams Are the Gospels Reliable?, Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman
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According to many Christians today, faith isn’t based on external facts or evidence, but is considered an internal, subjective feeling, intuition, or experience. But is this taught anywhere in the Bible? What about other religious texts and traditions? Shane Rosenthal explores these questions and more and talks with Craig Parton, author of Religion on Trial. Note: This is Humble Skeptic episode #4, which was originally released on Dec. 6, 2022.
SPECIAL OFFER: What is Faith?
This 20-page PDF resource by Shane Rosenthal walks through many of the issues covered on this episode, and includes all the supporting documentation in case you’d like to research things further yourself. We’ll send you a link to download this PDF when you upgrade to a paid subscription or make a gift of any size. Click here for more info.
SHOW NOTES
ArticlesIs Faith a Feeling? Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalDoes Hebrews 11:1 Teach Blind Faith?, Shane RosenthalIs My Dad Mentioned in Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”?, Shane RosenthalBe a Berean!, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & Doubt, Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us, Shane Rosenthal
EpisodesReligion on Trial, Humble Skeptic #5 with Craig PartonThe Pilot Episode, Humble Skeptic #1 — The Billy Joel episodeNew Evidence for The Executive Room, HS #55 with John GibsonEvidential Reasoning, Humble Skeptic #56 with Craig PartonFaith & Experience, Humble Skeptic #28Is Faith Blind? Humble Skeptic#3Is Faith Irrational? Humble Skeptic #2Faith Founded on Facts, Humble Skeptic #15Are The Gospels History or Fiction? Humble Skeptic #52Dealing with Doubt, Humble Skeptic #19
BooksReligion on Trial, Craig Parton,Habits of the Heart, Robert Bellah et al1984, George OrwellGod in the Whirlwind, David WellsFaith is Not Wishing, Greg KouklTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History? John Dickson
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options.
Books Currently For Sale in Our New & Used Bookstore (US Only)
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Redating the New Testament, John A.T. Robinson • $45The Letters to the Seven Churches of Asia in their Local Setting, Colin J. Hemer • $40The Deconstruction of Christianity, Alisa Childers & Tim Barnett • $24The Great De-Churching, Jim Davis & Michael Graham • $20
Click one of the links above to get more info about a book or to purchase via Ebay. Click here for additional books, including a complete set of the New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT) by Eerdmans, featuring respected scholars such as F.F. Bruce, Leon Morris, Philip Hughes, Herman Ridderbos, and others.
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The Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (30 Vol. Softcover Set)
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When asked to define the word “faith,” the majority of Christians polled at a variety of Christian events and gatherings described it a “blind leap.” But is this idea taught anywhere in the Bible? On this episode of The Humble Skeptic, Shane examines the arguments and passages that some Christians use in support of blind faith. This is Humble Skeptic episode #3 which was originally released on Nov. 22, 2022.
SPECIAL OFFER: What is Faith?
This 20-page PDF resource by Shane Rosenthal walks through many of the issues covered on this episode, and includes all the supporting documentation in case you’d like to research things further yourself. We’ll send you a link to download this PDF when you upgrade to a paid subscription or make a gift of any size. Click here for more info.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended ArticlesDoes Hebrews 11:1 Teach Blind Faith?, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalBe a Berean!, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & Doubt, Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalIs My Dad Mentioned in Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”?, Shane Rosenthal
Recommended EpisodesIs Faith Irrational? Humble Skeptic #2Faith & Proof, Humble Skeptic #7Proof of the Gospel, Humble Skeptic #8Greg Koukl on Blind Faith, Humble Skeptic #18Faith Founded on Facts, Humble Skeptic #15Are The Gospels History or Fiction? Humble Skeptic #52Dealing with Doubt, Humble Skeptic #19The Pilot Episode, Humble Skeptic #1 (The Billy Joel episode)
Recommended BooksFaith is Not Wishing, Greg KouklReligion on Trial, Craig PartonTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History? John DicksonA Doubter’s Guide to Jesus, John DicksonProof of The Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options.
Books Currently For Sale in Our New & Used Bookstore
Every purchase helps to support this podcast. We’ll even throw in a Humble Skeptic coaster with every purchase!
Redating the New Testament, John A.T. Robinson • $45From Joshua To Caiaphas: High Priests After the Exile, James C. VanderKam • $50The Letters to the Seven Churches of Asia in their Local Setting, Colin J. Hemer • $40The Deconstruction of Christianity, Alisa Childers & Tim Barnett • $24The Great De-Churching, Jim Davis & Michael Graham • $20
Click one of the links above to get more info about a book or to purchase via Ebay. Click here for additional books, including a complete set of the New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT) by Eerdmans, featuring respected scholars such as F.F. Bruce, Leon Morris, Philip Hughes, Herman Ridderbos, and others.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
While we’re taking a short summer break, we’ve decided to re-release some of our favorite episodes, starting with the first program in our series on “faith.” Many people today claim that faith is “believing in things without evidence,” but is this really the case? On this episode of The Humble Skeptic, we’ll take a deep dive into the true definition of faith. This episode was originally released on Nov. 15, 2022.
SPECIAL OFFER: What is Faith?, by Shane Rosenthal
This 20-page PDF document walks through many of the issues covered on this episode, and includes all the supporting documentation in case you’d like to research things further yourself. We’ll send you a link to download this PDF when you upgrade to a paid subscription or make a gift of any size. Click here for more info.
SHOW NOTES
Related ArticlesWhat is Faith? Shane Rosenthal (20-page PDF)Faith Is Not Wishing,Greg KouklDon’t Take a Leap of Faith, Greg KouklOn Faith & Doubt, Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalWhat Can We Know About Jesus from History? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalIs My Dad Mentioned in Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”?, Shane Rosenthal
Recommended BooksFaith is Not Wishing, Greg KouklReligion on Trial, Craig PartonTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History? John DicksonA Doubter’s Guide to Jesus, John DicksonProof of The Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
Related AudioThe Pilot Episode, Humble Skeptic #1 (The Billy Joel episode)Greg Koukl on Blind Faith, Humble Skeptic #18Dealing with Doubt, Humble Skeptic #19Are the Gospels History? Humble Skeptic #52 with John DicksonFaith Founded on Facts, Humble Skeptic #15 with John Lennox and othersThe Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic #12 Why Should We Trust the Bible? Humble Skeptic #39 with Mike FarleyEvidence & Faith (Pt. 1), (Pt. 2), (Pt. 3), (Pt. 4)
Below is the Google Ngram chart referenced on this episode. This tool charts the occurrence of words or phrases in all the scanned books that Google has in its database. The graph below illustrates the fact that the phrases “blind faith” and “leap of faith,” came to prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries.
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After his resurrection, Luke 24 records that Jesus walked with two of his disciples on the road to Emmaus, and during that journey, we’re told that “Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” So what OT passages did Jesus likely have in mind as he discussed the Hebrew Bible with these two disciples? Joining me to discuss this question is Jason DeRouchie, research professor of Old Testament and Biblical Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and the author of How to Understand and Apply the Old Testament.
SPECIAL OFFER — If you make a GIFT of any size or upgrade to a PAID subscription, we’ll send you a “pre-release” PDF copy of Shane’s forthcoming book, Luke’s Key Witness.
SHOW NOTES
Books40 Questions About Biblical Theology, Jason DeRouchie & othersHow to Understand & Apply the Old Testament, Jason DeRouchieDelighting in the Old Testament, Jason DeRouchieJesus in the Old Testament, Ian DuguidWalking with Jesus Through His Word, Dennis JohnsonJourneys With Jesus, Dennis JohnsonThe Promised One: Seeing Jesus in Genesis, Nancy GuthrieThe Lamb of God: Seeing Jesus in Exodus & Leviticus, Nancy GuthrieJoseph: A Story of Love, Hate, Slavery, Power & Forgiveness, John Lennox
ArticlesFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalWhat is the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible?, Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalJustin Martyr on the Importance of Fulfilled Prophecy, Shane RosenthalThe Bethlehem Prophecy: An Exploration of Micah 5:2, Shane RosenthalSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane Rosenthal
AudioComing to Grips with the God of the OT (1), WHI #1584 with Tom EggerComing to Grips with the God of the OT (2), WHI #1585 with Tom EggerIn The Beginning Was the Word, HS #75 with John RonningThe Messiah’s Redemptive Mission, HS #72The Angel of Yahweh, with Matt Foreman & Doug Van DornDecoding The Prophecies of Daniel, HS #68Babylon, Humble Skeptic #66Jacob’s Ladder, HS #63 with Richard Bauckham & Michael HortonThe Earliest Gospel, HS #46 with Mike BrownHow to Read & Interpret the Bible, HS #37 with Mike BrownThe Big Picture, HS #26 with J. Daniel HaysWhat Did the Earliest Christians Believe?, HS # 25 with Dennis Johnson
VideoShane Rosenthal on Frank Turek’s Cross Examined PodcastShane Rosenthal on The Alisa Childers Podcast
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“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” What exactly do these words mean? Some argue that John is hinting at concepts related to Greek philosophy, but is this really the case? What are the Jewish Targums and how do these ancient texts helps us to better understand the meaning of John’s prologue? On this episode, Shane talks with John Ronning, author of The Jewish Targums and John’s Logos Theology.
Click here for detailed notes related to this episode (including quotes from Philo of Alexandria, and the Aramaic Targums.
SHOW NOTES
BooksThe Jewish Targums & John’s Logos Theology, John RonningTargum Isaiah, Jonathan ben UzielThe Messiah of the Targums, Michael B. ShepherdThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Angel of the Lord, Foreman & Van DornJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonThe Son of Man in Early Jewish Literature, Richard BauckhamA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansThe Jewish Annotated New Testament, Daniel Boyarin & othersThe Works of Philo, Philo of AlexandriaArticlesThe “I Am” Sayings in John, John RonningThe Targum of Isaiah and the Johannine Literature, John RonningWhen Yahweh Became Flesh And Dwelt Among Us, John RonningHigh & Lifted Up: The Son of Man in John’s Gospel, John RonningFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalThe Bethlehem Prophecy: An Exploration of Micah 5:2, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating the Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalA New Argument for John’s Identity, Shane RosenthalNotes for Episode #75, Shane RosenthalAudioJewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38 with Daniel BoyarinThe Angel of Yahweh, Humble Skeptic #70 with Foreman & Van DornWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah?, WHI #1243 with Craig EvansWere Jews Expecting a Suffering Messiah? Humble Skeptic #47Jacob’s Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63 with Richard Bauckham and othersBabylon, Humble Skeptic Episode #66 Decoding the Prophecies of Daniel, Humble Skeptic #68 The Messiah’s Redemptive Mission, Humble Skeptic #72Signs of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic # 74 with Andreas KöstenbergerWhich John Wrote John? Humble Skeptic #50
SPECIAL OFFER — If you upgrade to a PAID subscription or make a GIFT of any size, we’ll send you a pre-release PDF download of Shane’s forthcoming book, Luke’s Key Witness. When you subscribe, you’ll get instant access to the book here (it’s currently behind a paywall). If you choose the donation option, you’ll receive the PDF via email. Thanks for your support!
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Jesus’ words and deeds are best interpreted in the light of the Old Testament Scripture. Thus, the fact that Jesus said at the temple, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink” (Jn 7:37), makes much more sense when read alongside Exodus 17, in which Yahweh provided life-giving water to the thirsty Israelites. On this program, Shane takes a deep dive into John 7-9 with the help of New Testament scholar Andreas Köstenberger. After discussing the rich Old Testament background that helps to illuminate John’s meaning, the two also discuss whether the story of the woman caught in adultery is an authentic part of the Fourth Gospel or a later addition.
SPECIAL OFFER — If you upgrade to a PAID subscription or make a GIFT of any size, we’ll send you a downloadable PDF copy of Luke’s Key Witness (shown below). When you subscribe, you’ll get instant access to the book here (it’s currently behind a paywall). If you choose the donation option, you’ll receive the PDF via email. Click the image below for a preview. Thanks for your support!
SHOW NOTES
BooksSigns of the Messiah, Andreas J. KöstenbergerEncountering John, Andreas J. KöstenbergerA Theology of John’s Gospel & Letters, Andreas J. KöstenbergerThe Jesus of the Gospels, Andreas J. KöstenbergerTruth Matters, Köstenberger, Bock & ChatrawCommentary on the NT Use of the OT, Carson, Beale & KöstenbergerEchoes of Exodus: Tracing the Theme of Redemption, Roberts & WilsonThe Angel of the Lord, Matt Foreman & Doug Van DornThe Lamb of God: Seeing Jesus in Exodus, Nancy GuthrieJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
ArticlesThe Date of John’s Gospel: Are We Witnessing a Paradigm Shift? Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year: The Story of Exodus, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating the Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalWhat’s the Point of Jesus’ Parable of the Rich Man & Lazarus? Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalA New Argument for John’s Identity, Shane Rosenthal
AudioThe Messiah’s Redemptive Mission, Humble Skeptic #72The Angel of Yahweh, Humble Skeptic #70 with Foreman & Van DornThe Sinai Inscriptions, Humble Skeptic #71 with Michael S. Bar-RonDid The Exodus Ever Happen? Humble Skeptic #69 with David RohlJacob’s Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63 with Richard Bauckham and othersBabylon, Humble Skeptic Episode #66 Decoding the Prophecies of Daniel, Humble Skeptic #68 Jewish Views of the Messiah, HS #38 with Daniel BoyarinStories of Jesus: Can We Trust Them? HS #61 with Peter J. WilliamsWhich John Wrote John? Humble Skeptic #50
VideoLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal on The Alisa Childers Podcast
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In 1833, Thomas Starkie observed, “It so rarely happens that witnesses of the same transaction perfectly and entirely agree in all points connected with it, that an entire and complete coincidence in every particular…engenders suspicion.” On this special Easter edition of the podcast, Shane airs an interview he recorded with Lydia McGrew about differences that exist between the four Gospels related to Jesus’ resurrection, and whether those differences can be reconciled.
SHOW NOTES
ArticlesConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalJoanna: Luke’s Key Witness? Shane RosenthalBart Ehrman on Jesus & The Claim of Resurrection, Shane RosenthalPassover & The Last Supper, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalAre We Witnessing a Paradigm Shift on John’s Gospel? Shane RosenthalThe Compelling Nature of Corroborated Testimony, Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William RamsayCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalWhat is the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible?, Shane Rosenthal
BooksTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewHidden in Plain View, Lydia McGrewThe Mirror or the Mask, Lydia McGrewJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamEaster Enigma, John WenhamThe Doubters Guide to Jesus, John DicksonCan We Trust the Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsOn The Resurrection Vol. 1: Evidences, Gary HabermasOn The Resurrection Vol. 2: Refutations, Gary Habermas
AudioFake or Authentic? with Lydia McGrewAuthenticating the Book of Acts, with Lydia McGrewThe Messiah’s Redemptive Mission, Shane RosenthalStories of Jesus: Can We Trust Them? with Peter J. WilliamsAre The Gospels History or Fiction? with John DicksonIs John’s Gospel Late & Unreliable?, with Daniel WallaceThe Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, with Richard BauckhamLocating Golgotha, with David RohlEvidential Reasoning, with Craig PartonDealing with Discrepancies, with J. Warner WallaceThe Jesus of History & The Gospel Creed
VideoThe Resurrection of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsPeter J. Williams vs Bart Ehrman on the Reliablity of the NTThe Tools & Rules of History, with Gary Habermas, David McIlroy & Shane RosenthalMark Lanier moderated this panel discussion at the Lanier Theological Library in Houston Texas. The forum was inspired by the release of two exhaustive volumes on the historicity of Jesus’ Resurrection by Dr. Habermas: On The Resurrection Vol. 1: Evidences, and On The Resurrection Vol. 2: Refutations.
Who Is Jesus? Bridging Diverse Voices, St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this Christian / Muslim conversation which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus’ identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.
Share with Friends & FamilyIf you’re a fan of the show, please share with others and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!
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On this episode Shane discusses a number of scenes from the book of Exodus and shows how they point to Christ and his ultimate redemptive mission. Jesus is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the bread of life, the living water, the light of the world, and the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep.
