The BEMA Podcast

Reed Dent, a Campus Christian Fellowship leader, joins the conversation to unpack the virtue of faith. They explore the difference between faith as mere intellectual assent and as an actionable trust in God. Reed emphasizes the balance of belief and action, suggesting that doubt can enrich faith rather than diminish it. The hosts reflect on personal faith journeys, revealing how formative experiences shape their understanding. They playfully connect first-century sects to missing virtues, urging a deeper exploration of the nature of faith in one's life.

Sandra Richter, Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies and author of Abigail and the Waterfall, joins the conversation with insights on environmental theology and stewardship. She discusses the importance of Sabbath as a foundation for ecological health and highlights how marginalized communities suffer most from environmental harm. Sandra reflects on her experiences in Appalachia and the impact of short political cycles on long-term stewardship. She emphasizes engaging the younger generation and calls for a shift in how Christians approach environmental issues amidst political polarization.

The hosts dive into David Fincher's 1995 film, exploring its graphic content and thematic depth. They analyze the blending of the seven deadly sins with a dark narrative, touching on the filmmakers' backgrounds and the film's symbolic motifs. Key characters, especially Somerset and Mills, are contrasted in their worldviews and coping mechanisms. A poignant discussion surrounds the film's bleak ending and its moral questions, leaving listeners to ponder whether the victims are truly deserving of judgment.

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings deliver a heartfelt message about year-end giving and the ministry's future needs. They discuss how grief has influenced fundraising strategies after a loss. The duo emphasizes the vital role of monthly donors and shares stories of gratitude that highlight the impact of contributions. They also outline budget priorities for the upcoming year and stress that December donations are crucial for staffing and program growth. Listeners are encouraged to support the cause as they reflect on a year of giving.

Reed Dent, a longtime contributor and teacher focused on biblical context and ethics, leads a thought-provoking discussion on justice. He contrasts punitive legal justice with a more compassionate, prophetic social justice that emphasizes protecting the vulnerable. The conversation highlights biblical figures like Jeremiah and Amos, illustrating how true justice involves mercy and proactive inclusion. Readers are encouraged to reflect on the importance of justice in worship and consider practical ways to serve their communities.

The hosts explore the essence of courage, framing it as a blend of will and choice. They discuss how courage fuels other virtues like justice and temperance. Personal reflections highlight the everyday acts of bravery often overlooked. Biblical examples illustrate courage in various contexts, revealing it isn't just a masculine trait. Conversations about recognizing courage in ourselves and others emphasize the importance of support and acknowledgment. They conclude with a call to embody courage in daily life, rooted in connection with God.

Brent Billings opens with heartfelt news of Josh Bossé's passing, sharing the profound significance of Josh's final moments connecting to the Sabbath. He reflects on how Josh's love for Shabbat offers comfort in this time of mourning. Listeners are invited to support through CaringBridge and GoFundMe while observing a seven-day Shiva. Brent discusses Josh's impactful ministry and the future needs for his initiatives, along with a heartfelt call for year-end donations to sustain their mission and honor Josh's legacy.

Elle Grover Fricks, a contributor on theological insights, joins the hosts to explore the virtue of temperance. They discuss how temperance is about resisting insatiable desires and balancing various aspects of life, from work to hobbies. Key distinctions between temperance and prudence are made, alongside reflections on temperance's role in commitment. Elle highlights the importance of Christlike service in navigating decisions. The conversation concludes with practical tips for cultivating temperance across life, addressing both self-control and community.

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.

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.