The Naked Bible Podcast

Revelation 15 and 16 deal with the seven bowl judgments meted out against all those who follow the Beast. The passage contains several images drawn from the Old Testament that telegraph the victory of Jesus and the Father over the Beast and the chaos system of Babylon. This episode explores those systems and the connections between the bowls and other Old Testament chaos enemies. The effect of the judgments is to cleanse the earth of chaos, preparing it to once again be sacred space to be re- occupied by its rightful Lord, the returned Christ.

Dr. Michael F. Bird, a prominent New Testament scholar and Academic Dean at Ridley College, shares his transformative journey from skepticism to faith. He discusses reclaiming evangelical identity, emphasizing the need for a gospel-centered theology amid contemporary challenges. The interplay between culture and Christianity is explored, urging critical examination of belief origins. Bird critiques dominant atonement theories, advocating for healing and redemption, and highlights the importance of accessible theological literature for both scholars and laypeople.

Dr. Heiser answers your questions. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SHOW HERE ON PATREON OR HERE ON PAYPAL

Messiah Son of Joseph with Dr. David Mitchell Christians know Jesus as the messianic son of David. The fact that the messiah is referred to by other titles and terms (e.g., Servant, Branch, Root) is also well known. But there is one title or trajectory about the Jewish messiah that is relatively unknown, save to a handful of rabbinic teachers who intentionally do not want attention paid to it. That trajectory is the Messiah son of Joseph. In this episode we discuss this topic with Dr. David Mitchell, perhaps the solitary scholar who has brought all the relevant ancient “Josephite Messiah” material together into one book. Dr. Mitchell writes extensively of how Jewish sources such as the Talmud speak of a figure called Messiah ben Joseph, who comes forth from Galilee to die, pierced by his enemies at the gate of Jerusalem, whose death confounds Satan, atones for sin, and abolishes death itself.  Books David C. Mitchell, Messiah ben Joseph (Campbell Publications, 2016) David C. Mitchell, Jesus: The Incarnation of the Word (Campbell Publications, 2021) David Mitchell homepage

The Psalms and Eschatology with Dr. David Mitchell Many Bible readers have wondered, and perhaps suspected, that there is a logic to the ordering of the Psalter, the Book of Psalms. Surely the material cannot be random. In this episode of the podcast we discuss this topic with Dr. David C. Mitchell. Our conversations serves to introduce listeners to Dr. Mitchell’s scholarly work that argues that the Psalter is arranged to tell the story of a “once and future” king of Israel, opposition to that king (and his people) by the nations, the death of that king, the king’s subsequent rise in victory over the nations, the redemption of Israel, and the re-gathering of the nations to worship Yahweh on Zion at the Feast of Tabernacles. Book: David C. Mitchell, The message of the Psalter: an eschatological programme in the Book of Psalms. JSOTSup 252; Sheffield Academic Press, 1997; now republished (self-published and available on Amazon) David Mitchell homepage

Exploring Revelation 14, the podcast delves into Old Testament imagery of judgment, the symbols of Babylon and Rome, and the consequences of bearing the mark of the Beast. Discussions on divine judgment, eternal torment, and the identity of figures bring depth to the apocalyptic themes. The analysis of apocalyptic hyperbole, Old Testament allusions, and Jewish messianic traditions adds layers to the rich narrative of Revelation 14.

The podcast delves into Revelation 13, exploring the symbolism of the two beasts linked to chaos and rebellion. It draws parallels with Old Testament references like Leviathan and Behemoth. Discussions include interpretations of buying and selling, theological imagery of the mark, and speculations about the identity of the anti-Christ. The hosts intertwine ancient prophecies with modern-day themes, providing an engaging look into the complex allegorical representations in Revelation.

Explore the imagery in Revelation 12, discussing the woman, the messiah child, and Satan's response. Unpack the significance of numbers and symbols, connecting them to Old Testament contexts. Delve into the symbolism of the woman and dragon, drawing parallels with deliverance themes. Analyze the intricate language and references in Revelation 12, highlighting the connection to Old Testament narratives.

Explore the identities and symbolism of the two witnesses in Revelation 11. Dive into the significance of the measuring rod and the temple of God. Unravel the mysteries of solar and lunar calendars in biblical prophecy. Delve into the symbolic nature of the two witnesses and the spiritual interpretation of their role. Challenge traditional interpretations of the figures as symbols of God's people. Connect biblical prophecies, New Testament theology, and historical events for nuanced insights.

Dr. Heiser answers your questions. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SHOW HERE ON PATREON OR HERE ON PAYPAL