

Bible and Theology Matters: Insightful Conversations with Bible Scholars
Dr. Paul D. Weaver - DTS Professor and Biblical Scholar
The Bible and Theology Matters Podcast is a conversation with Biblical Scholars about all things Bible and Theology, including: challenging issues of Bible interpretation, important theological topics, essential Hermeneutical principles, Bible backgrounds and customs, Biblical ethics and worldview, apologetics, biblical archaeology, and much more. Dr. Paul D. Weaver, Professor and Biblical Scholar at Dallas Theological Seminary is the host.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 4, 2025 โข 46min
BTM 167 - Who Wrote Hebrews? - The Case for Paul
In this episode, Dr. David Alan Black, in a comprehensive discussion about the authorship of the book of Hebrews, explores both internal and external evidence that supports Pauline authorship. Dr. Black shares his journey into New Testament studies, the historical context of authorship debates, and the significance of early church fathers in affirming Paul's authorship. The conversation emphasizes the importance of examining Greek texts and challenges common assumptions about the differences between Hebrews and other Pauline epistles.๐๐๐จ๐ง'๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐๐ฌ๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐ฎ๐ฉ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ฌ. / @bibleandtheologymatters๐ Stay Connected With Dr. Weaver.๐ Facebook (Paul Weaver): https://www.facebook.com/PaulDeanWeaver๐ท Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faith_affirming_findings/๐ผ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-weaver-55070317/๐ Website: https://www.bibleandtheologymatters.com/๐ Website: https://pauldweaver.com/๐ฉ To invite Dr. Weaver to speak at your church or conference, email at: paulandjillweaver@gmail.com =============================๐ฌSuggested videos for you:โถ๏ธ โข Is Galatians 4 an Allegory?โถ๏ธ โข Babylonian Tablet Verifies Biblical Histor...โถ๏ธ โข Three Ancient Cities Prove King Solomonโs ...โถ๏ธ โข Solomon's Fortified Cities!โถ๏ธ โข Corinth Archaeology | Pagan Temples, Meat ...โถ๏ธ โข Pool Of Siloam Found In Jerusalem โ Proof ...โถ๏ธ โข Galatians - Why Did Paul Write Such a Fier...โถ๏ธ โข Magdala Synagogue โ First-Century Discover... =================================00:00 The Mystery of Hebrews' Authorship03:31 Dr. Black's Journey into Hebrews Authorship06:46 Shifts in Scholarship: Internal vs. External Evidence16:03 Challenging Assumptions about Hebrews and Paul17:06 Exploring Vocabulary Overlap in Hebrews and Paul19:06 Examining Stylistic Similarities Between Hebrews and Paul22:53 Understanding the Genre of Hebrews: Sermon turned Epistle 25:52 The Humility of Paul and Its Implications29:31 The External Evidence for Pauline Authorship33:09 The Role of Early Church Fathers in the Authorship Debate 44:01 The Western Church's Reluctance and Council Conclusions48:07 Final Thoughts on the Message of Hebrews

Aug 31, 2025 โข 31min
BTM 166 - Archaeology and Jesus - in Jerusalem
In this episode, Dr. Weaver explores significant archaeological discoveries in Jerusalem that affirm the historicity and reliability of the Gospels. He discusses the Pool of Siloam, the Pool of Bethesda, the Ossuary of Caiaphas, the Pilate Stone, and the Heel Bone of Yehohanan, connecting these findings to the life and ministry of Jesus. Each discovery serves as a testament to the accuracy of biblical accounts and the real historical context of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.Please visit Dr. Weaver's website to get more information: https://www.bibleandtheologymatters.com/๐๐๐จ๐ง'๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐๐ฌ๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐ฎ๐ฉ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ฌ. https://www.youtube.com/@BibleandTheologyMatters/?sub_confirmation=1 ๐ StayConnected With Dr. Weaver.-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FaithAffirmingFindings/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaulDeanWeaver-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faith_affirming_findings/-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-weaver-55070317/-Website: https://www.bibleandtheologymatters.com/ Website: https://pauldweaver.com/ ๐ฉ To invite Dr. Weaver to speak at your church or conference, email at: paulandjillweaver@gmail.com=================================โ
About Bible and Theology Matters. Welcome to Bible and Theology Matters! Iโm Dr. Paul Weaver, and on this channel, I host the Bible and Theology Matters podcast and the Faith Affirming Findings podcast, along with other insightful videos exploring all things Bible and theology. I get into topics like biblical archaeology, theology, and Scripture to help you understand Godโs Word on a deeper level. From exploring the Old and New Testaments to defending the faith through biblical apologetics and evidential research, my goal is to equip and encourage you in your spiritual journey. If youโre passionate about Scriptureโs truth, history, and strengthening your faith, youโre in the right place.

