Ryan and Brian's Bible Bistro

Show Notes:Ryan and Brian invite Justin Brierly, a seasoned journalist and the host of the popular podcast 'Unbelievable,' to discuss the evolving narrative of faith in contemporary society. The conversation begins with Brierly reflecting on his journey, which began in 2005, as he sought to create a platform for meaningful discussions between Christians and atheists. Through his extensive experience, Brierly has not only engaged with prominent thinkers but also witnessed a significant cultural shift regarding faith. He shares insights into how the New Atheist movement, which once dominated intellectual discourse, is waning, making way for a renewed interest in spiritual matters. This shift is not merely anecdotal; Brierly cites growing numbers of individuals who are reconsidering their stance on faith, spurred by existential questions that plague modern life.Central to Brierly's message is his book, 'The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God,' where he argues that there is a noticeable resurgence in belief among younger generations. He discusses his conversations with influential figures like Douglas Murray, who acknowledges the significant cultural contributions of Christianity, and Tom Holland, who articulates a profound respect for the Christian narrative. Brierly suggests that these dialogues indicate a broader societal trend wherein the values instilled by Christianity are being recognized, even by those who do not identify as believers. He contends that this recognition paves the way for a more nuanced understanding of faith, encouraging listeners to consider the implications of such transformations in their own lives.As the podcast progresses, Brierly offers practical advice for churches seeking to engage with this new wave of meaning-seekers. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the unique aspects of Christianity that set it apart from other ideologies, advocating for an approach that embraces the supernatural elements of faith. By doing so, churches can attract those who yearn for authenticity and depth in their spiritual journeys. Brierly also highlights the power of storytelling in conveying the richness of the Christian experience, suggesting that narratives of faith can resonate deeply with individuals searching for purpose. The conversation culminates with Brierly's insights on fostering respectful and ongoing dialogues with those who may disagree, underscoring the need for empathy and kindness in an increasingly polarized world.Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of having respectful, ongoing conversations with those who hold different beliefs. Justin Brierly discusses how he transitioned from a radio show to a successful podcast format. The changing cultural landscape has led to a resurgence of interest in Christian faith and spirituality. Brierly suggests that the church should embrace its unique and unusual aspects to attract seekers. The episode highlights the significance of storytelling in conveying the Christian message effectively. Brierly argues that modern apologists should focus on existential questions rather than just traditional debates.

Ryan and Brian dive into chapters 10 and 11 of Zechariah, focusing on the themes of shepherding and leadership within the context of Israel’s history. They explore the significant imagery of shepherds and how it relates to God’s care for His people, contrasting the divine shepherd with the flawed human leaders throughout history. The conversation highlights the prophecy of restoration for the Israelites, emphasizing God's promise to gather His scattered flock and restore unity among the tribes of Judah and Joseph. Brian elaborates on the metaphorical significance of the shepherd as a leader, using parallels to Jesus’s portrayal as the Good Shepherd in the New Testament. They discuss the cultural and historical context of this imagery, particularly how it resonates with the audience of Zechariah and connects to the broader theological narrative of redemption and hope in the face of adversity.Takeaways: Ryan and Brian discuss the significance of shepherd imagery in the Bible, particularly in Zechariah. The podcast emphasizes the contrast between human rulers and Jesus as the ultimate good shepherd. Listeners are reminded of God's promise to unite and restore His people from exile. Brian shares insights on the cultural context of shepherding and leadership in ancient Israel. The episode highlights the challenges and expectations placed on leaders within the Christian faith. Ryan and Brian prepare to delve deeper into Zechariah's prophetic messages in future episodes.

Ryan and Brian delve into the intricate prophecies found in the biblical book of Zechariah, focusing on chapters eight through ten in this episode of the Bible Bistro podcast. They explore the historical context and theological significance of Zechariah's predictions, particularly those regarding the coming of a messianic king. These prophecies, as the hosts discuss, are notably referenced in the New Testament and have been interpreted as foretelling the arrival of Jesus Christ. The duo examines how Zechariah's visions of peace and justice contrast with the violent conquests of historical figures like Alexander the Great, offering insights into the deeper spiritual meanings behind these biblical texts. Throughout the episode, they weave in historical accounts, such as Josephus's writings about Alexander's encounter with Jerusalem, to provide a richer context to the prophecies.Takeaways: The podcast episode explores the prophetic themes in the book of Zechariah, particularly focusing on chapters 9 and the messianic prophecies. The discussion highlights the prophecy regarding the coming of Alexander the Great and its fulfillment in history. Zechariah 9 is contrasted with the New Testament's account of Jesus' triumphal entry, emphasizing different kinds of kingship. The episode examines the historical context of Zechariah's prophecies, including the geopolitical landscape of ancient Israel. The hosts discuss the translation challenges in Zechariah and how different versions interpret certain passages. The podcast delves into the themes of peace and salvation as foretold in Zechariah, relating them to the coming of Christ. Chapters:00:12 - Introduction to the Bible Bistro00:24 - Harvest Time and Prairie Life01:09 - Introduction to Zechariah01:24 - Messianic Prophecies in Zechariah12:56 - Prophecy Against Tyre and Sidon13:45 - Alexander the Great's Conquests21:52 - God's Protection of Jerusalem35:48 - The Coming King on a Donkey45:29 - Peace and Restoration47:04 - The Blood of the Covenant48:52 - God's Salvation and Restoration59:06 - Conclusion and Reflections59:32 - Outro and Announcements