SHOW NOTES
ArticlesFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year: The Story of Exodus, Shane RosenthalPassover, The Last Supper & The Day of Crucifixion, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalBart Ehrman on Jesus & The Claim of Resurrection, Shane RosenthalDid Palm Trees Grow in Jerusalem at the Time of Jesus? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John’s Gospel: Are We Witnessing a Paradigm Shift? Shane RosenthalLuke’s Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal
BooksEchoes of Exodus: Tracing the Theme of Redemption, Roberts & WilsonThe Angel of the Lord, Matt Foreman & Doug Van DornChrist in All of Scripture (5 Book Series), Foreman & Van DornThe Lamb of God: Seeing Jesus in Exodus, Nancy GuthrieJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Jewish Targums & John’s Logos Theology, John RonningA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of Caesarea
AudioSigns of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic # 74 with Andreas KöstenbergerThe Angel of Yahweh, Humble Skeptic. #70 with Foreman & Van DornThe Sinai Inscriptions, Humble Skeptic #71 with Michael S. Bar-RonDid The Exodus Ever Happen? Humble Skeptic #69 with David RohlJacob’s Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63 with Richard Bauckham and othersBabylon, Humble Skeptic Episode #66 Decoding the Prophecies of Daniel, Humble Skeptic #68 How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI #1568 with Iain DuguidWere Jews Expecting a Suffering Messiah? Humble Skeptic #47Jewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38 with Daniel BoyariinStories of Jesus: Can We Trust Them? Humble Skeptic #61 with Peter J. Williams
VideoThe Tools & Rules of History, with Gary Habermas, David McIlroy & Shane RosenthalOn November 8th, 2024, trial attorney Mark Lanier moderated this panel discussion at the Lanier Theological Library in Houston Texas. The forum was inspired by the release of two exhaustive volumes on the historicity of Jesus’ Resurrection by Dr. Habermas: On The Resurrection Vol. 1: Evidences, and On The Resurrection Vol. 2: Refutations.
Share with Friends & FamilyIf you’re a fan of the show, please share with others and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!
Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Click here for more information.
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On this episode, Shane talks with Mori Michael S. Bar-Ron about his research project related to the Sinai inscriptions discovered throughout the Sinai Peninsula. Though these inscriptions resemble Egyptian hieroglyphs, they’re actually written in what scholars refer to as “proto-Sinaitic” or “proto-Alphabetic” script. Mori Michael has been working on these inscriptions for the better part of a decade and argues that they are best treated as a form of paleo-Hebrew. In fact, when they are read this way, they end up providing external corroboration for some of the details recorded in the book of Exodus.
SHOW NOTES
Related ArticlesNew Evidence for a Historical Moses? Shane RosenthalThe Golden Calf, David RohlSinai 351 & 360, Michael S. Bar-RonThe Mt. Ebal Curse Tablet, Michael S. Bar-RonThe Seal of Joseph, Michael S. Bar-RonThe Origins of Israel in Canaan, John BimsonArchaeological Data & The Dating of the Patriarchs, John BimsonThe Cylinder Seal from Tell el-Dab’a, Edith PoradaHebrew: The World’s Oldest Alphabet, Douglas PetrovichA Cuneiform Cylinder of Nebuchadnezzar II, Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine: An Archaeological Assessment, Shane Rosenthal
Related AudioDid The Exodus Ever Happen? Humble Skeptic #69 with David RohlQuestioning Conventional Wisdom (1), HS #13 with David RohlQuestioning Conventional Wisdom (2), HS #14 with David RohlLocating Golgotha, Humble Skeptic #17 with David RohlThe Big Picture, Humble Skeptic #26 with J. Daniel HaysFaith Founded on Facts, HS #15 with Lennox, Bauckham, etc.The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic #12Babylon, Humble Skeptic #66
Related VideoMichael Bar-Ron on the Sinai Inscriptions, Patterns of EvidenceDavid Rohl on the Sinai Inscriptions, Patterns of EvidenceThe World’s Earliest Alphabet, Harvard Museum of the Ancient Near EastThe First Alphabet, Patterns of EvidenceThe Moses Controversy, Patterns of EvidenceA to Z: The First Alphabet, Nova (PBS)The Mt. Ebal Curse Tablet (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6)
Related BooksResearches in Sinai, W.M. Flinders Petrie — FREELegendary Kings, David Rohl (e-book)Exodus: Myth or History? David Rohl (e-book)Redating the Exodus & Conquest, John BimsonBiblical Archaeology, David E. GravesThe Ancient Near East, James B. Pritchard (ed.)
The Cylinder Seal Discovered at Tell el-Dab’a
To contribute to Michael Bar-Ron’s GoFundMe campaign: Click Here
Share with Friends & FamilyIf you’re a fan of the show, please share with others and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!
Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Click here for more information.
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According to Ex. 13:21, as the people of Israel made their way out of Egypt, we’re told that Yahweh went before the people of Israel in a pillar of cloud and fire. What’s odd, however, is that the next chapter tells us it was the “angel of God” who went before the host of Israel in the pillar (Ex 4:19). So, how do we explain the difference between these two passages? Did an angel lead the people out of Egypt, or was it Yahweh himself? On this episode, Shane discusses these questions and more with Matt Foreman and Doug Van Dorn, authors of The Angel of the Lord: A Biblical, Historical, and Theological Study.
For a gift of any amount to help support the work of The Humble Skeptic podcast, we’ll send you a 12-page PDF resource titled “Finding Christ in All of Scripture.” Click here for a preview.
SHOW NOTES
Related BooksThe Angel of the Lord, Foreman & Van DornChrist in All of Scripture (5 Book Series), Foreman & Van DornJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonEchoes of Exodus: Tracing the Theme of Redemption, Roberts & WilsonJoseph: A Story of Love, Hate, Slavery, Power & Forgiveness, John LennoxThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Jewish Targums & John’s Logos Theology, John RonningA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of Caesarea
Related ArticlesFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year: The Story of Exodus, Shane RosenthalIsaiah’s Prophecy of the Messiah’s Birth, Shane RosenthalPassover & The Last Supper, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalWhat’s the Most Important Thing in the Bible?, Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalRelated AudioDid The Exodus Ever Happen? Humble Skeptic #69 with David RohlJewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38 with Daniel BoyarinWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah?, WHI #1243 with Craig EvansJacob’s Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63 with Richard Bauckham and othersBabylon, Humble Skeptic Episode #66 Decoding the Prophecies of Daniel, Humble Skeptic #68 How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI #1568 with Iain DuguidWhat Did The Earliest Christians Believe? HS #25 with Dennis JohnsonThe Big Picture, Humble Skeptic #26 with J. Daniel HaysStories of Jesus: Can They Be Trusted? HS #61 with Peter J. WilliamsThe Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic Episode #9
UPCOMING EVENTSThe Messianic Hope, Memphis, TN, April 11-13Shane Rosenthal will be giving a series of talks related to Christ’s fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy at this weekend conference in Rosemark, TN. Click here for more information.Who Is Jesus?: Bridging Diverse Voices, St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this Christian / Muslim conversation which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus’ identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.
Share with Friends & FamilyIf you’re a fan of the show, please tell others about the show, and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!
Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
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The foundational narrative behind Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection is the story of Exodus. After all, Jesus is presented in the Gospels as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,” and was put to death on the eve of Passover. But what if the Israelite exodus from Egypt never really happened? On this episode, Shane talks with Egyptologist David Rohl about why so many contemporary scholars conclude that Israel’s foundational story is rooted in mythology, and why they are blind to clear and convincing evidence in support of the Exodus narrative.
Click here for detailed notes related to this episode, here to listen to Shane’s interview with John Lennox on the story of Joseph, and here to listen to another episode featuring the work of David Rohl and his New Chronology.
SHOW NOTES
Related EpisodesQuestioning Conventional Wisdom (Part 1), (Part 2), HS #13 & 14 with David RohlThe Sinai Inscriptions, HS #71 with Michael Bar-RonLocating Golgotha, Humble Skeptic #17 with David RohlJohn Lennox on the Story of Joseph, White Horse Inn #1582Stories of Jesus: Can We Trust Them? Humble Skeptic #61 with Peter J. WilliamsAre The Gospels History or Fiction? Humble Skeptic #52 with John DicksonIs John’s Gospel Late & Unreliable?, Humble Skeptic #51 with Daniel WallaceQuestioning The Fourth Gospel, Humble Skeptic #49 with Richard BauckhamThe Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48 with Richard BauckhamFaith Founded on Facts, Humble Skeptic #15 with Lennox, Dickson, Bauckham, etc.
Related ArticlesIs The Exodus a Myth? Bart Ehrman (cited in commentary)New Evidence for a Historical Moses?, Michael Bar-RonThe Origins of Israel in Canaan, John BimsonArchaeological Data & The Dating of the Patriarchs, John BimsonRulers of Foreign Lands, Archaeology Magazine featuring Manfried BietakIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William RamsayThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootArchaeological Discoveries Related to Nebuchadnezzar II, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine: An Archaeological Assessment, Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalOutside the Gospels, What Can We Really Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalParadigm Shift: The Date of John’s Gospel, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year: A Brief Account of the Exodus, Shane Rosenthal
Related BooksExodus: Myth or History? David Rohl — Hard copies are out of print, and used copies are expensive so this link is to the Kindle edition. However, his earlier book, A Test of Time, covers the same material and used copies are available at a much more reasonable price.Legendary Kings, David RohlRedating the Exodus & Conquest, John Bimson — FREEWhen Did It Happen? John BimsonBiblical Archaeology, David E. GravesThe Ancient Near East, James B. Pritchard (ed.)Echoes of The Exodus, Wilson & RobertsJoseph: A Story of Love, Hate & Forgiveness, John LennoxThe Structure of Scientific Revolutions, Thomas KuhnThe Complete Works of Josephus, Flavius Josephus
Related VideoJoseph’s Arrival in Egypt, David Rohl and James HoffmeierJoseph’s Palace & Pyramid Tomb, David RohlEvidence of Israelite Slavery in Egypt, David Rohl and James HoffmeierPatterns of Evidence: Exodus, documentary film featuring David Rohl and othersDavid Rohl Lectures, to purchase the complete set of lectures click here
Share with Friends & FamilyIf you’re a fan of the show, please tell others about the show, and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!
Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
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On this episode, Shane explores some of the fascinating prophecies found in the book of Daniel and discusses how they have been interpreted (and misinterpreted) both before and after the time of Jesus. He also interacts with audio clips related to this subject from interviews he’s recorded with Talmud scholar Daniel Boyarin, and New Testament scholar, Craig Evans.
Click here to read selections from the Dead Sea Scrolls, Eusebius, Calvin, and other sources cited on this program along with additional related material. Also, DONORS and PAID Subscribers can download a BONUS PDF featuring “An Overview Chart of Daniel’s Visions.”
SHOW NOTES
Related ArticlesDeciphering the Clues of Revelation (Pt 1), (Pt 2), (Pt 3), (Pt 4), (Pt 5), Shane RosenthalArchaeological Discoveries Related to Nebuchadnezzar II, Shane RosenthalJustin Martyr on the Importance of Fulfilled Prophecy, Shane RosenthalIsaiah’s Prophecy of the Messiah’s Birth, Shane RosenthalThe Bethlehem Prophecy: An Exploration of Micah 5:2, Shane RosenthalSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All The Scriptures, Shane RosenthalProof of the Gospel, Quotes from Eusebius, Augustine & othersWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalExploring Covenant Theology, Mike Brown & Zach KeeleRelated BooksThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinSon of Man in Early Jewish Literature, Richard BauckhamGuide to the Dead Sea Scrolls, Craig EvansThe Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansThe Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaA Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Darrell Bock & othersJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonChrist From Beginning to End, Hunter & Wellum
Related AudioBabylon, Humble Skeptic #66Jewish Views of the Messiah, HS #38 with Daniel BoyarinWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah? WHI #1243 with Craig EvansWere Jews Expecting a Suffering Messiah?, HS #47How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI #1568 with Iain DuguidWhat Did the Earliest Christians Believe? HS #25The Big Picture, Humble Skeptic #26 with J. Daniel HaysThe Intersection of Church & State, HS #53 with David VanDrunenWhy Should We Trust The Bible? HS #39 with Mike FarleyHow to Read & Interpret the Bible, HS #37 with Mike BrownAlistair Begg on the Book of Daniel, WHI #1603 with Shane RosenthalJacob’s Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63
UPCOMING EVENTSThe Messianic Hope, Memphis, TN, April 11-13Shane Rosenthal will be giving a series of talks related to Christ’s fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy at this weekend conference in Rosemark, TN. The conference is free, but registration is required (a registration page and more info will be available soon).Who Is Jesus? (A Christian & Muslim Conversation), St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this event which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus’ identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.
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Shane concluded the last episode with a brief clip from an interview he recorded years ago with respected author and theologian, J.I. Packer. On this program, he decided to feature more of that conversation, while also weaving together other interviews and man-on-the-street segments related to the prevalence of narcissistic beliefs and attitudes in American Christianity.
Additional authors featured in this program:Thomas Ascol (3:22), Scott McKnight (3:54; 7:06), Andy Crouch (4:08; 6:01), William Willimon (4:25; 5:10), R.C. Sproul (4:40), Anthony J. Carter (6:20), Roger E. Olson (6:40), Bryan Chapell (7:19), Jean Twenge (13:45), Christian Smith (29:49), Marva Dawn (31:12).
SHOW NOTES
BooksKnowing God, J.I. PackerSoul Searching, Christian SmithChristless Christianity, Michael HortonReaching Out Without Dumbing Down, Marva DawnPeculiar Speech, Peculiar Speech, William WillimonThe Christian Mind, Harry BlamiresThe Narcissism Epidemic, Twenge & CampbellChristianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham MachenCreed or Chaos? by Dorothy Sayers — FREE
ArticlesThe Story of Us, Shane RosenthalThe Megachurch Century, Shane RosenthalThe Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture (PDF), Shane RosenthalLiberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham MachenThe Importance of Christian Scholarship, by J. Gresham MachenTheologically, This Country is in a State of Utter Chaos, Dorothy SayersWhy Johnny Can’t Preach, T. David Gordon
AudioJacob’s Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63Babylon, Humble Skeptic #65The Earliest Gospel, Humble Skeptic. #45The Effect of Media & Technology, Humble Skeptic #30Grounded in the Gospel, WHI #986 with J.I. PackerAn Interview with R.C. Sproul, WHI #909The Preached Word, WHI 972 with William WillimonTeen Spirituality, WHI #730 with Christian SmithAlmost Christian, WHI #1017 with Kenda Creasy DeanGetting Over Yourself, WHI #1588 with Dean InserraThe Narcissism Epidemic, WHI #956 with Jean Twenge
VideoAmerican Gospel: Christ AloneAmerican Gospel: Christ Crucified
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Wherever we find references to Babylon in the Bible, we’re frequently reminded of man’s failed attempt to ascend to the heavens. This is due in part to the fact that “Babel” and “Babylon” happen to be the same word in Hebrew. On this edition, Shane walks through a variety of Old Testament passages that relate to this theme and contrasts them with prophecies about Israel’s coming Messiah.
SHOW NOTESTo read various selections from Irenaeus, Justin Martyr, Josephus, and others that Shane cited on this episode, click here.
ArticlesArchaeological Discoveries Related to Nebuchadnezzar II, Shane RosenthalThe Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalDeciphering the Clues of Revelation, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year, Shane RosenthalJustin Martyr on the Importance of Fulfilled Prophecy, Shane RosenthalIsaiah’s Prophecy of the Messiah’s Birth, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane Rosenthal (PDF)Why Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalIdentifying Babylon The Great, Shane Rosenthal (coming soon)
BooksBabylonian Life & History, E.A. Wallis Budge—FREEGod Dwells Among Us, G.K. Beale & Mitchell KimThe Temple & The Tabernacle, J. Daniel HaysPierced for Our Transgressions, Andrew Sach & OthersThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Bock & GlaserBrave By Faith, Alistair BeggEchoes of Exodus, Roberts & WilsonHim We Proclaim, Dennis JohnsonWe Who Wrestle With God, Jordan Peterson
AudioJacob’s Ladder,with Richard Bauckham, Michael Horton & othersThe Intersection of Church & State, with David Van DrunenThe Big Picture, with J. Daniel HaysHow to Read & Interpret the Bible, with Mike BrownWorship in Spirit & Truth, with G.K. BealeJewish Views of the Messiah, with Daniel BoyarinWere Jews Expecting a Suffering Messiah? Life in a Post-Christian World, with Alistair Begg
VideoExploring Babylon & The Prophecies Against Her, Joel KramerThe Message of Daniel, John LennoxThe Tower of Babel, Jordan Peterson
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On this episode, Shane talks with Australian pop-singer Liam Cooper about their shared interest in the backstory to Billy Joel’s, Piano Man. Liam is the creator and frontman of a show called King of the Keys, which features the music of Billy Joel, Elton John, Paul McCartney, and others. Liam had plans to shoot a music video featuring the original piano from The Executive Room cocktail lounge, but Shane’s new research has led him to question whether Billy Joel ever worked at that location or played on that piano.
