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
Dec 1, 2025 • 12min
PLMN031 - GREAT STARTING POINT FOR NEW LISTENERS (END OF HISTORY AND BACKGROUND STUFF AND START OF BOOK OF PHILEMON STUFF)
Discover the dynamic interplay of social status and personhood in the New Testament letter of Philemon. Delve into the compelling characters of Philemon, Onesimus, and Paul as they navigate reconciliation amidst societal tensions. Explore the radical implications of the letter on slavery norms and the high-stakes reunion that awaits. The historical context of Judaism, Rome, and Colossae adds depth to understanding this pivotal moment. Get ready for a comparative look at other biblical reunions that echo this powerful narrative.
Nov 28, 2025 • 13min
PLMN030 - A Brave Knock at the Door
Explore the suspenseful metaphor of a knock at the door, likening it to the tension of modern notifications. Delve into the emotional stakes tied to that knock, revealing assorted reactions upon opening the door. Discover the complex dynamics of Philemon and Onesimus, a former slave’s risky return as a Christian. Unpack Paul's compelling letter urging reconciliation, all while emphasizing the importance of empathy across historical divides. Picture the awkward reunion and raw emotions in that pivotal moment.
Nov 27, 2025 • 11min
PLMN029 - The One Who Knocks
Matt dives into the emotional tension when an unexpected visitor reenters your life after causing pain. He explores the unique delivery of the Letter of Philemon, highlighting its personal nature during a conflict. The podcast introduces Philemon, a well-off Christian with a complicated household. The story of Onesimus, a runaway slave who seeks out Paul, unfolds with suspense as he seeks redemption. Listeners are taken on Onesimus's nerve-wracking journey back home, where he faces potential consequences. Don't miss the promise of more intrigue in the next discussion!
Nov 26, 2025 • 16min
PLMN028 - The Fullness of Time: Now We Have a Better Sense of What That Means
Dive into the intriguing notion of 'the fullness of time' as history converges beautifully at the incarnation. Discover the significance of Colossae's rulers and how Octavian's rule set the stage for the New Testament. Explore the connection between Augustus' census and the nativity, all while the Pax Romana created a unique backdrop for early Christianity. Uncover the impact of emperors like Tiberius and Nero on pivotal New Testament events and appreciate how timing played a crucial role in shaping faith.
Nov 25, 2025 • 11min
PLMN027 - From the Age of Chaos to the Pax Romana
Dive into how sports stories can reveal deeper truths beyond the surface. Explore the rich history of Colossae, shaped by various cultures. Learn about Pergamum’s strategic donation to Rome to maintain peace. Discover the turmoil within Rome’s republic, leading to its downfall. Follow the dramatic rise of figures like Sulla, Caesar, and the emergence of Augustus. Reflect on how historical chaos set the stage for significant events in biblical history. Lastly, get a sneak peek into the context of Philemon.
Nov 24, 2025 • 8min
PLMN026 - Pergamemnon and Then We're Home
Explore the rich history of Pergamemnon and the Attalid dynasty in northwest Turkey. Learn how the Attalids emerged from the fallout of Alexander's conquests and their strategic alliance with Rome. Delve into the impact of the Roman-Seleucid Wars and how these events shifted regional power dynamics. Discover the ambiguous borders of Colossae and Pergamum, culminating in Rome's final control. This historical backdrop sets the stage for understanding Philemon's context, enhancing your grasp of the era's complexities.
Nov 21, 2025 • 11min
PLMN025 - Two Fancy Newfangled Neighboring Cities = Bad News for Colossae
Explore the fascinating history of Colossae as it faces competition from its fancy neighbors, Hierapolis and Laodicea. Discover how the rise of these cities, with their lucrative industries and cultural attractions, led to Colossae's decline. Learn about the strategic relocation of Jewish populations that shaped the region and how this influenced Paul's ministry. Delve into the historical context that set the stage for the spread of the gospel, culminating in the transition from Greek to Roman rule.
Nov 20, 2025 • 12min
PLMN024 - The Sixth Flag: The Greek Era
The discussion highlights the historical significance of Colossae as the backdrop for Philemon and Colossians. Matt dives into the varied eras of Colossae, from ancient Phrygian kings to the Cimmerian conquest. He explores the chaotic Greek era, with Alexander's campaigns and the subsequent wars of his successors. The podcast also connects this rich history to the world of Philemon, promising insights into how these tumultuous times shaped early Christianity. It's a fascinating exploration of power shifts and cultural impacts.
Nov 19, 2025 • 17min
PLMN023 - The Fifth Flag: Persia
Explore the historical evolution of Colossae and its shifting rulers. Delve into which side Russia was on during WWII to highlight changing alliances. Discover the impact of the Cimmerians, and how Cyrus the Great rose to power, allowing Jews to return and rebuilding Jerusalem. Learn about Persia's approach to culture and administration as it absorbed Lydia while maintaining local customs. Finally, understand how Persian rule shaped Colossae's prosperity until Alexander the Great's conquest ended this era.
Nov 18, 2025 • 15min
PLMN022 - The Fourth Flag: Lydia
Explore the fascinating transition from legend to documented history as the podcast dives into Colossae's past. Discover the wealthy Lydians, their capital Sardis, and the impact of regional power shifts. Learn about King Croesus and the unexpected alliances formed through royal marriages during the Battle of the Eclipse. Uncover how Lydia influenced Colossae's culture and why their rule was ultimately short-lived. Each segment reveals intriguing connections and historical anecdotes that bring the ancient world to life!
