The BEMA Podcast
BEMA Discipleship
The BEMA Podcast is a walk-through of the context of the Bible and the Text itself, as well as surrounding history. We deconstruct our common readings of the Bible and attempt to reconstruct them through the lens of historical context.
The main body of work is contained in Seasons 1–5, and we encourage you to start with episode 0 (or even -1) and continue in order through episode 204. Beyond that, we explore new topics, revisit old topics, and dive deeper into practical ways of living out the things we have learned together.
BEMA Discipleship is a ministry of Impact Campus Ministries.
The main body of work is contained in Seasons 1–5, and we encourage you to start with episode 0 (or even -1) and continue in order through episode 204. Beyond that, we explore new topics, revisit old topics, and dive deeper into practical ways of living out the things we have learned together.
BEMA Discipleship is a ministry of Impact Campus Ministries.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 13, 2025 • 59min
485: Vice & Virtue — Prudence
Dive into the intriguing exploration of prudence, or wisdom, as the hosts dissect its meaning through history and its biblical context. Listen to reflections on Annie Dillard's thoughts on reverence in worship. They discuss how wisdom informs other virtues and the importance of situational judgment. The conversation highlights barriers to wisdom, like echo chambers, while emphasizing humility and teachability as key components of acquiring wisdom. Find out how wisdom plays out in everyday life and its culmination in the concept of Christ crucified.
10 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 58min
484: Dallas Jenkins — It Would Have Been Enough (Bonus Episode)
Dallas Jenkins, the creative force behind The Chosen, joins the hosts to dive deep into Seasons 4 and 5. He discusses the innovative storytelling choices, like the unique presentation of the Last Supper that enhances audience engagement. Jenkins shares insights on portraying women's roles authentically and the importance of historical accuracy. He also emphasizes the global impact of the series, translating it into 86 languages. Along the way, he reflects on personal lessons of faith and the intimacy of God in storytelling.
Nov 6, 2025 • 54min
483: Annie F. Downs — That Sounds Fun
Annie F. Downs, a bestselling author and popular podcaster known for her vibrant storytelling, joins the conversation to share her journey. She discusses how curiosity shapes her life and relationships, as well as the inspiring purpose behind her podcasts, including the light-filled mission of That Sounds Fun. Annie reveals her writing process and the emotional impact of her latest book, Remember God. She also highlights the joy of connecting with audiences at her events and her fun approach to discovering local gems during travel.
Nov 3, 2025 • 36min
482: The Chosen S5E8 — “The Upper Room, Part 2” (Bonus Episode)
Dive into the emotional dynamics of the Upper Room as Thaddeus recalls his call to follow Jesus. Explore powerful recruitment speeches and the reactions of the disciples, marrying tension and farewell in profound moments. Discover the significance of Judas’s actions, as well as the implications of Roman politics. Delight in the cinematic choices of the season, enriched by behind-the-scenes humor and reflections on key visions. Cap it off with a heartfelt tribute as the hosts wrap up an insightful journey through this beloved series.
10 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 1h 16min
481: Vice & Virtue — Sloth
Dive into the exploration of sloth, or acedia, a deeper spiritual malaise beyond mere laziness. The hosts discuss the overwhelming nature of modern life and how comfort can lead to indifference and cynicism. They connect acedia to scriptural themes and propose Sabbath as a remedy to reorient our care. Listeners are encouraged to confront their own tendencies toward apathy and distraction while discovering small, faithful practices that can revive passion and purpose. It's a thought-provoking journey into our relationship with productivity and spiritual vitality.
Oct 27, 2025 • 37min
480: The Chosen S5E7 — “The Upper Room, Part 1” (Bonus Episode)
Marty Solomon and Brent Billings dive into the intriguing dynamics of the foot-washing scene, revealing its deeper rabbinic implications. They explore the emotional conflict of Judas amid family tensions and reflect on Peter's evolving role as a preacher. The hosts discuss the significance of Mark's vision and the Essene connections, while also highlighting poignant backstories of the disciples through compelling flashbacks. Throughout their analysis, the theme of anticipation in the upper room unfolds, setting a rich backdrop for the unfolding narrative.
Oct 23, 2025 • 1h 4min
479: Vice & Virtue — Wrath
Exploring the complexities of wrath, Brent and Reed dive into the allure of revenge and its biblical implications. They discuss how God's anger, slow and restorative, contrasts with human anger's vengeful tendencies. Referencing scripture, they examine what provokes divine wrath and its ultimate goal of healing. The conversation highlights the dangers of misdirected anger and the use of pop culture to process feelings of revenge. They encourage self-reflection on anger's role in our lives and its potential for motivating compassion.
Oct 20, 2025 • 38min
478: The Chosen S5E6 — “Reunions” (Bonus Episode)
Dive into a gripping analysis of the latest episode, where the hosts dissect the intricate dynamics surrounding the Passover and Last Supper. Explore the tension between Nicodemus and Mary, highlighting their differing views on Jesus. Delve into Judas' secret negotiations with the high priest and the gripping political landscape under Pilate’s watch. Hear about Kofni’s vengeance and the reveal of Barabbas, culminating in Nicodemus's ominous scriptural reflections on Jesus' fate. This discussion uncovers layers of intrigue and character motivations!
Oct 16, 2025 • 1h 2min
477: Vice & Virtue — Envy
Brent and Reed dive into the complexities of envy, using The Talented Mr. Ripley to illustrate its consuming nature. They differentiate envy from covetousness, highlighting how it distorts identity and fosters zero-sum thinking. Exploring Aquinas' views, they discuss envy’s harmful social effects and its opposition to love and joy. The hosts examine cultural tendencies to leverage envy for competition, lined with biblical examples of Cain and Abel. Practical strategies to combat envy are shared, promoting self-examination and celebrating others.
Oct 13, 2025 • 31min
476: The Chosen S5E5 — “Because of Me” (Bonus Episode)
Marty and Brent dive deep into the intricacies of character development in The Chosen, exploring themes of betrayal and personal growth among the disciples. They discuss the intentional use of camera techniques and reflect on biblical moments, like Judas' possession and Thomas' anger. The market confrontation adds social tension while Claudia’s dream hints at Pilate’s domestic issues. Conversations around Sanhedrin politics reveal deeper power dynamics, leading to surprising character returns and suspenseful moments, such as Mary's kidnapping.
