The Biblical Mind

In this episode of The Biblical Mind, host Dru Johnson welcomes biblical scholars David Beldman and Michael Rhodes to discuss their introductory textbook on the Pentateuch—the first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Together, they explore how Christians can read the Torah as Scripture and understand its continuing significance for faith and contemporary life.The conversation examines why the Pentateuch is foundational to biblical theology, tracing themes of creation, covenant, the Exodus, priesthood, and the kingdom of God. Beldman and Rhodes explain how these books shape Christian understandings of Jesus, discipleship, and God's redemptive mission. They also address challenging Old Testament passages, including difficult laws, rituals, and narratives that can raise troubling questions for modern readers.The discussion highlights the importance of understanding biblical genres, particularly how to interpret Old Testament law as wisdom and instruction rather than simply a set of rules to follow or discard. The scholars also explore theological interpretation, arguing that readers should allow the biblical text to speak on its own terms rather than reduce every passage to a simplistic explanation.From economic justice and care for immigrants to creation and community responsibility, this episode reveals how studying the Torah can deepen Christian faith and illuminate the Bible's message for today.Order the book here: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9781540961051_reading-the-pentateuch-as-christian-scriptureWe are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/giveFor more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/Social Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThoughtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthoughtThreads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthoughtX: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThoughtBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.orgChapters:00:00 Introduction to the Book Project and Scholars02:08 The Purpose and Audience of the Textbook04:00 Approach to Teaching the Pentateuch07:52 The Significance of the Torah in Biblical Narrative12:44 The Paradox of Mercy and Judgment in Scripture17:02 The Creation as Sacred Space in Genesis22:10 The Nephilim and the Sons of God: Spiritual Beings in Genesis45:33 The Akedah: The Binding of Isaac and Its Interpretations53:14 Reflections on Reading the Pentateuch TheologicallySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What is Christian Zionism, and how should Christians think about Israel, Palestine, and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict? In this episode of The Biblical Mind, Dru Johnson speaks with Rev. David Pileggi, rector of Christ Church in Jerusalem’s Old City, who brings 46 years of experience living in Israel to a complex conversation about Zionism, Christian Zionism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and the search for peace.Pileggi explains why Christian Zionism is far more diverse than the term often suggests and challenges simplistic portrayals of both Christian Zionists and their critics. He discusses different forms of Jewish and Palestinian nationalism, the relationship between the State of Israel and Christianity, rising religious extremism, and the changing relationship between Jewish and Christian communities.The conversation also explores how Christians can love and support the Jewish people while honestly confronting Israeli policies, advocate for Palestinians without demonizing Israelis, and pursue reconciliation without reducing the conflict to simple political or theological slogans.Drawing on decades of experience in Jerusalem, Pileggi argues for greater biblical literacy, deeper understanding of Jewish and Palestinian experiences, humility among outsiders, and a willingness to embrace complexity. Ultimately, the episode asks Christians to consider how they can contribute to reconciliation rather than making an already difficult conflict worse. We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/giveFor more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/Social Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThoughtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthoughtThreads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthoughtX: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThoughtBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.orgChapters:00:00 Introduction to Christian Zionisms and Guest Background02:17 Understanding Zionism: Historical and Modern Perspectives04:36 Nationalism in Israel and Its Global Contexts06:55 Palestinian and Islamic Nationalisms Compared07:06 Living in Jerusalem: Balancing Jewish and Palestinian Identities08:04 Faith, Politics, and Interfaith