The Biblical Mind

Dr. Jeffrey Arroyo García, an archaeologist specializing in first-century Judaism, shares insights from his excavations at El-Araj, believed to be biblical Bethsaida. He discusses how archaeological findings reshape our understanding of the Gospels. Jeffrey critiques the portrayal of Pharisees in The Chosen, pointing out visual 'othering' through color choices that echo harmful anti-Jewish stereotypes. He emphasizes the importance of nuanced depictions of Pharisees and how they relate to historical and modern interpretations of Judaism.

Rachel Booth Smith, an author and pastor known for her work on Genesis and Sabbath, dives deep into ancient creation narratives alongside host Dru Johnson. She reinterprets Genesis, framing it not as a tale of origins but as God's enthronement, where rest signifies divine reign rather than simple relief from labor. Smith explores how comparing biblical texts to Egyptian and Hittite myths can enrich faith. She emphasizes the seven-day structure as a sacred rhythm, asserting that understanding rest fosters trust in God's sovereignty.

Dr. John Walton, a renowned Old Testament scholar and expert on the Ancient Near East, discusses transformative shifts in his understanding of Genesis, the temple, and covenant theology. He posits that Genesis creation focuses on functional order rather than material origins and suggests that the story of humanity is about seeking order, not sin. Walton emphasizes that Israel's rituals are unique, fostering a covenant with God rather than meeting divine needs, advocating for flexibility in scholarship committed to evidence.

John Walton, an esteemed Old Testament scholar and author of the 'Lost World' series, shares insights on how cultural perspectives shape our understanding of Scripture. He introduces the concept of 'cultural rivers,' emphasizing that ancient texts should be interpreted through their original societal context. Walton discusses Genesis as a narrative of order rather than origin, explores the significance of covenant in establishing divine order, and highlights the roles of women in the Exodus. His views offer a fresh lens on key biblical themes, merging text and culture.

In this enlightening discussion, Joshua Berman, an Israeli biblical scholar and rabbi, explores the Bible's intricate literary structures and deep motifs. He reveals how echoing phrases like 'sword and bow' connect various texts, enriching their meanings. Berman dives into gender dynamics in Exodus, the role of poetry in prose, and the significance of ancient storytelling methods. He shares personal insights from leading tours in Egypt, emphasizing hope and interfaith connections that transcend borders. This conversation transforms the way we approach Scripture.

Geoff Holsclaw, a pastor and theologian known for his work at the intersection of attachment theory and Christian discipleship, sheds light on how our early bonds shape our relationship with God. He discusses four attachment landscapes—how trauma affects our connections—and the healing potential within Scripture. Holsclaw links Jesus’ teachings to secure attachments and emphasizes the church's role in fostering communal healing. Through insights on gratitude and relational skills, he offers practical ways to repair ruptured connections.

Dr. Paul Sloan, a New Testament scholar and author of *Jesus and the Law of Moses*, delves into the often-misunderstood relationship between Jesus, Paul, and the Torah. He argues that legalism distorts perceptions of biblical law, presenting it instead as a relational framework. Sloan explores how Jesus engaged in sophisticated legal reasoning and why Paul remained involved in the temple sacrifices post-conversion. He critiques the negative caricature of Pharisees, highlighting its damaging impact on views of Judaism today.

Dr. Dru Johnson, a Christian theologian and biblical ethics scholar, dives into the misunderstood principle of 'eye for an eye' from biblical texts. He explains how lex talionis is not about vengeance but serves as a wisdom-guided restraint on power. The discussion shifts to Jesus' teachings, illustrating how he reinterprets this principle to emphasize mercy over retaliation. This insightful conversation invites listeners to rethink justice and mercy, connecting ancient laws to contemporary issues like social media and cancel culture.

Hannah King, an Anglican priest and author, shares her transformative journey into the significance of the Eucharist in Christian life. She dives into the Lord’s Supper as a crucial act of grace, not just a ritual. The conversation tackles profound themes such as the impact of trauma and healing through communion, and how it can serve the spiritually weary. Hannah engages with questions about the potential for rote practice in regular communion and emphasizes the Table as a center for community and hope amidst life's challenges.

Dr. Fausto Liriano, a Bible translator and Hebrew scholar, dives into the transformative world of oral Bible translation for indigenous communities in Latin America. He challenges Western ideas of literacy, emphasizing the power of memorization and performance in internalizing Scripture. Liriano discusses how indigenous languages capture the poetic essence of biblical texts better than dominant languages. He advocates for a theology rooted in local experiences, confronting the legacy of colonialism while emphasizing wholeness and embodied participation in faith.