Ryan and Brian continue their series through the book of Zechariah. In this episode, they examine an important question the Jews asked of God and the surprising answer they received.LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible BistroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistroFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmgSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6AWebsite: https://www.thebiblebistro.comRyan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

Join us for an engaging exploration of Zechariah's night visions as we discuss themes of judgment, righteousness, and divine messages. We kick off with the powerful imagery of the flying scroll, a massive symbol of God's curse against sin and disobedience. This vision serves as a poignant reminder of the Israelites' return from exile and the dire consequences of failing to uphold God's commands. We'll reflect on the importance of removing sin to maintain righteousness and avoid repeating past mistakes.Next, we delve into the symbolic vision of the basket containing a woman personifying wickedness, an image rich with cultural and spiritual significance. The basket's lead cover and the appearance of two women with stork-like wings add layers of meaning, representing the containment of sin and the purity associated with storks in ancient culture. We unpack the gendered imagery and its implications for understanding spiritual concepts in the Hebrew context.Finally, we examine the vision of four powerful chariots emerging from bronze mountains, symbolizing God's judgment upon the nations. This vision connects with prophetic images in the Book of Revelation, highlighting themes of conquest, plague, famine, and death. We conclude with a discussion on the significance of unity and transformation in Christ, drawing on scriptural references from Galatians and Ephesians. Through these reflections, we emphasize the call for Christians to embrace righteousness, generosity, and unity within the body of believers. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that blends historical context with timeless spiritual lessons.LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible BistroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistroFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmgSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6AWebsite: https://www.thebiblebistro.comRyan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

Join us at Ryan and Brian's Bible Bistro as we continue our journey through the book of Zechariah, focusing on the intriguing fifth night vision in chapter 4. We explore the rich imagery of the golden lamp stand with seven lamps and two olive trees, breaking down its symbolism and significance for Zechariah's time and broader biblical themes. Reflecting on spiritual awakening, we draw parallels between Zechariah's experience and moments in the New Testament, such as the road to Emmaus, offering both academic insights and spiritual upliftment for understanding the messages of the Old Testament prophets.In another chapter, we unpack the divine messages for Zerubbabel, examining Zechariah's apocalyptic visions and the interaction with angelic messengers. Our discussion highlights the central theme of relying on God's spirit over human might, supported by an analysis of the chiastic structure of the vision and key phrases like the declaration about the capstone. We also address the historical context of the temple rebuilding and the socio-political challenges faced by the returning exiles, underscoring the importance of divine intervention and prophecy fulfillment.We then transition to the themes of divine empowerment and the necessity of waiting on God's timing. Using historical contexts such as Solomon's temple and modern unfinished projects, we emphasize the distinction between human strength and divine power. Additionally, we explore the significance of the two anointed ones in Zechariah's visions, representing essential spiritual and leadership roles, and discuss the importance of spiritual disciplines in preparing for God's actions. Tune in for a rich and insightful discussion that not only enhances your understanding of Zechariah but also encourages a deeper reliance on God's spirit in your own life.LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible BistroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistroFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmgSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6AWebsite: https://www.thebiblebistro.comRyan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

Discover a vision of hope and redemption that transcends time and culture. Join us as we journey through the night visions of Zechariah, focusing on the powerful, symbolic imagery that has captivated theologians for centuries. Broadcasting from Texarkana, Arkansas, we revisit the first three visions: a peaceful world, God's justice against oppressors, and an inclusive Jerusalem. Then, we turn our attention to Zechariah 3, where Joshua the high priest stands accused but ultimately finds hope and restoration.In this episode, we unravel the profound significance of Joshua's transformation from filthy garments symbolizing sin to clean clothes representing divine righteousness. This recurring biblical theme ties together priestly garments from Leviticus, Samuel’s linen ephod, and Isaiah's depiction of filthy rags, connecting seamlessly with New Testament references like Jesus' parable of the wedding garments and Paul's exhortation to "put on Christ." We also reflect on Revelation’s rich clothing imagery, emphasizing the white garments of the redeemed.Finally, we delve into the prophetic imagery of the "branch" from Isaiah, a symbol deeply embedded in Messianic prophecies. We highlight the connection between Zechariah's vision and the promise of a righteous priesthood, preparing for the coming Messiah. Drawing parallels to Jesus as the great high priest in the order of Melchizedek, we interpret Zechariah’s prophecies as a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work. Join us as we explore these timeless visions and their relevance to our understanding of divine righteousness and ultimate salvation.LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible BistroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistroFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmgSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6AWebsite: https://www.thebiblebistro.comRyan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