Relations in Jerusalem11:30 Diverse Communities and Models of Reconciliation17:19 The Changing Dynamics of Jewish Identity and Walls in Jerusalem23:21 Perceptions of Christianity and the State of Israel27:43 The Role of Christian Support and Israeli Government Attitudes35:44 Criticism of Christian Zionism and Its Misconceptions43:25 A Radical Peace Plan for Israeli-Palestinian Conflict44:55 The Role of Outsiders and Dialogue in Peacebuilding55:33 The Future of Jerusalem and Interfaith Cooperation01:00:28 The Diversity of Christian Zionist Beliefs and Interpretations01:02:47 The Importance of Nuance and Patience in Understanding the ConflictSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode explores the life, scholarship, and theological legacy of biblical scholar Michael Heiser, best known for his work on the Divine Council worldview and the biblical unseen realm. Dru Johnson speaks with Mike Chu about Heiser’s academic background, his work with Logos Bible Software, his approach to critical and evangelical biblical scholarship, and the development of AWKNG School.The conversation examines what Heiser meant by the Divine Council worldview and why he believed the biblical authors understood the unseen realm as a genuine reality that interacts with the physical world. Mike Chu explains Heiser’s approach to passages involving the sons of God, Elohim, angels, demons, and the Divine Council, while also discussing how Heiser distinguished careful biblical scholarship from conspiracy theories and speculative interpretations.The episode also considers Heiser’s influence as a teacher and his commitment to helping people ask difficult questions about Scripture. Finally, the discussion turns to theosis, resurrection, Revelation, the new heavens and new earth, and Heiser’s understanding of humanity’s future participation in God’s divine council.The episode offers an accessible introduction to Michael Heiser’s scholarship, theology, and lasting influence on biblical studies.Check out AWKNG courses here: https://awkng.com/We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/giveFor more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/Social Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThoughtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthoughtThreads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthoughtX: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThoughtBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.orgChapters:00:00 Introduction to Michael Heiser and his scholarship01:51 Heiser's background in Semitic languages and his journey to Logos03:55 Critical scholarship and evangelical faith in Heiser's work07:12 The divine counsel worldview explained10:04 Heiser's move to Florida and the founding of Awakening School12:01 Heiser's battle with cancer and his final message15:01 Heiser's personal qualities and impact on students17:59 Understanding angels and spiritual beings in Scripture21:03 The significance of the divine counsel for modern believers24:01 Heiser's nuanced approach to biblical interpretation26:55 The role of the divine council in eschatology and the future30:05 Heiser's influence on biblical scholarship and popular theology35:13 The legacy of Michael Heiser and ongoing influenceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can Christians watch horror movies? Is horror merely entertainment, or can it reveal profound theological truths? In this episode of The Biblical Mind Podcast, Dru Johnson sits down with theologian and film scholar Dr. Kutter Callaway to explore why horror has become one of today's most influential storytelling genres—and why Christians should take it seriously.Drawing from his new book, Be Afraid: What Horror Reveals About Facing the Darkness, Callaway argues that great horror doesn't simply frighten audiences; it exposes deep truths about evil, suffering, trauma, sin, and the human condition. Together, Dru and Kutter examine the horrifying stories already found in Scripture—from the Levite's concubine in Judges to the crucifixion—and ask what these passages have in common with modern horror films.The conversation also explores why supernatural horror resonates with younger generations, how films like Get Out, The Babadook, Hereditary, and Midsommar wrestle with inherited trauma and cultural fears, and why interpreting films in community resembles reading the Bible in community. Whether you're skeptical of horror or an avid fan, this episode offers a thoughtful biblical framework for understanding fear, art, and the stories that shape our imaginations.Learn more about Kutter Callaway at his website! (Click Here)Order his latest book (click here)We are listener supported. Give to the cause here:https://hebraicthought.org/giveFor more