
Ryan and Brian's Bible Bistro
A podcast about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith. Hosted by Ryan Sarver and Brian Johnson..
Latest episodes

Apr 23, 2024 • 1h 14min
The 7 Seals & 7 Trumpets of Revelation: Setting the Scene
Join us as we delve into the complexities of Revelation and apocalyptic texts, uncovering the detailed patterns often mistaken for simple future forecasts. We'll examine the seven seals and trumpets, highlighting the need to transition from seeing Revelation as a timeline to appreciating its rich symbolism and themes. With tools like Bruce Metzger's "Breaking the Code," we'll navigate the intricacies of Revelation, addressing the broader interpretation challenges of books such as Chronicles and Numbers. We'll even humorously acknowledge our own difficulties in selecting favored biblical texts in times of upheaval.Dive into the throne room imagery with us as we analyze the symbols of apocalyptic literature and their relevance for a victorious Christian life. We'll discuss the complex imagery and emotions in Revelation chapter five, considering Christ's conquest of earthly powers, the ongoing presence of evil, and the eventual triumph over wickedness. We connect the ancient blessings given to the tribes of Israel to the messianic hopes tied to David's line, tying Old Testament expectations to the New Testament depiction of Jesus as the triumphant Lion and Lamb.We contemplate Jesus's humanity and divinity in combating Docetism, and we ponder how atonement and worldwide unity are expressed through diverse forms of worship. Our discussion extends to thoughts on heaven, earth, and life after death, challenging entrenched beliefs and urging listeners to reflect on the proactive engagement of believers in the world. Our goal is to shed light on the remarkable impact of God's work and to motivate our audience to partake in the broader narrative of divine restoration.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.

Apr 16, 2024 • 1h 6min
The Wrath of God Being Revealed
Join us at the Bible Bistro as we examine Romans 1:17-18, delving into the complex ideas of God's righteousness and wrath. Hosts Ryan and Brian discuss the delicate balance between divine love and judgment. We also share personal stories, adding a touch of humor to our exploration and even sharing how this podcast came to be.Together, we take a closer look at the book of Romans, recognizing its unique nature among Paul's letters. It serves as a missionary document, conveying Paul's aspirations for support on his journey to Spain and illustrating the gospel's transformative power. We conclude by underscoring the book's importance in understanding the gospel's influence on the lives of believers, rather than simply presenting a systematic theology.We end our episode at the Bible Bistro by considering the moral framework of the natural world from a Christian viewpoint. Discussions cover modern-day idolatry and how nature's grandeur can guide us to God. Additionally, we confront challenging topics like human sexuality and reproduction within biblical texts, affirming the existence of moral truths in the created order. 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.

Apr 9, 2024 • 1h 7min
Leviticus 23-27: Feasts, Festivals, and Worship
Welcome back to Ryan and Brian's Bible Bistro! This week, we conclude our exploration of Leviticus. Join us as we discuss the rituals and assemblies that have influenced the worship practices of the Israelites and their connections to contemporary Christian celebrations. Our conversation highlights the role of rituals in providing stability, similar to how home comforts us over time.We also delve into the issues of the Sabbath and Jesus' authority, revealing the deep implications of Jesus' actions and teachings on rest and worship. Our discussion extends to the story of the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, examining the history, tradition, and theology that enrich our appreciation of the Lord's Supper and Christ's sacrifice. This segment promises to enhance your understanding of the links between Old and New Testament teachings and the ongoing celebration of Passover in Christian life.Finally, we examine the details of the Leviticus law, the Sabbath and Jubilee years, and the lessons they offer for today. From the tale of the blasphemer to the concept of the Jubilee, we consider the compassionate nature of God and the societal impact of these laws. Our study of Leviticus wraps up with a reflection on how the book sheds light on God's nature, sacrifice, priesthood, and the call to holiness. Join us for this enlightening episode that connects ancient texts with our modern faith.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.