SHOW NOTES
Related Episodes & ArticlesThe Bar That Inspired Piano Man, #85 (Pilot Episode updated and expanded)New Evidence for The Executive Room, Humble Skeptic #55Evidential Reasoning, Humble Skeptic #56Dealing with Discrepancies, Humble Skeptic #57Is My Dad One of the Characters in Piano Man? Shane RosenthalThe Executive Room According to Bob Egan, Pop SpotsHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Virtue of Doubt, Shane Rosenthal
Music & Video LinksProject Magic, Liam Cooper (wedding proposal video)If You Were Here, Liam Cooper (song)Out of the Blue, Liam Cooper (music video)Yellow, Coldplay (music video)I Found The Executive Room Piano, Liam Cooper (interview)Carpool Karaoke, Paul McCartney & James Corden (video)Chin Up, Tomorrow’s a New Year, The Whiskey Wasps (song)Minute to Midnight, Anthony Lazaro (song)King of the Keys, Liam Cooper (website)
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This special Christmas edition of the podcast features Shane’s man-on-the-street interviews that he recorded at a local Christmas festival. In particular, he asked whether the holiday, with all its memorable characters, is rooted in mythology, history, or a little of both. In the second half of the program, Shane reads selections from Justin Martyr’s First Apology, which provides insight into the compelling nature of early Christian proclamation.
SHOW NOTES
ArticlesProof of the Gospel (PDF), selections from Justin Martyr, Eusebius & AugustineIsaiah’s Prophecy of the Messiah’s Birth, Shane RosenthalThe Bethlehem Prophecy: An Exploration of Micah 5:2, Shane RosenthalSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture (PDF), Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalFirst Apology of Justin Martyr, online text versionBooksThe Writings of Justin Martyr, hardback editionProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansThe Angel of the Lord, Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Darrell Bock & othersThe Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumSoul Searching, Christian Smith
AudioThe First Apology of Justin Martyr, FREE AudiobookWhat Child Is This? A Christmas Message by Shane RosenthalJewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38 with Daniel BoyarinWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah? WHI 1243 with Craig EvansA Suffering Messiah? WHI-1564 with Craig EvansThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 1), WHI 1566 with Foreman & Van DornThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 2), WHI-1567 with Foreman & Van DornJacob’s Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63Youth Ministry in Crisis, Christian Smith, J.I. Packer, Michael Horton & others
MusicCarol of the Bells, The Whiskey WaspsFor Unto Us, A Child Is Born, from Handel’s MessiahSurely, He Hath Born Our Sins, from Handel’s MessiahO Come, O Come Emmanuel, Ardie’s Son
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On this episode, Shane weaves together a variety of interviews he’s recorded over the years related to Genesis 28 and the story of Jacob’s ladder. In particular, the conversations focus on the way the narrative has been completely inverted to become another Tower of Babel tale of our ascent to God, rather than a prophecy of Christ’s descent to us in mercy and grace.
For a gift of any amount to help support the work of The Humble Skeptic podcast, we’ll send you a 12-page PDF resource by Shane Rosenthal titled, “Finding Christ in All of Scripture.” For a preview of this helpful resource, click here.
SHOW NOTES
Related BooksJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonWho is God? Richard BauckhamPutting Amazing Back Into Grace, Michael HortonJustification, Vo1. 1, Vol. 2, Michael HortonThe Angel of the Lord, Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanGenesis: Interpretation, Walter BrueggemannGod Dwells Among Us, G.K. Beale & Mitchell Kim
Related ArticlesFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalThe Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalIsaiah’s Prophecy of the Messiah’s Birth, Shane RosenthalThe Bethlehem Prophecy, Shane RosenthalBlessed Are the Pure in Heart? Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us, Shane RosenthalWhat’s the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible? • Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalThe Application of Messianic Prophecy, Richard BauckhamAudio & VideoJacob’s Ladder, R.C. Sproul (video)The Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic #09Jewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38 with Daniel Boyarin The Angel of Yahweh, HS #70 with Matt Foreman & Doug Van DornWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah?, WHI-1243 with Craig EvansHow to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI-1568 with Iain DuguidJacob’s Ladder, WHI-207 with Michael HortonClimbing Jacob’s Ladder, WHI-1454 with Sam Allberry & Caleb BassettStairway to Heaven, WHI-1578 with Michael Horton
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On this episode, Shane talks with Peter J. Williams about his book, The Surprising Genius of Jesus, which primarily focuses on the parables of Luke 15. Shane discussed some of these parables on episode 43 earlier this year, but the insights provided by Williams merit a brand new investigation. In short, the more we notice Jesus’ subtle allusions to the Old Testament, the more we’ll understand his teaching and begin to appreciate the depth of his genius. Toward the end of the conversation, the two also discuss questions related to the date of John’s Gospel in light of recent trends among New Testament scholars who are currently reassessing the late date hypothesis.
SHOW NOTES
BooksThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsEchoes of Exodus: Tracing the Theme of Redemption, Roberts & WilsonJoseph: A Story of Love, Hate, Slavery, Power & Forgiveness, John LennoxRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonThe Priority of John, John A.T. RobinsonRethinking the Dates of the New Testament, Jonathan BernierRedating Matthew, Mark & Luke, John WenhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamThe Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard Bauckham
ArticlesWas Jesus a Genius? Peter J. WilliamsFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalParadigm Shift on The Date of John’s Gospel? Shane RosenthalJohn 5:2 “There is in Jerusalem…”, Shane RosenthalWas John The First Gospel? Ian PaulWhy Are The Birth Stories of Jesus Different? Peter J. WilliamsAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalThe Parable of the Rich Man & Lazarus, Shane Rosenthal
Video & AudioThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter Williams (video)Do The Gospels Tell the Same Story?, Peter Williams (video)Can the Old Testament Be Trusted Historically? Peter Williams (video)How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI #1568 with Ian DuguidThe Gospel in Genesis, a WHI series hosted by Shane RosenthalRethinking Jesus’ Parables, Humble Skeptic #43 with Scott ChurnockIs John Late & Unreliable? Humble Skeptic #51 with Daniel Wallace
For More Info About Peter Williams & Tyndale HousePeter Williams is the principal of Tyndale House, which is a Cambridge-based research institute housing one of the world’s most advanced libraries for biblical scholarship. You can find them online at tyndalehouse.com.
We Need Your Help!Donations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support us is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year (this option is not tax-deductible). Another way to help is to spread the word about The Humble Skeptic podcast! Thanks for your help, and Happy Thanksgiving!
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What are we to make of the stories of Jesus recorded in the New Testament Gospels? Are they authentic accounts of his life and teaching, or collections of myths and legends that evolved over time? Shane discusses this with Cambridge New Testament scholar Peter J. Williams, principal of Tyndale House and author of Can We Trust the Gospels?
SHOW NOTES
BooksCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History? John DicksonJesus: A Very Short Introduction, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamA Doubter’s Guide To Jesus, John DicksonRevisiting the Corruption of the New Testament, Daniel WallaceRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonThe Gospel of John: A Newly Discovered Commentary, J.B. Lightfoot
ArticlesQuestions About New Testament Manuscripts, Peter J. WilliamsWhy Are The Birth Stories of Jesus Different? Peter J. WilliamsThe Gospels as Authentic Testimony, Richard BauckhamThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayOutside the Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane Rosenthal?Scribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane Rosenthal
Video & AudioCan We Trust the Gospels? Peter J. Williams (video)New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)Evidence for the Resurrection, Peter J. Williams (video)Are the Gospels Reliable?, Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman (video)Has the Bible Been Miscopied or Mistranslated? WHI #1377 with Daniel WallaceIs John Late & Unreliable? Humble Skeptic #51 with Daniel WallaceAre the Gospels History or Fiction? Humble Skeptic #52 with John DicksonThe Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48 with Richard BauckhamFake or Authentic? Humble Skeptic #10 with Lydia McGrewFaith & Proof, Humble Skeptic 7 with Mike Farley
The Tools & Rules of HistoryOn Friday, November 8th, the Lanier Theological Library hosted a panel discussion at The Stone Chapel on The Tools and Rules of History: How Do We Know What Really Happened? This 90-minute session featured Gary Habermas, Shane Rosenthal, and David McIlroy and was moderated by Mark Lanier. This conversation was live-streamed and you can find the video here.
For More Info About Peter Williams & Tyndale HousePeter Williams is the principal of Tyndale House, which is a Cambridge-based research institute housing one of the world’s most advanced libraries for biblical scholarship. You can find them online at tyndalehouse.com.
We Need Your Help!Help spread the word about The Humble Skeptic podcast by sending a link to your favorite episode to a friend or relative. Also, donations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support us is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year. FYI, this option is not tax-deductible.
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Are miracles possible, or should they be seen as violations of natural laws that all scientifically minded people should reject? Is it true that most scientists reject God? What about faith? Should it be dismissed as a kind of of irrational leap that is essentially the opposite of critical thinking? Shanediscusses these questions and more with MIT professor Ian Hutchinson, author of Can a Scientist Believe in Miracles?
SHOW NOTES
BooksCan A Scientist Believe in Miracles?, Ian HutchinsonMonopolizing Knowledge, Ian HutchinsonCan Science Explain Everything? John LennoxFinding Ultimate Reality John LennoxThe Return of the God Hypothesis, Stephen MeyerThe Case Against Accident & Self Organization, Dean Overman
ArticlesScience & Faith: Allies or Enemies? John LennoxWhat is Faith? Shane RosenthalSignature in the Cell, Stephen MeyerIs Science Incompatible with Christianity? Derek RishmawyTaking Science on Faith, Paul DaviesSupersymmetry & The Crisis in Physics, Scientific AmericanHas Belief in God Harmed the Advancement of Science? Craig Parton
VideosThe “Science Refutes God” Debate, Hutchinson, Krauss & ShermerCan A Scientist Believe in Miracles? Ian Hutchinson (Veritas Forum)Is There Knowledge Outside of Science? Ian Hutchinson (Veritas Forum)By Design, Lennox, Behe & Meyer (Uncommon Knowledge)Stephen C. Meyer, The Joe Rogan ExperienceHas Science Buried God? John Lennox (Socrates in the City)Does the Biblical Story of Creation Fit with Science? John LennoxAgainst the Tide, A documentary film featuring John Lennox
AudioReturn of the God Hypothesis, Shane Rosenthal & Stephen MeyerThe Multiverse & the Mystery of Life’s Origin, Shane Rosenthal & Stephen MeyerJohn Lennox on Faith & Science, Humble Skeptic #41John Lennon on The Problem of Evil, Humble Skeptic #42A Conversation About God, Jordan Peterson & John LennoxCan a Scientist Believe in the Resurrection? R. McLaughlin & Ian Hutchinson
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SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible.
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For two years, Steven Flo was filled with fear and despair. He retreated from the world and even began to hide from sunlight. In vampire-like fashion, he closed all his curtains and lived in what felt like a tomb. Even though he was a Lutheran pastor who often counseled others, during this period he was inconsolable, and began to despair about his own eternal state. If the Gospel was true, it was true for others, but not for him. On this episode, Shane talks with pastor Flo about his descent into darkness.
SHOW NOTES
Related ArticlesAn Overview of TMS, Mayo ClinicWhat is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?, Cleveland ClinicLife & Death, Simonetta CarFaith & Mental Illness, Michael HortonWilliam Cowper: Depression & The Art of Hymn Writing, Barb Duguid
Related BooksThe Unseen Realm | Demons, Michael HeiserPrincipalities & Powers, John W. MontgomeryThe Proof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaThe Structure of Scientific Revolutions, Thomas KuhnThe Care of Souls, Harold Senkbeil
Related AudioFaith & Mental Illness, White Horse Inn #1213 Darkness My Only Companion, White Horse Inn #1214Death, Ghosts & Views of the Afterlife, Humble Skeptic #31
UPCOMING EVENTS Troy, IllinoisOn Sunday, Nov. 3rd, Shane will be speaking at a youth event from 3:30 to 7:00 pm at Providence Presbyterian Church. Shane will be addressing the topics: “Is Faith Blind?” and “Are There Contradictions in the Gospels?”For more information about this youth event, send a text to 618-820-4908.
Houston, TexasOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be speaking with Gary Habermas and others at the Lanier Theological Library. The discussion will be centered on the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection as part of the 4th Annual John Warwick Montgomery Lecture in Evidential Apologetics. For more information about this event, click here.
St. Charles, MissouriOn Sunday, Dec. 8th at 6 pm, Shane will discuss some of the challenges related to Luke’s account of Jesus’ birth. Some believe that the account of the census that took place in the days of Quirinius (Luke 2) is at odds with other known historical facts. Did Luke make a mistake or can the apparent contradiction be resolved? This discussion will take place at Christ Presbyterian Church (cpcopc.org).
If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible.
The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
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Jeremy Smith, founder of ReThink315, recently invited Shane to join him for a conversation at a fundraising dinner that took place here in the St. Louis area. During their conversation, Jeremy asked Shane to discuss his conversion to Christianity from a secular Jewish background, along with many other subjects that he frequently covers on The Humble Skeptic podcast. Later in the program, the two take a variety of questions from the audience.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksDefending The Faith, Michael Horton, Shane Rosenthal & OthersThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Proof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaThe Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Bock & GlaserRevisiting the Corruption of The New Testament, Daniel Wallace
Related ArticlesUnity & Diversity in the New Testament, Shane RosenthalMicah 5:2 & The Bethlehem Prophecy, Shane RosenthalIt’s Time to Forget “Faith,” Greg KouklFaith Is Not Wishing, Greg KouklWhat is Faith? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & Doubt, Shane RosenthalIs Faith a Feeling? Shane Rosenthal
Related AudioRethinking Apologetics, Humble Skeptic #23 with Jeremy Smith The Pilot (Billy Joel Episode), Humble Skeptic #01New Evidence for The Executive Room, Humble Skeptic #55Evidential Reasoning, Humble Skeptic #56 with Craig PartonDealing with Discrepancies, Humble Skeptic #57 with J. Warner WallaceGreg Koukl on Blind Faith, Humble Skeptic #18Dealing with Doubt, Humble Skeptic #19
UPCOMING EVENTS Troy, IllinoisOn Sunday, Nov. 3rd, Shane will be speaking at a youth event from 3:30 to 7:00 pm at Providence Presbyterian Church. Shane will be addressing the topics: “Is Faith Blind?” and “Are There Contradictions in the Gospels?”For more information about this event, send a text to 619-820-4908.
Houston, TexasOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be speaking with Gary Habermas and others at the Lanier Theological Library. The discussion will be centered on the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection as part of the 4th Annual John Warwick Montgomery Lecture in Evidential Apologetics. For more information about this event, click here.
St. Charles, MissouriOn Sunday, Dec. 8th at 6 pm, Shane will discuss some of the challenges related to Luke’s account of Jesus’ birth. Some believe that the account of the census that took place in the days of Quirinius (Luke 2) is at odds with other known historical facts. Did Luke make a mistake or can the apparent contradiction be resolved? This discussion will take place at Christ Presbyterian Church (cpcopc.org).
If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
How should we deal with discrepancies as we piece together evidence on important matters of interest? On this episode Shane talks with retired cold-case detective, J. Warner Wallace about following the evidence wherever it leads, whether in attempting to solve murder cases, resolving disputed claims about the past, or even when it comes to challenging our beliefs about the nature of reality itself. J. Warner Wallace is the author of Cold-Case Christianity, Forensic Faith, and most recently, The Truth in True Crime.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksCold Case Christianity, J. Warner WallaceThe Truth in True Crime, J. Warner WallaceGod’s Crime Scene, J. Warner WallacePerson of Interest, J. Warner WallaceForensic Faith, J. Warner WallaceReligion on Trial, Craig PartonTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrew
Related ArticlesThe Authenticity & Genuineness of The Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William RamsayOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalJoanna: Obscure Disciple or Luke’s Key Witness?, Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Virtue of Doubt, Shane RosenthalHumble Apologetics, Shane Rosenthal
Related AudioThe Pilot Episode, Humble Skeptic #01New Evidence for The Executive Room, Humble Skeptic #55Evidential Reasoning, Humble Skeptic #56Death, Ghosts & Views of the Afterlife, Humble Skeptic #31The Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48Faith Founded on Facts, Humble Skeptic #15Are the Gospels History? Humble Skeptic #52Questioning Conventional Wisdom, Humble Skeptic #13
UPCOMING EVENTS Milan, ItalyOn Sunday, Oct. 13th, Shane will be speaking at Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia on the northwest side of Milan. For more info or directions, click here.
