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.

Expert Adam Graber discusses the impact of technology on humanity, highlighting the influence of smartphones and key technologies. The conversation delves into the balance between screen time and creativity, the concerns and benefits of AI, biases in AI systems, and the use of AI in data analysis for Bible study. It emphasizes the need for critical evaluation and the limitations of AI interpretation.

Preston Sprinkle, an expert in biblical views on sexuality and LGBTQ+ advocate, discusses his journey into the LGBTQ+ communities, theologies, and conversations. He explores his convictions about biblical views on sexuality. Preston and Dru also talk about the theology of podcasting, who should be doing it, and the impact podcasting has on fostering intimacy and changing minds.

Stephen T. Pardue, author of Why Evangelical Theology Needs the Global Church, discusses the influence of Christianity beyond the Western world, cultural differences and objections towards embracing diversity, the geographical and cultural diversity of biblical literature, the importance of engaging with the whole church, and concerns and encouragements for the American church.

Audio editing (and strategic bleeping) by John Viinalass. In the first half of this extra long episode: We discuss the strange biography of Ben "Doc" Askins, from combat medic to seminary student to Army physician's assistant (PA) to Psychiatric PA researching psychedelic medicine and trauma.    In the second half of this extra long episode: We discuss if there is an appropriate roll for various drugs, including psychedelics and MDMA, in assisting the dying, integrating traumas, and more. We also figure out what a "bad trip" on LSD might be.