Aug 14, 2025 โข 12min
BTM 165 - Archaeology and Jesus in Galilee - Is There Archaeological Evidence for Jesus
In this episode, Dr. Weaver takes listeners on a journey through Galilee, exploring significant archaeological discoveries that relate to Jesus of Nazareth, including: Peter's House, the Capernaum Synagogue, the Jesus Boat, and the Magdala Synagogue and Stone. Each site provides tangible evidence of biblical accounts, enhancing our understanding of the Gospels.Please visit my website to get more information: https://www.bibleandtheologymatters.com/๐๐๐จ๐ง'๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐๐ฌ๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐ฎ๐ฉ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ฌ. https://www.youtube.com/@BibleandTheologyMatters/?sub_confirmation=1 ๐ Stay Connected With Dr. Weaver. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FaithAffirmingFindings/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaulDeanWeaver Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faith_affirming_findings/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-weaver-55070317/ Website: https://www.bibleandtheologymatters.com/ Website: https://pauldweaver.com/ Website: https://www.bibleandtheologymatters.com/๐ฉ If you would like to invite Dr. Weaver to speak at your church or conference, email at: paulandjillweaver@gmail.com =============================๐ฌSuggested videos for you:โถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Jf0c4cjxe0โถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJQDvGEdW-0โถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBQODoZ2jGsโถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiM-yxQOm4gโถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcbFmrcsyvEโถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48NFw4RfrJ8โถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kl7XTzluDEโถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRQvs89mXTcโถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQEBTDfoaWAโถ๏ธ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBy3-egeiu4 =================================โ
About Bible and Theology Matters. Welcome to Bible and Theology Matters! Iโm Dr. Paul Weaver, and on this channel, I host the Bible and Theology Matters podcast and the Faith Affirming Findings podcast, along with other insightful videos exploring all things Bible and theology. I get into topics like biblical archaeology, theology, and Scripture to help you understand Godโs Word on a deeper level. From exploring the Old and New Testaments to defending the faith through biblical apologetics and evidential research, my goal is to equip and encourage you in your spiritual journey. If youโre passionate about Scriptureโs truth, history, and strengthening your faith, youโre in the right place.๐ Curious how the Bible shapes history? Subscribe for powerful insights into biblical apologetics, archaeology, theology, and the historical context of Scripture! https://www.youtube.com/@BibleandTheologyMatters/?sub_confirmation=1 ================================= Hashtags #archaeologyandjesus #biblicalarchaeology #archaeologicalrevelations #BibleMatters #theologyArchaeology and Jesus - Is There Archaeological Evidence for Jesus?00:00 - Introduction03:32 - Peters House06:43 - Synagogue of Capernaum12:04 - The "Jesus Boat"17:12 - The Magdala Synagogue18:15 - The Magdala Stone21:56 - Conclusion

Aug 7, 2025 โข 30min
BTM 164 - Galatians - Part 2: Analogy or Allegory?
SummaryIn this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast, Dr. Paul Weaver and Dr. Michael Burer delve into the theological core of Paul's letter to the Galatians, focusing on justification by faith, the apostolic authority of Paul, and the analogy of Hagar and Sarah. Takeaways-Paul's letter to the Galatians addresses justification by faith.-The apostle Paul defends his authority and the true gospel.-Righteous anger is justified when the gospel is at stake.-Paul's autobiographical defense highlights his divine commission.-The allegory of Hagar and Sarah illustrates the old and new covenants.-The law serves as a tutor pointing to Christ.-Salvation and sanctification are both by faith.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Galatians and Justification by Faith02:45 Paul's Apostolic Authority and the Gospel06:01 The Allegory of Hagar and Sarah09:13 The Role of the Law12:03 Living in Freedom through the Spirit15:03 Pastoral Lessons from Galatians

