

The Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast
Matt Whitman
Welcome! 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 (Current Season Began August 26, 2024)
You can also check out the daily audio-only podcast on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@TenMinuteBibleHour
Hey 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.
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 (Current Season Began August 26, 2024)
You can also check out the daily audio-only podcast on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@TenMinuteBibleHour
Hey 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

Jan 18, 2024 • 13min
NEH014 - What Were You Doing Sixty Years Ago?
The speaker discusses the challenges of understanding ancient history and the passage of time. They explore the political landscape during the lifetime of Ezra and Nehemiah, including a contest to find a wife for Xerxes. The chapter delves into the story of Esther and the imminent danger the Jews face, reflecting on the passage of time and drawing parallels to present-day experiences.

Jan 17, 2024 • 13min
NEH013 - The Exiles Get Their Web Redemption But It's Real and Not Snarky
Exploring the concept of redemption through the story of comedian Daniel Tash and the rebuilding of the temple in the book of Ezra. The decree for rebuilding the temple and the execution of the decree by Tatinai. The completion and dedication of the temple and the progress in rebuilding both the physical temple and their relationship with God. The absence of God's visible presence during the events in Ezra and the sense of redemption after overcoming hurdles.

Jan 16, 2024 • 12min
NEH012 - Here We Go Again vs Erasing Narratives That Once Seemed Written in Stone
This podcast explores the experience of setbacks and self-doubt, connecting it to the story of rebuilding the temple in the Book of Ezra. It discusses the motivation behind completing the construction of the temple, the obstacles faced, and the governor's inquiry to the king about the rebuilding project. It also highlights the growth of Zerubabel and his people, King Darius's shrewdness, and the belief in God's providence.

Jan 15, 2024 • 11min
NEH011 - The Old Hero Is Awakened From His Despair and Slumber
Exploring storytelling preferences from idealized heroes to characters who overcome adversity. Drawing parallels between building the temple in Ezra and completing a character arc. Role of encouragement as a catalyst for awakening and renewed purpose.

Jan 12, 2024 • 13min
NEH010 - Act 2 of the Temple Rebuild
Discussion on Act 2 of the book of Ezra, focusing on the emotions and perspectives of older and younger generations in rebuilding the temple. Exploring resistance and intimidation faced by Zerubbabel and Jeshua, as well as the long-standing resistance faced by the Jewish people. Previewing the upcoming third act after the work on the temple comes to a standstill.

Jan 11, 2024 • 13min
NEH009 - Rebuilding the Temple, Act 1
Analyzing the three-act structure in the story of Ezra; discussing the arrival and generosity of Jewish exiles; exploring the weight and value of Persian coins for temple reconstruction; exploring the rebuilding and dedication of the temple

Jan 10, 2024 • 13min
NEH008 - The Census in Ezra 2 Sneaky Says a Lot About the Values of the Returning Exiles
The podcast explores the motivations and cultural aspects of the returning exiles in Ezra chapter two, revealing their religious beliefs, ethnic heritage, and unique calling. It also delves into the challenges faced by individuals with uncertain genealogies and the revival of cultural identity. The speakers analyze a flight manifest from a journey to another planet, discovering deeper insights from the list of occupations.

Jan 9, 2024 • 14min
NEH007 - The Returning Exiles Were Kind of Like Pioneers and Pioneers Deserve Plaques
The podcast explores the commemoration of pioneers and the heroic journey of returning exiles. It highlights the significance of lineage and individual figures in the list of names. The importance of different roles and the bravery of those rebuilding the temple are also discussed.

Jan 8, 2024 • 13min
NEH006 - It Took Exactly One Sentence to Figure Out That We're Not In Esther Anymore
This podcast discusses the impact of Lord of the Rings on fantasy storytelling, the presence of God in the books of Esther and Ezra, and the differences in tone and expectations between Ezra/Nehemiah and Esther.

Jan 5, 2024 • 14min
NEH005 - Medieval Cathedrals Speak to the Unity of Culture and Thought of the People Who Built Them, Ezra Tells the Story of Ancient Jews Trying to Muster the Same Resolve to Build Something Great
The hosts discuss their cancelled trip to New Zealand and their spontaneous trip to Rome, Italy, highlighting the awe-inspiring visits to churches and reflecting on the unity of purpose in constructing remarkable cathedrals. Exploring the parallels between the past and present, this chapter reflects on the lost sense of cultural and religious identity and the hopeful opportunity for renewal and rebuilding. It delves into the main question of whether they can muster unity and clarity to fulfill their purpose in God's plan.