St. Louis, MissouriOn Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres. To purchase tickets for this event or for more info, click here.
Troy, IllinoisOn Sunday, Nov. 3rd, Shane will be speaking at a youth event from 3:30 to 7:00 pm at Providence Presbyterian Church. Shane will be addressing the topics: Is Faith Blind?, and Are There Contradictions in the Gospels? For more information about this youth event, send a text to 619-820-4908.
Houston, TexasOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be participating in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.
St. Charles, MissouriOn Sunday, Dec. 8th at 6pm, Shane will discuss some of the challenges related to Luke’s account of Jesus’ birth. Some believe that the account of the census that took place in the days of Quirinius (Luke 2) is at odds with other known historical facts. Did Luke make a mistake or is there a way to resolve the apparent contradiction? This discussion will take place at Christ Presbyterian Church (cpcopc.org).
If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
On this program Shane talks with trial attorney Craig Parton about evidential reasoning, which is an outlook that seeks to impartially examine the facts of any particular controversy in order to find the best explanation of those facts. The two apply this type of reasoning to the facts uncovered on last week’s episode about the location of The Executive Room, as well as to the field of Christian apologetics as a whole. Craig Parton is the author of Religion on Trial, The Defense Never Rests, and more recently, The Art of Christian Advocacy.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksThe Art of Christian Advocacy, Craig Parton & John W. MontgomeryReligion on Trial, Craig PartonThe Defense Never Rests, Craig PartonA Treatise on the Law of Evidence, Simon Greenleaf—FREEThe Testimony of The Four Evangelists, Simon Greenleaf—FREEFaith Founded on Fact, John W. MontgomeryJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamHidden in Plain View, Lydia McGrewTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewChristianity on Trial, Mark LanierAtheism on Trial, Mark Lanier
Related ArticlesIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalWho is Sergius Paulus? Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Virtue of Doubt, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & Doubt, Shane Rosenthal
Related AudioIs Faith A Feeling? Shane Rosenthal & Craig PartonReligion on Trial, Shane Rosenthal & Craig PartonThe Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, Shane Rosenthal & Richard BauckhamThe Four Gospels: History or Fan Fiction? Shane Rosenthal & Lydia McGrewAtheism on Trial, Shane Rosenthal & Mark LanierFaith Founded on Facts, Shane Rosenthal & John Lennox & OthersAre the Gospels History? Shane Rosenthal & John DicksonQuestioning Conventional Wisdom, Shane Rosenthal & David RohlThe Jesus of History, Shane Rosenthal
UPCOMING EVENTS Milan, ItalyOn Sunday, Oct. 13th, Shane will be speaking at Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia on the northwest side of Milan. For more info or directions, click here.
St. Louis, MissouriOn Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres. To purchase tickets for this event or for more info, click here.
Troy, IllinoisOn Sunday, Nov. 3rd, Shane will be speaking at a youth event from 3:30 to 7:00 pm at Providence Presbyterian Church. Shane will be addressing the topics: Is Faith Blind?, and Are There Contradictions in the Gospels? For more information about this youth event, send a text to 619-820-4908.
Houston, TexasOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be participating in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.
If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
The Pilot Episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast was launched in October of 2022, and on that program, Shane told his Dad’s story of seeing Billy Joel perform at a piano bar in Los Angeles. If you’ve had a chance to listen to that episode, you know the story (if not, you should listen to that show first). On this program, Shane discusses some of the new evidence that has recently come to light about the location of The Executive Room, and talks with John Gibson about his memories of the famous piano bar.
SHOW NOTES
Related ResourcesThe Pilot Episode, Humble Skeptic Ep. #1 Is My Dad One of the Characters in Billy Joel’s Piano Man? Shane RosenthalThe Life & Times of an Angry Young Man, Hank BordowitzHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Virtue of Doubt, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & Doubt, Shane Rosenthal
Related LinksThe Executive Room According to PopSpots, Bob EganThe Legacy of the O.J. Simpson Murder Trial, John GibsonJohn & Sandy Gibson’s role in the Billy Joel story, Hank BordowitzPiano Man—Billy Joel, Hank BordowitzABC’s 20/20 Segment on Billy JoelLiam Cooper’s Interview with a former owner of The Executive RoomLiam Cooper’s King of the Keys TrailerBilly Joel’s Piano Man (sign at the very end says: “Bill Martin at the piano”)An Interview with Billy Joel, The Library of Congress
According to According to the Library of Congress (see the last link above), Billy Joel stated that The Executive Room is now “a bank or an insurance building.” The image above is of The Pierce National Life building, which is an insurance company, and according to the replica also shown above, at one time it also happened to be a bank building. This also matches one of the statements that Shane’s dad mentioned on the Pilot Episode. And when Shane sent a picture of this building to John Gibson (after he volunteered the information about it being located in the lobby of a large office building), he wrote back saying, “Oh, that looks like the building!”
UPCOMING EVENTS CEDAR CITY, UTAHOn Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the topic of his forthcoming book, Is Faith Blind? at the Festive Hall Conference Center in Cedar City, Utah. The event is free and dinner is provided. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and you can find the event page here.
ST. LOUIS, MISSOURIOn Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres. To purchase tickets for this event or for more info, click here.
MILAN, ITALYOn Sunday, Oct. 13th, Shane will be speaking at Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia on the northwest side of Milan. For more info or directions, click here.
HOUSTON, TEXASOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be participating in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.
If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
WE NEED YOUR SUPPORTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here or use the QR code below. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible. Thanks for your support!
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
According to Rebecca McLaughlin, many of the beliefs of our contemporary culture can be summarized into a kind of “secular creed.” Though Christians will agree with some parts of this creed and disagree with others, it’s important to note that many of the assumptions underlying this “statement of faith” are deeply rooted in Christian soil. So how did Jesus completely reshape the moral imagination of Western culture? Shane discusses this with Dr. McLaughlin, who is the author of numerous books including Confronting Christianity, and The Secular Creed.
SHOW NOTES
Related BooksThe Secular Creed & Confronting Christianity, Rebecca McLaughlinDominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World, Tom HollandThe Righteous Mind & The Anxious Generation, Jonathan HaidtChristianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham MachenThe Secularist Heresy, Harry BlamiresEarly Christian Writings, The Apostolic Fathers
Related ArticlesHow Christianity Killed Infanticide, Rebecca McLaughlinAn Ancient Letter from a Soldier to His Wife (scroll to bottom right)The Epistle to Diognetus (see chapters 5 & 9).Pentecost Skewers Racism, Rebecca McLaughlinCan We Trust the Gospels: A Review, Rebecca McLaughlinLiberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham MachenThe Tower of Babel & The Virtue of Doubt, Shane Rosenthal
Related VideosThe Secular Creed, Rebecca McLaughlinChristianity is Returning, Tom Holland & Justin BrierleyHow St. Paul Changed the World, Tom Holland & N.T. WrightJesus Through the Eyes of Witnesses, Rebecca McLaughlinSexuality & Identity, Rebecca McLaughlin & Sam AllberryRelated PodcastsThe Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic #9Same-Sex Attraction, Sam Allberry & Michael HortonIdentity in a Post-Christian Culture, Humble Skeptic #33The Woke Revolution, Humble Skeptic #34Navigating the Currents of Aggressive Secularism, Humble Skeptic #36Is Faith Irrational? & Is Faith Blind? Humble Skeptic #2 and #3Is Faith a Feeling? Humble Skeptic #4
Upcoming Events CEDAR CITY, UTAHOn Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the topic of his forthcoming book, Is Faith Blind? at the Festive Hall Conference Center in Cedar City, Utah. The event is free and dinner is provided. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and you can find the event page here.
ST. LOUIS, MISSOURIOn Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres. To purchase tickets for this event or for more info, click here.
MILAN, ITALYOn Sunday, Oct. 13th, Shane will be speaking at Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia on the northwest side of Milan. For more info or directions, click here.
HOUSTON, TEXASOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be participating in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.
If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Support This Podcast!Donations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here or use the QR code below. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible. Thanks for your support!
If you haven’t heard The Pilot Episode yet, be sure to fix that before Sept 3rd! Featuring an interview with a special guest whose name you just might recognize, this episode will revisit questions related to the location of The Executive Room.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
Some Christians in our day push back against the idea of “the separation of church and state,” but David VanDrunen argues that, in reality, this is a crucial distinction taught throughout the Bible. So what is the proper view of government from a Christian perspective and how should we think about the relationship between theology and politics? Shane talks with Dr. VanDrunen about these and other issues he addresses in his book Politics After Christendom: Political Theology in a Fractured World.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksPolitics After Christendom, David VanDrunenLiving in God’s Two Kingdoms, David VanDrunenNatural Law: A Short Companion, David VanDrunenDivine Covenants & Moral Order, David VanDrunenNatural Law & The Two Kingdoms, David VanDrunen
Recommended ArticlesParadise Lost, David VanDrunenThe Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalChristianity & Politics, William Bennet, Os Guinness & Others
Recommended AudioA Biblical Theology of Civil Government, David VanDrunenThe Rise & Fall of Christendom, David VanDrunenTheocracy or Liberalism? David VanDrunenResponsible Citizens, Patient Sojourners, David VanDrunenThe Political Implications of Original Sin, WHI #1597 with M. McClymondThe Woke Revolution, Humble Skeptic #34 with Os GuinnessLive Not By Lies, Humble Skeptic #35 with Rod Dreher
Info & Upcoming Events• Shane has been invited to speak on the campus of St. Louis University on Wednesday, July 18th for the ReThink315 College Camp.
• Is Faith Blind & Irrational? That’s the topic Shane will be discussing on Wednesday evening, Sept. 18th at the Festive Hall Conference Center in Cedar City, Utah. Doors open at 6 pm and dinner is provided. A webpage for this event will be available soon.
• On Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres, Missouri. For more information, or to purchase tickets for this event, click here.
• On Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be at the Lanier Theological Library in Houston, Texas. He has been invited to participate in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus’ resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others.
• If you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
• Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Click here for more information about giving options.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
According to John Dickson, “Christianity is unlike other religions in that it gambles its plausibility on supposed historical events. Christians,” he writes, “don’t merely say otherworldly things like ‘Heaven is open to all,’ but they also say things like, ‘Christ suffered under Pontius Pilate,’ and statements of this kind aren’t immune from historical scrutiny.” So, what are the considerations involved in assessing the historical value of the Gospels? How can we be sure these ancient texts really are what they claim to be? On this episode, Shane talks with Undeceptions host, John Dickson, who received a PhD in the field of ancient history, and who is the author of Is Jesus History?
• The clip in which John Dickson revealed his shift on the date of the Fourth Gospel was taken from Episode 126 of The Undeceptions podcast.
• The quote from Princeton scholar, James Charlesworth’s was taken from his book Jesus As Mirrored in John, and you can find additional quotes by Charlesworth and others here.
• To read Shane’s recent article mentioned at the end of this episode featuring an archaeoligical discovery related to Joanna & Theophilus, click here.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksIs Jesus History? John DicksonA Doubters Guide to Jesus, John DicksonA Doubters Guide to the Bible, John DicksonCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonRethinking the Dates of the New Testament, Jonathan BernierJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamJesus As Mirrored in John, James Charlesworth
Recommended ArticlesJoanna: Obscure Disciple, or Luke’s Key Witness? Shane RosenthalJohn 5:2 “There is in Jerusalem…”, Shane Rosenthal & othersThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian, Sir William RamsayAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane Rosenthal
Other Related ResourcesThe Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic #12The Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic # 9New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)Are the Gospels Reliable? Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman (video)
Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.
• On Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).
• On Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres, Missouri. For more information, or to purchase tickets for this event, click here.
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Click here for more information about giving options.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
May scholars over the past century have claimed that John’s Gospel is the least historically reliable since it was written in the late first century. Essentially, they’ve argued that this text tells us more about the beliefs of the church in that period than it does about the historical Jesus. On this episode, Shane talks with New Testament scholar Daniel Wallace about evidence that points to a much earlier date, along with other matters related to the historical reliability and faithful transmission of the Fourth Gospel. Note: A few clips of this interview were featured on episode 16, but here we’re presenting the entire conversation.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksRevisiting the Corruption of the New Testament, Daniel WallaceRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonThe Priority of John, John A.T. RobinsonRethinking the Dates of the New Testament, Jonathan BernierRedating Matthew, Mark & Luke, John WenhamNICNT Commentary on The Gospel of John (1995), Leon MorrisConcordia Commentary: John 1:1-7:1, William WeinrichCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsThe Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamGreek Grammar Beyond the Basics, Daniel Wallace
Recommended ArticlesJohn 5:2 & The Date of The Fourth Gospel, Daniel WallaceJohn 5:2 (Part 2) & John 5:2 (Part 3), Daniel WallaceThe Gospel of John: An Introduction, Daniel WallaceThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane Rosenthal
Other Related ResourcesHas the Bible Been Miscopied or Mistranslated? Daniel Wallace, WHI #1377Which John Wrote John? Humble Skeptic #50 Questioning The Fourth Gospel, Humble Skeptic #49The Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic #12New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)Are the Gospels Reliable? Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman (video)An Interview with D.A. Carson, WHI #1456The Historical Reliability of John’s Gospel, Craig Blomberg, WHI #1462
Additional Notes for this Episode• In a recently discovered commentary on John’s Gospel, nineteen-century Cambridge scholar J.B. Lightfoot noted that: “This is the narrative of a person who was an eyewitness of the events he relates, and who writes not half a century later, but within a very few years of the occurrence” (p. 197). Click here to read Lightfoot’s excellent essay on the Authenticity of John’s Gospel.
• In his discussion of John 5:2, Hubert E. Edwards observed that “If words mean anything…these words were first uttered at a time when the sheep gate and the pool, and its five porches were still…standing, and the ‘desolation’ which the Romans left behind in A.D. 70 had not yet taken place.” He also says that if a man spoke of a building in the present tense that had been destroyed decades earlier, we’d probably assume him to be senile. This is from his thoughtful (but hard-to-obtain) book, The Disciple Who Wrote These Things (London: James Clark & Co, 1953), pp. 126-127.
• In the revised edition of his commentary on The Gospel of John (NICNT, 1995), Leon Morris changed his view of the date of the Fourth Gospel and ended up siding with scholars who suggest that it may have been written as early as the 50s or 60s (pp. 25-30).
• In the introduction of his commentary on John 1:1-7:1, (2015), Lutheran theologian William Weinrich provides several compelling reasons for dating John well before the Jewish War in 66 AD (pp. 44-51).
• In his book, Can We Trust The Gospels? (2018), Peter J. Williams says that all four Gospels “are so influenced by Judaism in their outlook, subject matter, and detail that it would be reasonable to date them considerably before the Jewish War” (p. 81).
• In Rethinking the Dates of the New Testament (2022), Jonathan Bernier writes, “Whereas most scholars favor a date for John’s Gospel at or around 90, this study concludes that [it] was most likely written sometime between 60 and 70” (p. 87).
Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.
• On Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).
• On Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres, Missouri. For more information, or to purchase tickets for this event, click here.
