The Bible For Normal People

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.

Brian McLaren discusses the dangers of a 'weaponized Bible' and biased interpretations. They explore its harm on marginalized groups like the LGBTQ+ community and historical misuse justifying atrocities. Emphasizes the need for critical dialogue, diverse perspectives, and personal growth in biblical interpretation.

Jen Hatmaker, an author and former HGTV star, shares her transformative journey with faith and the Bible. She discusses the emotional upheaval of reassessing beliefs, especially concerning LGBTQ inclusion and sexuality. Jen highlights the importance of finding supportive communities during times of spiritual doubt and the backlash she faced from traditional circles. The conversation emphasizes empathy and compassion, offering insights into developing a contemporary understanding of scripture while fostering hope and connection amidst change.

Here's a glimpse of what's coming in season 2 of The Bible for Normal People, featuring Jen Hatmaker, Barbara Brown Taylor, William Paul Young, Brian McLaren, and Cynthia Shafer-Elliot. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-bible-for-normal-people/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Season 1 wrap-up. Pete and Jared reflect on the first season of guests and topics and how they helped inform the big questions that drive this podcast. Season 2 is coming late January or early February 2018! Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode, Pete and Jared speak with Carolyn Custis James. Carolyn is an award-winning author who thinks deeply about what it means to be a female follower of Jesus in a postmodern world. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In our continuing effort to corrupt the minds of college students (because college students don't already have corrupt minds), Pete and Jared recently took a road trip to Penn State to record an episode of The Bible for Normal People in front of a live audience. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of The Bible for Normal People, Pete Enns—without any adult supervision whatsoever—gives his own take on divine violence, specificially: the Flood story, the curses in Deuteronomy 28, and, of course, the one every one wants to talk about, God's command to the Israelites to wipe the Canaanites off the face of the earth and take their land. And a good time was had by all. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this discussion, New Testament scholar Anthony Le Donne shares insights about the Gospels as memories of Jesus rather than mere historical accounts. He highlights how social memory theory shapes these narratives, revealing the diversity in the Gospel accounts. Delving into the unique endings of Mark and the narrative implications, he emphasizes the cultural context of storytelling. The conversation also touches on the subjective nature of interpreting scripture and the importance of interfaith dialogue, providing a rich tapestry of understanding around Jesus' teachings.