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
10 snips
Dec 17, 2020 • 26min
199: AD 1550–1650
A transformative century from 1550 to 1650 marks incredible change and the birth of the Reformation. You’ll learn about John Knox's pivotal role in Presbyterian governance and how Copernicus's challenging ideas reshaped thought. The podcast dives into Blaise Pascal's contributions to science and theology, revealing the interaction of Catholic and Protestant thought. Additionally, it examines the church's influence on culture and the hurdles faced by Protestant reformers, encouraging modern reflections on faith and society.
8 snips
Dec 10, 2020 • 21min
198: AD 1300–1550
Marty Solomon and Brent Billings journey from the Crusades and head toward the Protestant Reformation—but on the way, it is good to recognize some names that are often underappreciated. These figures truly paved the way for some of the formative changes coming to Christendom.AD 1300–1550 PresentationDiscussion Video for BEMA 198Transcript for BEMA 198Support The BEMA Podcast
Dec 3, 2020 • 19min
197: AD 1000–1300
Explore a dark chapter in Christian history marked by the East-West church divide and challenges to papal power. Discover the significance of historical accountability in faith through a unique concept of 'reverse confessional.' Delve into contrasting Jewish and Christian narratives and the complexities of Islamic factions during the Crusades. Examine how warfare influenced the rise of scholasticism and the establishment of medieval universities, highlighting Thomas Aquinas' pivotal role in transforming education and Christian thought.
10 snips
Nov 19, 2020 • 26min
196: AD 700–1000
Charlemagne, a pivotal figure in the development of Western Europe, joins Marty Solomon and Brent Billings as they explore the intricate dynamics of the East-West Schism. They discuss the historical tensions between Eastern and Western Christianity, emphasizing the differing reliance on texts versus icons. The conversation also delves into the gradual evolution leading to the Great Schism of 1054 and reflects on the complex interplay between church and state during Christendom. Throughout, they share insights on interpreting Christianity's rich history with personal reflections.
11 snips
Nov 12, 2020 • 14min
195: AD 500–700
Delve into the transformation of the Roman Empire as it shifts to a religious state, showcasing the rise of early Christianity. Discover the intertwining of the Byzantine Empire with monastic movements, along with the darker facets of persecution. Uncover how monks preserved Christian texts during medieval upheavals, influenced by figures like Gregory the Great. Finally, explore the resilience of faith, highlighting the enduring spirit of believers despite historical hardships.
16 snips
Nov 5, 2020 • 24min
194: AD 300–500
Dive into the 4th and 5th centuries, where Christendom takes shape amid political power plays. Discover Constantine's pivotal role in legalizing Christianity, allowing theological debates to flourish. Explore how Gentile inclusion transformed early Christian identity, raising deep philosophical questions. The emergence of ecumenical councils leads to critical discussions on Christ's nature. Finally, witness the decline of orthodoxy and the fall of the Roman Empire, setting the stage for the Byzantine rise.
27 snips
Oct 29, 2020 • 26min
193: AD 100–300
Dive into the intriguing split between Jewish practices and early Christian beliefs during the second and third centuries. Explore the complexities of church schisms, including the Great Schism and the tensions at the Jerusalem Council. Discover key figures like Paul and James, and how their roles shaped the divide between Jewish and Gentile churches. Learn about the formation of the Muratorian Canon amidst struggles and persecutions in the Roman Empire, alongside the troubling theme of scapegoating that resonates in today's political climate.
7 snips
Oct 22, 2020 • 26min
192: Telling a Story
Topics discussed include the importance of understanding history, acknowledging bias in church history, recommendations for books and podcasts, and examining the belief of early Christians in the imminent return of Christ.
Oct 15, 2020 • 21min
191: Session 5 Intro
Marty Solomon and Brent Billings prepare for the beginning of Session 5 and our journey through church history by taking one last look in our rearview mirror.Session 5 Intro Presentation (PDF)Bible Book Timeline by Roger SchmidgallWhole Bible Story — BibleTelling, YouTube (via Roger Schmidgall)Sign Up for the BEMA MessengerDiscussion Groups MapJoin the BEMA SlackTranscript for BEMA 191Support The BEMA Podcast
Oct 15, 2020 • 51min
190: Session 4 Capstone
Marty Solomon and Brent Billings hold the usual capstone conversation, concluding our journey through the remainder of Scripture and reviewing the entirety thereof.Session 4 Capstone Presentation (PDF)Bible Book Timeline by Roger SchmidgallWhole Bible Story — BibleTelling, YouTube (via Roger Schmidgall)Join the BEMA SlackSign Up for the BEMA MessengerDiscussion Groups MapTranscript for BEMA 190Support The BEMA Podcast
