In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson, president and founder of the Center for Hebraic Thought, explains the concept of Hebraic thought and its enduring relevance. Hosted by Mike Tolliver, the discussion explores how the biblical authors understood and conveyed ideas about freedom, justice, morality, and the nature of reality. Dr. Johnson defines Hebraic thought as the intellectual framework reflected in the Hebrew Bible and extended into the New Testament. The conversation highlights the distinctiveness of Hebraic thought compared to Greek and modern Western philosophy. Dr. Johnson emphasizes that the biblical authors often prioritized restoration and community over punitive justice, demonstrating a wisdom-centered approach to ethics and relationships. The discussion also clarifies common misconceptions, distinguishing Hebraic thought from later Jewish philosophical traditions and situating it as a foundational framework for understanding scripture. Dr. Johnson addresses how Hebraic thought can inform contemporary issues, from justice to scientific inquiry, by offering a conceptual foundation rooted in scripture. He also introduces his upcoming projects, including a book on Hebraic philosophy of science, aimed at bridging ancient biblical insights with modern intellectual challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:26 Understanding Hebraic Thought 04:04 The Distinction of Hebraic Thought 06:34 Hebraic Thought in Historical Context 08:06 Paul and the Greco-Roman Influence 09:55 Philosophical Misunderstandings of Hebraic Thought 12:05 Biblical Scholars and Hebraic Thought 14:51 Cross-Pollination of Disciplines 17:50 Hebraic Thought in Everyday Ethics 22:37 Cultural Forces Against Understanding 24:59 Community Engagement with Scripture 27:32 Exploring Hebraic Thought and Darwin 32:00 The Conceptual Worlds of Natural Selection 33:46 Reception of the Book and Future Implications 34:23 Exploring Hebraic Thought and Science 38:36 The Intersection of Logic, Math, and Science

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Brent Strawn, author of "The Old Testament is Dying," highlights the troubling neglect of the Old Testament in modern Christianity. He argues that this oversight leads to a diminishing scriptural literacy and a superficial faith. Dr. Strawn emphasizes the need for immersion in the Old Testament to truly understand concepts like justice and covenant. He proposes practical solutions for revitalizing its teachings in worship and everyday practice, ultimately calling for a deeper engagement with these foundational texts.

This episode was originally published on April 2, 2021. We thought it was worth a reissue for our newer listeners. In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson sits down with Dr. Joseph Dodson to explore the intersection of Greco-Roman philosophy, Stoicism, and Hebraic thought in shaping the New Testament. Dr. Dodson explains how the Bible didn’t emerge in a vacuum but within a dynamic cultural context influenced by Judaism and Greco-Roman ideas. The discussion highlights Stoicism, the dominant philosophy of the first century, which emphasized overcoming passions, achieving contentment, and the transformative power of reason. Dr. Dodson demonstrates how Stoic principles overlap with Christian teachings, as seen in Paul’s writings and the Gospel of John, which incorporates philosophical concepts like the Logos. He also examines how biblical authors adapted, affirmed, and challenged these ideas to articulate a distinctly Hebraic worldview. Dr. Dodson emphasizes the importance of studying texts like the Apocrypha and Greco-Roman writings to fully grasp the intellectual milieu of early Christianity. He explains how Jewish and Hellenistic ideas coexisted in a “roundabout,” influencing each other in profound ways. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hebraic and Greco-Roman Thought 04:09 The Influence of Stoicism on New Testament Texts 13:32 Philosophical Foundations: Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle 20:01 The Interplay of Hellenistic and Hebrew Intellectualism 29:00 Recommended Readings for Understanding Context

