Two Texts
John Andrews and David Harvey
A Podcast about the Bible Every two weeks, from two different countries, the two hosts of the Two Texts podcast pick two biblical texts to talk about. Each episode we pick one text to talk about, which invariably leads to us talking about two texts and often many more.Dr John Andrews and Dr David Harvey share a mutual fascination with the Bible. Simple yet complex; ancient yet relevant; challenging yet comforting. But one thing that fascinates them consistently is that, like a kaleidoscope, no matter how many times they look at it there is something new, fresh and exciting to talk about.This podcast is designed for you regardless of how much or how little you've read the Bible. Grab a hot beverage, a notepad (or app), and a Bible, sit back, listen, enjoy, and learn to also become fascinated (or grow your fascination) with this exciting, compelling and mysterious book. John and David are two friends who love teaching the Bible and have both been privileged enough to be able to spend their careers doing this - in colleges, universities, churches, homes and coffee shops. The two of them have spent extended periods of time as teaching staff and leadership in seminary and church contexts. John has regularly taught at David's church, and there was even a point where John was David's boss! Nowadays David is a Priest and Pastor in Calgary, Canada, and John teaches and consults for churches in the UK and around the world. They're both married with children (John 3, David 1) and in John's case even grandchildren. In their down time you'll find them cooking, reading, running or watching football (but the one thing they don't agree on is which team to support). If you want to get in touch with either of them about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 6, 2024 • 37min
The Cost of Gospel Freedom | Disruptive Presence 79
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David navigate the aftermath of the Jerusalem Council in Acts 16, where Paul's trials in Lystra pave the way for Timothy's introduction. Be prepared to uncover the critical moments that steered the early church's expansion and how Timothy's backstory is intertwined with the redemptive journey of the Christian community.Our dialogue takes a heartfelt turn, examining the profound connection between Paul and Timothy. Through their story, we gain a window into the essence of spiritual mentorship and its power to shape the church. Discover Timothy's transformation into the quintessential pastor as we highlight the influence of Paul's letters and the virtues essential for church leadership. This relationship, both personal and spiritual, offers timeless lessons for today's faith leaders.Finally, we grapple with the gripping concept of gospel freedom through Timothy's controversial circumcision. The episode dissects the strategic moves made by Paul and Timothy to ensure the gospel resonated across cultures—a testament to their commitment to 'becoming all things to all people.' Reflect on the pivotal sacrifices that have fortified the church's foundation and how this principle can guide contemporary churches. Join us for this thought-provoking journey, where tradition, transformation, and the cost of discipleship collide.Episode 134 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 79If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the showSupport the show
Jan 24, 2024 • 31min
Trials of Partnership and Grace | Disruptive Presence 78
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David discover the profound impact of conflict in the story of Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark from Acts 15, where a pivotal disagreement for the Early Christians sheds light on the delicate balance between personal values and collective mission. This episode takes a closer look at the human element within these historical narratives, revealing how even the strongest partnerships can face trials when convictions clash. We navigate through the intricate dynamics between Paul's nervousness around wavering commitment and Barnabas's gracious capacity for second chances, a quality that once played a crucial role in Paul's own journey. As we weave through this tapestry of early church challenges, we'll uncover lessons about the resilience of relationships and the endurance of faith in times of discord.The paths of Paul and Barnabas diverged, but their story doesn't end with separation; instead, it blossoms into a transformative moment for the Christian mission. We contemplate the 'blessing of disagreement'—the idea that divisions, when approached with compassion and an eye toward the communal good, can fortify the church's foundations and multiply its reach. By sharing personal experiences of redemption and reconciliation within church communities, we illustrate the enduring theme of grace that resonates through these events. Join us for a journey of reflection and inspiration, as we embrace the notion that God's redemptive work continues to flourish, even in the wake of conflict, steering us toward a future filled with hope and collective growth.Episode 133 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 78If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the showSupport the show
Jan 23, 2024 • 34min
The Intricacies of Trust | Disruptive Presence 77
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David discuss the momentous decisions of the Council of Jerusalem—a pivotal point where Christianity embraced Gentiles, unfettered by Jewish customs. As we investigate this landmark event detailed in Acts 15, we reveal how the seeds of unity were sown and the groundwork was laid for a church that transcends divisions of heritage and tradition. The diversity of teachers and the optimistic wave that buoyed the early Christian mission shines through in our conversation, offering a fascinating glimpse into the shaping of our faith's history.Wrestle with the complexities of leadership and companionship within the ministry as we scrutinize the dynamic tension between Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark. The episode casts Barnabas in the light of forgiveness, extending second chances where Paul initially hesitates due to doubts about John Mark's dependability. Through an insightful discussion, we touch upon the evolution of their relationship, contemplating its profound influence on the New Testament and the teachings that guide us today. Join us as we reflect on the themes of trust, reconciliation, and the redemptive grace that punctuated the formative stages of the Christian church.Episode 132 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 77If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show:Support the show
Jan 11, 2024 • 32min
The Door is Open | Disruptive presence 76
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David discuss the weight of Acts 15. It's difficult to overstate the importance of this chapter. Here we look at how the church structures its response to what were thoroughly challenging decisions for them. How do we include those we naturally want to exclude? Episode 132 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 76If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show:Support the show
Jan 9, 2024 • 31min
Don't Make It Difficult | Disruptive Presence 75
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David explore James's sermon in Acts 15. There's a beautiful notion that is present in James's instruction that the early Christians shouldn't make things difficult for people that want to follow Jesus. That probably is a message that we should keep coming back to, especially in the contemporary world! Episode 131 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 75If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show:Support the show
Dec 28, 2023 • 36min
The God Who Bears Witness | Disruptive Presence 74
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David dive into Peter presentation of a vision of God who loves who we are not how we are categorised by the world. This is some of the genius of the early church and the Holy Spirit. The church breaks into a highly segregated world with a radical vision of equality and anti-exclusion. Episode 130 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 74If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show:Support the show
Dec 26, 2023 • 31min
Defining Salvation for the Church | Disruptive Presence 73
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David consider the weight of what goes on in Acts 15. A huge moment for the church. The decisions made in the verses of this chapter will shape the future of Christianity. How will the church navigate the inclusion, welcome and hospitality of the gentiles? Episode 129 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 73If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show:Support the show
Dec 14, 2023 • 38min
Trusting Good Hands | Disruptive Presence 72
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David consider how the early church engaged with ideas of leadership. It's often in a close reading of these text that we notice not models of church, but principles of how to be as the church and church leaders. Acts 14 is another chapter that keeps on giving to us. Episode 128 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 72 If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show:Support the show
Dec 12, 2023 • 39min
Forward before Backward | Disruptive Presence 71
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David explore Paul's reaction to a (near) death experience. The early church offers us a perspective on difficulty that sit uncomfortably for us in the modern context. But perhaps we should pay a little bit of attention to it? Episode 127 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 71 If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021________Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show:Support the show
Nov 23, 2023 • 49min
Adaptations and Contextualizations | Disruptive Presence 70
Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. (Include your email if you’d like us to reply)In which John and David talk about navigating the Gospel in different situations. Is there a difference between adapting the Gospel and contextualizing it? And perhaps most importantly, can we tell the difference? Episode 126 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 70 If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend? Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021 ________ Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show:Support the show