Jul 31, 2025 โข 28min
BTM 163 - Galatians - Part 1 - Why Did Paul Write Such a Fiery Letter?
SummaryIn this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast, Dr. Paul Weaver discusses the Book of Galatians with Dr. Michael Burer. They explore the historical context, the occasion for Paul's passionate letter, and the theological implications of the crisis faced by the early church. The conversation delves into the identity of the Jewish Christian missionaries who challenged Paul's teachings and the significance of justification by faith. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the early church's struggles with the law and faith, and how these issues remain relevant today.Takeaways-Every New Testament epistle was written for a reason.-Paul's letter to the Galatians addresses specific needs of the early church.-Jewish Christian missionaries challenged Paul's teachings on faith and law.-The crisis in Galatia was a theological and communal departure from the gospel.-Paul's strong tone was a response to confusion among the churches.-Understanding the historical context helps clarify the message of Galatians.-The debate over North and South Galatia impacts the interpretation of the letter.-Paul's argument emphasizes justification by faith alone.-The law served as a tutor to lead us to Christ.-The early church wrestled with the relationship between faith and the law.

Jul 10, 2025 โข 50min
BTM 162 - The Ichthus and Other Early Christian Symbols
In this episode, Dr. Daniel Hayes talks about the meanings behind early church symbols, especially the ichthus. Understanding the significance of symbols like the Jesus fish symbol meaning helps us better understand early Christianity and their beliefs. This episode ends with a reminder of the importance of visual communication in early Christian communities and for Christians even today. Chapters-00:01 Introduction-03:11 The Journey into Christian Iconography-06:06 The Significance of Ancient Graffiti -08:52 Understanding the Ichthus Symbol-12:10 The Widespread Use of Ichthus -15:11 The Eight-Spoked Wheel and Its Meaning-18:04 Reclaiming Pagan Spaces for Christianity -23:47 The Rise of Christian Symbols in Pagan Temples-36:25 Dating Early Christian Graffiti and Symbols -45:44 The Significance of the Cross and Early Christian Symbols

Jul 3, 2025 โข 54min
BTM 161 - The Synoptic Problem - What is It? Why is It Important?
In this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast, Dr. Paul Weaver engages with Dr. David Allen Black to discuss the synoptic gospels, the synoptic problem, and the historical origins of the gospels. They explore the significance of external evidence, the role of the Church Fathers, and the implications of Markan priority. Dr. Black presents his fourfold gospel hypothesis, emphasizing the need for historical context in understanding the development of the gospels. The conversation also addresses common concerns regarding the reliability of the gospels and the importance of examining evidence critically.This video explores the **two source hypothesis** related to the origins of the Gospels in the Bible. The speaker explains how understanding this theory can impact the way people interpret biblical texts, and how it is related to the **synoptic problem**.-The term 'synoptic' means to view the gospels together.-The synoptic problem may not be a problem at all. -External evidence is often overlooked in gospel studies.-Markan priority is a dominant theory, but has its challenges. -The early church unanimously believed Matthew was the first gospel.-Historical context is crucial for understanding the gospels.-The Church Fathers provide valuable insights into gospel authorship.-The Q hypothesis is speculative and lacks concrete evidence.-The Christian faith is rooted in historical evidence.-Scholars should be approached with caution; personal investigation is essential.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:31 Understanding the Synoptic Gospels04:59 Exploring the Synoptic Problem05:19 Three Lines of Evidence for Gospel Order 08:32 Questioning Markan Priority10:39 Historical Context of Gospel Development17:50 The Role of Early Church Fathers24:11 The Fourfold Gospel Hypothesis28:08 Unity in the Early Church 29:09 Historical Context of the Gospels30:32 Occasional Nature of New Testament Letters31:58 The Role of the Gospels in Addressing Needs33:13 Critique of Markan Priority35:30 Historical Perspectives on Gospel Origins 36:57 The Importance of Church History39:24 The Enlightenment's Impact on Gospel Scholarship41:09 The Interconnectedness of Biblical Studies43:26 The Role of Language in Understanding the Gospels45:56 Different Styles and Purposes of Gospel Writers52:13 Addressing Lay Concerns about Gospel Reliability

Jun 19, 2025 โข 42min
BTM 160 - Matthew or Mark? - Which Gospel Came First
In this conversation, Dr. Will Varner discusses his extensive research on the Gospels, particularly focusing on the authorship of the Gospels and the his belief that Matthew was written first (Matthew Priority rather than Markan Priority) and then Luke, and finally Mark. He explores the historical context of Gospel writing, the influence of higher criticism on the New Testament, and the significance of early church fathers like Papias and Irenaeus. Varner argues for a reevaluation of the traditional views on Gospel authorship, emphasizing the Jewish context of Matthew and the implications of these findings for contemporary biblical scholarship and bible study as well as exegesis and hermeneutics. In this conversation, Dr. William Varner and Dr. Paul Weaver delve into the complexities of the Gospels, particularly focusing on the relationship between Matthew and Mark. They discuss the implications of the unique details found in Mark's Gospel. The conversation also touches on the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the authors, the debate between Matthew Priority and Mark Priority, and the influence of modern scholarship on these views. Varner recommends several resources for those interested in exploring Matthew Priority further, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Gospels in their historical and theological context.0:00 Introduction02:21 - Dr. Varner's Journey and Insights on the Gospels07:15 - Debating Markan vs. Matthean Priority12:31 - The Role of Early Church Fathers in Establishing Priority19:00 - Understanding Papias and the "Hebrew Dialect" 24:52 - The Synoptic Problem and Mutual Dependence31:03 - Exploring the Influence of Academia on Gospel Studies38:07 - Recommended Resources for Further Study

Jun 15, 2025 โข 12min
BTM 159 - Why Michael Licona is Wrong about "Flexible Inerrancy"
In this conversation, Dr. West and Dr. Weaver critically examine Michael Licona's views on biblical inerrancy, particularly his concept of 'flexible inerrancy.' They express concern over the implications of Licona's arguments for the integrity of scripture and the lack of pushback from the evangelical community. The discussion highlights the need for a robust dialogue on these theological issues and the role of evangelical institutions in addressing them.- Michael Licona's book raises significant concerns about biblical inerrancy.- Licona's concept of 'flexible inerrancy' is extremely problematic. -There is a lack of pushback from evangelical scholars against Licona's views.- Licona's arguments are viewed as a form of theological liberalism. - The speakers express sadness over Licona's departure from traditional beliefs. - There is a call for more engagement and critique of Licona's work. - The role of evangelical institutions in addressing these issues is discussed. - The conversation highlights the need for a robust response to Licona's views at ETS.

Jun 11, 2025 โข 43min
BTM 158 - Stockholm Syndrome Christianity - 2
In this conversation, Dr. John West discusses the alarming trend of Christian institutions compromising on biblical teachings, particularly regarding sexuality and marriage. He emphasizes the cultural pressures that lead to this decline and the role of leadership in maintaining doctrinal integrity. West calls for a return to faithfulness over success, urging Christians to be intentional in their beliefs and actions, especially in raising the next generation. He highlights the importance of discerning information sources and the need for proactive engagement in faith communities.Many Christian colleges have compromised on biblical teachings.The problem goes way beyond just marriage issues.Biblical sexuality is increasingly not being taught.Cultural pressures are influencing Christian values.Leadership plays a crucial role in upholding doctrine.Christians need to be intentional about raising their kids.Don't support institutions that have strayed from biblical teachings.Success in God's eyes is about faithfulness, not numbers.We must discern the information we consume.Ideas have consequences; bad ideas have victims.