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
On this episode, Shane walks through some of the internal and external evidence related to his investigation of The Identity of the Beloved Disciple. This builds on some of the ideas introduced on the last episode with Richard Bauckham, but this discussion of the authorship of the Fourth Gospel takes a significantly deeper dive. As you’ll see, the result of this exploration has surprising implications for the authenticity and historical reliability of all four Gospels—and, of course, John in particular.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksThe Witness of St. John to Christ, Stanley Leathes (FREE)The Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamThe Identity of John the Evangelist, Dean FurlongThe New Testament in Its World, N.T. Wright & Michael BirdThe Gospel of St. John: A Newly Discovered Commentary, J.B. LightfootJohn The Son of Zebedee, The Life of a Legend, Alan CulpepperThe Johannine Question, Martin Hengel
Recommended ArticlesThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine?, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement?, S. RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, S. RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalThe Parable of Lazarus, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane Rosenthal
Other Related ResourcesQuestioning The Fourth Gospel, Humble Skeptic Ep. #49The Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic Ep. #48The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic Ep. #12Fake or Authentic?, Humble Skeptic Ep. #10Authenticating the Book of Acts, Humble Skeptic Ep. #24Faith Founded on Facts (1), Humble Skeptic Ep. #15Faith Founded on Facts (2), Humble Skeptic Ep. #16This above episode makes a case for an earlier dating of John’s Gospel
Upcoming Events• Shane will be discussing the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th at 11 am. For directions, visit the church website: thirdpca.org.
• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.
• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
Many scholars over the centuries have questioned the historical value of John’s Gospel. Since it is assumed to be very late, it’s often argued that John’s narrative contains “theology, not history.” Richard Bauckham argues that the author of this text should be seen as a credible eyewitness of the events he reports, but that a careful look at both the internal and external evidence reveals that this Gospel was written by a lesser-known figure named John the Elder. Shane discusses this with Professor Bauckham and interacts with other scholars (including D.A. Carson, Craig Blomberg, Andreas Kostenberger, and Lydia McGrew) who take the traditional view of authorship.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksThe Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamMagdala of Galilee: A Jewish City, Richard BauckhamThe Identity of John the Evangelist, Dean Furlong
Recommended ArticlesThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine?, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalJesus & The Eyewitnesses: A Review, Shane Rosenthal
Other Related ResourcesThe Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic Ep. #48The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic Ep. #12Fake or Authentic?, Humble Skeptic Ep. #10Authenticating the Book of Acts, Humble Skeptic Ep. #24Faith Founded on Facts (1), Humble Skeptic Ep. #15Faith Founded on Facts (2), Humble Skeptic Ep. #16This above episode makes a case for an earlier dating of John’s Gospel
Upcoming Events• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024. While in town, Greg Koukl will also be speaking at the Creating Confident Ambassadors conference at First Baptist Church—St. John on Saturday, April 6th in St. Louis.
• Shane will be discussing the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th at 11 am. For directions, visit the church website: thirdpca.org.
• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.
• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
Many New Testament scholars argue that the Gospels were told orally for the better part of a century before they were finally written down, and as such, they tell us more about later Christian beliefs than they do the life of Jesus. Cambridge scholar Richard Bauckham has argued that this entire approach to Jesus research has officially reached a dead end and that the Gospels are rooted in reliable eyewitness testimony. Shane discusses these claims with Dr. Bauckham.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamJesus: A Very Short Introduction, Richard BauckhamThe Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamGospel Women, Richard BauckhamCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrew
Recommended ArticlesThe Gospels as Authentic Testimony, Richard BauckhamIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, William RamsayOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement?, S. RosenthalWater Into Wine?, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalJesus & The Eyewitnesses: A Review, Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane Rosenthal
Other Related ResourcesThe Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic Ep. #12Faith Founded on Facts, Humble Skeptic Ep. #15Fake or Authentic?, Humble Skeptic Ep. #10Authenticating the Book of Acts, Humble Skeptic Ep. #24New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)Evidence for the Resurrection, Peter J. Williams (video)Are the Gospels Reliable?, Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman (video)
Upcoming Events• On Wed. March 27th at 6:30 pm, Shane will be discussing “Objections to the Resurrection” at Christ Presbyterian Church in St. Charles, MO.
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024. While in town, Greg Koukl will also be speaking at the Creating Confident Ambassadors conference at First Baptist Church—St. John on Saturday, April 6th in St. Louis.
• Shane will be discussing the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th at 11 am. For directions, visit the church website: thirdpca.org.
• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.
• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options.
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What did ancient Jews believe about the mission of their Messiah? Were they expecting a kind of warrior king who would defeat the Gentiles and reign as king over all the earth, or one who would atone for sin through his own sacrificial death? On this episode, Shane discusses these questions as he interacts with a variety of texts from the Dead Sea Scrolls and other sources that give us insight into the way Jews before and after the time of Jesus attempted to interpret some of the messianic prophecies recorded in the pages of the Old Testament.
To download a PDF copy of the lecture slides for this presentation, use the link below:
SHOW NOTES
Related ArticlesSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalA Dead Sea Scroll Hymn on the Suffering Servant, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All The Scriptures, Shane RosenthalProof of the Gospel, Quotes from Eusebius, Augustine & othersWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalDid Palm Trees Grow in Jerusalem at the Time of Jesus?, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalRelated BooksHolman Quicksource Guide to the Dead Sea Scrolls, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansJosephus, Jewish War Vol. III, (This edition includes some Slavonic material)Josephus’ Jewish War and its Slavonic Version, Henry & Kate LeemingThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Darrell Bock & othersThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Jewish Annotated New Testament, Daniel Boyarin & others“Son of Man” in Early Jewish Literature, Richard BauckhamThe Jewish Targums & John’s Logos Theology, John RonningThe Angel of the Lord. Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanThe Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumThe Life & Times of Jesus The Messiah, Alfred EdersheimProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of Caesarea
Related AudioJewish Views of the Messiah, with Daniel BoyarinWhat Did the Earliest Christians Believe?, Humble Skeptic #25The Earliest Gospel, Humble Skeptic #45 Were Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah?, WHI 1243 with Craig EvansThe Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic #9Locating Golgotha, Humble Skeptic #17What Child Is This?, a bonus episode of the Humble Skeptic
Upcoming Events• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the greater Memphis region on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info or to register).
• On Wed. March 27th at 6:30 pm, Shane will be discussing “Objections to the Resurrection” at Christ Presbyterian Church in St. Charles, MO.
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024. Greg Koukl will also be speaking at the Creating Confident Ambassadors conference at First Baptist Church—St. John on Saturday, April 6th in St. Louis.
• Shane will be discussing the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th (more info will be available soon).
• Shane will be one of the speakers at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.
• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
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Galatians is one of the earliest NT epistles and it records one of the oldest controversies in church history. Surprisingly, these early Christians weren’t involved in a dispute about Jesus’ divinity, his death, burial, or even his resurrection from the dead. Rather, the controversy was specifically rooted in the implications of all these foundational beliefs. If Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah, then how should we apply the Law of Moses moving forward? Should Gentiles be circumcised, keep Kosher, and rest on the Sabbath? Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions with T. David Gordon, author of Promise, Law, Faith: Covenant-Historical Reasoning in Galatians.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksPromise, Law, Faith, T. David GordonChoose Better, T. David GordonPaul & The Law, Brian S. Rosner40 Questions About Christians & Biblical Law, Thomas SchreinerSacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored, Mike Brown & Z. Keele
Related ArticlesThe Coin & The Covenant, Shane RosenthalThe Acts 2 Controversy, Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All The Scriptures, Shane RosenthalWhat’s the Most Important Thing in the Bible?, S RosenthalWhy Johnny Can’t Preach, T. David Gordon
Related AudioThe Earliest Gospel, Humble Skeptic #45 How to Read & Interpret The Bible, Humble Skeptic #37What Did the Earliest Christians Believe?, Humble Skeptic #25The Gospel Creed • Humble Skeptic #9The Effect of Media & Technology, Humble Skeptic #30Distracting Ourselves to Death, T. David Gordon on WHI
Upcoming Events• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the greater Memphis region on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info or to register).
• On Wed. March 27th at 6:30 pm, Shane will give a talk on “Objections to the Resurrection” at Christ Presbyterian Church in St. Charles, MO.
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024. Greg Koukl will also be speaking at the Creating Confident Ambassadors conference at First Baptist Church—St. John on Saturday, April 6th in St. Louis.
• Shane has been invited to lead a discussion of the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th (more info will be available soon).
• On Fri. May 3rd at 7 pm, Shane will talk with David Van Drunen about his books, Natural Law and Politics After Christendom. This conversation will take place at Christ Presbyterian Church in St. Charles, MO.
• Shane will be one of the speakers at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.
• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at a public forum in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).
• Shane will be discussing “The Thing of First Importance” at Chiesa Reformata Filadelfia in Milan, Italy on Sunday, Oct. 13th (more details coming soon).
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
What is the earliest Gospel in existence? It’s not Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John; according to Paul, the oldest Gospel is actually found in the book of Genesis. In Galatians 3:8 he boldly declares that the gospel of Jesus had been proclaimed in advance to Abraham. So what specific passages from Genesis did he have in mind? How did the promises given to Abraham differ from the covenant that was later ratified at Mt. Sinai? Were Old Testament saints saved by works or simply by trusting the promise? Shane discusses these questions and more with Mike Brown, co-author of Sacred Bond, Covenant Theology Explored.
SHOW NOTES
Related ArticlesOutside the Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalFinding Christ in All The Scriptures, Shane RosenthalExploring Covenant Theology, Mike Brown & Zach KeeleWhat’s the Most Important Thing in the Bible?, S RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane Rosenthal
Related BooksSacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored, Mike Brown & Z. KeeleJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonChrist From Beginning to End, Hunter & WellumThe Proof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaPromise, Law, Faith, T. David GordonThe Angel of the Lord, Van Dorn & Foreman
Related AudioThe Galatian Controversy, Humble Skeptic #46What Did The Earliest Christians Believe?, Humble Skeptic #25Jewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, S. Rosenthal & Iain DuguidThe Big Picture, Humble Skeptic #26 The Gospel Creed • Humble Skeptic #9
During this episode, Shane read a quote from Bono. Here’s the larger context, which was originally included as part of an introduction to the Psalms.
“Psalm 40 is interesting in that it suggests a time in which grace will replace karma, and love replace the very strict laws of Moses (i.e. fulfill them). I love that thought. David, who committed some of the most selfish as well as selfless acts, was depending on it. That the scriptures are brim full of hustlers, murderers, cowards, adulterers, and mercenaries used to shock me; now it is a source of great comfort.” Click here to read Bono’s entire essay.
Upcoming Events• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the greater Memphis region on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on topics related to apologetics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024.
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
Abdu Murray is a lawyer who was raised in a Muslim home. Though he used to argue with Christians about the superiority of Islam, after a long and careful consideration of the evidence, he eventually left the religion of his youth and converted to Christianity. On this episode, Shane talks with Abdu about his conversion experience and many other topics he addresses in his books, Grand Central Question, and Saving Truth: Finding Meaning & Clarity in a Post-Truth World.
SHOW NOTES
Related BooksSaving Truth, Abdu MurrayGrand Central Question, Abdu MurrayMore Than a White Man’s Religion, Abdu MurraySeeking Allah, Finding Jesus, Nabeel QureshiPost Christian, Gene VeithStrange New World, Carl TruemanTactics, Greg KouklThe Story of Reality, Greg KouklStreet Smarts, Greg KouklRelated ResourcesAbdu Murray on Confirmation Bias (video)Truth is More Than a Feeling, Abdu Murray (article)Pluralism, Confusion & The Roads to God, Abdu MurrayAll Rise with Abdu Murray (podcast)Humble Apologetics, Shane Rosenthal (article)Recovering the Art of Persuasion, Shane Rosenthal (article)On Faith & Doubt, Shane Rosenthal (article)The Virtue of Doubt, Shane Rosenthal (article)Why Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane Rosenthal (article)Greg Koukl on Street Smarts, Humble Skeptic, Ep. 27 (podcast)Rethinking Apologetics, Humble Skeptic, Ep. 23 (podcast)Is Faith Irrational?, Humble Skeptic, Ep. 02 (podcast)
Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the greater St. Louis area on April 7, 2024.
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief note to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year).
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
Jesus frequently taught in a way that provoked questions. This is one of the reasons his parables are sometimes difficult to understand since they were actually meant to be confusing and disorienting. On this episode, Shane discusses the purpose of Jesus’ parables with his former pastor, Scott Churnock, and together they walk through the significance of the stories found in Luke 15, including The Lost Coin, The Lost Sheep, and The Lost Sons.
SHOW NOTES
Related ArticlesDead Men Can’t Dance, Scott ChurnockThe Parable of Old & New Treasures, Shane RosenthalThe Parable of The Rich Man & Lazarus, Shane RosenthalThe Parable of The Good Samaritan, D.A. CarsonIntroduction to the Parables, Craig Blomberg
Related ResourcesLost & Found: The Parables of Luke 15, Scott Churnock (audio)The Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. Williams (book)The Prodigal God, Tim Keller (book)The Cross & The Prodigal, Kenneth Bailey (book)The Explosive Power of Jesus’ Parables, Albert Mohler Jr. (book)The Parables of Jesus, David Wenham (book)The Purpose of the Parables, D.A. Carson (video)The Parables of Jesus, R.C. Sproul (video series)What Do Jesus’ Parables Mean?, R.C. Sproul (booklet)
Write a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year).
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
How does the Christian worldview explain the problem of evil, and how does this perspective differ from other major worldview options? What are we to think about the challenges related to artificial intelligence, and how could these challenges potentially change our world? Shane Rosenthal discusses these and other questions with Oxford mathematician John Lennox, author of Suffering Life’s Pain, and 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity.
SHOW NOTESBooks by John LennoxSuffering Life’s Pain: Facing Moral & Natural EvilFinding Ultimate Reality2084: AI & The Future of HumanityJoseph: A Story of Love, Hate, & ForgivenessCan Science Explain Everything?God & Stephen HawkingCosmic ChemistryGunning for GodAgainst The FlowSeven Days That Divide The World
Other Recommended Books & ResourcesThe Universe Next Door, James SireNaming the Elephant: Worldview as a Concept, James SireWhy Good Arguments Often Fail, James SireThe Story of Reality, Greg KouklGod & The Problem of Evil, Five ViewsGreg Koukl on The Problem of Evil (podcast)Against the Tide, A Documentary Featuring John Lennox
Consider Writing a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).
• The Humble Skeptic and ReThink315 will host a free apologetics conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the greater St. Louis area on April 7, 2024.
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). You can also support the show by purchasing Humble Skeptic merch.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
Are faith and science opposed to one another, or do scientific investigations sometimes lead us to ask questions of religious significance? How are we to account for the origin of our finely-tuned universe, and how do we explain the complex amount of information embedded in our own DNA? Is it rational to believe in miracles, or the narratives recorded in the Bible? On this episode, Shane discusses these issues and more with Oxford mathematician, John Lennox, author of Can Science Explain Everything?
Listen to Part 2 of this Conversation: John Lennox on Evil & The Challenge of AI
SHOW NOTES
Books by John LennoxCan Science Explain Everything?God & Stephen HawkingCosmic ChemistryGunning for GodFinding Ultimate RealityAgainst The FlowSeven Days That Divide The World2084: AI & The Future of Humanity
Other Recommended BooksThe Return of the God Hypothesis, Stephen MeyerCan A Scientist Believe in Miracles?, Ian HutchinsonThe Case Against Accident, Dean OvermanCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsThe Book of Acts in the Setting of Hellenistic History, Colin HemerJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamJesus: A Very Short Introduction, Richard Bauckham
Recommended Articles & ResourcesOrigin of Life: $10 Million Prize, Perry MarshallHas Science Buried God? John Lennox (video)By Design, John Lennox, Michael Behe & Stephen Meyer (video)Martin Heidegger on The Relation of Faith & Science (video clip)Return of the God Hypothesis (Pt. 1), (Pt. 2) Stephen Meyer (podcast) Can A Scientist Believe in Miracles, Ian Hutchinson (podcast)New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)What is Faith?, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Book of Acts, Lydia McGrew (podcast)
Consider Writing a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the greater St. Louis area on April 7, 2024.
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year).
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
On this edition of the Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane continues his conversation with Dr. Mike Farley of Covenant Theological Seminary, and together they answer questions from the live audience.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended ArticlesWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalWhat is Faith?, Shane RosenthalHistory & Faith, J. Gresham Machen
Recommended BooksCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History?, John DicksonHidden in Plain View, Lydia McGrewTestimonies To The Truth, Lydia McGrewWhy I Trust The Bible, William MounceConfronting Christianity, Rebecca McLaughlinA Good & True Story, Paul GouldThe Reason for God, Tim Keller
Related AudioWhy Should We Trust The Bible (Pt. 1), with Mike FarleyFaith & Proof, with Mike FarleyProof of the Gospel, with Mike FarleyQuestioning Conventional Wisdom, with David RohlFake or Authentic?, with Lydia McGrewTruth Unites podcast, featuring Gavin OrtlandUndeceptions podcast, featuring John Dickson
Consider Writing a Positive ReviewIf you’re a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!
Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
There are a variety of purported “holy books” out there in the spiritual marketplace, so why should we trust the Bible over the others? How do we know this book isn’t simply a collection of myths and legends or the ravings of lunatics? Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions and more with Dr. Mike Farley who is the Visiting Professor of Applied Theology at Covenant Theological Seminary.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended ArticlesIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, William RamsayWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke as a Historian?, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalWhat is Faith?, Shane RosenthalHistory & Faith, J. Gresham Machen
Recommended Books & ResourcesCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsA Doubter’s Guide to Jesus, John DicksonJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamCan We Still Believe The Bible?, Craig BlombergHidden in Plain View, Lydia McGrewTestimonies To The Truth, Lydia McGrewProof of The Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaAgainst the Tide, a documentary featuring John Lennox}
Related EpisodesFaith & Proof, with Mike FarleyProof of the Gospel, with Mike FarleyQuestioning Conventional Wisdom, with David RohlIs Faith Irrational?Is Faith Blind?
Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).
• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.
• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
Daniel Boyarin is a professor of Talmudic Culture at U.C. Berkeley who argues that many Jews before the time of Jesus were expecting a divine-human Messiah who would suffer on behalf of his people. These ideas are not only found throughout the Hebrew Bible, but we also discover them in a variety of ancient Jewish texts written before the rise of Christianity. On this episode, Shane Rosenthal talks with Dr. Boyarin about these and many other views that he presents in his book, The Jewish Gospels: The Story of the Jewish Christ.
SHOW NOTES
For a gift of any amount to help support the work of The Humble Skeptic podcast we’ll send you “Finding Christ in All the Scriptures,” a 12-page PDF resource by Shane Rosenthal. For a preview of this helpful resource, click here.
Related BooksThe Jewish Gospels • Daniel BoyarinThe Jewish Annotated New Testament • (includes material from Boyarin)The Jewish Targums & John’s Logos Theology • John RonningA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith • Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels • Craig EvansThe Angel of the Lord • Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53 • Darrell Bock & othersThe Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy • Rydelnik & BlumThe Life & Times of Jesus The Messiah • Alfred EdersheimProof of the Gospel • Eusebius of Caesarea
Related ArticlesFinding Christ in All The Scriptures • Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture • Shane RosenthalA Dead Sea Scroll Hymn on the Suffering Servant • Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? • Shane RosenthalProof of the Gospel • Quotes from Eusebius, Augustine & othersThe Application of Messianic Prophecy, Richard Bauckham
Related AudioWhat Child Is This? • A Christmas Message by Shane RosenthalWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah? • WHI 1243 with Craig EvansA Suffering Messiah? • WHI-1564 with Craig EvansThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 1) • WHI 1566 with Foreman & Van DornThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 2) • WHI-1567 with Foreman & Van Dorn
Music Heard on This EpisodeO Come O Come Emmanuel • Ardie Son, from his Album, DecemberWhat Child is This • Ardie Son, from his Album, DecemberCarol of the Bells • Will Taylor, from his Album, A Mandolin Christmas
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
On this episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane talks with Mike Brown, one of the authors of Sacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored, about common errors to avoid when reading and interpreting Scripture. They also discuss a variety of interpretive tools that will make your study of the Bible more effective.
SHOW NOTES
Finding Christ in All The Scriptures — A New PDF resourceIn John 5:39, Jesus famously told the religious leaders of his day, “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life, but it is they that bear witness of me.” What are the implications of this verse, and how can it change the way we read and understand the entire Bible? That’s the focus of this PDF resource by Shane Rosenthal which you can receive by making a gift of any size.
Related BooksSacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored • Mike Brown & Zach KeeleKnowing Scripture • R.C. SproulJourneys with Jesus • Dennis JohnsonExegetical Fallacies • D.A. CarsonEchoes of Exodus • Alistair Roberts & Andrew WilsonThe Angel of the Lord • Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanAccording to Plan • Graeme GoldsworthyThe Promised One: Seeing Jesus in Genesis • Nancy GuthrieLamb of God: Seeing Jesus in Exodus • Nancy GuthrieThe Unfolding Mystery • Edmund ClowneyGod Dwells Among Us • G.K. Beale & Mitchell Kim
Related ArticlesExploring Covenant Theology • Mike Brown & Zach Keele (interview)What’s the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible? • Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us • Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture • Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible? • Shane Rosenthal
Related AudioWhat Did The Earliest Christians Believe? • Humble Skeptic Ep. 25The Big Picture • Humble Skeptic Ep. 26The Gospel Creed • Humble Skeptic Ep. 09How to Read & Apply the Old Testament • WHI-1568Failed Bible Heroes • WHI-1572
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
What is a good definition of “culture,” and why is it so effective at conforming us to believe certain things, and to behave in certain ways? How do we protect ourselves and the next generation from the negative influences of our increasingly secular culture? On this episode, Shane Rosenthal discusses these issues and more with Brett Kunkle, founder of Maven, and co-author of A Practical Guide to Culture.
SHOW NOTES
Resources by Brett KunkleA Practical Guide to Culture and A Student’s Guide to Culture (books)The Ambassador’s Guide to Mormonism (booklet)A Motivating Mormon Roleplay (article & video)Don’t Just Doubt Your Faith, Doubt Your Doubts (article)Five Tools to Equip Your Kids (article)Do Pronouns Matter? (article)Brett Kunkle Interviews his Co-Author John Stonestreet (podcast)Maventruth.com (Brett Kunkle’s website)
Other Related ResourcesThe Lost Tools of Learning, Dorothy Sayers (article)Creed or Chaos?, Dorothy Sayers (article)Recovering the Art of Persuasion, Shane Rosenthal (article)What is Faith? Shane Rosenthal (article)The Virtue of Doubt, Shane Rosenthal (article)Be a Berean!, Shane Rosenthal (article)So The Next Generation Will Know, McDowell & Wallace (book)Post Christian: A Guide to Contemporary Thought, Gene Veith (book)
We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe
The word “totalitarianism” describes a political system in which the state has total authority over every aspect of life. In regimes of this kind, external conformity is just the first step—what they really want is your soul. According to Rod Dreher, we’re now seeing the rise of a new “soft totalitarianism” which is closer to Huxley’s Brave New World, than Orwell’s 1984. In soft totalitarianism, conformity is achieved by manipulating access to things like status and comfort, often by means of a social credit system. On this program, Shane Rosenthal talks with Rod Dreher about these and other disturbing trends that he outlines in his bestselling book, Live Not By Lies, which also happens to be the subject of a forthcoming documentary series.
SHOW NOTES
Resources by Rod DreherLive Not By Lies (book)The Axis of the Human Heart (essay)Exclude the Excluders! (essay)Live Not By Lies, Rod Dreher on The Jordan Peterson Podcast (video)The Fog of Propaganda: Rod Dreher on American Thought Leaders (video)
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn ResourcesLive Not By Lies (essay)A World Split Apart (Harvard commencement address)One Word of Truth (Nobel Prize speech)Solzhenitsyn at Harvard: The Address & Responses (book)The Solzhenitsyn Reader (book)A Portrait of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, David Aikman (Mars Hill Audio) The Christian Humanism of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (Mars Hill Audio)Aleksander Solzhenitsyn: A Brief Autobiography (essay)
Other Related ResourcesLive Not By Lies: The Documentary Series (video preview)We Are Repaganizing, Louise Perry (essay)Why I Am Now a Christian, Ayaan Hirsi Ali (essay)Yes, The West is Becoming More Like China, N.S. Lyons (essay)Post Christian: A Guide to Contemporary Thought, Gene Veith (book)Post Christian, featuring Shane Rosenthal & Gene Veith (podcast)Modern Fascism: Liquidating the Christian Worldview, Gene Veith (book)The False Gospel of Fascism, Shane Rosenthal & Gene Veith (podcast)The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self, Carl Trueman (book)Politics & Original Sin, Shane Rosenthal & Michael McClymond (podcast)How to Detect Deception, Shane Rosenthal (essay)
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Fifty years ago, Os Guinness released his book, The Dust of Death, which offered a piercing analysis of the sixties counterculture movement with its revolutionary ideas about human nature and sexual liberation. In his preface to a new edition of this work, Guinness argues that during this tumultuous decade, “many of the seeds of today’s most radical ideas were sown, only to flower more recently in their most destructive forms.” Shane Rosenthal talks with Os about many of his observations and predictions from a half-century ago, as well as how these radical ideas eventually became mainstream.
SHOW NOTES
Resources by Os GuinnessThe Dust of Death, and Last Call for Liberty (books)The Magna Charta of Humanity and Fools Talk (books)We’re All Children of the 60’s (article - TGC)I Believe in Doubt (article - Ligonier)A Free People’s Suicide (video - Socrates in the City)The Magna Charta of Humanity (video - Socrates in the City)The Future of Freedom (podcast - WHI)Additional Resources by Os Guinness (website)
Other Related ResourcesOs Guinness: The Christian Public Intellectual, John Shelton (article)Let’s Be Civil About It, Michael Horton & Os Guinness (article - MR)Time for Truth, Ryan Glomsrud (article - MR)Be a Berean!, Shane Rosenthal (article)The Virtue of Doubt, Shane Rosenthal (article)Live Not By Lies, Rod Dreher (book)Modern Fascism, Gene Veith (book)The False Gospel of Fascism, S. Rosenthal & Gene Veith (podcast)The Political Implications of Original Sin, Rosenthal & McClymond (podcast)
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As discussed on recent episodes, when it comes to religion and worldview preferences, most people tend to follow their own internal feelings, intuitions, and experiences. But what are the larger social implications of this increasing emphasis on the subjective? According to Carl Trueman, in today’s culture of “expressive individualism,” the idea of conforming to anything external—anything outside the “self”—has come to be seen as “inauthentic.” As a result of this cultural shift, identity is now being formed by a person’s internal feelings and desires rather than by external considerations, including nature itself. Shane Rosenthal talks with Dr. Trueman about this and many other issues he addresses in his book, The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self.
SHOW NOTES
Resources by Carl TruemanThe Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self & Strange New World (books)Dylan Mulvany and the Real Clash of Civilizations (article - First Things)In Our Chaotic Age, Some Atheists are Rethinking Secularism (article)6 Ways Christians Can Respond to Our Strange New World (article - TGC)The Genesis of Gender (podcast)Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age (podcast)
Other Related ResourcesThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane Rosenthal (article)The Story of Us, Shane Rosenthal (article)What is Faith?, Shane Rosenthal (article)Liberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham Machen (article)Is Faith a Feeling?, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 4Religion on Trial, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 5Faith & Experience, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 28
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In his 1923 classic, Christianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham Machen argued that the liberal churches of his day had abandoned everything distinctive about Christianity in favor of a non-redemptive religion that was rooted in moralism and personal experience. According to Michael J. Kruger, contemporary liberal and progressive Churches are making the same crucial mistakes a century later. On this episode, Shane talks with Dr. Kruger about his book, The Ten Commandments of Progressive Christianity.
SHOW NOTES
Resources by Michael J. KrugerThe Ten Commandments of Progressive Christianity (book)The Question of Canon & Canon Revisited (books)Surviving Religion 101 & Christianity at the Crossroads (books)A Review of The Ten Commandments of Progressive Christianity (article)No, the Church Didn’t Create the Bible, Kruger & Carson (video)Keeping the Faith in College, (podcast)
Other Related ResourcesChristianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham Machen (book)Liberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham Machen (article)History & Faith, J. Gresham Machen (article)Is Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William Ramsay (article)What Do Progressive Christians Believe? Alisa Childers (article)Why Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane Rosenthal (article)What is Faith?, Shane Rosenthal (article)The Story of Us, Shane Rosenthal (article)American Gospel: Christ Crucified (video)Progressive Christianity: Another Gospel? (podcast)
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On this edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast, we’ll contrast popular beliefs about ghosts and the afterlife with the views presented in the Old and New Testaments. Joining Shane to discuss this important topic is Dr. Michael McClymond, who is the professor of Modern Theology at St. Louis University, and the author of numerous books including Familiar Stranger: An Introduction to Jesus of Nazareth, and The Devil’s Redemption: A New History & Interpretation of Christian Universalism.
SHOW NOTES
Resources by Michael McClymondThe Devil’s Redemption & Familiar Stranger (books)Exploring the Theology of Richard Rohr (article)Original Sin: A Tool for Decoding Human Nature (article)The Untold Story of Purgatory (podcast episode)Does Everyone Go to Heaven? (podcast episode)
Other Related ResourcesUnseen Realities, R.C. SproulThe Story of Us, Shane RosenthalWhat is Faith?, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalKarma vs. Grace (podcast episode)Heaven in Pop Culture (podcast episode)
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T. David Gordon served as a professor of Media Ecology at Grove City College for several decades, and as laptops, smartphones, and social media arrived on the scene in successive waves, he and his colleagues began to notice a change in students’ ability to pay attention and to process the various reading assignments. Shane discusses this with Dr. Gordon along with some of the issues he addresses in an article he recently wrote titled, “The Material is Not Immaterial.”
SHOW NOTES
Related ArticlesThe Material is Not Immaterial, by T. David GordonMedia Ecology for the Family, by T. David GordonWhy Johnny Can’t Preach (article), by T. David GordonA Discussion of Postman’s Amusing Ourself to Death, by T.D. GordonAn Interview with Neil Postman, Modern Reformation Yes, It’s the Phones (and Social Media), by Jean Twenge
Related BooksWhy Johnny Can’t Preach, by T. David GordonAmusing Ourselves to Death, and Technopoly, by Neil PostmanUnderstanding Media, by Marshal McLuhanGeneration Me, and iGen, by Jean TwengeLife on the Screen, and Alone Together, by Sherry TurkleDistracted: The Erosion of Attention, by Maggie Jackson
Related PodcastsSocial Media, Technology & Cultural Decline, T. David Gordon on WHI Distracting Ourselves to Death, T. David Gordon on WHIPop Culture, Technology & Worship, T. David Gordon on WHIYouth Ministry & Youth Culture, T. David Gordon on WHIRecovering Focus in a Distracted Time, Maggie Jackson on WHI
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How can we know whether religious experiences are authentic, or just a trick of the brain? And if they really are supernatural, how we be sure that they emanate from the God of the Bible, as opposed to the Koran? Too often we allow our experiences to confirm that which we already believe. On this episode, Shane discusses this with believers from a wide variety of faiths and also airs the second half of his conversation with Dr. J.R. Miller, author of One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism.
A New 26-Page PDF Resource! Shane recently expanded his article on Acts 2 & The Tongues Controversy into a 26-page downloadable PDF document, which walks through the Christ-centered nature of Acts 2, and includes background information about the origins of Pentecostalism. This document also includes a section that provides a careful analysis of every passage in the New Testament related to the subject of tongues. For information about obtaining this PDF resource, click here.
SHOW NOTES
Related EpisodesFaith & Experience (Part 1), The Humble Skeptic, Episode 28Is Faith a Feeling?, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 4Religion on Trial, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 5Faith & Proof, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 7Proof & The Gospel, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 8The Gospel Creed, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 9
Related Books & ArticlesOne Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, by J.R. MillerThe Mormonization of American Christianity, by Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us, by Shane RosenthalThe Megachurch Century, by Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, by Shane RosenthalActs 2 & The Tongues Controversy (free version), by Shane Rosenthal
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Mormons know their religion is true because they experience a “burning in the bosom.” Pentecostal Christians believe they have proof of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit because they speak in tongues. So how are we to know which religious experiences are truly authentic? Is experience a proper way to ground faith in the first place? On this episode, Shane talks with Dr. J.R. Miller, co-founder of The Center for Cultural Apologetics about his book, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, which traces the history of the “subjective turn” that has taken root in many Christian circles over the past few centuries.
SHOW NOTES
Related ResourcesOne Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, by J.R. MillerActs 2 & The Tongues Controversy, by Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, by Shane RosenthalIs Faith a Feeling?, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 4The Jesus of History, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 12
Support The Humble Skeptic!This week we’ll release an article exclusively for our supporters and paid subscribers related to the interpretation of all the tongues passages throughout the New Testament. If you would like to receive this PDF document, CLICK HERE to make a gift of any size to help support The Humble Skeptic, or use the green button below to become a paid subscriber via Substack ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make a tax-deductible donation here.
