

BONUS EPISODE - Galatians Conversation with Dr. John Monson
Aug 9, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Dr. John Monson, a Harvard PhD and expert in Holy Land archaeology, brings a wealth of knowledge from his unique upbringing in Jerusalem. He and the hosts dive into the Apostle Paul's subversive ministry techniques and the emotional weight behind his farewells. They explore Galatians' profound themes of faith versus law, highlighting Abraham's significance. The conversation also touches on transformative visions in early Christianity and the geographical importance of places like Jaffa and Caesarea, enriching our understanding of biblical narratives.
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Episode notes
Hebrew Hitchhiker Conversation
- John Monson picked up a Hebrew-speaking hitchhiker and debated Isaiah and the Messiah in modern Hebrew during the ride.
- He asked the man as a favor to read the Gospel of Matthew in modern Hebrew afterward.
Galatians Precedes Romans
- John Monson describes Galatians as an early, compressed articulation of Paul's gospel.
- He sees Romans as the full flowering of that thought with greater nuance.
Paul's Strategic Urgency
- Matt Whitman argues Paul wrote Galatians under pressure while he lacked direct access to the Galatian churches.
- He sees Paul shrewdly preempting Judaizer objections while regaining theological footing.