Join us for a captivating journey in this episode of Ryan and Brian's Bible Bistro as we blend humor with profound biblical insights. We kick things off with a lively discussion about game shows and musicals, leading to Ryan's fascinating experience at Buc-ee's in Alabama, a gas station like no other. This light-hearted banter sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the book of Zechariah, where we revisit themes of peace and God's mercy on Jerusalem from previous episodes.Listen in as we explore the symbolism of the four horns in Zechariah 1:18, representing political power and their significance in the books of Revelation and Daniel. We discuss the rich imagery of building and restoration in Zechariah, emphasizing the importance of constructing God's kingdom through spiritual means rather than worldly force. The metaphor of craftsmen overthrowing the horns of earthly power is examined, drawing parallels to the phrase "the pen is mightier than the sword" and highlighting the spiritual construction of God's kingdom.We also reflect on the invitation to God's city and all nations, examining the profound symbolism and theological implications of passages from Psalms, Zechariah, and Revelation. This includes a contrast between military might and divine protection, as well as the inclusive nature of God's kingdom. Wrapping up, we discuss the importance of celebrating God's work and maintaining focus on His mission, all while sharing some light-hearted musings and encouraging listeners to share the podcast with others.LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible BistroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistroFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmgSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6AWebsite: https://www.thebiblebistro.comRyan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

This episode kicks off with a lively discussion about Ryan's journey into learning Greek and our deep enthusiasm for exploring the Minor Prophets, particularly the book of Zechariah. We set the stage by highlighting Zechariah's unique position within the post-exilic period, the remarkable specificity of his dated prophecies, and his notable mentions in the book of Ezra. As we embark on this series, we'll draw insightful connections between Zechariah's visions and certain passages in the Gospel of John.Next, we trace the timeline from the Babylonian exile to the Persian conquest, focusing on significant events like Cyrus's decree and Zerubbabel's return to Judah. Our conversation uncovers the challenges faced by the returning exiles, from local opposition to political upheavals, and how these events set the historical context for Zechariah's prophecies. By examining the specific dates mentioned in Zechariah, we provide a richer understanding of his ministry and its impact on the restoration efforts in Jerusalem.We then explore Zechariah's early prophecies, starting with his initial prophecy in 520 BC and the night visions in 519 BC. These visions served to motivate the people to rebuild the temple despite political and social distractions, a theme we reflect upon in the context of modern challenges. From the symbolism of the myrtle trees and colored horses to the themes of divine jealousy and prophetic reassurance, we unpack the rich theological content in Zechariah's visions. We conclude with a discussion on the promise of prosperity and God's intimate relationship with His people, setting the stage for future episodes that promise more insightful theological exploration.LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible BistroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistroFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmgSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6AWebsite: https://www.thebiblebistro.comRyan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

Join us for an exploration of what it means to be a follower of Christ, using the Book of Jonah as our guide. We kick off the episode with some banter about the challenges of scheduling and planning our podcast topics, before diving into the heart of the discussion. Brian shares his insights on aligning our personal interests with those of God's Kingdom, and the importance of representing that Kingdom. We touch on the concept of "mission creep" and the need to stay focused on our primary mission, drawing connections to the Sermon on the Mount's directive to seek first God's kingdom and righteousness.As we unpack the narrative of Jonah, we challenge the common misconception that following Christ is solely about adhering to a set of moral rules. Instead, we emphasize the importance of aligning our hearts with God's purposes. The narrative style of Jonah within the collection of the minor prophets serves as a backdrop to our discussion, highlighting Jonah's mission to the city of Nineveh and the broader implications for how we define our faith. We delve into the historical and theological context of Jonah's story, exploring the period of Assyrian expansion and its impact on Israel.We also explore the transition from polytheism to monotheism among the sailors who witness Jonah's ordeal, and the moment when Jonah identifies his God as the Creator of heaven, earth, and sea. This episode also reflects on Jesus' reference to the "sign of Jonah" in the Gospels, drawing parallels between Jonah's story and Jesus' life, particularly focusing on themes of repentance and inclusion. Finally, we challenge our listeners to consider how we view and treat others, especially those who are different from us, using Jonah's story to prompt a check on our perspectives on compassion and forgiveness.LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible BistroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistroFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmgSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6AWebsite: https://www.thebiblebistro.comRyan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.