
The BEMA Podcast
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.
Latest episodes

Nov 18, 2024 • 46min
424: The Chosen S4E7 — “The Last Sign” (Bonus Episode)
Delve into the emotional weight of Lazarus's resurrection and its impact on the characters in Season 4. Explore the complex dynamics between Mary Magdalene and Matthew, revealing deeper themes through their unique interactions. Unravel the identities of biblical figures named James, highlighting the challenges of representation. Reflect on grief, healing, and spiritual wisdom as characters navigate profound loss. Discuss the significance of mourning practices and their connection to resurrection, all while contemplating faith, community, and the essence of Jesus.

Nov 14, 2024 • 40min
423: Hosea — Forgiveness
Discover the profound themes of forgiveness and healing woven throughout the insights on Hosea 6. The journey emphasizes returning to the Lord for restoration and the transformative power of genuine repentance. Explore the distinction between divine forgiveness and human accountability, highlighting practical steps toward true repentance. Delve into the complexity of forgiveness, where acknowledging consequences leads to personal growth and communal well-being. It's a deep dive into the interplay of grace, healing, and the essential nature of confession.

Nov 11, 2024 • 39min
422: The Chosen S4E6 — “Dedication” (Bonus Episode)
The discussion dives into chaotic moments among Jesus and his disciples, enriched by poignant Hanukkah flashbacks. The speakers highlight the filming of historical figures and the cultural significance of the Feast of Dedication. They mix light-hearted traditions with deep emotional insights, showcasing family dynamics and playful rivalries. Tensions rise as they analyze the complex relationships among disciples facing financial and spiritual struggles. Symbolic encounters and pivotal scenes illustrate the challenges of faith, leadership, and evolving connections.

Nov 7, 2024 • 47min
421: Hosea — When God Goes Missing
Join Josh Bossé, a guest speaker with insights into Hosea, as he navigates the profound themes of corruption and divine absence in Hosea 5. Discover how corrupt leadership affects communities and the historical implications of betrayal. The discussion emphasizes Israel's spiritual infidelity and the dangers of using God for personal agendas. Bossé also unpacks the complexities of biblical translation and interpretation, shedding light on critical phrases and the intricacies within scriptural texts.

Nov 4, 2024 • 42min
420: The Chosen S4E5 — “Sitting, Serving, Scheming” (Bonus Episode)
Discover the intricate dynamics between the Pharisees and Sadducees, highlighting their conflicting beliefs and the motivations of key characters like Shmuel and Yusuf. Explore the themes of morality, compassion, and resilience as the disciples prepare for their journey to Jerusalem. Delve into the dual nature of character portrayals, especially Philip, reflecting historical contexts and biblical themes. Unravel Judas's internal struggle with his beliefs in a witty conversation, all while navigating the rich tapestry of relationships in Capernaum.

Oct 31, 2024 • 37min
419: A. J. Sherrill — Rediscovering Christmas
A. J. Sherrill, lead pastor at St. Peter’s Church and author of 'Rediscovering Christmas,' shares his journeys in faith and community leadership. He highlights the essence of Christmas, drawing parallels between bread-making and the holiday's spiritual significance. A. J. discusses the importance of creating sacred spaces and fostering meaningful conversations. He brings attention to Anna from the Christmas narrative, illustrating resilience and hope. The conversation encourages listeners to deepen their connection with God amidst modern distractions.

Oct 28, 2024 • 41min
418: The Chosen S4E4 — “Calm Before” (Bonus Episode)
Hosts dive into the latest twists in The Chosen, highlighting shifting power dynamics and character grief. They analyze the complexities of miracles, urging a faith beyond mere expectations. The discussion touches on spiritual vulnerability and the impact of worship music. Intense interactions between characters unfold during their journey, mixing light-hearted moments with deep conflicts. Lastly, reflections on the garden scene in Gethsemane illuminate the spiritual weight carried by Jesus, enriching the narrative's structure.

Oct 24, 2024 • 51min
417: Hosea — Staring Brokenness in the Face
Reed Dent, a guest speaker with deep insights into theological themes, joins the conversation to explore the Book of Hosea. The discussion dives into the prophetic calls for repentance and the consequences of spiritual neglect. They reflect on the impact of leadership on societal issues and the importance of authenticity in one's faith journey. The conversation also touches on identity transformation and the relationship between flaws and genuine belief. Additionally, they infuse some light-hearted commentary on sports, specifically the Kansas City Chiefs.

Oct 21, 2024 • 41min
416: The Chosen S4E3 — “Moon to Blood” (Bonus Episode)
Dive into the emotional and theological nuances of a pivotal moment in King David's life in a controversial narrative. Explore how historical flashbacks shape biblical storytelling, balancing artistic interpretation with factual accuracy. Unpack the tensions of power and identity through humor, clothing, and character dynamics. Gain a more nuanced understanding of Salome's motivations and witness the evolving relationships in Capernaum, where themes of faith, healing, and dialogue in religious spaces come to life.

12 snips
Oct 17, 2024 • 51min
415: Hosea — Living Metaphor
Discover the profound themes encapsulated in the biblical book of Hosea, exploring the parallels between ancient Israel's struggles and modern spiritual infidelity. The discussion dives into the metaphorical relationship between Hosea and Gomer, emphasizing the necessity of internal transformation for redemption. Reflect on the significance of 'prophetic imagination' and its role in confronting societal issues today. There's also a focus on mentorship and discipleship, highlighting their importance for personal growth and community enrichment.