The Listener’s Commentary

Explore the intriguing reasons behind the flood and God's grief over human wickedness. Discover Noah's unique role and his faithful obedience in building the ark. Dive into the details of animal preservation and God's specific instructions. Learn about the aftermath, including the significance of the rainbow covenant and changes in human-animal relations. Reflect on the implications of Noah's life and legacy, including the persistent nature of sin and the broader themes of righteousness and redemption illustrated in this ancient story.

The podcast dives into the story of Cain and Abel, exploring the themes of jealousy, sin, and God’s warning. It poses compelling questions about what set Abel's offering apart and details the tragic outcome of Cain's anger. The discussion extends to Cain's curse and the development of society marked by violence. Contrasting this narrative, it introduces Enoch and Noah as symbols of hope amidst corruption. Ultimately, it reflects on the importance of calling on and walking with God as paths toward redemption.

Dive into the heart of Genesis 3, where the serpent's cunning leads to humanity's first act of disobedience. Explore the threefold temptation that drives Adam and Eve to eat the forbidden fruit, resulting in immediate shame and hiding from God. Witness the blame game unfold as God confronts them, and uncover the consequences of their actions—including pain in childbirth and toil in toil. Amidst the judgment, discover the first glimmer of hope in a promised redeemer who will ultimately restore what was lost.

Delve into the intimate creation of humanity as God forms Adam from dust and breathes life into him. Discover the lush Garden of Eden, filled with trees and rivers, and the unique role humans play as caretakers of the earth. Explore how Genesis challenges ancient myths by presenting humans as divine image-bearers. The discussion highlights profound themes like companionship, the significance of the tree of knowledge, and the essence of marriage. Plus, intriguing connections to Jesus as the new Adam wrap up this thought-provoking exploration.

Explore the origins of the world and humanity through the lens of Genesis 1. Discover how creation unfolds in a structured pattern over six days, with an intriguing focus on light and celestial bodies. Delve into the relationship between humans and creation, highlighting our role as stewards made in God's image. Contrast ancient myths with the unique narrative of a single creator. Finally, embrace the idea that creation was not only good but culminated in a very good world with the advent of humanity.

Explore the intriguing backstory of Genesis, from its traditional authorship by Moses to its historical setting during the Exodus. Delve into humanity's big questions about origins and purpose, answered through powerful narratives of creation, the fall, and the flood. Discover the structure of Genesis, divided into primeval history and patriarchal tales, showcasing God's promise to Abraham and the unfolding drama of Jacob and Joseph. Learn how to approach Genesis theologically, emphasizing its lessons on sin and divine promises.

Dive into the fascinating world of the Pentateuch! Discover how the Torah is more than just law—it's instruction and a profound story of rescue. Explore the pivotal moments of Genesis, from creation to Abraham's call, and the liberating story of Exodus. Uncover the worship instructions in Leviticus and the lessons from Israel's wilderness journey. Delve into Deuteronomy's insights on covenant and internal transformation, culminating in hints of a coming Redeemer. This is where biblical history takes its epic turn!

Introduction to the Old Testament, pt. 2 In this recording, we look at two more keys that will help you read the Old Testament well. First, we explore how the Old Testament is put together and how the books are arranged. Second, we offer some basic geography based on the periods of the Old Testament story.    Book Recommendation  The Old Testament in Seven Sentences, by Christopher Wright. Order at the following link: https://amzn.to/46DUagl   BIBLE READING GUIDE - FREE EBOOK - Get the free eBook, Bible in Life, to help you learn how to read and apply the Bible well: https://www.listenerscommentary.com     GIVE -  The Listener’s Commentary is a listener supported Bible teaching ministry made possible by the generosity of people like you. Thank you! Give here:  https://www.listenerscommentary.com/give     STUDY HUB - Want more than the audio? Join the study hub to access articles, maps, charts, pictures, and links to other resources to help you study the Bible for yourself. https://www.listenerscommentary.com/members-sign-up   MORE TEACHING - For more resources and Bible teaching from John visit https://www.johnwhittaker.net   *Note: book links are affiliate links which mean I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. 

Introduction to the Old Testament, pt. 1  This intro to the Old Testament provides two keys that will help you read the Old Testament well. First, it gives a broad chronology so that you have a basic handle on the chronological flow of the story. Second, it lists the chapters in the Old Testament story so that you can grasp the narrative flow of the story.    BIBLE READING GUIDE - FREE EBOOK - Get the free eBook, Bible in Life, to help you learn how to read and apply the Bible well: https://www.listenerscommentary.com     GIVE -  The Listener’s Commentary is a listener supported Bible teaching ministry made possible by the generosity of people like you. Thank you! Give here:  https://www.listenerscommentary.com/give     STUDY HUB - Want more than the audio? Join the study hub to access articles, maps, charts, pictures, and links to other resources to help you study the Bible for yourself. https://www.listenerscommentary.com/members-sign-up   MORE TEACHING - For more resources and Bible teaching from John visit https://www.johnwhittaker.net      

Update August 2025 There has been a lot of behind the scenes work this summer since completing the New Testament: Transcripts, Spanish version, and the Old Testament.   BIBLE READING GUIDE - FREE EBOOK - Get the free eBook, Bible in Life, to help you learn how to read and apply the Bible well: https://www.listenerscommentary.com     GIVE -  The Listener’s Commentary is a listener supported Bible teaching ministry made possible by the generosity of people like you. Thank you! Give here:  https://www.listenerscommentary.com/give     STUDY HUB - Want more than the audio? Join the study hub to access articles, maps, charts, pictures, and links to other resources to help you study the Bible for yourself. https://www.listenerscommentary.com/members-sign-up   MORE TEACHING - For more resources and Bible teaching from John visit https://www.johnwhittaker.net