In this continuation of their conversation, Dr. Dru Johnson speaks with Rabbi Dr. Shai Held about the themes explored in his book, Judaism is About Love. The discussion delves into the complexities of love, law, and chosenness within Jewish thought, offering a profound perspective on the relationship between particularity and universalism. Rabbi Held addresses the idea of divine chosenness, emphasizing that God’s love for Israel is unique but not exclusive. He critiques modern rejections of chosenness as caricatured and argues for a theology that balances grace with humility. Rabbi Held also explores the tension between loving one’s own and extending love universally. He describes Judaism’s “particularist universalism,” where love for one’s family and community naturally expands to encompass all humanity as bearers of God’s image. The conversation turns to the ethics of love, including the challenges of enemy love and the discernment required to navigate complex relationships. Rabbi Held shares deeply personal stories that illustrate the real-life implications of these ideas, demonstrating how love can be both demanding and transformative. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:13 The Concept of Divine Love for Israel 08:02 The Obligation to Love Neighbors 13:18 Understanding Love for Enemies 20:16 Navigating Complex Questions of Love 24:38 Reflections on the Book and Its Impact

Rabbi Dr. Shai Held, president and dean of the Hadar Institute, explores the profound connection between love and law in Judaism. He argues that Jewish commandments are not mere rules but pathways to cultivate love for God and others. Through examples, he illustrates how practices like loving the stranger embody this belief. The discussion also highlights the importance of Jewish rituals and their role in fostering community through love. Held’s blend of traditional and modern interpretations offers an accessible glimpse into Jewish spirituality.

Welcome to the final installment of this podcast series on the past, present, and future of the Center for Hebraic Thought! In this episode, hosts Dru Johnson and Mike Tolliver turn their attention to you, the audience, asking for your thoughts, questions, and suggestions as the Center grows and evolves. We explore exciting possibilities, including new video content for YouTube, packaged resources for community groups and classrooms, and fresh scholarship on topics like the philosophical elements of Moses and Plato, the significance of the Old Testament calendar, and even Hebraic perspectives on modern questions like tattoos. Join us as we discuss our plans to equip learners, from churchgoers to Bible college students, with meaningful and accessible resources for a lifetime of engaging with Hebraic thought. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:01 More of What We Are Already Doing 04:16 Some New Things For The Center For Hebraic Thought Audience 04:53 More Resources For The Biblical Mind Audience 06:56 Questions We've Never Answered On The Show 08:27 How To Get Us These Questions

In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson introduces Mike Tolliver, the new Executive Director of the Center for Hebraic Thought (CHT). Together, they discuss exciting developments for the Center following its recent relaunch as an independent 501(c)(3). Mike shares his academic background in theology and philosophy, highlighting his passion for Hebraic thought and its integration into biblical scholarship. The episode outlines the formalization of the CHT’s two primary initiatives: the Center for Hebraic Thought, aimed at scholars, and The Biblical Mind, tailored for the broader church and theological students. Plans include commissioning new scholarly work, providing free, high-quality resources for churches and classrooms, and launching tightly packaged multimodal courses. A key highlight is the introduction of a PhD scholarship fund for students in the humanities focusing on Hebraic thought. The Center also plans to expand its offerings to scholars, such as broader platforms for publishing and improved compensation. Additional goals include an annual conference and a redesigned, user-friendly website. The episode concludes with an announcement of the CHT’s first capital campaign, designed for micro-donors to participate. Mike emphasizes strategy and collaboration as central to the Center’s future success, ensuring its ability to serve both academic and non-academic audiences effectively. Chapters 00:27 Introduction 01:21 Mike Tolliver's Background 02:50 Discussing the Changes That Are Coming for the Center 05:40 The Mission as an Independent Non-Profit 06:58 The Immediate Changes

Dr. Dru Johnson shares the inspiring story of the Center for Hebraic Thought, highlighting its mission to decode the biblical authors' unique insights. The sudden closure of King's College led to personal upheaval, but it also opened doors for exciting new initiatives. New Executive Director Mike Tolliver brings fresh perspectives for the center’s relaunch as an independent entity. With a promising future ahead, Johnson hints at innovative projects that aim to deepen our understanding of the connection between the Old and New Testaments.

Mark Glanville discusses the importance of improvising church and being open to the spirit's call. The conversation includes topics such as reimagining church leadership, connecting church worship with neighborhood identity, and the significance of local roots and aesthetics in church settings.

Discussions on the decline of reading, the role of books in Christian discipleship, and the importance of wise recommendations. Trends in Christian publishing towards social justice and contemplative spirituality. The impact of online marketing on bookstores and the value of physical spaces for lifelong learning.