

Genesis Marks the Spot
Carey Griffel
Raiding the ivory tower of biblical theology without ransacking our faith.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 4, 2025 • 1h 9min
Devil in the Details: Rest, Relief, and Frame Semantics - Episode 121
In this episode of Genesis Marks the Spot, we finally dive into a long-anticipated topic: frame semantics—a cognitive linguistic tool that could revolutionize how we approach biblical texts. From exploring how the word "rest" is more than just a Sabbath nap, to rethinking the identity of the Satan in Job and why the Sons of God are unique, this episode is a thoughtful journey into how meaning is framed, shaped, and sometimes flattened when we don’t consider conceptual structures behind words.
The usual truth-conditional semantics (where meaning hinges on objective truth) contrasts with the more holistic and contextual approach of frame semantics which is a better fit for the approach of biblical theology. Whether you’re a seasoned theology nerd or new to these ideas, this episode will challenge how you read Scripture—and may just spark your next Bible study breakthrough.
Topics Covered:
What is frame semantics, and why does it matter for Bible study?
How our language frames the way we think (and vice versa)
The nuanced difference between “rest” and “relief”
Why “the Satan” in Job might not be who you think he is
Cognitive vs. structural approaches to Scripture
How to use this tool in your own studies (and a call to collaborate!)
Don’t forget to download the handout mentioned in the episode for a visual aid to the concepts discussed. Want to help develop the next version? Carey is looking for collaborators! Download link: https://genesismarksthespot.com/downloads/frame-semantics
Feedback or framework requests? Reach out at GenesisMarksTheSpot.com or connect on Facebook!
**My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan

Mar 28, 2025 • 1h 1min
Noah’s Name and the Rest of the Story - Episode 120
Discover the hidden meanings behind Noah's name and the legacy linked to his birth. Delve into the themes of toil and rest, exploring how Noah embodies hope and redemption. Uncover striking interpretations of Lamech's prophecy and its implications for humanity. Learn about the divine aim of restoring order through Noah's journey amid moral decline. This captivating discussion reveals the deeper theological insights connecting Noah to the narrative of relief and the significance of Sabbath in our struggles.

Mar 21, 2025 • 1h 1min
Twu Wuv, Twoil, and the "Curse" of Genesis 3:16 - Episode 119
As You Wish… Or Maybe Not? Rethinking Genesis 3:16.
Genesis 3:16 has been a theological battleground for centuries—was Eve cursed? Does this verse establish male rule? And why did the ESV change its translation again? In this episode, we dive deep into the Hebrew text, ancient interpretations, and modern theological debates surrounding this passage.
We’ll explore: Rabbinic and early Christian views on Eve’s "curse" Whether Genesis 3:16 prescribes or describes male rulership The ESV translation shift—what it means and why it matters The surprising implications of Hebrew grammar (Hendiadys, anyone?) How this passage connects to the broader biblical story
From Augustine to Chrysostom, from the Hebrew text to modern scholarship, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most debated verses in Scripture. Whether you lean complementarian, egalitarian, or somewhere in between, this episode will challenge assumptions and spark new insights.
**Website: www.genesismarksthespot.com My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Genesis Marks the Spot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genesismarksthespot Genesis Marks the Spot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesismarksthespot/
The Book of Eden: The Book of Eden, Genesis 2-3: God Didn't Curse Eve (or Adam) or Limit Woman in Any Way (The Eden Book Series): Fleming, Bruce C. E., Fleming PhD, Joy, Hagemeyer, Joanne Guarnieri: 9780972575928: Amazon.com: BooksMusic credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan

Mar 14, 2025 • 1h 3min
There and Back Again: Scripture in Both Directions, with Spencer Owen - Episode 118
A conversation with Spencer Owen about reading the Bible from the OT to the NT and from the NT to the OT. Do we need Jesus in order to read the Old Testament?
**Website: www.genesismarksthespot.com My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Genesis Marks the Spot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genesismarksthespot Genesis Marks the Spot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesismarksthespot/ Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan

Mar 7, 2025 • 1h 1min
Slavery: The Upside-Down Kingdom - Episode 117
Isn't it a bit weird that Christians are called slaves? Isn't slavery a bad thing?
**Website: www.genesismarksthespot.com My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Genesis Marks the Spot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genesismarksthespot Genesis Marks the Spot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesismarksthespot/ Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan

Feb 28, 2025 • 1h 13min
Tyranno(saurus) Rex: Do We Only Rule Animals? - Episode 116
Genesis 1:28 - Is human rule meant only for animals and not for other humans? What is biblical government? Tying in some modern social psychology with Jonathan Haidt's moral foundation theory, I offer an encouragement to political engagement in a self-giving way rather than engaging in one-up-manship.
**Website: www.genesismarksthespot.com My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Genesis Marks the Spot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genesismarksthespot Genesis Marks the Spot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesismarksthespot/ Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan

Feb 21, 2025 • 1h 9min
Not to 50!: Does the Punishment Fit the Crime? - Episode 115
What if we've all got an overdeveloped sense of vengeance? How are guilt and justice portrayed in the Bible, especially in relation to God's character? What does shame have to do with (legal) guilt? How do these concepts develop? And...why does Genesis 1-11 seem so Mesopotamian??
**Website: www.genesismarksthespot.com My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Genesis Marks the Spot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genesismarksthespot Genesis Marks the Spot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesismarksthespot/ Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan

Feb 14, 2025 • 1h 14min
Nakedness, Shame, and Guilt - Episode 114
What's up with shame in Genesis 2 but not 3, and why were Adam and Eve naked in the garden? What were the garments of skin (and what's with these garments of glory)?
**Website: www.genesismarksthespot.com My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Genesis Marks the Spot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genesismarksthespot Genesis Marks the Spot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesismarksthespot/ Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan

Feb 7, 2025 • 1h 4min
Jordan Peterson: Do I Believe in God? - Episode 113
Ruminations of a recent lecture and Jordan B. Peterson's new book, We Who Wrestle with God. Tyranny, slavery, sovereignty, calling, and conscience--oh, and the best way to cook a steak.
**Website: www.genesismarksthespot.com My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Genesis Marks the Spot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genesismarksthespot Genesis Marks the Spot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesismarksthespot/ We Who Wrestle with God: We Who Wrestle with God: Perceptions of the Divine Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan

Jan 31, 2025 • 1h 1min
Finishing the Dangerous Parables of Enoch (Part 4) - Episode 112
Part 2 of the third Parable of Enoch. In this parable, we find some interesting bits about Noah and what's behind the flood, and ruminate on salvation, critical thinking, dangerous books, and what's upcoming on the podcast. Bit of a rambly episode at the end, but just opening the door a bit to consider some thoughts and importance of where we place our foundations. **Website: www.genesismarksthespot.com My Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Genesis Marks the Spot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genesismarksthespot Genesis Marks the Spot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesismarksthespot/
Michael Heiser's Reader's Commentary, Parables of Enoch: https://www.amazon.com/Companion-Book-Enoch-Commentary-Parables/dp/1948014416 Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/ Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan


