The Theopolis Podcast Episode 847: The Divine Council, Michael Heiser, and the Nephilim - with Peter Leithart, Chris Kou, and James Bejon
Jan 8, 2026
Peter Leithart chats with Chris Kou, a theology intern focused on the divine council, and James Bejon, an astute theological questioner. They dive into Michael Heiser's concepts of the divine council and its members, exploring intriguing biblical scenes from Psalm 82 and Isaiah 6. Chris argues for a nuanced understanding of the council’s role in divine consultation and humanity's intended participation. The discussion even touches on the enigmatic Nephilim, drawing connections to figures like Samson and Shamgar as divine interventions.
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Divine Council Defined
- The divine council is the assembly of created beings that attend God's throne and both advise and carry out his commands.
- Chris Kou emphasizes this as a recurring biblical court scene rather than a modern novelty.
Psalm 82 As Courtroom Scene
- Psalm 82 functions as a heavenly court scene where God stands among the 'gods' and pronounces judgment.
- Kou treats Psalm 82 as central evidence for a biblical divine-council motif.
Elohim Vs. Malak Distinction
- Michael Heiser reads the council-members as Elohim (gods) and treats 'malak' (angel) as functional rather than ontological.
- Kou summarizes Heiser: Elohim are spirit-realm beings who may function as messengers (malak).
