The Two Testaments

Obadiah with Dr. Beth StovellDr. Beth Stovell (Ambrose University) guides us through the Book of Obadiah. We discuss:* the historical context of Obadiah* How Obadiah relates to the Book of the Twelve* A major theme of Obadiah: appealing for God’s justice against Edom* Obadiah’s use of “the day of the LORD” and the universal judgment of all the nations and Israel (Obadiah 1:15)Works by Dr. Beth Stovell* The Book of the Twelve, with David Fuller. Cascade, 2022* Theodicy and Hope in the Book of the Twelve. Edited with G. Athas et al. T&T Clark, 2021* Minor Prophets I (Hosea-Micah) and Minor Prophets II (Nahum-Malachi). The Story of God Bible Commentary Series: Old Testament. Zondervan, forthcoming * Mapping Metaphorical Discourse in the Fourth Gospel: John's Eternal King. Brill, 2012Dr. Beth Stovell recommends* The works of Dr. Juliana Claassens, Professor of Old Testament at Stellenbosch University (South Africa)* The Africana Bible: Reading Israel's Scriptures from Africa and the African Diaspora. Fortress Press, 2009Subscribe and don't miss an episodeThe Two Testaments takes you on a guided journey through Scripture with leading experts on the Bible, hosted by Rony Kozman and Will KynesVisit our website at thetwotestaments.com, where you can subscribe, access all episodes, and meet our guides through Scripture. Sign up now so you don’t miss an episode.Find us on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Vurbl, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, and Pocket Casts.You can also watch us on Youtube.This episode is co-sponsored by Samford University and the Alabama Humanities Alliance, a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this episode do not necessarily represent those of the Alabama Humanities Alliance, the National Endowment for the Humanities or Samford University. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thetwotestaments.substack.com

Delving into Revelation, topics include angels blowing trumpets, the significance of the locusts and bottomless pit, the mighty angel with a scroll, and the identity of the beast and great city. Dr. Ian Boxall guides listeners through complex symbolism and imagery, urging against literal interpretations and exploring the transformation of the kingdom.

Dr. Mark Gignilliat from Beeson Divinity School discusses Micah's themes of love, justice, and restoration. They explore Micah's position among other prophets, visions of future peace, and the requirement to do justice. The podcast also touches on the interplay of judgment and restoration in Micah 7, and the promise of a ruler from Bethlehem.

Dr. David deSilva, a Professor at Ashland Theological Seminary, discusses the intriguing topics of the book of Revelation in this podcast. He explores the symbolism of the four bizarre creatures and the significance of the four horses and riders. He also delves into the lament of the martyrs, the concept of the 144,000 from the tribes of Israel, and the "great ordeal/tribulation." Tune in for deeper insights into Revelation's mysteries with Dr. deSilva.

Guided by Rev. Dr. Vanessa Lovelace, the podcast explores Jonah's historical context, major themes of repentance and forgiveness, and the fish/whale that swallows Jonah. They discuss different ways to understand Jonah disobeying God's call, his insincere prayer, and the repentance in Nineveh that includes the animals. Rev. Dr. Lovelace recommends 'Womanist Interpretations of the Bible' and other texts for further reading.

Dr. Juan Hernández Jr., an expert in Revelation, guides us through Revelation 4-5. Topics include the significance of "him who sits on the throne," the four living creatures, the twenty-four elders, the lamb with seven horns and eyes, the ransom of people through the lamb's blood, and John's high christology. Dr. Hernández recommends reading "Penguin Classics" for a better understanding of Scripture.

Dr. M. Daniel Carroll R., Professor at Wheaton College, guides us through the book of Amos, discussing God as the main theme. They explore the interplay of ethics, theology, and worship, the meaning of Amos 5:24, and the judgment of the nations. They also analyze the use of metaphors, the love of ritual worship, and reflect on a recent visit to concentration and extermination camps in Poland.

Dr. Jeffrey Weima, a Professor at Calvin Theological Seminary, guides us through Revelation 2-3 in the form of sermons to the seven churches. Topics include the significance of the addresses as sermons, the meaning of 'abandoned love,' the Nicolaitans and synagogue of Satan, the elusive 'hidden manna,' the punishment of Jezebel, the key of David, and the lukewarm church of Laodicea.

Dr. Christopher Seitz, an expert in biblical studies, discusses the Book of Joel, including the significance of the four locusts, the concept of 'the day of the LORD,' and the role of nations in God's deliverance. He also recommends works by Cory Asbury and Elisabeth Elliot.

Dr. Robyn Whitaker discusses Revelation 1, focusing on the rhetorical elements, vivid imagery, and the prophecy aspect. They explore the characters of God, the seven spirits, and Jesus, as well as the power dynamics in the first century. The vision of the risen Jesus is analyzed, with insights into the use of vivid description and the symbolism of the double-edged sword. The episode also touches on food recommendations and the importance of truly listening to understand the book of Revelation.