The Bible For Normal People

Pete Enns, an expert in biblical studies, discusses 10 key points about understanding the book of Romans. He challenges common interpretations of Paul's writings, highlighting the complex layers of the letter and emphasizing the communal unity within the church. Enns explores themes of predestination, Gentile inclusion, Jesus' resurrection, and the Christ-centered lens through which Paul interprets the Old Testament.

In this episode, Jared & Pete talk to Craig Allert about how the canon of scripture was curated. They also discuss the doctrine of "sola scriptura" and how the intertestimental books can be beneficial in bringing addition context and detail to our understanding of scripture. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Jared walks us through the ways in which the Bible is true and in some ways untrue. He'll start by unpacking what we mean when we talk about truth and give us some helpful insights into how we can approach historical facts that sometimes seem to be at odds with the Biblical text. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Jared & Pete talk to author, teacher and Episcopal priest Barbara Brown Taylor. They discuss the many different stages and "human fingerprints" involved in getting the Bible from the original manuscripts to the printed translations that we read, including our own theological history and tradition. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Pete & Jared talk to William Paul Young, author of the NY Times bestselling book and feature film, "The Shack." Young describes his thought process behind his controversial portrayal of God the Father as an African-American woman and reminds us that we all bring some level of interpretation to the Biblical text. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode we have Fr. Richard Rohr to talk about a contemplative approach to the Bible. [re-broadcast from March 26, 2017 (Episode 2)] Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Exploring the angry God in Deuteronomy, contrasting perspectives on retribution, significance of Chronicles post-exile, Deuteronomistic history during Southern Kingdom's exile, reshaping Israel's narrative, theological implications of Deuteronomy, and God's impact on modern Christian communities.

On this episode, we talk with Peter Rollins about how Christians have made the Bible (along with their views of God) into a "sacred object.” And, spoiler alert: that's actually not a good thing. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Archaeologist Cynthia Shafer-Elliott turns a 2D Bible into a 3D picture by digging up artifacts from everyday ancient Israelite life. These were real people with real habits and customs that we never really see on the pages of the Bible. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Discover the central role of wisdom in the Book of Proverbs as key themes unfold. Explore Joseph's transformation as a lesson in life's greater purpose. Dive into the historical context and structure of Proverbs, revealing its evolution as wisdom literature. Learn how the noble woman embodies Lady Wisdom, highlighting daily responsibilities. Understand the connection between wisdom, creation, and moral engagement. Unpack the importance of personal judgment in navigating life's complexities and the evolution of biblical interpretations.