Data Over Dogma

Go to any comment section where someone has made a controversial claim about the Bible and you'll see it: someone gatekeeping the idea of who qualifies as a "true Christian". Real Christians believe in the trinity, or else decidedly DON'T believe in the trinity. Real Christians believe we're saved through works. Or through faith alone. Or neither. Or both...On this week's episode, Dr. David Congdon joins us to discuss his book Who is a True Christian. If you think that question is settled or remotely easy to answer... well you haven't paid attention to this show. Dr. Congdon walks us through the history, politics, and power struggles behind these questions, and gives us big insights into ways we can address this difficult quandary going forward.For early access to an ad-free version of every episode of Data Over Dogma, exclusive content, and the opportunity to support our work, please consider becoming a monthly patron at:https://www.patreon.com/DataOverDogma    Follow us on the various social media places:https://www.facebook.com/DataOverDogmaPodhttps://www.twitter.com/data_over_dogma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Craig Mousin, an immigration lawyer and ordained minister, and Cecil Cicirello, a seasoned podcaster, delve into the hot-button issue of immigration from a biblical perspective. They discuss the moral implications using the story of the Good Samaritan, addressing how selective interpretations of scripture can overshadow compassion. The conversation also highlights historical narratives of migrants, critiques misconceptions about immigrants, and advocates for a faith-based approach to welcoming them into society.

Dive into a rich discussion about the slippery nature of defining 'religion' and how subjective experiences shape its meaning. The complexities of historical roots reveal how ancient contexts inform modern beliefs. Then, explore the word 'atheist'—its unexpected history and charged implications today. The conversation highlights how language can bridge gaps in understanding differing perspectives on belief, encouraging respectful dialogue in the often-controversial landscape of faith and doubt.

Modern parishioners are often asked to pay one tenth of their money to their church. This practice, they are told, is biblical in nature. But is it really? Well, this episode we're talking tithing, and like so many ideas in the Bible it's way more complicated than you might think!Then, we're keeping the theme monetary and telling the story of Ananias and Sapphira. This New Testament couple decided that they didn't want to give ALL their money to the commune. Unfortunately, apostle Peter had set up some pretty stiff penalties for incomplete payment. Let's just say that the mafia would be proud. Yikes.For early access to an ad-free version of every episode of Data Over Dogma, exclusive content, and the opportunity to support our work, please consider becoming a monthly patron at:https://www.patreon.com/DataOverDogma    Follow us on the various social media places:https://www.facebook.com/DataOverDogmaPodhttps://www.twitter.com/data_over_dogma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into a whimsical discussion about biblical plagues, featuring a hilarious examination of the notorious frog invasion. Uncover the mysteries of the Exodus narrative, questioning its historical validity and divine themes. The Shroud of Turin takes center stage as the hosts dissect recent scientific studies and challenge its authenticity. With a blend of humor and critical analysis, this episode explores how faith and evidence intertwine, encouraging listeners to think deeply and engage with these intriguing topics.

Heidi Yellen, a scholar known for her exploration of biblical clothing laws, joins the discussion about the fascinating prohibition against mixing fabrics in Leviticus 19. She reveals intriguing reasons behind this rule that bridge the gap between faith and science. The conversation shifts to the chaotic story of Joseph and the mysteries surrounding his betrayal and sale into slavery, as hosts expose traditional interpretations that just don't add up. With a playful mix of humor and critical thinking, listeners are invited to rethink ancient narratives.

Dive into the fascinating world of magical practices found in biblical texts! Discover the mysterious Urim and Thummim and their role in divination. Explore ancient burial customs at Katafheenom and uncover the significance of protective amulets like silver scrolls. The connection between magic, morality, and spirituality is dissected, revealing how perceptions of magic have evolved. The conversation challenges societal norms around acceptable and forbidden magic, inviting listeners to appreciate diverse magical traditions.

The story of Ruth raises fascinating questions about heroism and scheming with a journey from gleaning to marriage in just days. Explore Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and their cultural dynamics during a famine. Delve into the intriguing symbolism of feet in biblical contexts, along with the complex encounter between Ruth and Boaz. The historical account of King Sennacherib's siege of Jerusalem reveals unexpected archaeological findings, challenging interpretations of biblical narratives. It's a deep dive into loyalty, history, and the nuances of biblical interpretation.

It is a source of joy for some, schadenfreude for others, and for many it is the source of deep, soul-crushing anxiety. It's the Rapture! That theoretical moment when all of God's good kiddos on Earth get to fly up to heaven, while all the naughty boys and girls get stuck here on Earth. It's a theology believed by millions around the world, but there might be a problem: is it possible that the rapture isn't actually in the Bible?On this week's show we're discussing the origins of the rapture idea. Who came up with it, what is it's scriptural basis (if there is any), why it took hold, and why not everyone embraces it. Were you "caught up" in Rapture theology?Then, we're continuing our future-prophesying theme with the baffling 10th chapter of Daniel. Ol' Danny boy had a vision involving a bunch of princes, and whoo boy! If you don't have McClellan levels of education about it, you would be forgiven for not understanding a blessed word of it. Thankfully, we have a McClellen here, so maybe we have a fighting chance!For early access to an ad-free version of every episode of Data Over Dogma, exclusive content, and the opportunity to support our work, please consider becoming a monthly patron at:https://www.patreon.com/DataOverDogma    Follow us on the various social media places:https://www.facebook.com/DataOverDogmaPodhttps://www.twitter.com/data_over_dogma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delve into the intriguing concept of creatio ex nihilo, exploring its theological implications and the shifting beliefs surrounding creation. Discover hidden gems in the Apocrypha, like 'Bel and the Dragon,' where Daniel confronts idol worship with clever tactics. The discussion also touches on early Christian debates about matter and the nature of resurrection, alongside humorous anecdotes about conventions and health innovations. It's a captivating blend of philosophy, history, and a dash of humor that invites listeners to rethink their understanding of creation and faith.