Apr 2, 2024 • 56min
Leviticus 16-22: Maintaining Holiness
Join us as we reflect on the significance of atonement, starting with the Day of Atonement as detailed in Leviticus 16. We explore the chiastic structure of Leviticus, where the beginning and end mirror each other, converging at the Day of Atonement at its heart. This episode underscores the gravity of the high priest's rituals, the entry into the most holy place, and the profound impact of these ancient practices on our understanding of the New Testament. Listen in as we revisit the story of Aaron's sons and the severe consequences of not adhering to God's commands, framing the Old Testament backdrop crucial for comprehending atonement in Christian theology.This week, we also unravel the enigmatic figure of Azazel from the Book of 1st Enoch and its connections to the scapegoat tradition in Leviticus. We delve into the rich symbolism surrounding the act of casting sins onto the scapegoat, reflecting on how these narratives inform our modern interpretations of sin and redemption. Furthermore, we discuss the Epistle of Barnabas and the early Christian interpretation of the scapegoat as a precursor to Jesus's role, inviting listeners to ponder the rituals that have shaped our spiritual understanding across millennia.Lastly, we navigate the complex and often contentious issues surrounding social justice, sexual morality, and the role of state influence on religion as depicted in Leviticus. From the dietary laws in Leviticus 17-18 to the moral compass provided in Leviticus 19, we discuss the application of these ancient texts to our contemporary world. As we conclude, we consider the broader principle that scripture, while culturally rooted, carries universal messages about spiritual leadership and faithfulness. Tune in to engage with these timeless lessons and to hear about our collaborative journey ahead, inviting you to be an active part of our expanding conversation.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.

Mar 26, 2024 • 1h 9min
Unbelieving Thomas
Join us on a reflective journey through the lens of Holy Week, where we explore the cornerstone of Christian faith—the resurrection of Christ. With insights from our previous episode's guest, John Castelein, we peel back layers of the gospel narrative to uncover the servant king, Jesus, and His transformative impact. Listen in as we grapple with the scandal of the crucifixion and the powerful testimony of a risen savior, probing into the ways this pivotal event redefines our understanding of the gospel and reshapes our lives.Faith, testimony, and belief stand at the forefront of this discussion as we navigate through the challenges of maintaining faith in a world where many are leaving the church. Drawing from the philosophical and teleological arguments, we delve into the heart of Christianity's robust response to existential questions, anchored by the pivotal moment of Jesus' resurrection. Eyewitness accounts, scholarly works by N.T. Wright and Michael Licona, and the Gospel of John's perspective on testimony all converge to bolster our conviction. Discover how apologetics and credible witness serve as vital conduits to knowledge and faith in the Christian journey.Embark with us as we dissect the symbolism woven throughout John's Gospel, from the interactions of Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman to the dramatic encounter with 'Doubting Thomas.' Our analysis traverses the emotional spectrum from skepticism to revelation, highlighting how personal experiences and testimonies underpin the Christian faith. This episode is a mosaic of reflections, from the reactions to the empty tomb to the significance of Jesus' post-resurrection words to Thomas. Engage with these narratives that not only underscore the authenticity of the resurrection but also continue to inspire believers' lives today.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.

Mar 19, 2024 • 1h 18min
A Journey of Doubt & Faith with Dr. John Castelein
Welcome back to Ryan and Brian's Bible Bistro, where we dive into the narratives and teachings of the faith. Today, we have the privilege of engaging with John Castelein in a discussion. John shares with us his journey, a tale of disconnection from Christianity followed by experiences that brought him back to his faith. His story unfolds with reflection and sincerity, touching upon the influences of his family, hardships, and his pursuit of understanding. John's account is poised to touch the hearts of our listeners, offering a look at the ebbs and flows of a life dedicated to faith.We also delve into the story of Don Sharp's mission and the emergence of Belgium's Christian church. We navigate through narratives that span from a baptism in a pond to the trials of learning English through television. This episode transcends the story of belief, intersecting with themes of education, ministry, and the search for authenticity. Our conversation intertwines experiences with insights, illuminating the journey of holding firm to one's convictions amid the challenges of life.As we discuss, we confront the relationship between knowledge and wisdom, belief and understanding. We recount moments of doubt and significant encounters, such as the care for a loved one with ALS, which can lead us back to a place of faith. This dialogue stands as a testament to the ways life's adversities can fortify our beliefs and serves as a reminder of the quest for truth that navigates us through our personal and shared spiritual journeys.So, tune in and allow this conversation to spark your own contemplations on wisdom, the pursuit of transcendence, and the continuously unfolding path of faith.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.

