The Biblical Mind

Join Dr. Cindy Parker, a biblical narrative expert, who shares her mixed feelings about scholarly conferences, balancing joy with the pressure to present. Dr. Megan Roberts talks about practical tips for presentations and the unique testing grounds these gatherings provide. Dr. Chris Skinner defends the importance of paper presentations for professional growth while revealing insights about scholarly egos. Together, they paint a vivid picture of the exhilarating yet daunting world of biblical academia, filled with camaraderie and critique.

Dr. Elżbieta Łazarewicz-Wyrzykowska, a Polish biblical scholar, dives into profound questions of divine presence stemming from her experiences in war-torn Warsaw. She discusses her unique approach combining Hebrew scriptures and psychology, particularly how Catholics identify the Eucharist as a primary representation of God's presence. Elżbieta also highlights the influence of Mikhail Bakhtin on interpreting disobedience in the Book of Amos, bridging her literary roots with theological insights to explore complex intersections of faith and trauma.

Dr. Anthony Bradley, a seasoned youth and family scholar, delves into the emotional needs of boys and the shortcomings of traditional youth ministries. He argues that churches should focus on families, emphasizing the need for fathers, mentors, and intergenerational communities. Bradley shares insights from his teaching experience and highlights the alarming dropout rates in youth groups. He advocates for a shift towards nurturing spiritual formation at home rather than isolated programs, ensuring boys receive the emotional training they truly need.

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.