Deconstructing the Myth

Some would consider accounts of genocide in the Old Testament to be the greatest hurdle to the Bible’s (and Christianity’s) validity. It raises big theological questions about Biblical inerrancy, the character of God, and the morality of mass killings. But has the key to correctly interpreting these passages been lost due to our misunderstanding of ancient literary and journalistic conventions? Or do these violent passages truly reveal a vindictive, blood thirsty god no different than the “gods” of Israel’s surrounding ancient civilizations? Join us, Liz Mall (Biola M.A. in Christian Apologetics) and historian Jenny White (Harvard M.A. in Museum Studies) as we begin to deconstruct Deuteronomy 7:1-6 together by asking the tough questions and providing resources to get you started on your own journey of digging below the surface of the Bible’s toughest passages. For today’s paper reference and access our sources, check out: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EOwc6PQ4-PRCinjY1Gs9HP2w4qQwIsYuDeDnRMXxy_s/edit?usp=sharing https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EOwc6PQ4-PRCinjY1Gs9HP2w4qQwIsYuDeDnRMXxy_s/edit?usp=sharing

Liz Mall, Biola M.A. in Christian Apologetics, and Jenny White, Harvard M.A. in Museum Studies, deconstruct the account of Sodom and Gomorrah. They question if the story condemns homosexuality and discuss the role of dragons and unicorns in the Bible and Game of Thrones. The disturbing events, Abraham's negotiation with God, and the aftermath are explored. They also address controversies surrounding the destruction, including hospitality, cruelty, and homosexuality. The caution needed when interpreting Biblical texts and questioning Lot's actions are highlighted.

What can you expect in Season 2 of DTM the podcast? This season we are joined by Jenny White, a recent Harvard graduate and M.A. in Museum Studies. We will be unpacking the history, archaeology, and theology around some of the Bible’s most difficult passages.

In our final episode this season, listen to your host’s own story of deconstruction and her current spirituality, as well as what she found to be Christianity’s most compelling arguments. We also share what to expect in season 2 of DTM. Elizabeth references The Resurrection of Jesus by Michael Licona.

Amanda Smith is my guest today, and we discuss her experience living in the middle of deconstruction, what she needs (and doesn’t need!) from the church right now, and how her journey was deeply impacted by sexism and sexual harassment in the church. She mentions the book, “Out of Sorts” by Sarah Bessey and “A Woman Called” by

Nathaniel shares why injustice in America led to him reevaluating everything he believed to be true about God. We explore the question, “Can God be real, good, just, and all-powerful and still allow evil and suffering?” Nathaniel references YouTube Channels Holy Koolaid and Religion for Breakfast.

My guest Kenny White (not to be confused with his wife Jenny from earlier this season!) discusses being part of a church plant gone horribly wrong and why the structure of non-denominational Evangelical churches so often harms its members, focuses on the wrong aspects of Christianity, and eventually fails.

My guest Stephanie discusses growing up Evangelical and seeking to follow hard after Jesus even after trauma and unanswered questions. Eventually though, the political landscape of America caused her to turn her attention towards whether or not her faith was based in truth.

Jenny White, a Christian perspective on purity culture. Topics discussed: modesty, abstinence before marriage, Christian men objectifying women. Moving forward from the damaging effects of purity culture. References works by Sheila Wray Gregoire and Marg Mowczko.

My guest Jenny worked at an evangelical church and experienced spiritual manipulation and abuse. She discusses how someone can tell it’s time to leave their church and what it’s like for her now as an Eastern Orthodox Christian.