Mar 12, 2024 • 57min
Leviticus 11-15: Clean & Unclean
Welcome back to the Bible Bistro, where Ryan and I have sailed to the halfway point in our exploration of Leviticus, diving deep into the world of chapters 11 to 15. This section might not top the charts as the most exhilarating, but we're here to show you just how riveting it can be. Join us as we decipher the ancient rules of purity, detailing the laws of clean versus unclean. While Leviticus may not be your first choice for a page-turner, we promise to make it worth your while as we tie these age-old ordinances to the essence of our current spiritual practices.This episode is all about connecting dots from dietary regulations to the complexities of handling skin diseases and bodily discharges. We'll walk you through how these seemingly outdated laws shape our understanding of the entire scriptural landscape. Our aim is to shed light on the transformative messages of Jesus found in the New Testament, rooted in these Levitical laws.Amidst our deep dive into the significance of holiness, we'll sprinkle in some humor and relatable cultural references to keep things lively. We tackle the heavy topics of identity and separation from pagan practices, examining how dietary laws carved out a unique space for the Israelites. The battle to extricate Egypt's cultural and spiritual influence from the hearts of God's people is as relevant today as it was then, and we're eager to unpack it for you.Prepare for a compelling hour as we narrate stories from the New Testament that reflect Levitical laws, like the touching account of the woman with the issue of blood and how she found healing through Jesus. Our discussion ventures into the struggles faced by the early church in integrating Gentile believers and the monumental outcomes of the Jerusalem Council that still echo in our faith practices today.Leviticus is far more than a list of ancient rituals—it's a treasure trove of wisdom that still reverberates with the core of Christian identity and worship. So, tune in and join the feast of thought as we unearth the enduring relevance of these ancient scriptures and how they continue to influence our lives in the modern world.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.

Mar 5, 2024 • 1h 3min
Leviticus 8: The Weight of Priesthood
Embark on a journey through Leviticus as we explore priestly consecration rituals, the weight of responsibility on priests, and the consequences of approaching the divine without reverence. Delve into the balance between the holy and common, divine encounters, and the role of ritual in spiritual connections. Stay tuned for future episodes with special guests and exciting location-based discussions.

Feb 27, 2024 • 53min
Navigating Faith & Ministry In A Secular World with Dr. Andrew Root
Dr. Andrew Root discusses faith in a secular world, divine action in ministry, and the tension between secular pressure and faith experiences. The podcast delves into the theology of suffering and moral transformation, church renewal in a challenging era, and the need for genuine divine engagement in congregational life.

Feb 20, 2024 • 1h 5min
Leviticus 2-7: Worship, Sacrifice, & Atonement
We delve into Leviticus 2-7, examining the various offerings detailed in the first seven chapters. We look at the different sacrifices, such as grain and fellowship offerings, and what they symbolize in terms of thankfulness, community, and recognizing God's gifts. Alongside some humorous personal tales, we gain a deeper appreciation for these ancient rituals.This episode also focuses on sin offerings and how an individual's social and economic status affected their sacrificial obligations. We discuss how the law's adaptability reflects God's compassion for His people. Stories from the Old Testament, like the golden calf incident and King Josiah's reforms, illustrate the ongoing theme of repentance and forgiveness.We also consider the importance of blood in these rituals and its connection to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This discussion bridges the gap between ancient worship practices and contemporary Christian devotion, exploring the nature of worship and the significance of Jesus' atonement. We explore these topics, recognizing the importance of sacrifice in faith and encouraging a genuine, devoted relationship with God and community.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.