Spring, 2024 ConferencesThe Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting the Questions of Faith conference featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, Jeremy Smith, and others. This will be a free event that will take place on April 5-6 at Concord Church in St. Louis. Also, on March 29-31, Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area, hosted by The Humble Skeptic and the Memphis Apologetics Group. More detailed information about these events will be made available soon.
Israel Tours • Fall 2024 & May 2025Make plans to join The Humble Skeptic Travel Tour through the land of Israel next fall. We’ll apply a healthy “skepticism” to many of the popular destinations and will visit some of the more obscure yet historically reliable sites (click here and here for examples). We’re also planning another trip in May, 2025 with Dr. David Rohl. If you are interested in joining one of these excursions, send an email to: info AT humbleskeptic DOT com.
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Have you ever noticed that conversations about religion and politics tend to produce more heat than light? Because most of us are aware of this, we tend to avoid conversations relating to our deepest convictions. So how can we discuss our beliefs with others in a way that ends up producing more light than heat? How do we have difficult conversations on controversial topics such as the use of personal pronouns? On this episode, Shane talks with Greg Koukl about his forthcoming book Street Smarts: Using Questions to Answer Christianity’s Toughest Questions.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksStreet Smarts, by Greg KouklTactics, by Greg KouklLive Not By Lies, Rod Dreher
Recommended ArticlesI’d Like to Have an Argument, Please, by Greg KouklRecovering the Art of Persuasion, by Shane RosenthalIron Curtain Diary, by Greg Koukl
Recommended EpisodesGreg Koukl on Blind FaithDealing with DoubtDealing with Spiritual Abuse
Spring, 2024 ConferencesThe Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting the Questions of Faith conference featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, Jeremy Smith, and others. This will be a free event that will take place on April 5-6 at Concord Church in St. Louis. Also, on March 29-31, Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area, hosted by The Humble Skeptic and the Memphis Apologetics Group. More detailed information about both these events will be available soon.
Israel Tour • Fall 2024 Make plans to join The Humble Skeptic Travel Tour through the land of Israel. We’ll apply a healthy “skepticism” to many of the popular destinations and will visit some of the more obscure yet historically reliable sites (click here and here for examples). If you are interested in joining us, send an email to: info AT humbleskeptic DOT com.
Support The Humble Skeptic!This week we’ll be releasing an article on the topic of the current episode exclusively for our supporters and paid subscribers. If you would like to receive this article, click here to make a gift of any size to help support The Humble Skeptic, or use the green button below to become a paid subscriber ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make a tax-deductible donation here. For more information about our vision, click here.
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Have you ever been puzzled by things you read in the Bible? For example, why does the book of Exodus spend so much time walking through all the meticulous details related to the Tabernacle? On this episode, Shane Rosenthal talks with J. Daniel Hays about the Bible’s grand narrative, which helps us to understand all the individual puzzle pieces. Dr. Hays is the author of The Temple and the Tabernacle: A Study of God’s Dwelling Places from Genesis to Revelation.
SHOW NOTES
Recommended BooksThe Temple & The Tabernacle, by J. Daniel HaysA Guide to Christian Evidence, by J. Daniel HaysThe Temple & The Church’s Mission, G.K. BealeGod Dwells Among Us, G.K. Beale & Mitchell Kim
Recommended ArticlesWhat’s the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible?, by Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us, by Shane Rosenthal A New Way of Reading Scripture, by Shane Rosenthal
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What were some of the notable features of the earliest Christian sermons? What sort of things did they have in common, and how do they compare with the messages we’re likely to hear in Christian circles today? Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions and more with Dr. Dennis Johnson, author of The Message of Acts in the History of Redemption, and Let’s Study Acts.
SHOW NOTES• Recommended books by Dennis Johnson: Journeys with Jesus, The Message of Acts in the History of Redemption, Let’s Study Acts, and Him We Proclaim.
• Related articles by Shane Rosenthal: “Can We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement?”, “The Story of Us”, “On Faith & History”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”, “What is Faith?”, and “How to Detect Deception?”
• Related episodes: “Authenticating the Book of Acts”, “Faith & Certainty”, “Faith & Proof”, “Proof of the Gospel”, “The Gospel Creed”, and “The Jesus of History.”
• The image above featuring the Jerusalem Temple from the vantage point of Solomon’s Portico is used by the permission of Archaeology Illustrated. According to John 10:23, Acts 3:11, and 5:12, Jesus and his followers frequently met in this area.
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Is the book of Acts a collection of stories and legends about the lives of the apostles, or is it a trustworthy and reliable history of the earliest days of the church? Is there any external evidence that helps to corroborate its claims? Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions and more with Dr. Lydia McGrew, author of Hidden in Plain View: Undesigned Coincidences in the Gospels and Acts.
SHOW NOTES• Recommended books by Lydia McGrew: Hidden in Plain View, Testimonies to the Truth, and The Mirror & The Mask. Other recommended books: The Book of Acts in the Setting of Hellenistic History, by Colin Hemer, and The Book of Acts by F.F. Bruce.
• Related articles by Shane Rosenthal: “Can We Trust Luke’s History of the Early Jesus Movement?”, “On Faith & History”, “Authenticating The Fourth Gospel”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”, and “How to Detect Deception?”
• Related episodes: “Fake or Authentic? (1)”, “Fake or Authentic? (2)” “Faith Founded on Facts (1)”, “Faith Founded on Facts (2)”, “Faith & Certainty”
• The Humble Skeptic in association with ReThink315 will be hosting an apologetics event here in the St. Louis area in early April, 2024 featuring Greg Koukl, Jeremy Smith and Shane Rosenthal. Also, Shane will be leading a listener tour throughout Israel in the Fall of 2024. More information about both of these events will become available soon.
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In 1Pet. 3:15, Peter famously says, “Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that lies in you.” In many ways, this has become the standard prooftext for the apologetic enterprise, but have we really understood all that this verse has to teach us? Shane discusses this question and many other related issues with Jeremy Smith, the founder and president of ReThink315.
SHOW NOTES• For more information about Jeremy Smith and the mission of ReThink315, click here. For information about the upcoming “ReThink College Camp” at St. Louis University (July 18-21), featuring Shane Rosenthal, Jeremy Smith, Michael McClymond, Mike Farley, and many others, click here.
• Related episodes: “Questioning Your Faith”, “Religion on Trial”, “Dealing with Doubt”, “Greg Koukl on Blind Faith”, “Is Faith Irrational?” and “Is Faith Blind?”
• Related articles by Shane Rosenthal: “Recovering the Art of Persuasion”, “What is Faith?”, “On Faith & Doubt”, and “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”
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On this episode of The Humble Skeptic, Shane talks with Dr. Adam Duker about his interest in the study of comparative religion, as well as some of his unique experiences teaching this subject at The American University in Cairo. In particular, he relates a story that he was directly involved with a few years ago which became international news.
SHOW NOTES• To read a news article about Adam Duker by veteran journalist, Julia Duin, click here. To read a Fox News article related to this same news story, click here.
• Relevant episodes: “Questioning Your Faith”, “Religion on Trial”, “Dealing with Doubt”, “Greg Koukl on Blind Faith”, “Is Faith Irrational?” and “Is Faith Blind?”
• Relevant articles by Shane Rosenthal: “What is Faith?”, “How to Detect Deception”, “On Faith & Doubt”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?” and “Water into Wine?.”
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On this program Shane talks with Fikret Bocek who currently serves as the pastor of a Christian church in Izmir, Turkey. Fikret was raised as a Sunni Muslim, and during this episode he tells the story of the time in which he began to question his faith. In this process he began to explore both the Koran and the Bible, and ultimately this led to his conversion to Christianity.
SHOW NOTES• For more information about Fikret Bocek, click here. For information about Global Church Ministries, which he referenced at the end of this episode, click here.
• To listen to Shane’s interview with Sarabeth Kapusta referenced at the beginning of this episode, click here. You can also read her new essay, “Reconstructing My Faith.”
• Related episodes: “Religion on Trial”, “Dealing with Doubt”, “Greg Koukl on Blind Faith”, “Is Faith Irrational?”, “Is Faith Blind?”, and “Is Faith a Feeling?”
• Related articles by Shane Rosenthal: “What is Faith?”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”, “How to Detect Deception”, “On Faith & Doubt” and “On Faith & History.”
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On this episode, Shane talks with Sarabeth Kapusta about her experience growing up in a cult that in her words “masqueraded as a Baptist church.” Sarabeth is the host of Reconstructing Your Faith, which is a podcast designed to help those who’ve been affected by various forms of spiritual abuse.
SHOW NOTES• For more information about Sarabeth Kapusta’s podcast, click here. To listen to the two episodes of Reconstructing Your Faith featuring Shane Rosenthal, use these links: Part 1, and Part 2. When Sarabeth’s autobiographical essay becomes available, it will be linked here.
• Related episodes: “Dealing with Doubt”, “Greg Koukl on Blind Faith”, “Is Faith Irrational?”, “Is Faith Blind?”, “Is Faith a Feeling?”
• Related articles by Shane Rosenthal: “I believe—help my unbelief”, “Is Faith a Feeling?”, “On Faith & Doubt”, “What is Faith?”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”, “How to Detect Deception” and “On Faith & History.”
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Is it okay to question your faith or to express doubts about your religious convictions? On this episode, Shane explores a fascinating scene from Luke 7 in which John the Baptist questions whether Jesus is the promised Messiah. Shane discusses the implications of this passage with Greg Koukl and Alisa Childers, and he also hears from Sarabeth Kapusta of the Reconstructing Your Faith podcast who shares her experience of being raised in a cult where questions were off-limits and doubt was a sin.
SHOW NOTES• If you’d like to explore this topic further, be sure to check out Shane’s two-part article “On Faith & Doubt” referred to in this episode. Other related articles include: “What is Faith?”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”, “How to Detect Deception” and “On Faith & History.”
• Recommended books on this topic include, Faith is Not Wishing by Greg Koukl, Another Gospel by Alisa Childers, Faith That Doubts by Christina Heard, and What is Faith? by J. Gresham Machen.
• For more information about the guests who appear on this episode, use the following links: Greg Koukl (Stand to Reason), Alisa Childers (alisachilders.com), Sarabeth Kapusta (Reconstructing Your Faith — Shane will appear on episode #19).
• Support The Humble Skeptic podcast! To put something in the TIP JAR, click here, or consider upgrading to one of the paid subscription options via Substack by using the green button below. If you’d like your gift to be “tax-deductible,” click here for more information about that option.
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On this episode of The Humble Skeptic, Shane talks with Greg Koukl about the way faith is misunderstood in our day. In fact, he argues that the English word “faith” has evolved to such an extent that Christians should probably stop using it altogether. Greg is the founder and president of Stand to Reason and the author of The Story of Reality, Tactics, and Faith is Not Wishing.
SHOW NOTES• Resources by Greg Koukl: Faith Is Not Wishing, Tactics, The Story of Reality, and “Truth Is Not Ice Cream, Faith Is Not Wishing” (Audio Lecture).
• Related Humble Skeptic episodes: “Is Faith Irrational?”, “Is Faith Blind?”, “Is Faith a Feeling?”. To listen to an interview Shane recorded with Greg about his book Tactics, click here. To listen to an interview related to the problem of evil, click here.
• Recommended articles by Shane Rosenthal, “What is Faith?”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”, “On Faith & History”, “How to Detect Deception”, and “Authenticating The Fourth Gospel.”
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On this bonus edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane reads lessons 9 & 10 of Richard Whately’s Introduction to Christian Evidences.
SHOW NOTES • Click here to access an online version of Richard Whately’s Introduction to Christian Evidences. If you would like to obtain a paperback reprint, click here.
• Recommended articles by Shane Rosenthal, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?,” “How to Detect Deception,” “Authenticating The Fourth Gospel,” and “On Faith & History.”
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Most translations of the New Testament refer to Golgotha as “The Place of the Skull.” But is this correct? On this episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane Rosenthal talks with Egyptologist David Rohl about a variety of historical and textual clues that help us to better understand, not only the precise location of Golgotha, but also it’s meaning and significance.
SHOW NOTES• Recommended resources by Shane Rosenthal “Where Was Jesus Crucified?,” “How to Detect Deception,” “Authenticating The Fourth Gospel,” “Why Should We Believe The Bible?,” “On Faith & History.”
• Recommended books by David Rohl, Exodus: Myth or History,and Legendary Kings: The Real Bible Unearthed(which is currently only available in Kindle format)
• To see an image of the Joanna ossuary discovered in 1983, check out Shane’s lecture notes: “Who is Joanna?” To read a journal article about the discovery of the ossuary, click here. For further reading on this topic see: Gospel Women, by Richard Bauckham and Who Are Joanna & Theophilus, by Richard Anderson.
• To read the Journal of the American Medical Association article, “On The Physical Death of Jesus Christ” click here.
• Help support the work of The Humble Skeptic podcast! Click here to put something in the TIP JAR, or consider upgrading to one of the paid subscription options via Substack by using the green button below. If you’d like your gift to be “tax-deductible,” click here for information.
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On this episode, Shane continues weaving together various interviews he’s recorded on topics related to the reasons Christians can have confidence in the portrait of Jesus presented in the New Testament Gospels. During this podcast you’ll hear from Peter J. Williams, Richard Bauckham, John Dickson, and D.A. Carson, Craig Blomberg, Lydia McGrew, and Daniel Wallace.
SHOW NOTES• Click here to read Shane’s recent article, Authenticating The Fourth Gospel, andhere o read How to Detect Deception.
• Recommended books by Peter J. Williams: Can We Trust the Gospels?, and The Surprising Genius of Jesus.
• Recommended books by Richard Bauckham: Jesus & The Eyewitnesses (Second Edition), Jesus: A Very Short Introduction, and The Testimony of The Beloved Disciple.
• Recommended books by John Dickson: Is Jesus History?, and A Doubters Guide to Jesus.
• Recommended books by D.A. Carson: Introducing the New Testament, The Gospel According to John (Pillar NT Commentary), Commentary on the Old Testament Use of the New Testament, and The Intolerance of Tolerance.
• Recommended books by Craig Blomberg: Can We Still Believe the Bible? The Historical Reliability of the New Testament, The Historical Reliability of John’s Gospel.
• Recommended books by Lydia McGrew: Hidden in Plain View, The Eye of the Beholder, and Testimonies to The Truth: Why You Can Trust The Gospels.
• Recommended articles by Daniel Wallace, John 5:2 and The Date of The Fourth Gospel, John 5:2 (Part 2), Again, John 5:2 (Part 3).
• Help support the work of The Humble Skeptic podcast! Click here to put something in the TIP JAR, or consider upgrading to one of the paid subscription options via Substack by using the green button below. If you’d like your gift to be “tax-deductible,” click here for information.
The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
On this episode, Shane weaves together a number of interviews he’s recorded over the years on topics related to the Christian view of “faith,” how it’s grounded in the facts of the real world, and why we can be confident that it’s true. So during this podcast you’ll hear from scholars such as John Lennox, Peter J. Williams, Richard Bauckham, John Dickson, and D.A. Carson.
SHOW NOTES• Click here to get a copy of Shane’s PDF document, What is Faith?, and click here to read his recent article, Authenticating The Fourth Gospel.
• Recommended books by John Lennox: Can Science Explain Everything?, Gunning for God, Cosmic Chemistry, and Miracles: Is Belief in the Supernatural Irrational?
• Recommended books by Peter J. Williams: Can We Trust the Gospels?, and The Surprising Genius of Jesus.
• Recommended books by Richard Bauckham: Jesus & The Eyewitnesses (Second Edition), Jesus: A Very Short Introduction, and The Testimony of The Beloved Disciple.
• Recommended books by John Dickson: Is Jesus History?, and A Doubters Guide to Jesus.
• Recommended books by D.A. Carson: Introducing the New Testament, The Gospel According to John (Pillar NT Commentary), Commentary on the Old Testament Use of the New Testament, and The Intolerance of Tolerance.
• Help support the work of The Humble Skeptic podcast! Click here to put something in the TIP JAR, or consider upgrading to one of the paid subscription options via Substack by using the green button below. If you’d like your gift to be “tax-deductible,” click here for information.
