Mind-Blowing Bible Study (Dr. Scott Hahn) | Ep. 483

This book chronicles the conversion of Scott and Kimberly Hahn from devout Protestants to Catholicism. Scott, a former Presbyterian minister and top student in his seminary class, and Kimberly, a theology student and daughter of a Protestant minister, share their experiences of spiritual struggle and theological discovery. The book highlights their journey, including Scott's conversion in 1986 and Kimberly's in 1990, and discusses key theological themes such as covenant theology and the importance of family. It is written with simplicity, charity, and wit, reflecting their deep love and knowledge of Christ and Scripture.

Brent Petrie's "Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist" explores the historical and theological connections between the Jewish Passover and the Christian Eucharist. Petrie examines the Jewish traditions and practices surrounding the Passover meal, demonstrating how Jesus' Last Supper was deeply rooted in these customs. He argues that understanding these roots enhances our appreciation of the Eucharist's significance. The book is well-researched and provides a fresh perspective on a central Christian sacrament. It's a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Eucharist's origins and meaning.

Brent Petrie's "Jesus and the Jewish Roots of Mary" delves into the life of Mary, mother of Jesus, within its Jewish cultural and historical context. Petrie examines the role of women in first-century Judaism, highlighting Mary's unique position and significance. He explores the Old Testament prophecies and traditions that foreshadow Mary's role in salvation history. The book offers a fresh perspective on Mary's life and her importance in Christian theology. It's a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Mary's place within the Jewish and Christian traditions.

In 'Theology and Sanity', Frank J. Sheed defines sanity as living mentally in the real world and argues that some important elements of reality can only be known through theology. The book is divided into three sections: the first treats God as the human mind might discover Him, the second discusses the universe God made, particularly humanity, and the third considers what the life of man should be given the reality of the age. Sheed emphasizes that true theology, enlightened by faith, gives us a share in God’s own knowledge and transforms one’s outlook on reality[3][5].

In this book, Neil Postman argues that the contemporary world is more akin to Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World' than George Orwell's '1984'. Postman contends that television's emphasis on entertainment has led to a decline in rational discourse and the trivialization of politics, education, and religion. He contrasts the print-based culture of the 19th century with the televisual culture of the 20th century, highlighting how the medium of television inherently promotes incoherence and triviality, turning serious information into a form of entertainment.

In this book, Scott Hahn reveals a long-lost secret of the Church: the early Christians' key to understanding the mysteries of the Mass was the New Testament Book of Revelation. With its bizarre imagery, mystic visions of heaven, and end-of-time prophecies, Revelation mirrors the sacrifice and celebration of the Eucharist. Hahn helps readers see the Mass with new eyes, pray the liturgy with a renewed heart, and enter into the Mass more fully, enthusiastically, intelligently, and powerfully than ever before.

Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible. The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism. He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden. The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis. The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence[2][4][5].

The Fulfillment of All Desire by Ralph Martin offers a comprehensive guide to the spiritual journey, drawing on the teachings of seven prominent Catholic mystics: St. Augustine, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. Francis de Sales, and St. Therese of Lisieux. The book outlines three stages of spiritual growth: the purgative, illuminative, and unitive stages, providing insights into the challenges and joys of the spiritual life.

In *Consuming the Word*, Scott Hahn examines the historical and theological connections between the Eucharist and the New Testament. He argues that the New Testament was initially a sacrament, specifically the Eucharist, before it became a collection of documents. This perspective offers profound insights into how Catholics understand and engage with scripture and liturgy. The book is part of the broader context of the New Evangelization, aiming to deepen understanding of Catholic practices and traditions.

In 'How to Be Happy', Matt Fradd explores the concept of true happiness through the lens of St. Thomas Aquinas. The book argues that lasting happiness does not come from power, pleasure, popularity, or possessions, but rather from virtues and a deeper understanding of human purpose. By making Aquinas' thought accessible, Fradd offers a practical guide to living a good life.

Theological Dimensions of the Liturgy is a detailed treatise on the theology of liturgy, offering insights into the nature and significance of liturgical practices within the Catholic Church. The book provides a thorough analysis of liturgical theology, emphasizing its role in Christian worship and spiritual life.

This book by Laurence A. Turner examines the narrative blocks in Genesis, focusing on how introductory statements or 'announcements' set the stage for the plots that follow. It provides insights into the literary structure and thematic development within the book of Genesis. First published in 1990, it remains a valuable resource for biblical studies.

The 'Catena Aurea' is a masterpiece of Patristic commentary on the Gospels, compiled by Thomas Aquinas at the request of Pope Urban IV. It provides a detailed, phrase-by-phrase analysis of the Gospels through the insights of early Church Fathers, serving as a valuable resource for understanding the Sacred Scriptures. The work was translated into English by John Henry Newman in 1841, making it accessible to a broader audience.

The 'Moralia in Job' is a major work by Gregory the Great, written between 578 and 595. It is a commentary on the Book of Job, using allegory to explore Christian doctrine from Creation to final Judgment. The work is divided into 35 books and has been influential in Western Christianity, shaping the thought of medieval theologians like St. Thomas Aquinas.

Breaking the Bread is a devotional that helps Catholics enhance their experience of the Mass by providing insightful reflections on Sunday Mass readings, along with passages from the Catechism to deepen understanding and faith. It includes short prayers to foster a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

This book explores how historical criticism and secularization of scripture evolved over time, particularly from the 14th to the 17th century. It examines key figures like William of Ockham and Machiavelli, highlighting their influence on biblical interpretation. The authors argue that these developments have led to a more secular approach to scripture, often disconnecting it from its ecclesial context.

Augustine's De Doctrina Christiana is a foundational text on Christian doctrine, offering insights into the interpretation of Scripture and the nature of Christian teaching.

Eugenio Zolli's 'The Nazarene' is a scholarly work that examines the New Testament, offering insights into Jesus Christ from a Jewish viewpoint. Initially written as a rabbi, Zolli later emphasized the harmony between the Old and New Testaments after his conversion to Catholicism.