The BEMA Podcast

Elle Grover Fricks, a scholar in Christian ethics and reception history, joins the conversation to explore the complex nature of greed. They discuss iconic films like Wall Street and The Wolf of Wall Street, relating them to the disordered desire of greed. Elle emphasizes how greed obstructs kingdom living and shapes identity in consumer culture. The hosts examine the isolation it causes, the psychological toll it takes, and challenge norms around ownership and community practices, advocating for a mindset of liberality and reflection on our possessions.

Join the hosts as they dive into the emotional intensity of Jesus weeping during the triumphal entry. They explore the disciples' confusion during the Passover, shedding light on the promise of the Holy Spirit. The episode challenges the authority of Jesus post-temple cleansing, unveiling the reactions of religious leaders debating their next moves. Judas’s character takes center stage, revealing his inner conflicts. The commentary includes a thought-provoking look at Jesus' teachings on the end times and the powerful portrayal of his lament over Jerusalem.

Brent and Reed dive into gluttony, exploring its forms beyond food, including media and ideas. They discuss the tension between indulgence and self-control in modern culture. Delving into delightful versus excessive consumption, they share personal insights and global consequences of overconsumption. They reflect on biblical critiques of appetite-worship and emphasize the importance of community in meals. With a call for magnanimity and practices like fasting and feasting, they encourage a mindful approach to consumption, restoring joy and connection.

Hosts dive deep into the intricacies of the second episode from Season 5 of a beloved series. They discuss the bold narrative design choices, including flashbacks and the unique portrayal of significant events like the Last Supper. Character dynamics steal the show, with insights into mercy, cleanliness, and the political intrigue surrounding key figures. The delicate reunion of Thomas and Naomi adds emotional weight, while the analysis of temple-cleansing scenes reveals how production choices influence storytelling.

Reed Dent, a thoughtful voice on spirituality, joins Marty Solomon and Brent Billings to explore the vice of lust. They delve into Augustine's insights on disordered desires and use a 'Game Genie' analogy to highlight the hollowness of instant gratification. Discussing Aquinas, they examine how lust distorts intimacy and genuine connection. The conversation critiques how church culture complicates sexuality, emphasizing the importance of seeing people's full humanity rather than objectifying them. Practical tips are offered for overcoming habitual lust, focusing on community and self-examination.

The hosts dive into the rich symbolism of a bridle becoming a whip, linking it to biblical narratives like the Exodus. They analyze the opening scene at a Passover table, contrasting it with traditional interpretations of the Last Supper. The portrayal of a historical Passover meal is praised for its authenticity and creativity. Emotional dynamics are explored, particularly during Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. Finally, the speakers reflect on the impact of storytelling as they discuss the balance of judgment and redemption in the narrative of Jesus' last week.

The hosts delve into the intriguing interplay between vices and virtues, revealing how personal experiences and family shape our moral landscape. They explore historical insights from figures like Augustine and philosophical perspectives on sin and human nature. The discussion emphasizes the significance of embodying virtues in our lives, highlighting how they can transform our relationships. They also provide a resource guide for those wanting to dive deeper into the themes, covering literature and even film related to these timeless concepts.

Ethan Bryan, author of "A Year of Playing Catch" and known for his unique storytelling, dives into how personal narratives can combat fear and foster faith. He shares his heartfelt journey of overcoming anxiety while crafting emotional connections through creative writing. The discussion also explores the importance of community-building through collaborative projects and mentorship in youth sports. Plus, hear about his nostalgic ties to baseball, illustrating how simple moments of playing catch strengthen family bonds and create lasting relationships.

The speakers delve into the profound themes of Qohelet, addressing justice and existentialism. They highlight the shift from existential futility to proactive activism, urging a deeper understanding of life beyond materialism. The discussion also touches on the spiritual identity struggles faced by the younger generation in today's society. Emphasizing the value of community and relationships, they advocate for mindfulness and presence, sharing personal reflections and insights into navigating challenges in college ministry and the virtual landscape.

Explore the poetic nuances of Qohelet's final chapter with a lighthearted take on youth and divine gifts. Delve into reflections on aging, mortality, and the transient nature of life through vivid metaphors like locusts and almond trees. The discussion highlights joy's fleeting moments contrasted with enduring struggles, emphasizing life's impermanence. Unpack complexities in biblical texts, including irony and the challenge of understanding ancient wisdom. Engage in philosophical debates about duty, divine judgment, and the quest for deeper meaning.