articles:https://thebiblicalmind.org/Social Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThoughtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthoughtThreads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthoughtX: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThoughtBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.orgChapters:00:00 Defining Horror: A Genre Exploration02:46 Horror in Biblical Texts: A New Perspective06:14 The Role of Horror in Understanding Humanity09:00 Personal Experiences with Horror and Its Impact16:09 The Supernatural vs. Slasher Horror: A Comparative Analysis21:12 Cultural Reflections in Horror Films22:16 Exploring Horror and Societal Trauma25:12 Artistic Truths in Horror Films28:01 Parent-Child Dynamics in Horror30:26 Emerging Voices in Horror Cinema32:42 Reflections on Personal and Societal Sin35:31 Horror as a Reflection of Societal Fears37:02 Engaging with Horror: Questions to Consider41:11 Community Interpretation of Art and ScriptureSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Dru Johnson sits down with theologians Daniel Bannoura and Bruce Fisk, contributors to Being Christian After the Desolation of Gaza, to explore the Israel-Palestine conflict through the lens of Palestinian Christian experience. Drawing on history, theology, and personal experience, Bannoura and Fisk argue that the crisis in Gaza cannot be understood apart from the broader history of Zionism, Palestinian displacement, and the ongoing struggle for justice and human dignity in the region.The discussion examines the relationship between Christianity, Christian Zionism, and modern Israeli politics, while also addressing questions of antisemitism, Palestinian identity, settler violence, military occupation, and competing historical narratives. Dru pushes back on several claims, creating a thoughtful exchange that highlights both areas of agreement and disagreement.The episode also explores how biblical interpretation shapes political views, why many Western Christians know little about Palestinian Christians, and how younger generations are rethinking the Israel-Palestine debate. Throughout the conversation, the guests challenge listeners to consider what Christian faithfulness, neighbor love, and justice look like in the aftermath of Gaza’s devastation.This is the first installment of a deeper discussion on theology, politics, Israel, Palestine, Gaza, and the future of Christian engagement with one of the world’s most contested conflicts. Buy the book here:https://wipfandstock.com/9798385254859/being-christian-after-the-desolation-of-gaza/ We are listener supported. Give to the cause here:https://hebraicthought.org/giveFor more articles:https://thebiblicalmind.org/Social Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThoughtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthoughtThreads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthoughtX: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThoughtBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.orgChapters:00:00 Understanding the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict09:25 The Impact of Historical Narratives12:21 The Legacy of Imperialism and Its Effects16:56 The Complexity of Regional Conflicts20:02 The Current Reality in Israel and Palestine22:13 The Call for Justice and Equality26:14 The Future of Christian Engagement in the Conflict30:26 The Security Dilemma: Perspectives on Israeli Actions31:27 Shifting Narratives: The Impact of October 7th33:04 Defining Zionism: Perspectives and Misconceptions37:15 Zionism and Its Evolution: A Critical Examination42:56 Settler Violence: A Growing Concern49:18 The Realist Perspective: Understanding the Conflict54:06 Christian Zionism: A Complicated Legacy57:55 The Complexity of Middle Eastern Politics01:00:43 The Role of Arab Nations in the Israel-Palestine Conflict01:04:11 Understanding Gen Z's Perspective on Israel and Palestine01:09:02 The Nuances of Violence and Power Dynamics01:13:27 Guiding the Next Generation of Christians01:17:28 The Call for Radical Love and JusticeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does it mean to truly live well in an age of loneliness, distraction, and endless self-improvement advice? In this episode, Dru Johnson sits down with Alan Noble to discuss his new book on the seven Christian virtues and why recovering ancient wisdom may be the key to human flourishing today. Together they explore how virtues such as courage, temperance, prudence, justice, faith, hope, and love shape a life rooted in Christ rather than in modern self-help culture. The conversation examines the growing loneliness epidemic, the difference between "thin" online communities and meaningful relationships, and why many young adults struggle with agency, friendship, dating, and purpose. Noble argues that virtue is not a life hack or productivity technique but a lifelong process