Support The Humble Skeptic by becoming a paid subscriber.
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On this episode we’ll pick up where we left off last week with Egyptologist, David Rohl. During this part of the conversation, Shane talks with Dr. Rohl about various archaeological discoveries which he argues are connected to the lives Saul and David. Later in the program, the discussion shifts to the recent discovery of the Mt Ebal curse tablet, as well as to questions related to the history and chronology of events recorded in the New Testament.
SHOW NOTES• To order an English edition of The Amarna Letters, click here.
• To watch a series of videos featuring Scott Stripling’s discussion of the recently discovered Mt. Ebal curse tablet, use the following links: 1) The Altar, 2) Curses & Covenants, 3) The Name of God, 4) Translating, 5) Biblical Archaeology, 6) The Future
• To order a copy of David Rohl’s book, Legendary Kings (currently only available in Kindle format)click here; to order a copy of Exodus: Myth or History, click here.
• To order a series of lectures by David Rohl on video, click here. To order The Patterns of Evidence: Exodus documentary featuring Dr. Rohl, click here.
• To listen to Shane’s previous interviews with David Rohl, use the following links: 1) Exodus: Myth or History? and 2) The Search for the Historical Joseph
• Click here to read Shane’s article on “The Significance of Golgotha,” originally published in Modern Reformation magazine.
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On this episode, Shane tells the story of Egyptologist David Rohl by weaving together various interviews and audio clips over the past few decades related to his research into the New Chronology. In the second half of the program Shane talks with Dr. Rohl about a number of fascinating discoveries that he writes about in his latest book, Legendary Kings: The Real Bible Unearthed.
SHOW NOTES• To order a copy of David Rohl’s latest book, Legendary Kings, click here, and to order a copy of Exodus: Myth or History, click here.
• To order a video copy of some of David Rohl’s lectures, click here. To order The Patterns of Evidence: Exodus documentary featuring David Rohl, click here.
• If you’d like to listen to Shane’s previous interviews with David Rohl, you can find them here: 1) Exodus: Myth or History? and 2) The Search for the Historical Joseph
• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size, we’ll send you a 20 page PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. You can make your gift by upgrading to a paid subscription through Substack, or by using the tip jar below. If you’d like your gift to be “tax-deductible,” click here for information about this new option.
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On this episode, Shane interacts with statements made on a History Channel documentary about the reference to Jesus in the writings of Josephus. Some claim that the passage is a complete forgery, while others argue that the passage was mildly interpolated. So, outside the Gospels, what can we really know about Jesus from history? Do the Gospels qualify as history, or should they be set aside as works of religious propaganda?
SHOW NOTES• Click here to watch the complete episode of The Naked Archaeologist referred to on this episode.
• Click here to listen to the complete interview with Josephus scholar, Paul Maier
• Click here to listen to Shane’s interview with Daniel Boyarin, author of The Jewish Gospels.
• Click here to listen to Shane’s interview with Australian New Testament scholar, John Dickson concerning his book, Is Jesus History?• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size, we’ll send you a 20 page PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. You can make your gift by upgrading to a paid subscription through Substack, or by using the tip jar below.
• The Humble Skeptic in association with the Memphis Apologetics Group will be hosting a conferenceon Feb. 24-26 titled Questions of Faith. For more info, click here.
The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To help support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
How can we tell whether a painting signed by Claude Monet is authentic or not? Similarly, how can we know for certain that the New Testament Gospels aren’t fictional stories, but real historical accounts of the life of Jesus? On this episode, Shane Rosenthal continues his conversation of this subject with Dr. Lydia McGrew, author of Testimonies to the Truth: Why You Can Trust the Gospels.
SHOW NOTES• Click here to listen to an interview Shane conducted with Cambridge scholar, Peter Williams, on the topic of his book Can We Trust The Gospels?
• Click here to listen to Shane’s interview with Richard Bauckham, author of Jesus & The Eyewitnesses, on the topic of the reliability of John’s Gospel.
• Click here to listen to Shane’s conversation with New Testament scholar Daniel Wallace regarding an early date for John’s Gospel.• Click here to order a copy of Lydia McGrew’s new book, Testimonies to the Truth: Why You Can Trust the Gospels.
• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size, we’ll send you a 20 page PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. You can make your gift by upgrading to a paid subscription through Substack, or by using the tip jar below.
• The Humble Skeptic in association with the Memphis Apologetics Group will be hosting a conferenceon Feb. 24-26 titled Questions of Faith. For more info, click here.
The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To help support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
How can we know whether the New Testament Gospels are authentic accounts of the life of Jesus, as opposed to fictional documents written as a part of some larger hoax or conspiracy? Shane Rosenthal discusses this question with Dr. Lydia McGrew, author of Testimonies to the Truth: Why You Can Trust the Gospels.
SHOW NOTES• Click here to order a copy of Lydia McGrew’s new book, Testimonies to the Truth: Why You Can Trust the Gospels.• Click here to read an article by Shane Rosenthal that outlines his unique interpretation of the parable of The Rich Man & Lazarus.
• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size, we’ll send you a 20 page PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. You can make your gift by upgrading to a paid subscription through Substack, or by using the tip jar.
• For more info about The Humble Skeptic vision and how you can help, click here.
• The Humble Skeptic in association with the Memphis Apologetics Group will be hosting a conferenceon Feb. 24-26 titled Questions of Faith. For more info, click here.
• If you’re in the St. Louis area, consider attending the Friday Night Forum. Durin the next forum (March 3rd), Shane will discuss apparent contradictions in the Gospels (click here for the location).
The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
On this bonus edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane reads lessons 6 through 8 of Richard Whately’s Introduction to Christian Evidences.
SHOW NOTES • Click here to access an online version of Richard Whately’s Introduction to Christian Evidences. If you would like to obtain a paperback reprint, click here.
• Click here to read Shane’s article, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”
• For more info about The Humble Skeptic vision and how you can help, click here.
• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size, we’ll send you a 20 page PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. Click here to give, or you can also upgrade to a paid subscription through Substack by using the green button below
• Shane Rosenthal will be speaking in Memphis, TN at the Questions of Faith Conferenceon Feb. 24-26, 2023. For more information or to register for this event, click here.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
On this special bonus edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane continues reading selections from the Introduction to Christian Evidences by Richard Whately.
SHOW NOTES • Click here to access an online version of Richard Whately’s Introduction to Christian Evidences. If you would like to obtain a paperback reprint, click here.
• Click here to read Shane’s article, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”
• For more info about The Humble Skeptic vision and how you can help, click here.
• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size, we’ll send you a 20 page PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. Click here to give, or you can also upgrade to a paid subscription through Substack by using the green button below
• Shane Rosenthal will be speaking in Memphis, TN at the Questions of Faith Conferenceon Feb. 24-26, 2023. For more information or to register for this event, click here.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
On this episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast Shane explores the beliefs of the world’s first Christians through an in-depth investigation of the earliest Christian creed cited by Paul in 1st Corinthians 15.
SHOW NOTES• Click here to download a PDF document containing the Dead Sea Scroll material referenced during this episode.
• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size, we’ll send you a 20 page PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. You can give by upgrading to a paid subscription through Substack (see the bottom of this page), or by using the Tip Jar below.
• For more info about The Humble Skeptic vision and how you can help, click here.
• The Humble Skeptic in association with the Memphis Apologetics Group will be hosting a conferenceon Feb. 24-26 titled Questions of Faith. For more info, click here.
The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming paid subscriber.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
On this special bonus edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane Rosenthal plays some Beethoven and reads selections from the Introduction to Christian Evidences by Richard Whately.
SHOW NOTES • Program update: OFFICIAL episodes launch most Tuesdays — BONUS episodes most Fridays. FYI, sometime in the near future, the Friday bonus content will be available exclusively to paid subscribers.
• Click here to access an online version of Richard Whately’s Introduction to Christian Evidences. If you would like to obtain a paperback reprint, click here.
• Click here to read Shane’s article, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”
• For more info about The Humble Skeptic vision and how you can help, click here.
• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size, we’ll send you a 20 page PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. Click here to give, or you can also upgrade to a paid subscription through Substack by using the green button below
• Shane Rosenthal will be speaking in Memphis, TN at the Questions of Faith Conferenceon Feb. 24-26, 2023. For more information or to register for this event, click here.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
On this episode, Shane Rosenthal continues his conversation with Dr. Mike Farley of Covenant Seminary in St. Louis about the relationship between faith and proof. What does the Bible itself say about this issue, and how was faith promoted during the first few centuries of the Christian Church? That the focus of this edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast.
SHOW NOTES• To order a copy of Eusebius’ book, The Proof of The Gospel, click here. Also, if you would like to read an article related to the topic of this episode, check out Shane’s article, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”
• To download a PDF document containing the quotations from Justin Martyr, Eusebius, and Augustine which were read on this episode, click here (link will be active when the PDF becomes available).
• As a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size to help support this podcast, we’ll send you a 20 page downloadable copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. You can make your gift directly by clicking here, or you can also upgrade to a paid subscription through Substack using the green button below:
• The Humble Skeptic podcast in association with the Memphis Apologetics Group will be hosting a conference titled Questions of Faith on Feb. 24-26, 2023. This conference will be held at the Richland Association Reformed Presbyterian Church in Rosemark, TN, which is 25 minutes north of Memphis. For more information or to register for this event, click here.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
What is the relationship between faith and proof? Shane Rosenthal discusses this question with Dr. Mike Farley of Covenant Theological Seminary. How did the Israelites come to believe that Moses really spoke with God, and how did his writings become so authoritative among the ancient Hebrews? Was it just a leap of faith? That’s the focus of this edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast.
SHOW NOTESAs a way of saying thanks for your gift of any size to help support this podcast, we’ll send you a 20 page downloadable copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. There are currently two ways to give: 1) Make a gift directly to The Humble Skeptic by clicking here. 2) Upgrade to a paid subscription through Substack using the green button below.
If you would like to investigate the topic of this episode further, Shane wrote an article earlier this year titled, “Why Should We Believe the Bible?”
On Jan. 1st, 1923, the first modern megachurch opened its doors, complete with skits, and toe-tapping tunes. But what have been the effects of this century-long confusion between church and theatre? To find out, read Shane’s most recent article titled, “The Megachurch Century.”
If you’re a fan of The Humble Skeptic podcast, tell your friends about it and share episodes via social media. Also, if you still haven’t rated the show or written a review, please consider doing so today via the Apple podcast app (the more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get — and the next few weeks are crucial).
The Humble Skeptic podcast in association with the Memphis Apologetics Group will be hosting a conference titled Questions of Faith on Feb. 24-26, 2023. This conference will be held at the Richland Association Reformed Presbyterian Church in Rosemark, TN, which is 25 minutes north of Memphis.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
What do you believe about God and the afterlife? How certain are you that your beliefs are true, particularly when compared with all the other faith and worldview options that happen to be out there? Can we have certainty about our deepest convictions? On this edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions and more with Dr. Dennis Johnson, author of Journeys with Jesus, and Let’s Study Acts.
SHOW NOTESFor a gift of any amount, we’ll send you a 20 page downloadable copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal. There are currently two ways to give: 1) Make a gift directly to The Humble Skeptic by clicking here — these gifts are not currently tax deductible, but this option will become available soon! 2) Upgrade to a paid subscription through Substack using the green button below.
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The Humble Skeptic podcast in association with the Memphis Apologetics Group will be hosting a conference titled Questions of Faith on Feb. 24-26, 2023. This conference will be held at the Richland Association Reformed Presbyterian Church in Rosemark, TN, which is 25 minutes north of Memphis. Click here for more information (though the conference is free, registration is required).
The lengthy quote from Princeton New Testament scholar, J. Gresham Machen was adapted from a series of lectures he delivered to the Bible League of Great Britain in 1932. This material was later published under the title, The Importance of Christian Scholarship which you can find here. These lectures were later reprinted and included in The Selected Shorter Writings of J. Gresham Machen as well as What is Christianity?
Dennis Johnson has written two books related to the book of Acts: The Message of Acts in the History of Redemption, and Let’s Study Acts. Also, his bookJourneys with Jesus is a very helpful introduction to reading the entire Bible in a Christ-centered way.
If you’re a fan of this podcast and you still haven’t rated the show or written a review, please consider doing so today via the Apple podcast app (the more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get — and the next few weeks are crucial).
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On this special Christmas edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane takes a break from his current series on “Questions of Faith” and plays a Christmas sermon he recently preached on Micah chapter 5.
SHOW NOTESFor a gift of any size (using the tip jar above), we’ll send you a PDF copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal.
If you’re interested in reading an introductory book that encourages readers to find Christ in all of Scripture, we highly recommend, Journeys with Jesus: Every Path in the Bible Leads us to Christ, by Dennis Johnson (click here to order).
To order a copy of The Life & Times of Jesus The Messiah, by Alfred Edersheim, click here. Every serious Bible reader should own a copy of this indispensable resource.
To find out more about The Humble Skeptic vision and how you can help, click here.
A special thank you to Providence Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Troy, IL for granting permission to use the recorded audio file of this particular sermon, which was preached on Dec. 11th, 2022.
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In his book, Religion on Trial, Craig Parton says that “Religions are worldviews. They claim to address the primary questions of our existence—where we came from, where we are going, and why we are going where we are going.” In that sense he says, “Everyone is religious, because everyone has a worldview, even if that worldview is that we came from a totally purposeless beginning and are returning to dust.” But, how can we determine whether a given worldview happens to be true? That’s the focus of this special bonus episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast.
SHOW NOTES
For a gift of any size (using the tip jar above), we’ll send you a copy of What is Faith? by Shane Rosenthal.
To listen to a White Horse Inn conversation featuring Shane Rosenthal, Craig Parton and others on the eyewitness testimony found in the Fourth Gospel, click here.
To order a copy of Religion on Trial by Craig Parton, click here.
To order a copy of The Testimony of The Evangelists by Simon Greenleaf, click here.
To read an online edition of A Brief Outline of The Evidences of The Christian Religion by Archibald Alexander, click here.
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According to most of the Christians Shane recently interviewed, faith isn’t based on external facts or evidence, but is actually thought of as an internal subjective feeling or experience. But is this idea biblical? Does the Bible teach that faith is related to our feelings? That’s the question we’ll be exploring on this episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast.
SHOW NOTES
To receive a downloadable PDF copy of What is Faith?, by Shane Rosenthal throw a few bucks in the tip jar here.
To order a copy of Craig Parton’s book Religion on Trial, click here.
To order a copy of Habits of The Heart by Robert Bellah, et al, click here.
To read the transcript of a lecture that Robert Bellah gave related to his sociological research for Habits of The Heart, click here.
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Most of the people Shane recently polled at a number of Christian gatherings seemed to think that faith is a blind leap. But is this idea really taught in the Bible? On this episode we’ll examine the texts that some people use in support of blind faith in order to understand why this belief is so common among Christians in our time.
SHOW NOTES
For a gift of any amount, we’ll send you a downloadable PDF document titled “What is Faith?” as soon as it becomes available. You can give via the tip jar above, or you can also receive this free offer by becoming a paid subscriber to The Humble Skeptic podcast using the button below.
The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To help with the launch, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe
New atheists such as Richard Dawkins and others frequently claim that “faith is the absence of evidence,” but is this really the case? On this episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane Rosenthal takes a deep dive into the true definition of faith and interacts with a variety of different perspectives.
SHOW NOTES (if you’re viewing this outside of Substack go to tinyurl.com/hs02notes)
For a gift of any amount, we’ll send you a downloadable PDF document titled “What is Faith?” as soon as it becomes available. You can give via the tip jar above, or you can also receive the free offer by subscribing to The Humble Skeptic podcast using the button below.
If you would like to listen to Shane’s full interview with Australian historian, John Dickson, click here to access this WHI episode.
The audio clip featuring Greg Koukl was taken from a lecture titled “Truth Is Not Ice Cream, Faith Is Not Wishing” which you can order here. Greg has also written a very helpful book titled Faith Is Not Wishing.
Below is the Google nGram chart referenced on this episode. This tool chart the occurrence of words or phrases in all the scanned books that Google has in its database. The graph below illustrates the fact that the phrases “blind faith” and “leap of faith,” came to prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries.
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On this pilot episode, Shane Rosenthal discusses what it means to be a "humble skeptic," and tells a story that helps to explain his overall approach for this new podcast.
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