The Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast
Matt Whitman
Welcome to the Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast where we pick a book of the Bible and work our way through it a little bit each day! You can start with today's episode or go back to the beginning of any of these five seasons:Season 1 - Matthew (Began October, 2019 - Episodes 1-800)Season 2 - One Book of the Bible Per Day (Began January, 2023)Season 3 - Esther (Began April 9, 2023)Season 4 - Nehemiah (Began January 1, 2024)Season 5 - Galatians (Began August 26, 2024)Season 6 - Philemon (CURRENT SEASON Began October 19, 2025)You can also check out the daily audio-only podcast on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@TenMinuteBibleHourMore About the Show: I'm Matt, and if you're interested in understanding the Bible better and you prefer your Christianity quick and punchy with a healthy side of humor, and an equally healthy side of me not telling you what to do, we're probably going to get along great. This is my podcast where we pick a book of the Bible and then break it down one part at a time every weekday morning.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 4, 2026 • 15min
PLMN078 - Paul's Willing to Put His Money Where His Mouth Is
A close look at Philemon and the ancient social world of slavery. Tension between forgiveness and justice is explored through Paul's actions. Paul offers to pay debts and even signs the letter himself to press for reconciliation. The episode highlights practical costs and moral risks involved in pursuing restored relationships.
8 snips
Feb 3, 2026 • 12min
PLMN077 - Brass Tacks: Is Paul Asking Philemon to Free Onesimus?
A lively take on Philemon 15–17 and whether Paul quietly urges Onesimus' manumission. Conversation about pastoral 'dignity space' and how gentle private appeals prevent conflict. Survey of scholarly splits and the political pressures that shaped Paul's careful wording. Two practical outcomes are proposed for how Philemon might receive Onesimus.
Feb 2, 2026 • 13min
PLMN076 - Good Old-Fashioned Theological Speculation
A season preview and reflections sparked by a wild windstorm and a neighborly conversation. A meditation on the 'why' question and how we build narratives around chance and tragedy. A defense of thoughtful theological speculation contrasted with scientific certainty. Close readings of Philemon and biblical examples that show persuasive, redemptive thinking at work.
15 snips
Jan 30, 2026 • 11min
PLMN075 - I’ve Done the Science, and Sure Enough, Dropping Your Daughter Off at College Makes You Cry
A reflection on the ache of sending a child off to college and why painful separations can be necessary. A comparison between that personal sorrow and the biblical story of Onesimus. A discussion of Paul’s emotional struggle and practical reasons for returning someone despite the cost. A focus on reconciliation, consent, and repairing broken relationships as central themes.
9 snips
Jan 29, 2026 • 13min
PLMN074 - Expressions Like Nada Nada Limonada Are Not Useless
Playful sayings like "nada nada limonada" and retro slang origins get unpacked with linguistic fun. The episode traces Spanish kid rhymes to Greek wordplay in Philemon. A hidden pun links 'useless' to 'without Christ' and reframes a runaway slave's transformation. Brief cultural history and a close reading of names and language keep things lively.
Jan 28, 2026 • 15min
PLMN073 - Next Season Book Announcement
A book announcement about a new Lightning-Fast Field Guide inspired by a prior gospel season. Plans to dive into the Gospel of John verse-by-verse with historical side trips and a curious, conversational tone. Discussion of why John matters, including the I AM sayings and Greek influences. Logistics, timing for the next season, and supporter perks like limited-edition stickers.
Jan 27, 2026 • 14min
PLMN072 - How Many Points of Appeal Do You Detect in the Book of Philemon?
A lively dive into how many persuasive moves Paul uses in Philemon. A close reading of John Chrysostom’s fourfold breakdown of the letter. Discussion of appeals to character, credibility, age, imprisonment, and wider audiences like the church and Christ.
Jan 26, 2026 • 10min
PLMN071 - Paul Uses His Apostolic Authority to Not Use His Apostolic Authority
A close look at Paul choosing appeal over command when confronting a difficult situation. Short reflections on different styles of apostolic authority and why authoritative language can feel uncomfortable today. A discussion of how apostolic commissioning shaped scripture and a breakdown of Paul’s strategic opening move aimed at voluntary reconciliation.
Jan 23, 2026 • 11min
PLMN070 - Paul Thinks He Has Apostolic Authority and the New Testament Agrees
Explore Paul's unique approach in Philemon, where he chooses persuasion over command in asserting his authority. Discover Jesus’ intention for the continuity of apostolic mission as He empowers the disciples with His authority. Learn how the Holy Spirit equips apostles as global witnesses and witness the vital distinction between legitimate apostolic authority and manipulative cult control. Finally, dive into Paul's fierce defense of the gospel, ensuring its purity against distortions. It's a deep and thought-provoking exploration of faith and authority!
Jan 22, 2026 • 12min
PLMN069 - What is Apostolic Authority and Who Has It?
Dive into the intricate world of apostolic authority, examining how Paul’s writings shape the concept of church leadership. Explore Matthew 16, where Peter’s confession establishes him as the foundational rock of the church. Unpack contrasting views from Catholic and Eastern Orthodox perspectives on this authority. Discover the historical reactions from the original audience, who saw themselves empowered to carry on Jesus' mission, despite future debates. A thought-provoking discussion that challenges perspectives on authority and spiritual continuity!
