What if the Bible was meant to be heard instead of read? Dr. Dru Johnson reveals how listening transforms our understanding of Scripture, exposing literary structures that resonate better through sound. He argues for the communal experience of Scripture, which enriches retention and interpretation. Drawing from ancient traditions, the discussion highlights how reclaiming auditory engagement can reshape modern worship by placing Scripture at the heart of the experience.

What if much of what we believe about the end times is shaped more by modern speculation than by biblical theology? In this episode, Dr. Matthew L. Halsted joins The Biblical Mind Podcast to debunk common misconceptions about eschatology, including the rapture, the mark of the beast, and the role of the Middle East in biblical prophecy. Halsted and Dru Johnson explore how American Christianity has often read Revelation through a me-centered lens, focusing on personal fears rather than the broader biblical narrative of renewal and justice. They discuss the history of end-times speculation, tracing it from the 16th century to modern prophecy teachers, and why discipline in reading scripture is crucial to avoiding theological confusion. Drawing from his book The End of the World as We Know It, Halsted unpacks how early Christians understood eschatology and why the Bible’s emphasis is not on escaping the world but on God’s renewal of creation. For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought/ X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:03 Understanding Eschatology in American Christianity 10:19 What Happens When You Die? 16:59 The Nature of Post-Mortem Existence 28:25 Its The End of The World As We Know It 29:06 Pandemic Fears and Speculations 31:17 The Mark of the Beast and Public Response 33:45 Dispensationalism, The Rapture, and Tim Lahaye 38:23 Rapture Theology and Its Implications 45:53 Political Dimensions of Eschatology 50:47 Future Projects and Research Directions

How does the Bible interpret itself? In this episode, Dr. Brent Strawn joins The Biblical Mind Podcast to explore intertextuality—the ways biblical authors intentionally or unconsciously connect their writings to earlier texts. Strawn breaks down different types of intertextuality, from direct citations (like Jesus quoting Psalm 22) to subtle patterns that only emerge when we read scripture holistically. Together with Dru Johnson, Strawn unpacks how intertextuality deepens biblical meaning and why recognizing these connections can transform the way we understand scripture. They also discuss the surprising link between Solomon and the Mark of the Beast (666) and how Revelation critiques imperial power using the legacy of Israel’s wealthiest king. Strawn argues that biblical authors weren’t just making random allusions—they were teaching us how to read scripture well. If we can recognize these hyperlinks, we can move beyond surface-level readings and grasp the depth of biblical theology. Give to the cause! https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought/ X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:14 Understanding Intertextuality: Strong vs. Weak 02:07 The Unintentional Connections Between Texts 05:13 Patterns in Biblical Texts: A Deeper Look 08:08 Intertextuality and Its Interpretive Significance 11:10 Criteria for Evaluating Intertextual Connections 14:30 The Importance of Context in Scripture 17:19 The Dangers of Thin Intertextual Links 20:28 Exploring the Number 666 in Biblical Texts 26:13 Intertextuality and Biblical Texts 29:22 The Beast and Solomon: A Biblical Connection 33:13 Activating the Biblical Imagination 39:32 The Role of Scripture in Shaping Virtue 44:29 Hyperlinks in Revelation and Cultural References

What if Christian nationalism isn’t a head problem but a heart problem? In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Dru Johnson speaks with Caleb Campbell, author of Disarming Leviathan, about the rise of Christian nationalism in America and how Christians can engage this movement missionally rather than combatively. Campbell discusses the anxieties that drive people to embrace Christian nationalism, highlighting the fear of pluralism, the longing for safety, and the allure of worldly power. Drawing from his experience as a pastor and cultural observer, he argues that many Christian nationalists are not inherently motivated by hatred but by a deep desire for rest and stability in a changing world. The conversation delves into themes of hospitality, humble subversion, and the transformative power of the cross, challenging listeners to rethink how they approach those with opposing views. Campbell offers practical steps for engaging Christian nationalists, emphasizing the need for curiosity, safety, and scripture-centered dialogue. Find Caleb E. Campbell at: Instagram handle: https://www.instagram.com/revcalebcampbell Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/caleb.campbell2 X profile: https://www.twitter.com/calebphx Bluesky profile: https://bsky.app/profile/revcalebcampbell.bsky.social Find Disarming Leviathan at: https://www.ivpress.com/disarming-leviathan For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought/ X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:03 Exploring the Good Impulses of Christian Nationalism 10:18 The Dilemma of Power: Christian Leadership in Politics 23:22 Christian Nationalism: Ideology and Identity 32:23 The Means vs. The Ends: A Christian Perspective on Power 33:25 The Call for Unity and Protection 34:26 Christian Nationalism: A Critical Examination 35:22 Navigating Leadership as a Christian 36:44 The Role of Scripture in Decision Making 38:57 The Complexity of Power Dynamics 39:54 The Dilemma of Political Engagement 42:48 The Duality of Christian Identity 44:41 The Dangers of Christian Nationalism 47:39 Personal Experiences with Christian Nationalism 51:11 A Shift in Perspective: From Combat to Mission 54:43 Practical Steps for Engagement 57:47 Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue 01:00:30 The Importance of Humility in Conversations

Rabbi Dr. Ari Lamm, an expert in Hebrew Bible interpretations, presents a fascinating take on the Joseph narrative, arguing that his brothers never actually sold him into slavery. He explores the minimalist storytelling and key Hebrew motifs in the text, linking them to themes of rejection and familial dynamics. The discussion highlights Joseph's emotional journey and the moral development of characters like Judah and Reuben. Lamm invites listeners to re-evaluate traditional interpretations and appreciate the richness of the biblical narrative.

Mike Tolliver, a prominent co-host and thinker in Hebraic studies, joins Dr. Dru Johnson to discuss the evolution and future of Hebraic thought. They dive into recent scholarly advancements, unveiling notable works like Beryl Dove Lerner's exploration of divine interactions and Michael Rhodes' take on justice. The conversation highlights vital resources, including The Bible Project, and addresses the challenge of oversaturated content in the field. Looking forward, they advocate for collaborative scripture study and innovative online courses to enrich understanding and engagement.

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