of spiritual formation empowered by the Holy Spirit and cultivated within Christian community. Dru and Alan also tackle the relationship between faith and works, discuss mentorship and the loss of intergenerational wisdom, and explore why courage may be one of the most important virtues for our cultural moment. From social media and smartphone habits to friendship and discipleship, this episode offers practical and theological insights for Christians seeking to live faithfully in a fragmented world. Order Alan Noble's latest book, To Live Well, here: https://www.ivpress.com/to-live-well? We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 Points of Resistance and Challenges in Teaching Virtues 02:40 Virtues as Pathways to Live Well in Christian Life 04:02 Grace, Works, and Righteousness in Christian Practice 05:25 Community and the Need for Thick, Committed Groups 08:33 The Problem of Thin Communities and Society's Disconnection 10:30 The Role of Wisdom and Mentorship Across Generations 13:25 The Importance of Affirmation and Love in Community 15:17 Healthy Groups and the Balance of Affirmation and Correction 16:59 Scriptural Foundations for Virtues and Character Traits 18:19 The Significance of Courage and Temperance for Young Adults 26:32 Understanding Courage in the Context of Inhibition and Risk 32:53 Practical Steps to Cultivate Virtues and Live Well 39:24 Starting the Journey Toward Virtue and Reflection 40:32 The Role of Prayer and the Holy Spirit in Virtue Formation 43:05 Closing Remarks and Final ThoughtsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Did the biblical authors believe in a divine council of heavenly beings surrounding God? In this episode, Dru Johnson sits down with Hebrew Bible scholar Jamie Duguid to unpack one of the most controversial debates in modern biblical scholarship: the meaning of “sons of God” in Deuteronomy 32 and the growing influence of Michael Heiser’s Divine Council worldview. The conversation explores the Hebrew phrase bene elohim, the Divine Council interpretation of Deuteronomy 32:8, and whether the Bible presents Yahweh as ruling among other divine beings. Duguid and Johnson examine the textual evidence behind the debate, including the Masoretic Text, the Septuagint, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Samaritan Pentateuch, Syriac translations, and Isaiah 40–55. They also discuss Genesis 6, Psalm 82, angels, demons, ancient Near Eastern religion, monotheism vs. henotheism, and why the Divine Council framework has become so influential through scholars like Heiser. If you’ve wondered whether the Bible teaches the existence of other gods, spiritual powers, or a heavenly council, this episode offers a careful, scholarly, and deeply accessible exploration of one of the Bible’s most fascinating theological questions. Read more of Dr. Duguid's work here: https://www.quaerendum.com/ We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Divine Council Debate 07:14 Understanding Elohim and Divine Beings 13:22 The Role of the Divine Council in Scripture 18:52 The Importance of the Masoretic Text 24:55 Exploring Alternative Texts: Septuagint and Samaritan Pentateuch 31:04 The Impact of the Dead Sea Scrolls on Biblical Texts 33:21 Exploring the Dead Sea Scrolls 35:39 Textual Variations in Biblical Manuscripts 40:11 Theological Implications of Textual Differences 45:18 Assessing the Nature of Divine Beings 51:57 Reconceptualizing Godhood in Scripture 56:57 Critiques and Responses to Heiser's Work See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, biblical scholar Jeffrey Garcia joins Dru Johnson to unpack one of the most misunderstood groups in the New Testament: the Pharisees. Prompted by recent public comments from U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, the conversation explores how the term “Pharisee” has often been used as a caricature for hypocrisy—and why that misunderstanding can contribute to anti-Jewish and anti-Semitic attitudes. Drawing from the Gospels, Acts, ancient Judaism, and the Dead Sea Scrolls, Dr. Garcia explains that the Pharisees were not simply legalistic villains opposed to Jesus. Instead, many Pharisees shared substantial theological ground with Jesus and were actively engaged in serious debates about how to faithfully live out God’s commandments. The episode also examines how Christian preaching has historically oversimplified the Pharisees, why phrases like “Christ killer” emerged from these distortions, and how pastors and churches can teach the New Testament more responsibly today. We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 Understanding the Pharisees: Context and Misconceptions 08:47 The Pharisees and Their Relationship with Jesus 17:45 Navigating Modern Discourse on Pharisees and Anti-Semitism See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.