The BEMA Podcast

In this podcast, Marty Solomon and Brent Billings discuss how God carries the burdens of all nations, showcasing various nations and prophets mentioned in Isaiah. They compare different Bible versions, delve into the interpretation of Isaiah's voice, explore prophecies against Moav, and highlight God's care for all people and the call to peace.

Exploring the political climate of King Ahas's reign and the consequences of doubt. Debates on biblical prophecies and interpretations, including the meaning of a sign and the identity of a young woman. The significance of 'Mahair Shalal Hoshpahs' and trusting God amidst threats. A vision of peace and harmony and reflecting on the title, encouraging trust in God's plans.

Delving into the cultural context of Isaiah 6 and disputed archaeological records. Exploring the poetic nature of prophets and the significance of Isaiah's vision. Reflecting on the meaning of 'seraph' and God's vastness. Navigating individual responsibility and collective guilt. Exploring Assyrian culture and contrasting rituals with surrendering to God.

The hosts explore the structure of the book of Isaiah and discuss the historical context and dating of biblical kings and prophets. They analyze the possibility of multiple voices in the book and interpret phrases suggesting abandonment and lacking focus on God. The importance of looking back at God's actions in the past is emphasized. They also delve into the themes of greed, leadership, and God's discipline through the metaphor of pruning an olive tree.

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings discuss the prophetic imagination, exploring the role of prophets as mouthpieces for God. They highlight the communal nature of prophetic words, emphasizing the demand for present action. The chapter also delves into the concept of prophets as cultural provocateurs, drawing parallels with modern-day prophets. The three-part arc of a prophetic message is explained, along with recommended books on prophecy. The hosts make predictions for the football season, expressing optimism for the Bengals football team's performance.

Reed Dent, with deep knowledge of Isaiah prophecy, joins Marty Solomon and Brent Billings to discuss prophetic pathos and the relevance of reading Isaiah after exploring Jesus. They explore the significance of Abraham Joshua Heschel's book 'The Prophets', the portrayal of God in the prophets, and the concept of pathos in theology and philosophy. They also delve into the significance of Heschel's book on understanding prophecy, emphasizing the challenges of embracing the messages of the prophets.

The hosts reflect on personal growth and learning, emphasizing the importance of cultural context. They discuss the challenges and emotions surrounding the popularity of their trips. The evolution of Baymont Assumption campus ministry is explored, along with the benefits of Discord's community features. The speakers commit to evolving and preview upcoming episodes on the book of Isaiah.

Marty Solomon shares his sabbatical experience, including engaging in enjoyable activities, personal reflection, and the role of a spiritual director. The hosts reflect on the concept of Beimah ism, the unintentional chiasm structure of session seven, and the significance of the guest being placed in the center. They discuss the reflection episodes in the first half of the season, new prayer practices and tools they have learned, and their future plans for examining the book of Isaiah in a different way.

Filmmaker and director Dallas Jenkins discusses the impact and success of The Chosen, the importance of staying connected to real people, and the behind-the-scenes details and historical accuracy in their Bible study series. They also explore the impact of Jesus reciting the Beatitudes and the development of characters in biblical texts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context and delves into the historical messiness and freedom of exploration in creating a more authentic portrayal of events.

Brent Billings, Reed Dent, and Elle Grover Fricks discuss the practice of prayer. They explore the active nature of prayer, the use of prayer labyrinths, the 'prayer of the beloved' contemplative practice, centering prayer, stealing phrases, stillness, and imagination in prayer.